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GS Paper: GS2

  • The code of conduct judges need to follow

    Why in the News? 

    Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court made comments against the Muslim community at an event organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s legal cell, which has caused a lot of public criticism.

    What are the key ethical principles outlined in the code of conduct for judges?

    • Majority Rule: Justice Yadav stated that India would function according to the wishes of the majority, referring to Hindus as the “bahusankhyak” (majority) community. He implied that the values taught to children in one community differ significantly from those in another, particularly regarding animal slaughter practices.
    • Critique of Muslim Practices: He criticized certain practices within the Muslim community, such as polygamy and triple talaq, while asserting that Hindus revere women as goddesses. This comparison has been interpreted as a direct attack on Islamic traditions.
    • Response from Legal Community: The Campaign for Judicial Accountability and Reforms has called for an inquiry into Justice Yadav’s conduct, arguing that his statements violate judicial ethics and undermine public confidence in the judiciary. Prominent legal figures have also suggested impeachment proceedings against him.

    How do codes of conduct vary across different jurisdictions and judicial systems?

    • United States: The American Bar Association has established Model Rules of Professional Conduct which emphasize independence, integrity, and impartiality.
    • United Kingdom: The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office oversees judicial behavior, with a focus on maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.
    • India: The Restatement of Values of Judicial Life serves as a guiding document for judges, emphasizing the need for impartiality and respect for constitutional values.

    What are the consequences for judges who violate the code of conduct?

    • In-House Procedures: Many jurisdictions have internal mechanisms allowing for complaints against judges to be investigated without public embarrassment.
    • Impeachment: In severe cases, judges can be impeached for misconduct, requiring a significant legislative majority to proceed.
    • Public Reprimand or Suspension: Depending on the severity of the violation, judges may receive reprimands or temporary suspensions from their duties.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Accountability Mechanisms: Establish clearer and more transparent procedures for addressing judicial misconduct, including an independent body to investigate complaints and ensure timely action, thus preserving public trust in the judiciary.
    • Promote Judicial Sensitivity and Training: Implement regular training programs on diversity, impartiality, and the ethical responsibilities of judges to reinforce the importance of maintaining neutrality and respect for all communities, both in and out of the courtroom.

     

    The Opposition in Rajya Sabha is preparing to move a motion for impeachment of Allahabad High Court Judge for the same 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.

     

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Draft UGC Regulations, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • The University Grants Commission (UGC) released the Draft UGC (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) 2024 to bring sweeping reforms in India’s higher education sector.
      • The new regulations will apply to all Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities across India.

    Back2Basics: University Grants Commission (UGC)

    • UGC was inaugurated in 1953 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, then Minister of Education.
    • it was established as a statutory body in November 1956 under the UGC Act 1956.
      • The Sargeant Report (1944) recommended a University Grants Committee, established in 1945, initially handling all universities by 1947.
      • Post-independence, the University Education Commission (1948) under Dr. S Radhakrishnan proposed reorganizing the committee along the lines of the UK’s University Grants Commission.
    • A proposal to replace UGC with the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) is under consideration.
    • UGC handles:
      • Providing funds to higher education institutions.
      • Coordination, determination, and maintenance of academic standards.

     

    About the Draft UGC Regulations, 2024:

    Aims and Objectives
    • To reform India’s higher education system.
    • To introduce flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and inclusivity in higher education while removing disciplinary rigidities.
    Key Provisions and Features
    • Biannual Admissions: Institutions can admit students twice a year (July/August and January/February).
    • Multiple Entry and Exit: Students can enter or exit their programs multiple times, with continuous assessments, recognition of prior learning, and the possibility to pursue two programs at the same time.
    • Flexibility for Students: Students can choose any discipline for UG and PG programs, irrespective of their background, subject to clearing entrance exams (e.g., CUET or university-specific exams).
    • Minimum Attendance Requirement: Institutions will set the minimum attendance based on program-specific requirements and statutory approvals, in line with the NEP 2020.
    • UG Degree Credits: At least 50% of credits must be earned in the major discipline for an undergraduate degree. The remaining 50% credits can be from skill courses, apprenticeships, or multidisciplinary subjects.
    • Duration of Degrees: UG degrees can be completed in 3 to 4 years, depending on the course structure. PG degrees will typically take 1 to 2 years, though they can be longer or shorter based on the program.
    Accelerated and Extended Degree Programs:
    • ADP (Accelerated Degree Programs): Allows students to complete their degree in a shorter duration while covering the full curriculum.
    • EDP (Extended Degree Programs): Extends the duration for students who need more time to complete the program.
      • Up to 10% of the sanctioned intake can be earmarked for ADP. Students can choose ADP or EDP by the end of the first or second semester.
      • ADP/EDP degrees will include a note specifying the adjusted duration, while ensuring the full academic content is covered.
    • Postgraduate Eligibility: Students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (Hons./Research, BTech, BE) will be eligible for a two-year postgraduate program.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education?

    1. Directive Principles of State Policy
    2. Rural and Urban Local Bodies
    3. Fifth Schedule
    4. Sixth Schedule
    5. Seventh Schedule

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 3, 4 and 5 only
    (c) 1, 2 and 5 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • Under Trump 2.0, the world and the India outlook

    Why in the News?

    After the recent Elections, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will likely hold a more favourable view of India compared to other nations.

    What are the potential impacts of Trump’s protectionist trade policies on India?

    • Increased Tariffs: Trump’s administration is likely to impose higher tariffs on Chinese imports, which could lead to a shift in trade dynamics.
      • India might benefit from this situation as companies look to relocate their manufacturing bases away from China, potentially increasing Indian exports.
    • Supply Chain Diversification: As U.S. firms seek to diversify their supply chains to reduce dependency on China, India could emerge as an attractive alternative for manufacturing and technology services, boosting economic ties between the two nations.
    • Pressure on Indian Goods: Conversely, if Trump’s policies lead to retaliatory measures from China or other countries, Indian goods may face increased scrutiny or tariffs in those markets, affecting India’s export competitiveness.

    How will Trump’s immigration policies affect the Indian workforce in the US?

    • H-1B Visa Restrictions: Trump’s administration may implement stricter immigration policies, particularly affecting H-1B visas commonly used by Indian IT professionals. This could limit the ability of Indian workers to enter or remain in the U.S. job market.
    • Talent Drain: Stricter immigration laws might lead to a talent drain, where highly skilled Indian professionals seek opportunities in other countries with more favorable immigration policies, impacting India’s tech sector.
    • Focus on Skilled Workers: On the flip side, if Trump prioritizes skilled labor that aligns with U.S. economic needs, there could be opportunities for Indian professionals who meet those criteria to gain entry into the U.S. market.

    What strategic opportunities and challenges will arise for India in the Indo-Pacific region?

    • Strengthened Alliances: Under Trump’s leadership, India is likely to see strengthened ties with the U.S. and other allies like Japan and Australia through frameworks such as the Quad, which aims to counterbalance China’s influence in the region.
    • Defence Cooperation: Enhanced defence cooperation could lead to increased military sales and joint exercises between India and the U.S., bolstering India’s defence capabilities against regional threats.
    • Balancing Relations with China: While India may benefit from a closer relationship with the U.S., it will need to navigate its complex relationship with China carefully. Increased tensions between the U.S. and China could put India in a difficult position regarding its economic and security interests.
    • Regional Stability Challenges: Trump’s assertive foreign policy might lead to greater instability in the Indo-Pacific region. India will need to manage its responses carefully to maintain peace while pursuing its strategic interests.

    Way forward: 

    • Leverage Strategic Partnerships: India should capitalize on strengthened ties with the U.S. and allies like Japan and Australia to enhance its defence, trade, and technology capabilities while maintaining a robust independent foreign policy to balance regional dynamics.
    • Promote Domestic Resilience: By advancing initiatives like “Make in India” and diversifying export markets, India can reduce reliance on vulnerable sectors impacted by U.S. protectionism and prepare to attract global supply chains shifting away from China.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • National Food Security Act, 2013

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court remarked that a long-term solution to food security issues is generating employment, while advocate Prashant Bhushan pointed out that the National Food Security Act (NFSA) still relies on 2011 census data.

    About National Food Security Act, 2013:

    Details
    Launch 
    • NFSA was signed into law on 12th September 2013, with retroactive effect from 5th July 2013.
    • It aims to provide subsidized food grains to approximately 2/3rd of India’s population.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Provide subsidized food grains to 2/3rd of India’s population, covering about 75% of rural and 50% of urban areas.
    • Converts food security programs into legal entitlements.
    • Recognizes maternity entitlements for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
    Structural Mandate
    • Central Government directs states to implement the provisions of the Act (Section 38).
    • Mandates that the subsidized prices remain fixed for 3 years (with no revision yet).
    • Ensures that eligible households have a legal right to food grains at subsidized rates under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
    Features and Programs
    • PDS provides 5 kg/person/month: Rice (₹3/kg), Wheat (₹2/kg), Coarse grains (₹1/kg).
    • Eldest woman (18 years or above) in the household is considered the head of the family for issuing ration cards.
    • Provides free meals to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children aged 6 months to 14 years under ICDS and mid-day meal schemes.
      • Ensures pregnant and lactating women receive a ₹6,000 cash benefit, payable in installments.
    • Midday Meal and ICDS are universal, and PDS reaches 75% of rural and 50% of urban populations.
    • Priority Households get 5 kg of food grains per person per month, and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households get 35 kg per month.

    Why figures from 2011 Census still drive it?

    • Data Discrepancy: The 2021 census is getting extensions indiscriminately. It would have identified additional beneficiaries, possibly up to 10 crore more people.
    • Ration Card Issue: Many migrant workers had still not received ration cards, despite several court orders.
    • Logistical and Administrative Constraints: Updating census-based allocations requires substantial administrative coordination and a shift in policy across the Centre and States.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013, consider the following statements:

    1. The families coming under the category of ‘below poverty line (BPL)’ only are eligible to receive subsidised food grains.
    2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
    3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a ‘take-home ration’ of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 3 only

  • [pib] India-Australia CCEA Stocktake

    Why in the News?

    A stocktake visit for the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) recently concluded in New Delhi.

    Key Takeaways from the Meet

    • The discussions covered a wide range of critical aspects of the CECA, including:
      • Trade in goods and services
      • Mobility and agri-tech cooperation
      • Market access modalities that align with India’s food security objectives.
    • Both sides emphasized their shared commitment to ensuring that the CECA produces meaningful benefits and delivers a balanced outcome for both nations.
    • The discussions have opened up pathways for enhanced collaboration in areas such as agricultural innovation, market access, and supply chain resilience.

    About India-Australia CCEA Negotiations:

    • CECA is a comprehensive trade agreement between India and Australia.
      • More comprehensive than the earlier India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) , which is a limited trade agreement in force since December 2022.
    • Negotiations for CECA began in May 2011, suspended in 2016, and re-launched in 2021 after concluding the ECTA.
    • So far 10 rounds of negotiations have taken place.

    Key Features of CECA:

    • Covers goods, services, digital trade, government procurement, and Rules of Origin/Product-Specific Rules Schedule.
    • New areas: competition policy, MSMEs, innovation, agri-tech, critical minerals, sports.

    India-AU Trade Statistics:

    • 2023-24:
      • India’s imports from Australia fell by 15% to USD 16.15 billion.
      • India’s exports to Australia rose by 14.23% to USD 7.94 billion.

    Australia is India’s 13th largest export destination and 14th largest import source.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] ‘Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of negotiations held between India and:

    (a) European Union
    (b) Gulf Cooperation Council
    (c) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development
    (d) Shanghai Cooperation Organization

  • [9th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A good beginning but China negotiations must continue

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategically to counter China’s political and economic dominance.” Explain this statement with examples. (UPSC CSE 2024)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains is recently focusing on growing Chinese dominance in West and Central Asia (2024) and the power play struggle between the USA and China (2022).

    China has been using its ‘slicing strategy’ of debt trap to evolve as a global power by countering the USA and its ‘String of Pearls’ theory to circle out Indian activities.

    Today’s editorial explores the implications of the China-Nepal-India trio, the ongoing negotiations, and the need for a sustained dialogue. This content can be used to represent Chinese dominance in regional geopolitics and the challenges arising due to it.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The recent agreements between Nepal and China mark a significant step in the regional geopolitics of South Asia, particularly under the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    • While the signing of these agreements is a positive development, India must continue negotiations to ensure effective implementation and address potential challenges due to Chinese dominance in the region.
    Recent Developments in Nepal-China Relations: 
    In December 2024, Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli concluded a four-day official visit to China, during which several key agreements were signed, including a framework cooperation agreement related to the BRI.


    Key Points of the Nepal-China Agreements:
    • Framework Cooperation Agreement: This agreement lays the groundwork for various infrastructure projects, including:
    – Tokha-Chhahare Tunnel;
    – Hilsa Simkot Road Project;
    – Kathmandu-Khandbari Road;
    – Kimathanka Bridge;
    – Cross-border railway project from Rasuwagadhi to Kathmandu;
    – Amargadhi City Hall.

    • Focus on Implementation: The Nepali government emphasized the importance of not just signing agreements but also effectively implementing them. Past experiences have shown that while many agreements were signed, tangible progress on the ground has been limited.
    • Investment Modalities: The negotiations included discussions on financing modalities, with a shift from strictly “grants” to more flexible terms such as “aid.”This change aims to facilitate broader investment opportunities from various sources, including private sectors and international financial institutions. 

    Challenges Ahead for Nepal-China Relationship:

    • Implementation Gaps: Historical precedents indicate that many signed agreements have not translated into actionable projects. There is a pressing need for both governments to focus on practical steps that will lead to real-world outcomes.
    • Project-Specific Negotiations: Future negotiations are expected to be project-specific, which may complicate the overarching framework if not managed effectively. Clear communication and defined objectives will be essential in these discussions.
    • Geopolitical Considerations: As Nepal navigates its relationships with neighboring countries like India and global powers such as the United States, balancing these interests while engaging with China will require careful diplomacy.

    What were the substantive statements in Parliament on India-China relations?

    • Troop Disengagement and Temporary Measures: The External Affairs Minister highlighted the successful disengagement of troops following China’s military buildup and India’s counter-deployment, mentioning that temporary and limited measures were implemented at certain friction points to prevent further clashes.
      • However, he noted that these measures could be revisited as needed, indicating that while disengagement is a priority, the situation remains fluid.
    • Ongoing De-escalation Efforts: The Minister reiterated India’s stance that maintaining peace in border areas is essential for developing bilateral relations, suggesting that current troop deployments indicate that normalcy has not yet been restored.
    • Cautious Optimism in Bilateral Relations: The Minister indicated that while there has been some improvement in India-China relations following recent developments between Nepal-China, significantly remains a challenge.
      • He cautioned against expecting a major reset in relations until the border situation stabilizes and structural issues are addressed, particularly regarding economic security concerns with China.

    What are the several key questions that remain unanswered?

    • Unclear Disengagement Terms: While disengagement is declared complete, India lacks clarity on its specifics.
      • Questions remain about access to traditional patrolling points in Depsang and Demchok, the concept of “coordinated patrolling,” and the implications of “temporary steps” that limit patrols and grazing rights for Indian troops.
    • Status Quo Concerns: The Minister stated that India will not accept unilateral changes to the status quo, yet China has altered it since April 2020.
    • Discussions with military officials suggest restricted access to traditional patrol points, highlighting a shift in how both countries view the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
    • India should prioritize restoring the previous status quo in patrolling and grazing activities.
    • Chinese Patrols in Arunachal Pradesh: Reports indicate that Chinese troops are attempting to patrol areas like the Yangtse, despite previous assertions that such demands were unreasonable. If no quid pro quo exists in this sector, it should be firmly denied.
    • Call for Restoration of Status Quo: The Army Chief emphasized returning to the status quo of April 2020, while the Ministry of External Affairs has shifted its language away from this goal. Accepting changed ground realities would play into China’s strategy of gradual territorial gains without provoking outright conflict.

    What strategies can both countries employ to bridge this political divide?

    • Diplomatic Engagement: Regular high-level meetings and dialogues, such as those initiated between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping, can help rebuild trust.
      • Both nations should prioritize discussions on strategic issues beyond border conflicts, including economic cooperation, climate change, and technology.
    • Cultural and Economic Exchanges: Resuming direct flights, easing visa restrictions for citizens and diplomats, and promoting cultural exchanges (like film screenings) can enhance people-to-people connections.
      • This approach can foster goodwill and mutual understanding, essential for improving bilateral relations.
    • Institutional Frameworks: Establishing mechanisms for coordinated patrolling and joint military exercises can help manage tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
      • Additionally, creating platforms for multilateral discussions involving other regional players can facilitate broader cooperation and address shared security concerns.

  • Gamify India’s skilling initiatives

    Why in the News?

    Gamified and simulation-based learning can enhance workforce training by integrating game elements and virtual environments, enabling learners to practice and apply skills safely, improving both training quality and outcomes.

    What are the present skilling challenges in India?

    • Limited Access to Vocational Training: According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2022-23, only 21% of Indian youth aged 15-29 years received vocational or technical training, with a mere 4.4% having received formal training. This highlights a significant gap in the reach and effectiveness of existing skilling programs, raising concerns about the preparedness of the workforce for available job opportunities.
    • Low Employability Among Graduates: The Chief Economic Advisor, V. Anantha Nageswaran, reported that only 51% of India’s graduates are considered employable. This statistic underscores the mismatch between the skills imparted through education and the actual requirements of the job market, contributing to high unemployment rates among educated youth.
    • Skills Gap for Industry 4.0: A substantial portion of the workforce lacks the necessary skills for new-age jobs associated with Industry 4.0, which integrates advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data. Estimates suggest that only 1.5% of Indian engineers possess these skills, and 60% of the MSME workforce lacks essential digital competencies.

    What is gamified and simulation-based learning? 

    • Gamified learning integrates game elements like rewards, challenges, and leaderboards into education to boost engagement and motivation.
    • Simulation-based learning uses virtual environments to replicate real-world scenarios, allowing learners to practice skills in a safe, controlled space. Both methods enhance interaction, retention, and practical skill development.

    How the gamified and simulation-based learning can enhance the training modules?

    • Increased Engagement and Retention: Gamified learning incorporates game elements into skill training, making it interactive and enjoyable. This approach can lead to higher participant engagement and better knowledge retention compared to traditional methods. Features like points, badges, and leaderboards can motivate learners to complete training tasks and strive for excellence.
    • Practical Experience Through Simulations: Simulation-based learning allows trainees to practice skills in a controlled environment that mimics real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience helps learners understand complex systems, develop critical thinking, and improve problem-solving skills without the risk of real-world consequences.
    • Customization and Progress Tracking: The gamified training modules can be tailored to address specific skill gaps identified in the workforce. Trainees can be presented with challenges that adapt based on their progress, ensuring a personalized learning experience that meets their individual needs.
    • Real-World Application: By simulating actual professional circumstances, trainees can apply their knowledge practically, enhancing their readiness for employment. This approach also allows for assessment of decision-making abilities and understanding the outcomes of those decisions.
    • Integration with Existing Platforms: Initiatives like SWAYAM and Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) can host these gamified and simulation-based training modules, leveraging their existing infrastructure and user base to enhance skill development across various sectors.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Vocational Training Infrastructure: Expand access to formal and informal vocational training programs, ensuring alignment with Industry 4.0 requirements. Encourage partnerships between educational institutions and industries to offer skill-based certifications.
    • Leverage Technology for Skilling: Integrate gamified and simulation-based learning into existing platforms like SWAYAM and SIDH to create interactive, hands-on training modules that address skill gaps and improve employability across sectors.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?  (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • [pib] 4th Good Governance Week, 2024

    Why in the News?

    “Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore” a nationwide campaign is launched by the Government of India, from December 19–24, 2024, as part of the 4th Good Governance Week.

    About the Nationwide Campaign ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore’

    • It is a nationwide campaign to address public grievances and improve service delivery across rural and urban areas.
    • It aims to strengthen governance at the grassroots level and bring effective solutions to the common people.
    • It will be conducted in all districts, states, and union territories of India, with a focus on delivering timely solutions and improving the quality of services provided to citizens.
    • Key objectives of the campaign include:
      • Redressing Public Grievances: Ensuring that citizens’ complaints related to government services are resolved swiftly.
      • Improving Service Delivery: Enhancing the efficiency of government services at the local level.
      • Creating Awareness: Spreading knowledge about good governance practices and encouraging citizens to be proactive in using available services.

    Key Observations from the Good Governance Index (GGI) 2022

    • The GGI, 2022 evaluates 58 indicators across 10 governance sectors, such as agriculture and allied sectors, human resource development, public health, and law and order, among others. The key observations are as follows:
      1. Top Performers: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra ranked highest for good governance, excelling in public health, human resources, and economic governance.
      2. Service Delivery: States like Tamil Nadu and Kerala were praised for transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused policies, leading in service delivery.
      3. Agriculture & Rural Development: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar showed improvements in agriculture and rural development, aligning with the goals of Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore.
      4. Health & Education: Kerala and Tamil Nadu excelled in healthcare and education, with significant investments in infrastructure and public schemes.
      5. Sustainable Development: States like Sikkim emphasized environmental governance and sustainable development practices.

    PYQ:

    [2016] What do you understand by the terms ‘governance’, ‘good governance’ and ‘ethical governance’? (150 words)

  • UNGA declares December 21 as World Meditation Day

    Why in the News?

    India has played a leading role in co-sponsoring and guiding the unanimous adoption of a UN General Assembly draft resolution to declare December 21 as World Meditation Day.

    • The theme for 2024 is- “Inner Peace, Global Harmony”.

    About the World Meditation Day

    • It is a global observance that was officially recognized following the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution on December 6, 2024. However, the 21st of December has been designated as the date for this annual observance.
    • It is also symbolic, of falling on the Winter Solstice (December 21), which is associated with new beginnings, reflection, and spiritual growth in Indian tradition.
      • The date is also exactly six months after the International Day of Yoga on June 21, which marks the Summer Solstice.

    The objective behind this Decision

    • Promote Well-Being: To globally encourage meditation for enhancing mental health and overall wellness.
    • Encourage Inner Reflection: Recognizing December 21 as a time for self-reflection and meditation, especially during Uttarayana in Indian tradition.
    • India’s Global Leadership: Reinforces India’s commitment to global wellness, following its leadership in declaring International Day of Yoga.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?

    1. Meditation and control of breath

    2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place

    3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [7th December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Public health — insights from the 1896 Bombay Plague

    PYQ Relevance:

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

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have asked questions around the Public Health Policies (2017) and Newer Health Challenges (2020 and 2022).

    India is aiming for real-time public health monitoring platforms National Health Mission Health Management Information System (NHM-HMIS), and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to enhance surveillance, monitoring, and resource allocation at primary healthcare levels.

    Today’s editorial reflects on the historical context of the Bombay Plague of 1896 and its implications for contemporary public health practices. This content can be used as a case study while exchanging ideas on ‘Public Health Policies and challenges in India’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    There are ongoing discussions in Parliament around public health strategies in the wake of recent health crises, including the past COVID-19 pandemic.

    • By reflecting on historical lessons from the Bombay 1896 plague outbreak, we can analyze the significance of community engagement, comprehensive disease management strategies, and ethical considerations in health interventions.
    What were the Public Health Measures implemented by Britishers and how effective were they?

    • Quarantine and Isolation: Infected individuals were forcibly removed from their homes and taken to plague hospitals or camps, where they were often separated from their families. This included door-to-door searches conducted by soldiers to identify the sick.
    • Destruction of Property: Personal belongings and houses of the infected were often burned and demolished which led to substantial loss of property for many residents.
    • Sanitation Campaigns: A large-scale sanitation initiative was launched, which included flushing sewers with seawater, washing streets with lime, and disinfecting homes.
    o Special camps were established for the treatment of the infected but often faced criticism for poor conditions and high mortality rates.
    • Legislative Measures: The Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 was enacted, granting authorities extensive powers to enforce health measures, including movement restrictions and compulsory examinations.

    Were they effective?
    • Limited Success: The death toll exceeded 33,000 within a short period, indicating that these strategies did not sufficiently curb the outbreak.
    • Social Backlash: Reports of disrespect during inspections and inadequate hospital conditions fueled anger, resulting in protests and even violent incidents against medical personnel.
    • Migration and Spread: Many residents fled Bombay in response to the plague and government actions, which inadvertently contributed to the spread of the disease beyond urban areas.
    • Long-term Impact: While some improvements in urban infrastructure and public health policies emerged post-plague, many immediate measures were criticized for their insensitivity to local customs and needs.

    What was positive in this policy implementation despite the criticism?

    • Emphasis on control over cases: The Indian Plague Commission’s approach during the 1896 Bombay Plague focused significantly on controlling the movement of people and the spread of the disease rather than directly addressing the health needs of affected individuals. Focus Areas were:
      • Railway Plague Inspection Stations Map (to monitor the movement of people) focused on railway networks and inspection points.
      • Chausa Observation Camp Plan detailed layouts of observation camps that reflected a militarized approach to quarantine with prominent police presence.
      • Khanpur Station Map illustrated disinfection zones and highlighted the role of police in maintaining control over these areas.
    • Cartographic Approach and Its Consequences: The maps were unusually colorful for administrative reports, possibly to convey a sense of effective control while downplaying the epidemic’s severity. The emphasis moved from identifying who was affected by the plague to understanding where the disease could potentially spread.
    • Prioritization of State Control: The Commission’s focus on control points indicated a prioritization of state mechanisms for surveillance rather than an understanding of epidemiological factors or community health requirements.
      • This approach raised concerns about the adequacy of public health responses that prioritized state security over effective disease management and community welfare.

    What lessons can contemporary public health systems learn from the Bombay Plague?

    • Community Engagement: Effective public health responses must include community cooperation. The mistrust generated by colonial policies highlights the need for transparent communication and involvement of local leaders in health initiatives.
    • Comprehensive Disease Management: The outbreak underscored the importance of not only immediate medical responses but also long-term strategies addressing underlying social determinants of health such as poverty and sanitation.
    • Ethical Considerations: The harsh measures taken during the plague raise ethical questions regarding public health interventions. Balancing individual rights with community safety remains a critical challenge for public health officials today.
    • Historical Reflection: Understanding past epidemics can inform current practices. The Bombay Plague illustrates how historical narratives shape contemporary health policies and societal attitudes toward disease management.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/public-health-insights-from-the-1896-bombay-plague/article68955779.ece