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GS Paper: GS2

  • Why Railways Amendment Bill 2024 was introduced?

    Why in the News?

    Amid intense debates between the government and the opposition, the Lok Sabha passed the Railways (Amendment) Bill, in 2024.

    What were the significant key features of the bill?

    • Repeal of the Indian Railway Board Act, 1905: The Bill repeals the 1905 Act, which governed the establishment and powers of the Railway Board. Provisions from the 1905 Act are now incorporated into the Railways Act, of 1989, for a unified legal framework.
      • It combines the provisions of the 1905 Act and the 1989 Act, reducing legislative redundancy and simplifying governance.
    • Constitution of the Railway Board: It empowers the central government to determine:
      • The number of Railway Board members.
      • Qualifications, experience, and terms of service for the Chairman and members.
      • Method of appointment for these positions.
    • Streamlining Legal Provisions: It consolidates provisions for easier administration and reduces the need for cross-referencing between multiple laws.
      • It enables the central government to prescribe updated qualifications and service terms for Railway Board members, potentially improving leadership quality.
    • Administrative Integration: It maintains the Railway Board’s central authority while aiming for operational efficiency and uniformity in governance.
      • It aligns with recommendations for a modernized railway structure, paving the way for potential decentralization and private sector participation.
    • Development Goals: The Bill is in line with India’s broader infrastructure and economic development objectives, which depend heavily on an efficient railway system.

    Why did the Government Bring the Bill?

    • The government aims to repeal the Indian Railway Board Act of 1905 and integrate its provisions into the Railways Act of 1989, simplifying the legal framework governing Indian Railways and reducing reliance on multiple laws.
    • The government argues that this integration will enhance the efficiency and development of railways, allowing for better governance and decision-making within the Railway Board.
    • Since its inception, the Railway Board has operated under the 1905 Act. The new Bill seeks to modernize this structure by aligning it with contemporary governance practices.

    What did MPs Say About the Bill?

    • Support from Government MPs: The ruling party MPs praised the Bill as a significant step towards modernizing and strengthening Indian Railways, asserting that it would enhance the functions and independence of the Railway Board.
    • Concerns from Opposition MPs: Opposition members argued for an independent Railway Board free from government control and highlighted that the Bill does not address critical issues like:
      • Concerns About Privatization: The Opposition party is worried that the new Bill could lead to the privatization of Indian Railways, making it less accessible to poorer people.
      • Loss of Independence: Many Members of Parliament (MPs) are concerned that more government control over appointments to the Railway Board could reduce the independence of Indian Railways.
      • Restoration of Discounts: Several MPs are calling for the return of fare discounts for senior citizens, journalists, and economically weaker groups, which were stopped during the pandemic.
    • Calls for Inclusivity: Some MPs raised concerns about representation within the Railway Board, questioning whether marginalized groups would be adequately represented in appointments.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Railway Board Autonomy: Establish an independent regulatory framework to ensure the Railway Board operates with greater autonomy, focusing on safety, operational efficiency, and decentralization at zonal and divisional levels.
    • Inclusive Representation and Expertise: Mandate merit-based appointments to the Railway Board, ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups (SCs, STs, OBCs, and women) while emphasizing domain expertise for effective governance.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Syrian Crisis and its implications for Iran and regional geopolitics

    Why in the News?

    The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria significantly challenges Iran’s regional influence, disrupting Tehran’s efforts to sustain its “Shiite crescent” strategy across the Middle East.

    The “Shiite crescent” strategy refers to Iran’s geopolitical ambition to establish a contiguous sphere of influence among Shia-majority regions, extending from Iran through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon, thereby enhancing its regional power.

    syria

    What are the Bilateral Ties between Iran and Syria?

    • Strategic Partnership: Since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979, Syria has been Iran’s key ally, facilitating Iranian influence throughout the Levant. This partnership allowed Iran to support Hezbollah in Lebanon and maintain a foothold against Sunni Arab states.
    • Corridor for Influence: Syria served as a vital corridor for Iranian resources and military support to its proxies, reinforcing Tehran’s “Shiite crescent” strategy aimed at linking Iran with its allies across the region.
    • Historical Context: The relationship strengthened under Bashar al-Assad, despite being challenged by regional Sunni powers. The Assad regime’s reliance on Iranian support became more pronounced during the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011.

    What are the challenges for Tehran?

    • Loss of Influence: The fall of Assad represents a major setback for Iran, as it loses a critical ally needed to sustain its influence in the region. This diminishes Tehran’s ability to project power through its network of proxies and disrupts its strategic depth in the Levant.
    • Operational Setbacks: Iran’s military presence in Syria had already been compromised by Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah leaders and other Iranian-affiliated groups. The loss of Assad exacerbates these challenges, leaving Tehran to reassess its military and diplomatic strategies.
    • Increased Regional Competition: With Assad gone, regional powers like Turkey and Gulf states are likely to vie for influence in Syria, further complicating Iran’s position and diminishing its regional leverage.

    What are the Geopolitical implications for the countries in the region?

    • Power Vacuum: The collapse of Assad creates a power vacuum in which regional players such as Turkey, Iran, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states will compete to fill, recalibrating their strategies to safeguard national interests.
    • Increased Tensions: Sunni Arab states may heighten efforts to counter Iranian influence, potentially leading to escalated sectarian tensions and a resurgence of militant groups like ISIS seeking to exploit the instability.
    • Israel’s Strategic Posture: Israel is expected to adopt a more aggressive stance against Iranian-affiliated groups in Syria and Lebanon, aiming to prevent any reconstitution of Iranian influence along its borders.
    • Western Involvement: The U.S. and European nations may intensify their involvement through diplomatic channels and interventions to curb Iranian expansion while preventing militant organizations from re-emerging in the region.

    What are the steps taken by Indian government?  

    • India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC): Launched during India’s G20 presidency, this corridor aims to enhance connectivity and trade between India, the Middle East, and Europe. It seeks to integrate various countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and European nations, facilitating faster movement of goods and improving maritime security.
    • Joint Action Plan with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): India and the GCC have adopted a Joint Action Plan for 2024-2028, which encompasses cooperation in various sectors such as health, trade, energy, agriculture, and transportation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Ties: Engage with key regional actors like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey to promote stability in Syria and counterbalance Iranian influence while safeguarding India’s energy and trade interests in the Middle East.
    • Counter-Terrorism Collaboration: Enhance intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism cooperation with allies to mitigate the risks of militant groups like ISIS exploiting the instability in Syria.
    • Support Reconstruction Efforts: Participate in Syria’s post-conflict reconstruction through investments in infrastructure, showcasing India’s soft power and gaining strategic goodwill in the region.

    Mains PYQ:

    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 IAS/2018)

  • In news: Nicaragua

    In news: Nicaragua

    Why in the News?

    • Indian and Nicaragua has signed an umbrella agreement on Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
      • The agreement aims at socio-economic development by implementing QIPs in Nicaragua, which will directly benefit local communities.

    About Nicaragua: Quick Facts

    • Nicaragua is located in Central America, bordered by Honduras to the north, Costa Rica to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
    • The capital of Nicaragua is Managua; official language spoken in Nicaragua is Spanish; currency is the Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO).
    • Nicaragua operates as a unitary presidential republic.
    • The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, including coffee, bananas, and sugar, along with manufacturing and mining.

    Geographical Features:

    • Nicaragua’s topography is predominantly mountainous in the interior, with lowland plains along its Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
    • The country is home to over 20 volcanoes, with active ones such as Masaya and San Cristóbal.
    • The largest lake in Nicaragua is Lake Cocibolca, also known as Lake Nicaragua, which is one of the largest lakes in Latin America.
    • Nicaragua is also known for its significant rivers, including the San Juan River, which flows into the Caribbean Sea, and the Río Coco, the longest river in Central America.

    India- Nicaragua Relations:

    • Diplomatic relations were established in March 1983, and the Indian Embassy in Panama is concurrently accredited to Nicaragua.
    • Nicaragua’s embassy in India was closed in 1990, and currently, Nicaragua is represented in India through its Embassy in Tokyo.

    What are Quick Impact Projects (QIPs)?

    • QIPs are initiatives designed to deliver rapid and visible benefits to local communities, especially in areas with critical infrastructure and social development needs.
    • These projects are often implemented in a short time frame.
    • They are focused on addressing urgent and immediate issues that can have a significant positive impact on the community.
    • The term is commonly used by organizations like the UNHCR to describe such initiatives in crisis or displacement situations.
    • Examples of QIPs may include:
      • Building roads in remote areas to improve connectivity.
      • Establishing community centers that serve as hubs for local services.
      • Improving healthcare facilities with basic medical equipment and services.
      • Upgrading educational infrastructure by building schools or providing learning materials.

  • [pib] Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

    Why in the News?

    • In February 2018, the Centre had launched the initiative to establish 1,50,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), formerly known as Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), by December 2022.
      • As of 31st July 2024, 1,73,881 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been set up and are fully operational, exceeding the original target.

    About the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs):

    Details
    • Launched to provide comprehensive health services covering preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care for all age groups.
      • First AAM was launched in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on April 18th, 2018.
    • In FY 2018-19, over 17,000 AAMs were operationalized, surpassing the target of 15,000.
      • Currently, there are 1.6 lakh such centres across India.
    • National Health Policy of 2017 envisioned AAMs as the cornerstone of India’s health system.
      • In 2023, the Union Health Ministry renamed AB-HWCs as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
    Aims and Objectives
    • To provide universal, free-of-cost, and accessible primary healthcare services to both rural and urban populations.
    Features and Significance
    • Services provided include preventive, promotive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care.
    • AAMs offer a comprehensive 12-package set of services.
    • Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) are being transformed to offer broader healthcare services.
    Structural Mandate Implemented via 2 Components:

    1. Comprehensive Primary Health Care: The mission plans to establish 1,50,000 AAMs in rural and urban areas to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services.
    2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): The scheme provides a health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh per year to more than 10 crore vulnerable families for secondary and tertiary care.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:

    1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
    2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
    3. It has seamless portability across the country.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [13th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Pakistan at the UNSC, the points of its compass

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in the UNSC. (UPSC CSE 2015)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously ‘ India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in the UNSC’ (in 2015).

    Pakistan will join the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member for a two-year term, starting January 1, 2025. This is Pakistan’s eighth term. Half of the 10 elected members for 2025-26 will be from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Pakistan, Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia will replace Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland.

    Today’s editorial underscores the implication of Pakistan as a non-permanent member of the UNSC.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    On January 1, 2025, Pakistan will begin its eighth term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for two years.

    Significance of Pakistan’s Election as a Non-Permanent Member of the UNSC

    Pakistan’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2025-2026 term is significant for several reasons:

    • Representation of OIC: With Pakistan’s entry, half of the elected UNSC members will be from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighting the bloc’s influence within the Council and potentially shaping discussions on issues pertinent to member states, particularly those related to Islamic nations.
    • Diplomatic Leverage: Pakistan aims to use its position to strengthen ties with the Taliban in Afghanistan, leveraging support from allies like Russia and China for diplomatic rehabilitation efforts. This could reshape regional dynamics and influence international responses to Afghanistan.
    • Focus on Key Issues: Pakistan intends to prioritize peacekeeping and humanitarian issues, particularly in conflict zones like Gaza and Kashmir, framing its agenda around combating terrorism while attempting to shift scrutiny away from its own challenges related to terrorism.

    Pakistan’s Approach to Its Responsibilities in the UNSC

    Pakistan is expected to approach its responsibilities in the UNSC with a clear agenda:

    • Anti-India Initiatives: Historically, Pakistan has utilized its UNSC membership to advocate against India, particularly regarding Kashmir. It is likely to continue this trend by pushing for discussions on Kashmir and presenting claims against India’s actions in the region.
    • Islamophobia Narrative: Pakistan has previously attempted to introduce Islamophobia into discussions on terrorism, seeking to frame it as a justification for violence. This narrative may resurface during its term, especially with support from OIC countries.
    • Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Efforts: As a major contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, Pakistan will likely emphasize its role in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance, attempting to position itself as a responsible global actor despite its contentious regional relationships.

    Expectations for India

    India should prepare for several outcomes as Pakistan assumes its role in the UNSC:

    • Increased Anti-India Rhetoric: India can expect Pakistan to leverage its UNSC platform for anti-India initiatives, including attempts to highlight alleged human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir and presenting dossiers against India concerning terrorism.
    • Limited Multilateral Cooperation: Despite any bilateral engagements that may occur outside the Council, enhanced multilateral cooperation is unlikely. Historical patterns suggest that countries aligned with Pakistan may support anti-India drafts within the UNSC.
    • Focus on Counter-Terrorism Issues: India should remain vigilant as Pakistan seeks to frame itself as a victim of terrorism while attempting to label India similarly. This could manifest in proposals aimed at listing Indian nationals or organizations under UN sanctions.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Engagements: India should enhance its diplomatic outreach to UNSC members, particularly the P5 countries, to counter any anti-India initiatives by Pakistan. Building stronger alliances with like-minded countries can help mitigate any biased resolutions or discussions on Kashmir and terrorism.
    • Focus on Counter-Narratives and Humanitarian Diplomacy: India should actively engage in countering Pakistan’s use of Islamophobia and terrorism-related narratives. By promoting peacekeeping contributions, humanitarian assistance, and multilateral cooperation

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/pakistan-at-the-unsc-the-points-of-its-compass/article68977903.ece

  • The missing spotlight on urban local government polls

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing debate on simultaneous elections, commonly referred to as One Nation One Election (ONOE), presents a valuable opportunity to highlight a fundamental aspect of local democracy: the need for elections to Urban Local Governments (ULGs).

    What is the Significance of Urban Local Government elections?

    • Decentralized Governance: ULGs are crucial for decentralized self-governance, which is fundamental to democratic functioning at the grassroots level.
    • Service Delivery: ULGs are responsible for delivering essential civic services such as water, sanitation, public health, and urban planning, which directly affect citizens’ quality of life.
    • Local Democracy: Regular elections to ULGs ensure democratic legitimacy, enabling citizens to participate in the governance process at the local level and hold local representatives accountable.
    • Economic and Social Impact: ULGs play a vital role in urban development, economic growth, and social well-being. As cities are responsible for a significant portion of the country’s GDP, well-governed local bodies contribute to national prosperity.

    Why is Voter Turnout in Urban Local Elections Typically Lower?

    • Lack of Awareness: Voter awareness regarding local elections is often lower than that for state or national elections, leading to reduced participation.
    • Perceived Impact: Many voters feel that the impact of urban local elections is less significant compared to state or national elections, resulting in voter apathy.
    • Political Disengagement: In many cases, urban residents may feel disconnected from local governance, especially when local issues are not perceived as urgent or when political campaigns do not adequately address them.
    • Timing and Scheduling Issues: Elections to ULGs may be held at different times or not synchronized with other elections, causing confusion and disengagement.
    • Voter Fatigue: Frequent elections at different levels may contribute to voter fatigue, lowering participation rates in local elections.

    What reforms are necessary to enhance the effectiveness of urban local governments?

    • Empower State Election Commissions (SECs): Strengthening SECs by granting them autonomy and resources for conducting timely and fair elections is essential. Currently, many SECs lack the authority to carry out ward delimitation effectively, which delays elections.
    • Regular Elections: Ensuring that ULGs hold regular elections every five years is crucial. The recent acceptance of recommendations by the High-Level Committee (HLC) for synchronizing local body elections with state and national polls is a positive step in this direction.
    • Decentralization of Powers: The 74th Constitutional Amendment aimed at decentralizing powers to ULGs; however, actual implementation has been inconsistent.
    • Public Participation: Encouraging greater public involvement in decision-making processes will enhance transparency and accountability within ULGs. This can be achieved through community engagement initiatives and participatory budgeting processes.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutional Capacity and Autonomy: Empower State Election Commissions (SECs) with the necessary authority and resources to ensure timely and independent elections.
    • Promote Public Engagement and Accountability: Encourage active public participation through initiatives like community engagement, participatory budgeting, and transparency in governance. This will improve the responsiveness of ULGs to citizen needs and foster stronger local democracy.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The strength and sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funds’to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlightthe critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Impeachment of Judges

    Why in the News?

    The Opposition in Rajya Sabha is preparing to move a motion for impeachment of Allahabad High Court Judge for his controversial remarks inciting communal hatred.

    Impeachment Process for Judges in India:

    About
    • The process involves Parliament passing an address to the President to remove the judge.
    • To pass the motion, two–thirds of the MPs present and voting in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha;
      • Must approve it, with a majority of more than 50% of the total membership of each House.
    Key Constitutional Provisions
    • Article 124(4): The judge can only be removed by a Presidential order, passed after a majority vote in both Houses of Parliament.
    • The vote must come from two-thirds of the members present and voting.
    • Articles 218 of the Constitution extends the same rules to High Court judges.
    • The impeachment process ensures judicial independence by maintaining a high bar for removal, limiting political influence.
    Grounds for Impeachment
    • A judge of the Supreme Court or High Court can be impeached on two grounds: “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity” as per the Constitution of India.
    • Further clarified in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, including:
      • Misuse of office
      • Grave offences that undermine the judge’s integrity
      • Contravention of the provisions of the Constitution.
    What does the process entail? Procedure under the Judges Inquiry Act, 1968:

    Initial Step: The impeachment motion must be signed by at least 100 MPs in the Lok Sabha and 50 MPs in the Rajya Sabha.

    Committee Formation: Once the motion is introduced, the Speaker or Chairperson of the respective House forms a three-member inquiry committee:

    1. Headed by the Chief Justice of India or a Supreme Court judge.
    2. The second member is usually a Chief Justice of any High Court.
    3. The third member is a distinguished jurist, appointed by the Speaker or Chairman.

    Inquiry Process: The committee investigates the charges, cross-examines witnesses, and regulates its procedure.
    The committee may also request a medical test if the charge relates to mental incapacity.

    Outcome: If the committee finds the judge not guilty, the motion is dismissed. If found guilty, it will be reported back to the House for further action.

     

    Instances of Impeachment in India:

    • 1993: Justice V Ramaswami (Supreme Court) faced impeachment proceedings on financial impropriety. The motion was unsuccessful despite a guilty finding.
    • 2011: Justice Soumitra Sen (Calcutta High Court) was impeached for corruption but resigned before Lok Sabha could take up the matter.
    • 2015: Justice S K Gangele (Madhya Pradesh High Court) faced impeachment on charges of sexual harassment, but the committee cleared him in 2017.
    • 2015: Justice J B Pardiwala (Gujarat High Court) faced impeachment for controversial remarks about reservation but the motion was dropped after the judge expunged the remarks.
    • 2017: Justice C V Nagarjuna (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana High Court) faced impeachment for financial misconduct and victimizing a Dalit judge, but the motion was not pursued.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. The motion to impeach a Judge of the Supreme Court of India cannot be rejected by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha as per the Judges (inquiry) Act, 1968.

    2. The Constitution of India defines and gives details of what constitutes ‘incapacity and proved misbehaviour’ of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India.

    3. The details of the process of impeachment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India are given in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.

    4. If the motion for the impeachment of a Judge is taken up for voting, the law requires the motion to be backed by each House of the Parliament and supported by a majority of total membership of that House and by not less than two-thirds of total members of that House present and voting.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4

  • Centre wants States to make Snakebites a Notifiable Disease

    Why in the News?

    The Union Health Ministry has urged states to make snakebites a Notifiable Disease, meaning both private and public hospitals must report it to the government.

    Snakebites Menace in India:

    • Snakebites are a significant public health concern in India, with approximately 3 to 4 million cases reported annually.
      • It causes an estimated 58,000 deaths every year, according to the 2020 Indian Million Death Study.
    • States such as Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat report the highest number of snakebites.
    • The National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE), launched by the government earlier in 2024, aims to halve snakebite deaths by 2030 and includes making snakebites notifiable.

    What are Notifiable Diseases?

    • Notifiable diseases are those that must be reported to the government for effective public health monitoring and management. These are typically:
      • Infectious diseases likely to cause outbreaks.
      • Diseases that result in deaths or require quick action to prevent wider transmission.
    • Legal Basis:
      • According to WHO’s International Health Regulations, 1969, disease reporting is mandatory for global surveillance.
      • The primary law governing notifiable diseases is the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 which outlines the reporting requirements for diseases considered a public health threat.
        • However, the specific list of notifiable diseases can vary across different states and is typically determined by the respective state governments under their individual public health acts.
    • Common examples of notifiable diseases include tuberculosis, HIV, cholera, malaria, dengue, and hepatitis.

    Why snakebite is considered a Notifiable Disease?

    • Snakebites can cause severe health issues, including paralysis, fatal hemorrhages, and tissue damage, making it crucial for timely intervention.
      • Victims need immediate antivenom treatment to prevent death and long-term effects.
    • In 2009, the WHO added snakebite to its list of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), acknowledging its widespread impact on public health.
    • Making snakebites a notifiable disease will enhance surveillance, help track case numbers, and improve treatment strategies across the country.
    • It will ensure the availability of adequate antivenoms in regions where snakebites are frequent.
    • Medical staff will receive training to handle snakebite cases effectively, reducing mortality rates.

  • [pib] Jan Aushadhi Kendra’s by PACS

    Why in the News?

    • The Government has empowered Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK), aiming to provide generic medicines at affordable prices to underserved rural areas.

    About Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK) by PACS:

    Details
    • PMBJKs were established in November 2008.
    • Government-established outlets that provide affordable, quality generic medicines.
    • Operated by PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies) in rural areas.
      • PACS are empowered to run these Kendras to ensure accessibility in remote regions under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
    Aims and Objectives To provide affordable medicines, promote healthcare equity, and reduce medical expenses for farmers, while generating local employment and ensuring PACS’ financial sustainability through the sale of medicines and allied products.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Administered by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers;
    • Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) is the implementation agency.

    Implementation:

    • PACS receive technical and administrative support from the Department of Pharmaceuticals.
    • PACS leverage their existing infrastructure, including land, buildings, and storage, to run the Kendras.
    • PACS-run Kendras receive a 20% incentive on monthly purchases, capped at Rs. 20,000 per month.
    • Kendra owners receive a 20% margin on MRP (excluding taxes).
    • They can sell allied medical products.
    Features and Significance
    • Affordable Medicine Distribution: Ensures that generic medicines are affordable in rural areas.
    • Economic and Healthcare Benefits: Reduces medical costs and improves healthcare outcomes for farmers.
    • Alignment with National Health Policy: Supports equitable healthcare access, especially in remote areas.
    • Strengthening Rural Infrastructure: Utilizes PACS’ infrastructure to boost rural healthcare.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest?

  • [11th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Sambhal and the perils of judicial evasion

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? (UPSC CSE 2016)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously ‘Judicial review’ (in 2016), and ‘religiousness/religiosity and Communalism’ (in 2017).

    In a 2005 paper on ‘judicial inactivism,’ scholar Chad M. Oldfather discussed how courts have a “duty to decide” and how judicial inaction can be just as impactful as judicial action. He argued that failures to fulfill this duty are harder to detect than overreaching decisions, making inaction more concerning. A recent example of judicial deferment is the Supreme Court’s handling of the Sambhal masjid case in Uttar Pradesh. The Court refrained from a final decision, temporarily halting a survey-related civil court proceeding and sending the matter to the Allahabad High Court. 

    Today’s editorial underscores the approach adopted by the Supreme Court of India in the Sambhal masjid case (Uttar Pradesh).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The Court’s order shows, once again, a reluctance to deal with the main issue — it should have taken a clear stand on the validity of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act.

    What were the events leading up to the violence in Sambhal?

    • Survey Controversy: The local civil court ordered a survey of the Sambhal masjid, which heightened tensions among community members. This survey was perceived as an infringement on religious sentiments, leading to protests and unrest.
    • Political Context: The backdrop of communal politics in India, where historical grievances are often invoked, contributed to the volatility of the situation. The mosque’s status became a focal point for various groups, exacerbating tensions.
    • Loss of Lives: The unrest resulting from the survey led to violence and loss of human lives, highlighting the severe implications of judicial decisions that touch on sensitive communal issues.

    How did the judicial system respond?

    • Supreme Court’s Order: The Supreme Court ordered a freeze on proceedings related to the survey and directed the matter back to the Allahabad High Court, effectively deferring a decisive ruling on the issue.
    • Judicial Deferment: This approach reflects a pattern of judicial inaction, where the Court avoids making definitive rulings on contentious issues, opting instead for temporary measures to maintain peace.
    • Failure to Uphold Legislation: Critics argue that the Court’s reluctance to uphold the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which aims to preserve the status quo of places of worship as they existed in 1947, represents a failure to honour legislative intent.

    What are the implications of judicial inquiries and commissions in addressing communal tensions?

    • Limited Effectiveness: Judicial inquiries and commissions often serve as mechanisms for delay rather than resolution, as seen in previous cases like those involving the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and farm laws. They may lead to temporary solutions without addressing underlying legal issues.
    • Erosion of Trust: When courts engage in deferment rather than decisiveness, it can erode public trust in the judiciary’s ability to handle communal tensions effectively.
    • Potential for Inaction: The reliance on committees or inquiries can create a perception that the judiciary is avoiding its duty to decide, potentially emboldening communal actors who seek to exploit legal ambiguities.

    How does this case reflect broader issues of judicial accountability and public trust in the legal system?

    • Judicial Inactivism: The phenomenon described by Chad M. Oldfather highlights that judicial inaction can have significant consequences, often more difficult to detect than overreach. This in-activism can undermine public confidence in judicial integrity.
    • Need for Assertiveness: The Supreme Court’s reluctance to assertively interpret and uphold laws like the Places of Worship Act raises concerns about its commitment to constitutional principles such as secularism and fraternity.
    • Impact on Communal Harmony: Judicial decisions—or lack thereof—play a crucial role in shaping societal dynamics. Inaction on contentious issues can exacerbate communal tensions rather than mitigate them, leading to further unrest and division within society.

    Way forward: 

    • Assertive Judicial Intervention: The Supreme Court should proactively address sensitive communal issues by upholding laws like the Places of Worship Act, ensuring that judicial decisions reflect the constitutional values of secularism and fraternity, and prevent further exploitation of legal ambiguities.
    • Timely and Decisive Rulings: To restore public trust, the judiciary must avoid deferring critical cases to lower courts or committees and instead issue clear, binding decisions that resolve underlying legal disputes, thereby maintaining social harmony and reinforcing accountability.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/sambhal-and-the-perils-of-judicial-evasion/article68970254.ece