Justice (Retd.) V Ramasubramanian has been appointed as the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Priyank Kanoongo (former NCPCR chief) and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) have been appointed as NHRC Members.
About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
OverviewÂ
A Statutory Body formed under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.
Composition and Membership
Chairperson: Must be a former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice; appointed by the President.
Members:
Four full-time members:
1 ex-SC Judge (Chairperson),
1 ex-SC Judge,
1 ex-Chief Justice of a High Court,
1 with knowledge/experience in human rights.
At least one woman among the members.
Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions (e.g., SC/ST, Women, Minorities, etc.) + Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment Process:
The President appoints based on a recommendation committee (PM, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of Opposition, etc.).
Judicial appointments: Consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
Removal: By an order of the President, after consultation with the Supreme Court.
Terms of Office:
3-year term or until the age of 70.
Eligible for reappointment, but not for other government jobs.
Salaries: Determined by the Central Government.
Reporting: Submits reports to the Centre and concerned states; these are tabled before legislatures with an action-taken report.
Limitations:
No inquiry after one year from the alleged violation.
Functions are recommendatory; no direct power to punish or award relief.
Limited role in armed forces cases.
Powers and Functions
Functions:
Inquire into alleged human rights violations.
Recommend interim relief to victims or families.
Intervene in court proceedings on human rights matters.
Review constitutional/legal safeguards for human rights.
Study international human rights instruments.
Promote human rights literacy.
Support NGOs in human rights work.
Powers:
Can regulate its own procedure.
Has all powers of a civil court, with judicial character.
PYQ:
[2020] Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)?
Preamble
Directive Principles of State Policy
Fundamental Duties
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2021] Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analysing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.
Over 58 lakh property cards will be issued to owners in approximately 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs through a virtual event addressed by PM Modi under the SVAMITVA Scheme.
AboutSVAMITVA Scheme:
Details
About
Full Form: Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.
Launched on 24th April 2020 (National Panchayati Raj Day) by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
Objective: Provide an integrated property validation solution for rural India, issuing Record of Rights to households in inhabited rural areas (village abadi areas).
Central Sector Scheme: Fully funded by the Central Government, implemented in collaboration with States/UTs and the Survey of India.
Primary Goals:
1. Demarcation of inhabited areas using drone technology.
2. Creation of property cards (Record of Rights).
3. Formalizing ownership to reduce disputes and enable financial asset use.
Structural Mandate
Implementing Agencies:
Ministry of Panchayati Raj at the national level.
State Revenue Department/Land Records Department at the state level.
Survey of India (as the technology partner).
Coverage:
The scheme is being implemented in phases from 2020-2024.
Initially covered 6.62 lakh villages in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka, including a few border villages of Punjab and Rajasthan.
West Bengal, Bihar, Nagaland, and Meghalaya have not joined the scheme yet.
Nomenclature:Title Deed in Haryana, Rural Property Ownership Records (RPOR) in Karnataka, Adhikar Abhilekh in Madhya Pradesh, Sannad in Maharashtra, Svamitva Abhilekh in Uttarakhand, and Gharauni in Uttar Pradesh.
Key Features and Significance
Use of Drone Survey Technology: Drones capture high-resolution images for accurate mapping of village abadi lands.
Issuance of Property Cards: Known by various names (e.g., âGharauniâ in UP). Serves as legal proof of ownership.
Phased Implementation (2020â2024): Began in select states (UP, Haryana, Maharashtra, MP, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, plus border villages in Punjab/Rajasthan), expanding nationwide.
Continuous Operating Reference System (CORS): Network stations for precise drone-based surveys in pilot-phase states.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Ministry of Panchayati Raj, State Revenue/Land Records Depts, Survey of India, etc.
Progress Made So Far
Drone Surveys & Mapping: 92% of targeted drone mapping completed across 3.17 lakh villages; full targets likely by 2026.
Issuance of Property Cards: Over 2.19 crore property cards finalized; latest distribution covered 58 lakh cards in 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs.
Phased Rollout: Successful pilots led to larger-scale implementation.
Collaborative Efforts: Coordination among Panchayati Raj Ministry, Survey of India, and state-level agencies; financial support from the Centre.
Recognition of Success: Regarded as a landmark initiative for minimizing litigation, enhancing rural governance, and clarifying property rights.
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a)Â The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.
(b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.
(c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.
(d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.
The recent government initiatives, such as “Mission Karmayogi,” aimed at enhancing the capacity of civil servants, underscores the ongoing dialogue about reforming India’s “steel frame” of governance.
What is the current state of Indiaâs bureaucratic structure?
India’s bureaucratic structure, particularly the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), often referred to as the “steel frame” of Indian governance, has historically been crucial in administration but is now struggling with several issues:
Politicization: Frequent transfers and promotions based on political loyalty rather than merit have undermined the professionalism and morale of IAS officers.Â
This politicization hampers the development of domain expertise, as officers are rotated across various departments without sufficient time to specialise in any particular area.
Corruption and Inefficiency: India ranks moderately on the World Bankâs government effectiveness index, indicating persistent corruption and inefficiencies in policy implementation.Â
Centralized Governance: The current governance model under the Prime Minister has led to increased centralization of power in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).Â
What are the previous efforts taken to reform the bureaucracy in India?
Commission recommendation:
First Administrative Reforms Commission (1st ARC, 1966): Highlighted the need for specialization within the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) to improve efficiency by transitioning it into a functional service focused on specific governance areas.
Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2nd ARC, 2005): Proposed a transparent lateral entry process for domain experts, mandatory training for civil servants throughout their careers, and the establishment of a National Institute of Public Administration to enhance public administration education and expand the candidate pool for civil services.
Central Government initiative:
Mission Karmayogi (2020): A capacity-building program designed to create a citizen-centric, future-ready civil service by promoting continuous learning and skill enhancement through a dedicated digital platform.
Lateral Entry Reforms: Introduced to integrate specialized talent from diverse sectors into senior civil service roles.
Important judgments given by the Supreme Court:
T.S.R. Subramanian v. Union of India (2013): The Supreme Court barred civil servants from following oral political directives, and mandated the creation of a Civil Services Board (CSB) to oversee transfers and postings for ensuring stability and reducing arbitrariness.
Delhi Government Services Case (2023): The Supreme Court upheld Delhi’s legislative authority over services, reinforcing federalism and ensuring accountability of officers operating under the Delhi government’s jurisdiction.
How do proposed reforms impact the independence and specialization of civil servants?
The proposed reforms aim to modernize India’s bureaucracy by enhancing independence, accountability, and specialization among civil servants. Â
Lateral Entry Initiatives: The government has introduced lateral entry into senior bureaucratic positions to bring in domain experts from outside the traditional IAS framework. Â
Performance-Based Promotions: Recommendations from various administrative reform commissions (Second ARC, set up in 2005) suggest linking promotions to measurable performance rather than seniority.Â
This shift could enhance accountability but may also meet resistance from entrenched interests within the IAS.
Protection Against Arbitrary Transfers: Proposals such as the Civil Services Standards, Performance, and Accountability Bill aim to protect bureaucrats from politically motivated transfers.Â
Implementing such measures could bolster the autonomy of civil servants.
What risks are associated with centralizing decision-making in the bureaucracy?
Reduced Autonomy: Centralization can diminish the independence of senior bureaucrats, making them more susceptible to political pressures.Â
This undermines their ability to act as effective policy executors and can lead to a culture of compliance rather than innovation.
Bottlenecks in Implementation: A centralized approach may create bottlenecks in policy implementation, as decision-making becomes concentrated at the top.Â
This can slow down responses to emerging challenges and reduce the overall efficiency of governance.
Neglect of Bureaucratic Expertise: By sidelining bureaucratic insights in favor of top-down directives, there is a risk that valuable expertise within the civil service goes unutilized. This could hinder effective policymaking and lead to poor outcomes in governance.
How can ancient Indic principles enhance modern governance?
Ethical Leadership and Accountability (Raj Dharma): Ancient Indic principles emphasize leaders as servants of the people, prioritizing fairness, justice, and public welfare. This aligns with modern demands for transparent and accountable governance.
Inclusive Development (Antyodaya): The concept of Antyodaya advocates for uplifting the marginalized and ensuring that governance benefits all sections of society, especially the most disadvantaged, which is essential for achieving equitable development.
Sustainability and Environmental Harmony (LiFE & Karmayogi): Indic principles stress balance with nature and responsible living, guiding modern governance towards sustainable development practices. Additionally, the Karmayogi concept promotes continuous skill-building for public servants to enhance governance effectiveness.
In what ways can citizen engagement be improved through Indic ideas?
Participative Governance (Sab Ka Prayas): The concept of Sab Ka Prayas emphasizes collective effort, where citizens are actively involved in decision-making and implementation processes.
Empathy and Responsibility (P2G2 â Pro-People Good Governance): By incorporating P2G2, which stresses sensitivity, commitment, and a sense of responsibility towards the people.
Citizens can be more engaged through empathetic governance that prioritizes their well-being and fosters trust in public institutions.
Empowerment through Education and Awareness (Antyodaya and Raj Dharma): Indic ideas like Antyodaya and Raj Dharma promote the empowerment of all individuals, particularly the marginalized, through education and awareness.
Way forward:Â
Empower Decentralized Governance: Strengthen local and state-level administrative autonomy to reduce over-reliance on centralized decision-making, enabling more responsive and effective governance.
Implement Performance-Based Reforms: Institutionalize meritocratic measures such as performance-linked promotions, lateral entry, and protection against arbitrary transfers to foster accountability, specialization, and independence among civil servants.
Efficient bureaucracy: India can draw valuable lessons from the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative to make a more efficient bureaucracy in India.
DOGE is a proposed initiative introduced by USA President which aims to streamline federal bureaucracy.
Mains PYQ:
Q Has the Cadre-based Civil Services Organization been the cause of slow in India? Critically examine. (UPSC IAS/2014)
The SC has emphasized the importance of individual dignity within the context of Article 21 in several landmark cases.Â
Discussions around individual dignity have again gained traction, especially when former SC Justice Kurian Joseph emphasized that the Constitution prioritizes individual dignity, making it a vital topic for contemporary legal discourse.
How effectively does the Constitution safeguard individual dignity?
The Constitution of India is designed to protect individual dignity through a framework that entitles citizens to fundamental rights. Â
Entrenchment of Individual Rights: The Constitution explicitly guarantees individual rights, aiming to protect the freedom and dignity of all citizens.Â
Fundamental Rights under Part III of the Constitution, such as the Right to Equality (Article 14), Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22), and Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21), explicitly safeguard individual dignity.
Checks and Balances: The Constitution establishes institutional checks and balances to prevent the abuse of power.
In Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), the Supreme Court broadened the scope of Article 21, holding that any law depriving personal liberty must meet the standards of fairness, justice, and reasonableness.
Political Equality: By affirming political equality among citizens, the Constitution enables individuals to participate actively in the democratic process.Â
Article 326 guarantees universal adult suffrage, enabling all citizens to participate equally in democratic processes, affirming their political dignity and sense of inclusion.
What role do societal attitudes and systemic issues play in protecting dignity?
Societal attitudes and systemic issues significantly influence the protection of individual dignity under the Constitution:
Community Identity vs. Individual Rights: The emphasis on community identity whether based on caste, religion, or nation can undermine individual dignity. When societal attitudes prioritize group identities over individual rights, it can lead to discrimination and marginalization.
Trust and Cooperation: A lack of trust among citizens can hinder collective efforts to uphold constitutional values. When individuals measure each other against rigid identities, it subverts the freedom that the Constitution aims to protect.
Oligarchic Power: Concentration of wealth and power can distort democratic processes, leading to a situation where certain groups’ interests overshadow individual rights. This systemic issue can erode the effectiveness of constitutional protections for dignity.
Can legal frameworks adapt to evolving understandings of dignity?
The legal framework established by the Constitution has the potential to adapt to evolving understandings of dignity:
Basic Structure Doctrine: The Basic Structure Doctrine, established in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973), ensures that core principles like dignity remain inviolable while allowing amendments to address evolving needs.Â
For example, The 103rd Constitutional Amendment (2019) introduced a 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in education and public employment.
Ongoing Democratic Negotiation: The Constitution leaves questions regarding economic structure open for ongoing negotiation, allowing for discussions around justice and inclusion that are vital for protecting dignity in a changing society.
For example, The introduction of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 marked a significant step toward affirming the dignity and rights of transgender individuals.
Judicial Interpretation: Courts play a critical role in interpreting constitutional provisions related to dignity.Â
For example,Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) decriminalized consensual same-sex relationships by reading down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.
Way forward:Â
Promoting Constitutional Values: Enhance public awareness and foster societal attitudes that prioritize individual dignity, equality, and mutual respect over group identities.
Strengthening Institutional Adaptability: Empower judicial and legislative mechanisms to address systemic inequities, interpret evolving notions of dignity, and implement inclusive policies.
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy.(UPSC IAS/2017)
The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly passed the Maharashtra Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2024, aiming to modernize and reform the Stateâs prison system. It is based on the Model Prisons Bill, 2023, issued by the Government of India (GoI).
Maharashtra Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2024: Key Highlights :
Repeal of Outdated Acts:
The Prisons Act, 1894, the Prisoners Act, 1900, and the Transfer of Prisoners Act, 1950 stand repealed.
The new legislation consolidates laws related to regulation of prisons, correctional services, and prisoners in Maharashtra.
Establishment of High-Security Prison in Mumbai:
Plans are underway to construct a high-security, multi-storey prison with advanced surveillance measures, akin to international standards like Alcatraz in San Francisco.
Features include fortified walls, electronic tracking, power fencing, watchtowers, and 24×7 CCTV coverage.
Land parcels for the new Mumbai jail have already been identified.
Special Categories of Prisons:
Special Prisons for high-risk inmates.
Open and Semi-Open Prisons to facilitate rehabilitation.
Open Colonies designed for reintegration of inmates with society.
Temporary Prisons for certain categories of offenders.
Gender-Sensitive Facilities:
Separate cells and wards for women inmates with provisions for pre- and post-natal care.
Special child-care areas (Balwadis) for children staying with mothers in prison.
Dedicated enclosures and healthcare for transgender inmates.
Rehabilitation, Skill Development, and Welfare:
Mandatory libraries, sports facilities, yoga, and recreation for inmates.
Work-based compensation and opportunities to sell inmate-produced goods at on-site outlets.
Borstal institutions for young offenders, focusing on education and skill-building.
Early Release and Monitoring:
A system of parole and furlough for good behavior, with electronic tracking.
A special committee under district collectors to support bail bond funding for indigent undertrial prisoners (noting that 1,600 accused are still in jail due to lack of funds).
Detention Centre in Mumbai:
The State plans to establish a detention centre in Mumbai. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been tasked to identify land for the project.
AboutModel Prison Act, 2023Â
It replaces the colonial-era Prisons Act, 1894, aiming to modernise prison laws and align them with contemporary standards.
It shifts emphasis from mere detention to reform and reintegration of inmates.
It serves as a model document for states, since âPrisonsâ is a State List subject in India.
It merges relevant provisions of older legislations (e.g., Prisoners Act, 1900 and Transfer of Prisoners Act, 1950).
It strives to bring Indiaâs prison system in line with international best practices and human rights norms.
Key features include:
Specialised Jails: Provides for high-security, open, and semi-open prisons to manage different categories of inmates.
Rehabilitation Measures: Emphasises vocational training, skill development, counselling, and educational programs to facilitate inmatesâ reintegration.
Legal Aid & Incentives: Outlines provisions for legal assistance, along with parole, furlough, and premature release for good conduct.
Use of Technology: Encourages CCTV, video conferencing, and e-monitoring systems to enhance transparency and security within prisons.
Inclusive Accommodation: Mandates separate facilities for women, transgender persons, and other special categories, ensuring safety and dignity.
Present Prison System:Key Findings of the Supreme Courtâs Centre for Research and Planning Report
The occupancy rate stood at 131.4% as of December 2022, with 75.8% of inmates being undertrials.
This highlights a pressing need for measures to reduce congestion and expedite trials.
Initiatives taken:
Modernization of Prisons Project (2021â26): The government provides financial assistance to States and Union Territories to implement advanced security measures in prisons.
Aims to support reformation and rehabilitation efforts for inmates through various correctional programs.
Model Prison Manual (2016): Offers detailed guidelines on the legal rights of inmates, including access to free legal services.
Modernization of Prisons Scheme (2002â03): Introduced to improve living conditions in prisons, address the welfare of inmates, and enhance the working environment for prison staff.
Delegates recently represented India at the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) virtually hosted by Thailand.
Key highlights of 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials’ Meeting
The discussions focused on priority areas including sustainable development, regional connectivity, security, and people-to-people exchanges.
Several documents, such as Plans of Action for cooperation, new cooperation mechanisms, and collaboration with external partners, were finalized.
The meeting also discussed issues related to the upcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit.
About BIMSTECÂ
The BIMSTEC is a regional organization with 7 member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Established in 1997, its primary aim is to foster multifaceted technical and economic cooperation among the countries bordering the Bay of Bengal.
The region encompasses a population of around 1.5 billion and has a combined GDP of over USD 3.8 trillion.
Origin:
Founded in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration, the organization initially included four member nations under the name BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation).
Later in 1997, Myanmar joined, prompting a renaming to BIMST-EC.
Nepal and Bhutan were admitted in 2004, leading to the current name: Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
Key Features Â
Establishes BIMSTEC as a legal entity, enabling it to engage more formally with other international organizations.
Outlines objectives focused on building trust and friendly relations among member states and promoting economic development and social progress in the Bay of Bengal region.
Defines a clear framework for regular meetings at various levels: the Summit, Ministerial, and Senior Officialsâ levels.
Allows for the possibility of new members and observer states, ensuring future growth and broader cooperation.
Streamlines cooperation into 7 sectors, each led by one member state:
Bangladesh: Trade, investment, and development
Bhutan: Environment and climate change
India: Security (including energy)
Myanmar: Agriculture and food security
Nepal: People-to-people contacts
Sri Lanka: Science, technology, and innovation
Thailand: Connectivity
Significance of BIMSTEC for Indo-Pacific Goals Â
Maritime Connectivity: BIMSTEC unites Bay of Bengal states, strengthening maritime ties that are crucial for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Regional Bridge: It links South Asia and Southeast Asia, aligning closely with Indiaâs âAct Eastâ policy and fostering broader Indo-Pacific integration.
Security Cooperation: Focus on collaborative efforts in maritime security (e.g., counter-piracy, disaster management) supports a stable and secure Indo-Pacific.
Economic Integration: By promoting trade, investment, and infrastructure development, BIMSTEC bolsters economic growth and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Synergy with Other Frameworks: Its emphasis on connectivity, security, and economic cooperation complements initiatives such as ASEAN and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, collectively advancing Indo-Pacific objectives.
PYQ:
[2022] Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation?
In an address, the Prime Minister expressed hope that Indiaâs skilled workforce would make a significant impact in the global job market.
What factors contribute to India’s potential as a leading global supplier of skilled workers?
Demographic Advantage: India has a large and youthful population, with approximately 554 million individuals aged between 15 and 64 years, providing a substantial workforce to meet global demands for skilled labour.
Government Initiatives: The Indian government has launched various programs aimed at enhancing skill development, such as the Skill India Programme, which allocates significant budgetary resources for training youth and creating internship opportunities in collaboration with major companies.
Growing Global Demand: There is an increasing demand for skilled workers in sectors like IT, healthcare, construction, and logistics across regions such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Europe, and North America due to demographic shifts and technological advancements.
International Agreements: India has entered into multiple bilateral agreements with countries like Japan and France to facilitate the mobility of skilled workers, which enhances its position in the global labour market.
How is India preparing its workforce to meet global skill demands?
Skill Training Programs: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is committed to providing future-ready skills training that aligns with global standards.
This includes initiatives for vocational training through a network of over 15,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the country.
Curriculum Development: There is a focus on integrating globally relevant skills into educational curricula. This involves reorienting skill programs at International Skill Centres to address the specific needs of destination countries.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes a holistic approach to education that includes critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy.
Real-Time Skill Forecasting: India is encouraged to utilise data analytics to assess job vacancies and skill needs in real-time, allowing for a more responsive approach to skill development that aligns with international labour market demands.
Customised Training Initiatives: The development of short-term skill training programs tailored for specific countries helps prepare Indian workers for international job markets effectively.
What are the initiatives taken by the Government for skill development in India?
Skill India International Centers (SIIC): Establishes training aligned with international standards, promotes global partnerships and enhances employability abroad.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Offers industry-relevant training with 119 new-age skill courses, focusing on global standards and certifying over 1.42 crore individuals.
National Skill Development Mission (NSDM): Provides a unified framework for quality skill development across sectors, aligning with global requirements for international job opportunities.
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS): Facilitates practical on-the-job training aligned with global industry practices to prepare workers for international markets.
Skill India Digital Hub: A digital platform launched in 2023, offering online resources for vocational training, fostering global skill recognition and accessibility.
Skill Loan Scheme: Provides financial support for skill training, enabling wider access to globally aligned, high-quality training programs.
What challenges does India face in becoming a global skill hub?
Fragmented Policy Structure: India’s current policy framework for international labour mobility is fragmented and lacks comprehensive strategies based on robust data. The existing data primarily covers low-skilled workers, limiting effective policy formulation.
Inadequate Data on Migration Trends: The reliance on limited data sources for tracking migrant labour outflows hampers the ability to create evidence-based policies that can effectively address the needs of both Indian workers and foreign employers.
Underutilisation of Return Migrants’ Skills: There is a significant gap in effectively reintegrating return migrants into the Indian labour market. The skills acquired abroad are often not recognized or accredited, leading to lost opportunities for both the individuals and the economy.
Quality of Skill Development: While there are numerous initiatives underway, there remains a need to elevate the quality of skill development programs to meet international standards, ensuring that Indian workers are competitive in the global market.
Way forward:Â
Unified Skill Mobility Policy: Implement a comprehensive, data-driven national framework for international labour migration, emphasizing skill forecasting, certification, and seamless reintegration of return migrants.
Global Standards Alignment: Upgrade skill development programs to meet international benchmarks, incorporating customised training for destination-specific needs and emerging global industries.
Mains PYQ:
Q âDemographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.â What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC IAS/2016)
India’s ancient scriptures, history, and culture serve as key inspirations for meaningful governance. As highlighted in the Bhagavad Gita, the concept of “adhishthan” forms the foundation, with PM Modi already promoting its integration.
How can ancient Indic principles enhance modern governance?
Ethical Leadership and Accountability (Raj Dharma): Ancient Indic principles emphasize leaders as servants of the people, prioritizing fairness, justice, and public welfare. This aligns with modern demands for transparent and accountable governance.
Inclusive Development (Antyodaya): The concept of Antyodaya advocates for uplifting the marginalized and ensuring that governance benefits all sections of society, especially the most disadvantaged, which is essential for achieving equitable development.
Sustainability and Environmental Harmony (LiFE & Karmayogi): Indic principles stress balance with nature and responsible living, guiding modern governance towards sustainable development practices. Additionally, the Karmayogi concept promotes continuous skill-building for public servants to enhance governance effectiveness.
What are the contemporary challenges to good governance in India?
Corruption and Lack of Accountability: Corruption remains a significant barrier to good governance in India, undermining public trust and the effectiveness of government programs.
Political Polarization: Increasing polarization between political parties has created a toxic environment that hampers constructive dialogue and collaboration.
Inequality and Access to Services: Economic disparities continue to widen, limiting access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure for marginalized communities.
Bureaucratic Inefficiency: The inefficiency of bureaucratic processes often leads to delays in service delivery and implementation of policies.
In what ways can citizen engagement be improved through Indic ideas?
Participative Governance (Sab Ka Prayas): The concept of Sab Ka Prayas emphasizes collective effort, where citizens are actively involved in decision-making and implementation processes.
Empathy and Responsibility (P2G2 – Pro-People Good Governance): By incorporating P2G2, which stresses sensitivity, commitment, and a sense of responsibility towards the people.
Citizens can be more engaged through empathetic governance that prioritizes their well-being and fosters trust in public institutions.
Empowerment through Education and Awareness (Antyodaya and Raj Dharma): Indic ideas like Antyodaya and Raj Dharma promote the empowerment of all individuals, particularly the marginalized, through education and awareness.
Conclusion: To enhance governance, India should integrate ancient Indic principles like ethical leadership, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability into policy-making. This requires strengthening transparency, encouraging citizen participation, empowering marginalized communities, and fostering continuous capacity building in public administration for effective governance.
Mains PYQ:
Q What do you understand by the term ‘good governance’? How far recent initiatives in terms of e-Governance steps taken by the State have helped the beneficiaries? Discuss with suitable examples. Â (UPSC IAS/2022)
Q) What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of âTrade Warâ, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (UPSC CSE 2018)
Mentorâs Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like âWTOâ (2018) and âInternational Trading routesâ (2022).
An AllianzTrade survey found that 82% of exporters are optimistic about turnover growth in 2024, 73% are also concerned about geopolitical risks and protectionism, highlighting the need for trade policies that promote growth while ensuring inclusivity and equity among nations.
Todayâs editorial likely critiques the current state of the World Trade Organization (WTO) by comparing it to its predecessor, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). This content can be used to present âTrade issuesâ and âFree movement regimesâ in Global politics in your mains answers.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The trend of rising protectionism, especially when Donald Trump promised to impose high tariffs on imports from countries like China, Canada, and Mexico.
This shift raises concerns about increased consumer prices and disruptions in global supply chains, as countries focus more on supporting their domestic industries rather than cooperating internationally.
About the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT):
The GATT is a foundational international treaty established in 1947 to promote global trade by reducing tariffs, quotas, and other trade barriers. Initially signed by 23 countries, GATT aimed to facilitate economic recovery after World War II, evolved through several negotiation rounds, and the key features included: ⢠Non-Discrimination Principle: Member countries must apply tariffs equally to all members, ensuring fair trade practices. ⢠Tariff Reductions: GATT successfully lowered average tariffs among member nations from over 20% to around 5%. ⢠Trade Facilitation: It provided a framework for resolving trade disputes and encouraged multilateral negotiations to further reduce barriers. The Uruguay Round concluded with the Marrakesh Agreement in 1994, which established the WTO as a successor to GATT. The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established on January 1, 1995. By the time it transitioned into the WTO, GATT had become a crucial instrument for promoting global trade liberalization, covering approximately 90% of international trade.
The Appellate Body was established in 1995 as part of the WTO under Article 17 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU). ⢠Aim: It serves to hear appeals from reports issued by panels in disputes between WTO member countries, acting as a higher court for trade-related legal issues. ⢠Structure and Composition: The Appellate Body consists of 7 members, each appointed for a 4-year term by the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB). ⢠Members can be reappointed for additional terms. A Chairperson is elected annually among the members to oversee the Appellate Body’s operations.
About the Recent WTO Conference:
⢠The WTO for its 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in February 2024, raised critical issues such as dispute settlement reforms and the extension of the e-commerce moratorium. ⢠This context highlights the need to reevaluate the WTO’s structure and effectiveness.
How is the WTO experiencing a “GATT-ification”?
Existential Crisis: The WTO is set to miss its target of revitalizing a fully functional dispute settlement system by the end of 2024, with the Appellate Body (AB) remaining non-operational for over five years due to U.S. blockages in appointing members.
The obstruction began during the Obama administration, escalated under Trump, and continues under Biden, reflecting a bipartisan consensus against the AB.
Anticipations of a protectionist Trump 2.0 administration could further worsen the situation. Because, in 2018, he imposed a 25% tariff on various Chinese products, indicating a shift towards unilateral trade actions.
The real issue extends beyond the AB’s functionality; it involves the WTO’s relevance in global trade.
Challenges for Developing Nations: The informal nature of current discussions has hindered effective participation from many developing countries. India proposes transitioning discussions on reforms to formal WTO bodies to ensure inclusivity and representation from developing countries.
Uncertain Future: The future of the WTO’s dispute settlement system remains uncertain as the deadline approaches, with ongoing debates about restoring functionality and addressing broader institutional challenges.
What is the present Unraveling of WTO Dynamics?
China’s Rise: China’s rise over the past two decades has significantly changed the global trade landscape. The U.S. facilitated China’s accession to the WTO in 2001, hoping it would adopt free-market principles and dismantle state-led industrial policies.
Expectations vs. Reality: Contrary to U.S. hopes, China did not dismantle its state-led policies and is perceived to have exploited the WTO system to its advantage. On the contrary, there is a belief in the U.S. that the WTO’s institutional controls limit its ability to address challenges posed by China.
The U.S. aims, as stated by international lawyer Daniel C.K. Chow, to undermine the WTO system, including the Appellate Body (AB), to gain more freedom in addressing the Chinese threat.
The U.S. can now implement trade remedial measures and develop industrial policies against China, even if they violate WTO laws, due to the lack of enforcement from the AB.
Conclusion: The term âGATT-ificationâ, coined by Prof. Vidigal, highlights the shift in the international trading order and emphasizes that current negotiations cannot obscure the reality. The reversal shift to GATT-era diplomacy signifies a significant change in how international trade is governed, moving away from established multilateral frameworks toward more fragmented approaches.
Justice Madan B Lokur, retired judge of the Supreme Court of India, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC).
Justice Lokurâs Legacy:
Justice Lokur served on the Supreme Court of India from June 2012 to December 2018, delivering landmark judgments across diverse areas of law.
In August 2019, he was appointed to the non-resident panel of the Supreme Court of Fiji and reappointed for another three-year term in January 2022.
His notable judgments include:
Electoral Disqualification on Religious Grounds (January 2017): Authored a concurring opinion in a seven-judge bench ruling disqualifying electoral candidates for seeking votes based on religion, race, caste, or other identity markers.
Raising the Age of Consent in Marriages (October 2017): Alongside Justice Deepak Gupta, ruled to raise the age of consent within marriages to 18 years, bolstering child protection laws.
About UN Internal Justice Council (IJC):
Establishment
Established in 2009 to reform and strengthen the UN’s internal justice system.
Ensures the system operates effectively, impartially, and transparently, addressing workplace disputes within the UN.
Overview and Structural Mandate
Mandate:
Safeguards the independence and integrity of the internal justice system.
The IJC is responsible for overseeing the administration of the UNâs internal justice system.
It supervises:
Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA)
UN Dispute Tribunal (UNDT)
UN Appeals Tribunal (UNAT)
Recommends measures to ensure judicial independence and efficiency in dispute resolution.
Composition:
5 members: 2 tribunal judges (from UNDT and UNAT), two staff representatives, and one external legal expert.
Chairperson is selected by consensus and appointed by the UN Secretary-General.
Members serve a four-year term, renewable once.
Powers, Functions, and Jurisdiction
Judicial Appointments:
Recommends candidates for UNDT and UNAT judge positions based on merit and judicial competence.
Proposes a shortlist for final selection by the Secretary-General.
Oversight and Accountability:
Monitors tribunal functioning to ensure fairness and transparency.
Identifies and addresses systemic issues, proposing improvements.
Judicial Independence:
Protects the impartiality of tribunal judges and safeguards judicial integrity.
Advocates for institutional protections against external influence.
Advisory Role:
Provides expert advice on internal justice reform.
Evaluates tribunal processes to enhance efficiency and accessibility for UN staff.
Scope of Jurisdiction:
Covers grievances related to administrative decisions, employment conditions, and workplace disputes brought forward by UN staff worldwide.
