💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS2

  • [16th August 2024] The Hindu Op-ed:  An obstinate refusal to focus on welfare

    [16th August 2024] The Hindu Op-ed:  An obstinate refusal to focus on welfare

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:

    Q. 1 Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of policy process. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2014) 

    Q. 2 Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement. (UPSC IAS/2017) 

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Underfunding issues related to welfare schemes;

    Mentor comments:  The government’s stubborn refusal to prioritize welfare is baffling, especially in a country where, according to its own data, around 34% of the population survives on less than ₹100 a day, and over 81 crore people depend on free foodgrains to make ends meet. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in its current term, NDA 3.0, seems to be perpetuating the trend set in its previous two terms by cutting back on welfare allocations, as evidenced by the analysis below based on Budget documents.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the News? 

    On the welfare front, the government has once again failed to boost expenditure on crucial welfare schemes that support the country’s marginalized populations.

    Underfunding issues related to welfare schemes:

    • Declining Budget Allocations as per GDP%: Both MGNREGA and NFSA have seen continuous declines in their budget allocations as a share of GDP since 2014-15, with MGNREGA’s allocation dropping from 0.29% to 0.26% and NFSA’s from 0.72% to 0.63%.
      • The combined budget allocation for MGNREGA and NFSA has decreased by 25% since 2014-15, highlighting a long-term trend of underfunding these essential welfare schemes. 
    • Stagnating Real Wages and Increased Demand: With stagnating rural real wages and increased demand for work under MGNREGA, the current budget does not account for the rising number of person-days generated, which increased by 5.74 crore in the first quarter of the financial year.  
    • Neglect of Vulnerable Groups: The National Social Assistance Programme, which provides monetary support to vulnerable groups such as widows, the elderly, and disabled individuals, has not seen any increase in its allocation. Its budget remains stagnant at ₹200 per month for the elderly and ₹300 for widows, despite inflation and the rising cost of living.  
    • Chronic Malnutrition Rates: Over 50% of children under the age of five in India suffer from chronic malnutrition, with anaemia rates in women and children significantly higher than the global average—20% and 15%, respectively.  
    • Declining Budget Allocations: The budget allocation for the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 schemes has decreased by more than 50% since 2014-15, dropping from 0.13% of GDP to 0.06% of GDP. This reduction in funding undermines the effectiveness of these programs aimed at combating child malnutrition and hunger.
    • Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Programme: The MDM programme, which provides meals to about 12 crore children, has also seen its funding halved since 2014-15 as a share of GDP. 
      • Despite its success in improving attendance and nutritional outcomes, the lack of adequate funding limits its potential to address hunger effectively.
    • Education Funding Decline: The share of central expenditure on education (primary and secondary) has declined from 0.37% of GDP in 2014-15 to 0.22% today.  
    • Health Budget Allocation: While the budget allocation for health has seen a slight increase from 0.25% to 0.28% of GDP since 2014-15, this increase is still inadequate given the high out-of-pocket health expenses that push millions into poverty each year.

    What Government can do?

    • Increase Budget Allocations to Meet Actual Needs: The government should significantly increase the budget allocations for welfare schemes such as MGNREGA and NFSA to ensure they meet the actual demand for employment and food security.
      • For instance, allocating at least ₹2 lakh crore for MGNREGA, which is approximately 1% of GDP, would help clear pending dues and provide adequate employment opportunities for rural households. This increase would not only address the immediate needs of the population but also stimulate rural economic growth by enhancing purchasing power and consumption.
    • Implement Targeted Policy Reforms and Monitoring Mechanisms: The need to establish robust monitoring systems to track the effectiveness and utilization of funds allocated to welfare schemes is crucial.
      • The government should implement targeted policy reforms that focus on the specific needs of vulnerable groups, such as widows, the elderly, and disabled individuals, ensuring that their support systems are adequately funded and responsive to inflation and rising living costs.  

    Conclusion: The government must increase budget allocations for welfare schemes and implement targeted reforms with effective monitoring to address underfunding, ensuring vulnerable groups receive necessary support amidst rising costs.

  • Jiyo Parsi Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Minister for Minority Affairs has launched a dedicated portal for Jiyo Parsi Scheme.

    What is the Jiyo Parsi Scheme?

    • It is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2013-14 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
    • It aims to arrest the population decline of the Parsis, a minority community in India.
    • It focuses on stabilizing and increasing the Parsi population through scientific protocols and structured interventions.
    • Features of the Scheme:
      • Financial support for infertility treatments and related medical care in empanelled hospitals.
      • Assistance for childcare and support for elderly Parsis.
      • Programs to raise awareness and encourage participation within the Parsi community.
    • Target Groups:
      • Parsi married couples of childbearing age needing assistance.
      • Young adults and adolescents in the Parsi community for disease detection, with parental/legal guardian consent.

    Significance of the scheme:

    • This scheme has successfully facilitated the birth of over 400 Parsi children.
    • It preserves the cultural heritage and identity of the Parsi community.
    • It ensures the long-term sustainability of the community in India.
    • It demonstrates government commitment to supporting minority communities and promoting diversity.

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to?

    1. It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
    2. The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
    3. It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • The Seductive Trap of the Civil Services    

    Why in the News?

    Public service doesn’t have exclusive rights to serve the nation, nor does it offer any special opportunities for doing so.

    Present Status of Civil Services in India

    1. Reputation and Credibility: Recent controversies, such as the case of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who has allegedly misused quotas and provided false documentation shadow over the credibility of UPSC.
    2. High Aspirations and Struggles: The civil service job is a highly demandable career in India. It is often viewed as a prestigious and stable option which leads to a competitive environment where many aspirants repeatedly attempt the UPSC exams leading to mental health struggles and societal pressure. 
    3. Coaching Industry Influence: The expansive coaching industry thrives on the aspirations of civil service candidates by capitalizing on the high failure rates and the desperation of aspirants.

    About the Kothari Commission: 

    • The Kothari Commission, officially known as the Education Commission of 1964-66, was established by the Government of India to comprehensively evaluate the educational system and recommend reforms. It was chaired by Dr. D. S. Kothari.
    • The Commission aimed to align education with national development goals and address various shortcomings in the existing system. 
    • Its report, titled “Education and National Development,” was submitted on June 29, 1966.

    Suggestions from the Kothari Commission:

    The Kothari Commission’s recommendations, which aimed to reform education and public service, can provide a framework for addressing the current challenges in the civil services:

    1. Age Limit Adjustments: The government should reduce the upper age limit for candidates from around 34-35 years to 25 years, with allowances for special categories which could help mitigate the prolonged pursuit of civil services and reduce the burden on young aspirants.
    2. Limiting Attempts: Restricting the number of attempts to three, with an additional attempt for special categories which could help streamline the process and discourage the excessive commercialization of coaching services that exploit aspirants’ ambitions.
    3. Broadened Perspectives on Service: Encouraging young people to view various professions as valid forms of national service rather than solely focusing on government positions.

    Way forward: 

    • Reforming Recruitment and Training Processes: To enhance credibility and transparency in civil services recruitment, the UPSC and related bodies could implement stricter verification processes for candidates’ credentials, including quotas and documentation.
    • Diversifying Career Awareness and Opportunities: The government, along with educational institutions like CBSE can promote awareness of diverse career paths beyond civil services, emphasizing the value of contributing to the nation through various professions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Initially Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you agree with the view that drastic reforms are required in Civil Services. Comment (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • India, UAE reviewing precious metals trade under CEPA

    Why in the News?

    India is seeking a review of certain provisions of the free trade agreement (FTA) with the UAE, which came into force on May 1, 2022.

    India-UAE Trade Relations: An Overview

    Concerns over Precious Metals Imports

    • There has been a significant increase in imports of precious metals from the UAE under the trade agreement.
    • Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has raised concerns about the spurt in imports of gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds with zero tariffs in the coming years.
    • GTRI’s report highlights potential revenue losses and a shift in import business from banks to private traders, favouring Dubai-based firms.
    • It also claims that many imports do not meet the Rules of Origin conditions, making them ineligible for concessions.

    Review of IT Hardware Import Regime

    • When asked about the review of the new authorisation regime for monitoring imports of certain IT hardware products, Barthwal indicated that the government would make a decision at the appropriate time.
    • The government had previously adjusted import restrictions on laptops and computers, allowing importers to bring in shipments under an ‘authorisation’ system until September.

  • [14th August 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The shock-effects of South Asian tumult

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:

    Q1 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?  (UPSC IAS/2022) 

    Q2 Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh (UPSC IAS/2013) 

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Reason behind the declining India’s influence in South Asia;

    Mentor comments:  Since the start of this decade, India has faced a series of shocks in its neighborhood. In 2021, the coup in Myanmar and the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan set the stage. In 2022, the ouster of Prime Minister Imran Khan in Pakistan and the riots that forced Gotabaya Rajapaksa out in Sri Lanka added to the turmoil. More recently, electoral changes in the Maldives and Nepal have replaced India-friendly governments with less cooperative ones. With Sheikh Hasina’s dramatic exit in Bangladesh, India is now urgently reassessing its approach to safeguard against future upheavals in South Asia.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the News? 

    Hasina’s removal from power in Bangladesh is no doubt a dramatic setback for India, as both countries have transformed ties on every front in the past decade and a half. 

    Key lesson for India: 

    • Engage with All Political Stakeholders: India must broaden its diplomatic engagement to include all political parties in Bangladesh, particularly the opposition, such as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).  
    • Monitor and Respond to Local Sentiments: India should enhance its intelligence and diplomatic capabilities to monitor local sentiments and political developments in Bangladesh more effectively. This includes understanding the socio-political dynamics and public opinion, which can provide critical insights into potential unrest or shifts in governance.  
    • Reassess Strategic Partnerships: India needs to reassess its strategic partnerships and avoid over-reliance on any single government or political party.  
    • Promote Democratic Values and Human Rights: India should advocate for democratic values and human rights in its foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections and the protection of civil liberties.  

    Loss of Reputation:

    • Reputation as a Dependable Partner: India’s reputation as a reliable ally in the region suffered a setback after the fall of Kabul when it refused visas to hundreds of Afghans fleeing the Taliban. Many of these individuals were senior defense and security officials who had risked their lives for Indian diplomats.
    • Pragmatism in Supporting Allies: Despite the potential complications, India wisely allowed Sheikh Hasina to stay in the country after her removal from power, recognizing that turning its back on an old ally would have been a betrayal. This approach is necessary to maintain long-term relationships in the region, where political leaders often return to power.
    • Future Diplomatic Challenges: The continued presence of Sheikh Hasina in India could complicate ties with any new government in Bangladesh, especially if they request her extradition or perceive the Awami League as regrouping in India.

    Communal Lens:

    • Faulty Assumption of Religious Ties: The good diplomatic ties in South Asia are somehow linked to shared religious majorities. For example, Hindu-majority Nepal has been a challenging relationship for India, while Buddhist-majority Bhutan and Muslim-majority Maldives have often been among its closest allies.
    • Impact of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA): The Indian government’s introduction of the CAA, which fast-tracks citizenship for non-Muslims from Muslim-majority countries (Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh), has backfired across the region. It has strained relationships not only with the countries directly mentioned but also with others in the neighbourhood.

    Erosion of Pan-South Asian Mechanisms: 

    1. Boycott of SAARC by India: India has boycotted the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) summit for a decade now due to bilateral issues with Pakistan. This has led to the stagnation of the regional grouping and its inability to address common challenges.
    2. Abandonment of BIMSTEC: There are concerns that India may abandon the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) if ties with Bangladesh worsen, similar to its stance on SAARC. This would further erode regional cooperation mechanisms.

    Implications for India

    1. Loss of Influence in the Region: The erosion of pan-South Asian mechanisms has diminished India’s influence in the region. Countries like Bangladesh are now more open to engaging with other powers, reducing India’s ability to shape regional dynamics.
    2. Vulnerability to External Interference: The absence of effective regional cooperation platforms has made South Asian countries more vulnerable to external interference from global powers like the United States and China. Their rivalries can now play out in the region without sensitivity to India’s interests.
    3. Deprived Economic Opportunities: The lack of regional integration has deprived India and its neighbours of potential economic benefits through increased trade, investment, and connectivity. Reviving mechanisms like SAARC could unlock significant economic opportunities for the region.

    Way Forward for India

    1. Reviving Pan-South Asian Mechanisms: India must take the lead in reviving pan-South Asian mechanisms like SAARC and finding ways to engage with its neighbours without external interference. This would require addressing bilateral issues and prioritizing regional cooperation.
    2. Balancing Relations with Global Powers: India needs to strike a balance in its relations with global powers like the United States and China. It should avoid being drawn into its rivalries and instead focus on pursuing its own interests in the region.

    Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-shock-effects-of-south-asian-tumult/article68521412.ece 

  • An overview of governance in Delhi

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court ruled that Delhi’s LG can independently nominate 10 aldermen to the MCD which escalates tensions between the Union, Delhi, and local governments.

    How did the Delhi government evolve?

    • At the commencement of the Constitution in 1950, Delhi was classified as a Part C State.
    • Following the state reorganisation in 1956, it became a Union Territory governed by an administrator.
    • The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was established in 1958, and a limited local government was introduced in 1966.
    • Based on the Balakrishnan Committee’s recommendations in 1989, the 69th Constitutional Amendment in 1991 created a Legislative Assembly and council of ministers for the NCT of Delhi. 
    • However, the Union government retained control over public order, police, and land, excluding these subjects from the Delhi government’s jurisdiction.

    Why is there constant tension and friction between the Union government and the Delhi government?  

    • Legal Disputes: Legal battles have escalated tensions, particularly following Supreme Court judgments that have altered the balance of power between the elected Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG). For instance, recent rulings have clarified the LG’s powers, allowing for unilateral actions that bypass the council of ministers.
    • Control Over Key Areas: The Union government retains control over critical areas such as police, public order, and land, which limits the Delhi government’s autonomy.
    • Administrative Confusion: The presence of multiple layers of governance, including the MCD and other local bodies, complicates accountability and governance, leading to blame-shifting during crises, such as the recent incidents of electrocution and flooding.
    •  Budgetary Conflict: The Delhi State Government has accused the Central Government of underfunding the MCD, leading to poor civic services, while the Central Government has argued that the State Government is not providing adequate support.
    • Division and Unification of MCD: In 2012, the MCD was trifurcated into three separate entities by the Congress-led state government, a move seen as an attempt to decentralize power. However, in 2022, the BJP-led Central Government passed a law to reunify the MCD, citing administrative efficiency, but the move was perceived by the Delhi State Government as an effort to centralize control.

    What did the 1989 Balakrishnan committee recommend?  

    1. On Union Territory Status: The Balakrishnan Committee recommended that Delhi must remain a Union Territory rather than achieving full statehood.
    2. On Governance Structure: The committee proposed a governance model that included an Administrator exercising powers based on the advice of the Council of Ministers, ensuring a balance of power while maintaining central oversight.
    3. On Representation and Accountability: The committee emphasized the need for a more effective representative democratic system to safeguard the rights of Delhi’s growing population.

    How has the Municipal Corporation of Delhi been involved in the power tussle? 

    • Multiple Authorities: The MCD operates under the Union government’s control, adding complexity to the governance structure in Delhi. For example in public services and urban management.
    • Electoral Conflicts: The MCD’s elected representatives have often been caught in the crossfire of political disputes between the Union and Delhi governments, leading to inefficiencies and a lack of coherent governance. The recent tragedies in the city have highlighted the consequences of this blame-shifting.

    Way Forward:

    • Revisiting Governance Structure: A constitutional amendment could be considered to delineate the powers of the central government and the Delhi government more clearly. For instance, the area of New Delhi (50-100 square kilometres) could be under central control, while the rest could be governed by the Delhi Assembly.
    • Implementation of triple chain accountability: Implementing the spirit of the Supreme Court’s 2023 judgment, which emphasized a triple chain of accountability, could help restore balance and ensure that all layers of government are accountable to the people.
    • Promoting Consensus-Based Governance: Encouraging dialogue and consensus between the different layers of government could help mitigate conflicts and foster a more cooperative governance environment.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine.(2018)

  • St Martin’s Island

    Why in the News?

    The ousted Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina claimed she could have stayed in power if she had given up St. Martin’s Island and parts of the Bay of Bengal to the United States.

    About St Martin’s Island

    • St. Martin’s Island is located in the northeastern region of the Bay of Bengal, near the maritime boundary between Bangladesh and Myanmar.
    • It lies about 9 kilometers south of the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf peninsula in Bangladesh.
    • The island is approximately 7.3 km long and is mostly flat, with an elevation of about 3.6 meters above mean sea level.
    • It is Bangladesh’s only coral island and is surrounded by coral reefs that extend 10-15 km to the west-northwest of the island.
    • Historical Background:
      • The island was originally part of the Teknaf peninsula but gradually submerged into the sea around 5,000 years ago.
      • It resurfaced approximately 450 years ago.
      • Arab merchants were among the first settlers in the 18th century. They named it “Jazira” and later “Narikel Jinjira” (Coconut Island).
      • In 1900, British India annexed the island, and it became known as St. Martin’s Island, named after a Deputy Commissioner of Chittagong.

    Strategic importance:

    • Near the Strait of Malacca: Close to one of the world’s busiest maritime routes, making it strategically important for military oversight.It offers potential for monitoring maritime activities, including strategic interests of global powers.
    • Border with Myanmar: Proximity to Myanmar adds significance in regional security dynamics.

    Other significance for Bangladesh:

    • It is part of Bangladesh’s EEZ, rich in marine resources like fish, oil, and gas. Also a key tourist destination.
    • It is important for biodiversity, with coral reefs and diverse marine life.

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following pairs:

    Area of conflict mentioned in news: Country where it is located

    1.Donbas: Syria

    2.Kachin: Ethiopia

    3.Tigray: North Yemen

    How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c) All three

    (d) None

  • The top court as custodian of liberties    

    Why in the News?

    • Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was arrested in early 2023 by the CBI and ED in the Delhi liquor policy case. After nearly a year and a half in prison, the Supreme Court of India granted him bail, underscoring that bail should not be used as a form of punishment.

    Previous judgments on the ‘Right to Speedy Trial’:

    1. The Supreme Court referenced its earlier judgments, including Kashmira Singh (1977), P. Chidambaram (2020), and Satender Kumar Antil (2022), which establish that the right to a speedy trial is fundamental under Article 21 of the Constitution.
    2. The Court’s decision in Arnab Manoranjan Goswami vs The State of Maharashtra and Ors. (2020) was cited, reinforcing that liberty is a core component of constitutionalism.
    3. In recent scenario, the SC relied on its earlier order dated October 30, 2023, in Manish Sisodia vs Central Bureau of Investigation, which highlighted concerns about the large volume of evidence (56,000 pages of documents and 456 witnesses) potentially causing significant delays in trial proceedings.

    What are the present limitations?

    • Prolonged Incarceration: The ruling pointed out that the legal system often leads to excessive delays, which can result in individuals being punished without trial.
    • Dependence on Prosecutorial Statements: A concern was raised about the reliance on the prosecution’s assurances regarding the timeline for trial completion.  

    ‘Guarantee of Civil Liberties’:

    • Constitutional Foundation: The Supreme Court emphasized that individual liberties should not be contingent on the discretion of the prosecution.
      • In judgments like Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), the Court expanded the understanding of due process, emphasising that any deprivation of liberty must follow fair, just, and reasonable procedures.
    • Judicial Responsibility: The judgment aims to prevent the misuse of stringent laws like the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and to uphold the dignity and rights of individuals.
      • In Rana Ayyub v. Directorate of Enforcement (2023), the Supreme Court emphasized judicial oversight in PMLA enforcement while ensuring trials follow underlying offenses.
    • Public’s trust on Judiciary: Presently, the Apex Court pointed out the flawed tendency of some judges to deny bail unnecessarily, ignoring the principle of timely trials. This may lead to loss of public trust in the judiciary.
    • Call for Systemic Change: The ruling urges a reevaluation of the political and legal systems to prioritize justice and individual rights over personal vendettas.
      • State of Maharashtra v. Rani Kusum (2005) underscores the necessity for reforms to address delays in the judicial process.
    • Bail is the Rule, Not the Exception: The Supreme Court’s decision in granting bail to Manish Sisodia reinforces the principle that bail is the rule, not the exception.

    Way forward: 

    • Adherence to procedural deadlines: In this situation, courts should enforce stricter adherence to procedural deadlines and prioritize cases involving prolonged incarceration to safeguard the right to a speedy trial.
    • Independent oversight committees: Need to establish independent oversight committees to regularly review cases of prolonged incarceration without trial, ensuring accountability and reducing reliance on prosecutorial assurances alone.

    Mains PYQ:

    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 IAS/2016)

  • On the allegations against the SEBI chief      

    Why in the News?

    Hindenburg Research has alleged SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband held stakes in Adani-linked offshore funds, implying bias in SEBI’s Adani investigation.

    Accusations Against SEBI Chairman Madhabi Puri Buch 

    • Hindenburg Research has accused SEBI Chairman Madhabi Puri Buch of conflicts of interest related to offshore funds tied to the Adani Group, financial opacity regarding a consulting firm transferred to her husband, and potential favoritism towards Blackstone, where her husband is a senior advisor. 

    Status of the Ongoing Investigation by SEBI

    • Supreme Court Oversight: The Supreme Court has directed SEBI to investigate the allegations made by Hindenburg Research.
    • Show Cause Notice by SEBI: In June 2024, SEBI issued a show cause notice to Hindenburg Research, indicating that the regulator is actively pursuing the matter.

    About SEBI’s Code on Conflict of Interest:

    According to SEBI’s Code on Conflict of Interest, board members, including the Chairperson, are prohibited from holding any other office of profit or engaging in professional activities that involve receiving a salary or professional fees.It can constitute a number of different things that need to be disclosed by the concerned board member:

    • Certain transactions in shares: The Code says that a member must disclose their, and their family’s (spouse, dependent children below 18 years of age) holdings within 15 days of the assumption of Office, and annually update this disclosure.
    • Outside private activities: SEBI board members are not allowed to hold any other ‘office of profit’.
    • Acceptance of gifts: Board members are not allowed to accept “any gift (whose value exceeds Rs 1,000) by whatever name called, to the extent possible, from a regulated entity”. If they do, they have to hand it over to the General Services Department of the SEBI.
    • Miscellaneous: Members are bound to disclose “any post, other employment or fiduciary position” which they hold or have held in the past five years, in connection with any regulated entity.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance stricter disclosure requirements:  SEBI should implement stricter disclosure requirements for all board members, including the Chairperson, ensuring transparency about their financial interests, past affiliations, and potential conflicts.
    • Establishing an Independent Ethics Committee: An independent ethics committee should be created to oversee and review any potential conflicts of interest involving SEBI board members.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in the corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability. (2015)

  • Ukraine’s Kursk Operation in Russia

    Why in the News?

    Ukrainian troops have advanced up to 35 kilometers into Russian territory in the Kursk region. 

    What is the Kursk Operation?

    • The Kursk operation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
    • The operation has been characterized by intense fighting, with reports of casualties.

    About Kursk Region:

    • It is located in the western part of Russia, bordering Ukraine to the southwest.
    • The region holds historical significance Battle of Kursk as the site of the, which took place from July to August 1943 and is recognized as the largest tank battle in history during World War II.
    • The Kursk region is rich in iron ore, which has led to substantial mining operations in the area.
    • The region experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers.

     

    Significance of the Kursk Operation for Ukraine

    • Strategic Leverage: Strengthens Ukraine’s position in future negotiations by capturing Russian territory for potential land exchanges.
    • Buffer Zone Creation: Enhances security for contested Ukrainian areas by establishing a protective buffer on Russian soil.
    • Military Diversion: Forces Russia to redeploy troops, weakening their main front lines and easing pressure on Ukrainian forces.

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following pairs:

    Regions often mentioned in news Reason for being in news
    1. North Kivu and Ituri War between Armenia and Azerbaijan
    2. Nagorno-Karabakh Insurgency in Mozambique
    3. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Dispute between Israel and Lebanon

    How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c) All three

    (d) None