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  • Significance of Deputy CM in Indian Politics

    Deputy CM

    Introduction

    • Deputy Chief Ministers (Deputy CMs) have become prominent figures in Indian politics, serving as political compromises and often following coalition governments or a lack of single-party dominance.
    • The role and prevalence of Deputy CMs vary across states and regions.

    Role of Deputy CM

    • Political Compromise: Deputy CMs are appointed to strike a political compromise, especially in coalition governments or when no single leader commands undisputed authority.
    • Representation: Deputy CMs represent various regions, communities, or interest groups within a state, promoting inclusivity.
    • Constitutional Basis: The Constitution does not explicitly mention the position of Deputy CM; however, it is understood to be equivalent in rank to a Cabinet Minister.
    1. Article 163(1): This article outlines the existence of a Council of Ministers in each state, with the Chief Minister at its head, to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions. While it doesn’t mention Deputy CMs, they are a part of the Council of Ministers, akin to Cabinet Ministers.
    2. Article 164(1): This article states that the Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor, and other Ministers shall be appointed by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister. It establishes the authority of the Chief Minister in appointing Deputy CMs.

    Prevalence of Deputy Chief Ministers

    • Growing Prominence: Deputy CMs are increasingly common in Indian states, with four of the five states that went to polls in November 2021 having Deputy CMs.
    • National Presence: Most major states, except Tamil Nadu and Kerala, have the position of Deputy CM.
    • Varied Contexts: States like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Haryana have multiple Deputy CMs, often reflecting coalition governments or diverse political considerations.

    Historical Overview

    • Pioneering Deputy CM: Anugrah Narayan Sinha was one of the earliest Deputy CMs in India, representing Bihar.
    • Post-1967 Increase: The prevalence of Deputy CMs expanded after the decline of Congress’s dominance in national politics in 1967.
    • Examples: States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana have a history of Deputy CMs from various political backgrounds.

    Deputy Prime Ministers

    • Higher Position: India has also seen Deputy Prime Ministers, who held positions of significance at the national level.
    • Notable Figures: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Morarji Desai, Charan Singh, Chaudhary Devi Lal, and Lal Krishna Advani have served as Deputy Prime Ministers.
    • Constitutional Aspects: The role of the Deputy Prime Minister has been debated in court, with the Supreme Court emphasizing that it does not confer additional powers on the Deputy Prime Minister.

    Conclusion

    • Deputy Chief Ministers play a vital role in Indian politics, facilitating political stability and representation.
    • Their prevalence has increased over the years, and they continue to hold significant positions in state governments.

  • Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia’s Shift towards Modernity

    Vision 2030

    Introduction

    • Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman’s Vision 2030 seeks to reshape Saudi Arabia, moving away from oil dependence and embracing modernity.
    • This transformation faces resistance from traditionalists but aligns with a changing global image of Saudi Arabia as a tourist-friendly, welcoming nation.

    Al-Ula: A Modern Oasis

    • Historical Significance: Al-Ula, an ancient city along the incense route, is pivotal in MBS’s vision to modernize Saudi Arabia.
    • Breaking Stereotypes: Saudi Arabia aims to challenge traditional beliefs by welcoming tourists beyond pilgrimage destinations.
    • Nationalism Beyond Religion: The country’s evolving nationalism is detached from religion, emphasizing individual liberties and empowerment.

    Winds of Change

    • Empowering Women: Saudi Arabia promotes gender equality, offering scholarships and opportunities for young women.
    • National Transformation: Young Saudis actively participate in the modernization drive, recognizing its benefits.
    • Welcoming the ‘Other’: Saudi Arabia’s newfound friendliness towards foreigners, including easing visa norms and hosting entertainment events.

    Challenges on Path to Modernity

    • Cultural Sensitivities: Transitioning from conservative traditions is challenging, but Saudis are adapting to change.
    • Historical Significance: Al-Ula’s archaeological treasures pose challenges given their potential impact on religious perceptions.
    • Top-Down Change: Past experiences highlight the complexities of enforcing societal changes from the top.

    Global Engagement

    • Strategic Foreign Policy: Saudi Arabia’s balanced foreign policy has insulated it from regional conflicts.
    • Cultural Riches: The country aims to showcase its archaeological wonders to the world.
    • Green Initiatives: MBS’s ‘green’ approach and emphasis on renewables align with global trends.

    Opportunities for India

    • Improved Working Conditions: Indian migrant workers can expect better conditions and a renewed social contract.
    • Educational and Cultural Exchanges: Indian educators and artists have opportunities to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s educational overhaul.
    • Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: India can leverage Saudi Arabia’s counter-terrorism initiatives.
    • Bilateral Investments: Collaboration in infrastructure and service sectors presents growth potential for both nations.

    Conclusion

    • Saudi Arabia’s journey towards modernity is marked by challenges and opportunities.
    • As it reshapes its identity and engages with the world, India stands to benefit from this evolving partnership, contributing to mutual growth and cooperation.
    • Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to excel in various fields aligns with India’s interests, paving the way for a fruitful relationship.

  • Split Verdict in Kunal Kamra’s Petition: Implications of IT Rules Amendment

    Introduction

    • A two-judge Bench of the Bombay High Court recently delivered a split verdict on a comedian’s petition challenging the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023.
    • These rules grant the government the authority to establish a fact-checking unit (FCU) to identify fake, false, and misleading information about the government on social media platforms.
    • The case will now be referred to a third judge by the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court due to the disagreement between the two justices.

    Provisions of IT Rules (2023)

    • Fact-Checking Unit (FCU): Amended IT rules empower the government to establish an FCU to identify and remove fake, false, or misleading information related to the Central government’s business on social media platforms.
    • Consequences for Non-compliance: Failure to comply with FCU directives may result in intermediaries losing their safe harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000.

    Court’s Concerns and Observations

    • Unfettered Power: The Court expressed concerns about the government’s unfettered power in the absence of clear guidelines and guardrails, emphasizing the need for necessary safeguards.
    • Ambiguity in Terms: The Court noted ambiguity in terms like “fake, false, and misleading” which are subjective and open to interpretation, posing challenges in distinguishing between them.
    • Selective Application: The Court questioned why the IT Rules exclusively targeted digital media, leaving print media unaffected, especially when the same content appears in both forms.
    • FCU’s Role: Concerns were raised about the FCU’s role and the absence of recourse for users whose content is removed after being flagged by the FCU. The Court expressed worries about the user’s lack of remedy in such cases.
    • Overreach: The Court raised concerns about the potential overreach of the Rules, emphasizing that even well-intentioned regulations must have limits to avoid excessive use of power.
    • Lack of Opportunity for Defense: The Court found it remarkable that there was no provision in the Rules allowing an intermediary to defend or justify flagged content, violating principles of natural justice.

    Legal Arguments

    • Petitioners’ Stand: The petitioners argued that the amendment violated freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) and did not satisfy reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2). They contended that the government’s power to decide the truth of content was excessive.
    • Government’s Stand: The government defended the FCU, stating that it would only notify intermediaries about flagged content, and the intermediaries could choose to remove it or add a disclaimer. Users aggrieved by intermediary decisions could seek legal remedies in court.

    Conclusion

    • The split verdict highlights the complexity and significance of the IT Rules (2023) and their potential impact on freedom of speech and expression.
    • The Court’s concerns about ambiguous terms, selective application, and lack of safeguards underscore the need for a balanced approach to regulate online content while protecting fundamental rights.
    • The case’s referral to a third judge will determine its outcome and implications for digital media regulation in India.

  • Internet Shutdowns in India: Upholding Constitutional Rights

    Introduction

    • The Internet serves as a vital source of information, entertainment, healthcare, education, and livelihood.
    • However, the rampant instances of Internet suspension in India, often without public disclosure, raise concerns about constitutional rights and economic losses.

    Constitutional Provisions for Right to Internet

    Landmark Case Constitutional Provision Explanation
    Anuradha Bhasin vs. Union of India and Ors. (2020) Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression under Article 19(1)(a) Grants the right to freedom of speech and expression, which encompasses access to information and the Internet.
    Faheema Shirin RK vs. State of Kerala and others (2019) Right to Education under Article 21A Guarantees the right to education for children aged 6 to 14;

    Internet access is crucial for modern education.
    K.S. Puttaswamy (Privacy) vs. Union of India (2017) Right to Privacy under Article 21 Protects the fundamental right to privacy, and Internet access is often used for secure communication.
    Anuradha Bhasin vs. Union of India and Ors. Freedom to Practice Any Profession or Carry on Any Trade, Business, or Occupation under Article 19(1)(g) Ensures the freedom to conduct various trades, businesses, and professions, often requiring Internet access.

     

    Mechanisms allowing Internet Shut-downs

    Mechanism Authorities Purpose
    Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017 Home Departments in the states, state government review committee, central government (under this law, but rarely used) Enforces shutdowns for public emergency or safety reasons.
    Section 144 of the CrPC Local law enforcement authorities Enables shutdowns, particularly before 2017, to maintain public order and safety.
    The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, Section 5(2) Home Secretary of the Union or state governments Allows blocking of messaging during a public emergency, safeguarding public safety, or protecting sovereignty and integrity.

    Landmark Precedence: Anuradha Bhasin Judgment (2020)

    • Supreme Court’s Ruling: In January 2020, the Supreme Court of India recognized access to the Internet as a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution.
    • Restrictions Guidelines: The Court mandated that any government-imposed Internet restrictions must be temporary, limited, lawful, necessary, and proportionate. It also emphasized judicial review.

    Unfulfilled Promises and Ongoing Restrictions

    • Broken Promises: Despite the Anuradha Bhasin judgment, Internet shutdowns increased in India, making it the leader in global Internet suspensions.
    • Recent Examples: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Haryana have imposed Internet restrictions without timely publication of orders.
    • Compliance Issues: Lack of publication erodes public trust and limits the ability to challenge the legality of restrictions.

    Need for Transparency

    • Publication’s Significance: Non-disclosure of orders hinders legal challenges and perpetuates illegal restrictions.
    • Statutory Recognition: The government’s failure to give statutory recognition to the Supreme Court’s directions creates awareness issues.
    • Economic Impact: In 2020, India suffered $2.8 billion in losses due to 129 Internet shutdowns affecting 10.3 million individuals.

    Widespread Impact

    • Economic, Psychological, and Social Harm: Internet suspensions harm the economy and disrupt daily life, education, healthcare, and communication.
    • Democratic Right to Protest: Restrictions on Internet access hinder the democratic exercise of the right to protest.
    • Verifying Information: The Internet helps verify rumors and disseminate the truth during emergencies.

    Socio-economic Disparities

    • Mobile-Dependent Users: The majority of Internet users rely on mobile data services, making Internet restrictions detrimental to lower socio-economic groups.
    • Broadband Accessibility: Limited access to broadband Internet exacerbates the impact of shutdowns.

    Conclusion

    • To uphold constitutional rights and unlock the full potential of Digital India, the government must adhere to the Supreme Court’s guidelines, ensuring transparency and legality in Internet shutdowns.
    • Addressing compliance issues and minimizing restrictions can benefit the nation’s economic and social well-being.

  • At World Economic Forum, how India made a mark

    Davos 2024: While world is fighting for land, India is winning foreign investments at World Economic Forum

    Central Idea:

    India’s notable economic growth, showcased at Davos 2024, positions it as a global player addressing challenges such as geopolitical incidents, climate change, and technology risks. The country’s achievements in technology-driven governance, active participation in global discussions, and emphasis on socioeconomic aspects contribute to its recognition as a resilient and influential economy.

    Key Highlights:

    • Technology-driven Governance: India’s effective use of technology for governance solutions at scale is highlighted, especially in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
    • Global Participation: India actively engages in global discussions, particularly on socioeconomic issues, reflecting its role as a responsible and influential partner in the world.
    • Women Empowerment: Davos discussions spotlight Indian women’s substantial contribution to the economy, managing businesses worth $37 billion annually. Advocacy for financial institution investments in women-owned businesses is emphasized.
    • Energy Transition: Amidst the focus on climate change, challenges related to energy transition are discussed, with attention to the importance of non-disruptive processes and policy strategies.
    • Equitable Growth: India’s growth trajectory is highlighted as equitable, encompassing infrastructure development, gender inclusivity, and addressing the needs of disadvantaged sections through social security measures.
    • Global Recognition: Moody’s recognizes India as a “pocket of resilience” in the face of global economic challenges, acknowledging the country’s stability and receiving attention across economic, social, and political dimensions.
    • Favorable Investment Destination: India is presented as a favored destination for global investments, with the government’s mission to achieve developed status by 2047.

    Key Challenges:

    • Geopolitical Incidents: India’s integration into the global economy makes it susceptible to geopolitical incidents, requiring a responsible approach to maintain trust.
    • Energy Transition Challenges: Balancing import dependence on fossil fuels with the need for sustainable alternatives poses challenges in India’s energy transition.
    • Inflation Risk: Sticky inflation globally poses a risk to India’s growth trajectory, requiring vigilant economic management.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • AI Leadership: India’s leadership role in adopting and leveraging AI for business solutions.
    • Women’s Self-Employment: The substantial contribution of Indian women, managing businesses with credit from financial institutions.
    • Green Hydrogen: Highlighting alternative energy sources, like green hydrogen, to address energy transition challenges.

    Key Quotes:

    • “India can appear as a ‘pocket of resilience’ amid the risk of sticky inflation affecting the growth trajectory of the global economy.” – Moody’s Investors Service
    • “India’s economic prowess consistently outshone several large economies, showcasing a robust growth trajectory.”

    Key Examples/References:

    • UN World Investment Report: Recognizing India as a favored destination for global investments.
    • Moody’s Investors Service: Acknowledges India’s resilience in the face of global economic challenges.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Indian Women’s Contribution: Ninety million women are self-employed, managing businesses worth $37 billion annually.
    • Government’s Mission: Prime Minister’s goal to propel India into developed status by 2047.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Equitable Growth: The focus on growth reaching every part of the country is critical for inclusive development.
    • Global Recognition: Recognition at the global level highlights India’s role in shaping the world’s economic, social, and political landscape.

    Way Forward:

    • Continued Reforms: India should maintain a proactive approach to governance and reforms, especially in technology adoption and energy transition.
    • Global Collaboration: Strengthening collaborations with global partners ensures a more sustainable and inclusive future.
    • Inclusive Policies: Continued emphasis on gender inclusivity and social security measures contributes to a more equitable growth trajectory.

  • What is needed from a Governor is reticence

    M.K. Stalin | Governor R N Ravi 'instigates' communal hatred, is threat to Tamil Nadu's peace: CM Stalin tells President Droupadi Murmu - Telegraph India

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses the controversial statements made by the Tamil Nadu Governor, R.N. Ravi, regarding the factors leading to India’s Independence. Despite his background in physics and a career in the Intelligence Bureau, Mr. Ravi expressed views on historical events, specifically downplaying the impact of the Quit India movement and attributing British departure to factors like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s actions and the Naval Mutiny.

    Key Highlights:

    • Governor R.N. Ravi, in breach of the expected reticence of constitutional authorities, delves into historical interpretations related to India’s Independence.
    • Ravi suggests that the Quit India movement had minimal impact on the British decision to leave, attributing it more to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Azad Hind Government and the 1946 Naval Mutiny and Air Force Rebellion.
    • Ravi’s views are reportedly based on Intelligence Bureau files, raising questions about his in-depth study of India’s national movement.

    Key Challenges:

    • Constitutional authorities, like Governors, should refrain from publicly expressing opinions on historical matters unrelated to their duties, especially without comprehensive knowledge.
    • Ravi’s assertion regarding the Quit India movement and the reasons for British departure may stir controversy and be seen as an attempt to rewrite historical narratives.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Quit India movement
    • Intelligence Bureau (IB)
    • Azad Hind Government
    • Naval Mutiny and Air Force Rebellion
    • Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
    • Mahatma Gandhi
    • Indian National Army (INA)
    • Constitutional authority

    Key Quotes:

    • “The Quit India movement made little impact on the British decision to leave India.” – Governor R.N. Ravi
    • “The British left because they felt ‘insecure’ after the ‘Naval Revolt and the Air Force Rebellion.’” – R.N. Ravi on British Prime Minister Clement Attlee’s alleged statement.

    Anecdotes:

    • The article mentions the lawyer Bhulabhai Desai, Jawaharlal Nehru, and others defending INA officers at their court martial, emphasizing the united front among leaders despite ideological differences.

    Key Statements:

    • Constitutional authorities, like Governors, are expected to maintain reticence and avoid public expressions of opinions on historical events.
    • Mr. Ravi’s views on the Quit India movement and the reasons for British departure may not align with historical consensus.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Reference to the impact of INA trials on British rule withdrawal, as noted in Kailas Nath Katju’s unpublished biography.
    • Mention of historical leaders’ admiration for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, despite ideological differences.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Mr. Ravi’s background in physics and a career in the Intelligence Bureau.
    • INA trials and their impact on public sentiment, as highlighted in Kailas Nath Katju’s biography.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article criticizes Mr. Ravi for venturing into historical interpretations without a detailed study, emphasizing the need for constitutional authorities to exercise restraint.
    • It questions the validity of Ravi’s claims regarding the Quit India movement’s impact and the factors influencing the British decision to leave.

    Way Forward:

    • Constitutional authorities should adhere to their roles and avoid making public statements on historical events.
    • Encourage informed discussions on historical matters and ensure that statements align with widely accepted historical narratives.

  • What makes the India-France ‘strategic partnership’ tick

    France touts Indian strategic partnership, seals new defence deals during Modi visit – Euractiv

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses the robust and special “Strategic Partnership” between India and France, tracing its origins, evolution, and current dimensions. It emphasizes the enduring nature of the relationship, marked by shared values, geopolitical convergence, and mutual respect, evident in diverse sectors such as defense, space, education, and commerce.

    Key Highlights:

    • Origins and Evolution: The strategic partnership has deep roots dating back to 1998, with France being the first P-5 country to support India’s claim for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
    • Geopolitical Convergence: Both nations prioritize multipolarity, strategic autonomy, and share concerns about a unipolar world, contributing to their natural convergence.
    • Defense Collaboration: Collaboration includes the development of submarines, joint military exercises, and the acquisition of Rafale aircraft. The recently concluded Defense Industrial Roadmap further strengthens defense ties.
    • Space Cooperation: Cooperation in the space domain, which began in the 1960s, has seen a revival, with joint missions and agreements signed between ISRO and CNES.
    • Commercial and Civilian Ties: Efforts are underway to broaden the partnership into commercial and civilian spaces, with joint working groups in various sectors and a growing number of Indian students pursuing higher education in France.

    Key Challenges:

    • Commercial Transition: Moving the partnership from government domains to commercial and civilian spaces presents a challenge, requiring sustained efforts to enhance cooperation in diverse sectors.
    • Differences Management: While strategic partnerships don’t require convergence on all issues, managing differences privately and not publicly is crucial for maintaining a mature and resilient relationship.

    Key Terms:

    • Strategic Partnership: A special relationship between nations marked by cooperation in various domains, including defense, space, and commerce.
    • Multipolarity: A global order characterized by multiple centers of power and influence rather than a single dominant force.
    • P-5: The five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, including France.
    • Geopolitical Focus: Shifting attention and strategic interests from one region to another based on changing global dynamics.

    Key Phrases:

    • Civilization Exceptionalism: Shared trait between India and France, emphasizing pride in their respective civilizations without imposing their values on each other.
    • Argumentative Intellectualism: Common characteristic shared by both nations, highlighting their appreciation for intellectual discourse.

    Key Quotes:

    • “India and France have valued strategic autonomy in their own fashion.”
    • “‘Strategic Partnership’ does not require convergence on all issues but sensitivity so that differences, where these exist, are expressed in private and not publicly.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Jacques Chirac’s Declaration (1998): France’s support for India’s claim for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
    • Defense Industrial Roadmap: Agreements and collaborations in the defense sector, including the acquisition of Rafale aircraft and submarine development.

    Key Statements:

    • “It is clear that the two countries do share a ‘Strategic Partnership’ that is special.”
    • “Both countries were quick to espouse the virtues of multipolarity.”

    Critical Analysis:

    The article provides a comprehensive overview of the India-France strategic partnership, highlighting its historical context, geopolitical rationale, and practical manifestations. It underscores the challenges of transitioning from government-centric collaborations to broader commercial and civilian engagements. The emphasis on managing differences privately and the maturity of the relationship reflect a nuanced understanding of international diplomacy.

    Way Forward:

    • Enhanced Commercial Ties: Continued efforts to broaden the partnership into commercial and civilian sectors, fostering economic collaboration beyond defense and space.
    • Cultural and Educational Exchange: Strengthening cultural ties, fostering educational collaborations, and encouraging more Indian students to pursue higher education in France.
    • Diplomatic Sensitivity: Maintaining sensitivity in handling differences and ensuring that diplomatic disputes are resolved privately to uphold the mature and resilient nature of the partnership.

    The India-France Strategic Partnership, rooted in shared values and mutual respect, continues to evolve positively, presenting opportunities for further growth and collaboration across various domains.

  • India ranks 93 out of 180 countries in Corruption Perceptions Index 2023

    corruption

    Introduction

    • Transparency International has released its Corruption Perceptions Index for 2023, ranking countries based on their perceived levels of corruption in the public sector.
    • India’s position in the ranking has shifted, but the change is minimal.

    About Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)

    Details
    Introduction Introduced by Transparency International in 1995.
    Frequency Published annually.
    Purpose Ranks countries based on perceived corruption.
    Data Sources Expert assessments and surveys of business leaders and residents.
    Global Impact Widely recognized and used by governments, policymakers, businesses, and researchers.
    Data Focus Primarily assesses perceived corruption within government and bureaucracy.

     

    India’s Corruption Scorecard

    • India’s Global Rank: In the 2023 index, India is placed 93rd out of 180 countries, a small decline from its 85th position in 2022.
    • Corruption Score: India’s overall corruption score for 2023 is 39, down slightly from the 40 it scored in 2022.
    • Limited Change: The report highlights that India’s score fluctuations are minor, making it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about any significant changes. However, it points out that there have been actions narrowing civic space in India, including the passage of a telecommunications bill that could threaten fundamental rights.

    South Asia’s Corruption Landscape

    • Pakistan and Sri Lanka: In South Asia, Pakistan (133) and Sri Lanka (115) are grappling with debt burdens and political instability. Still, strong judicial oversight in these countries helps keep the government accountable. Pakistan’s Supreme Court expanded citizens’ right to information, while Sri Lanka continues to face a crackdown on the press.
    • Bangladesh: As Bangladesh (149) moves away from its least developed country status and experiences economic growth, it faces challenges in providing public sector information due to a crackdown on the press.

    Regional Insights

    • China’s Anti-Corruption Efforts: China (76) has made headlines for its aggressive anti-corruption campaign, resulting in punishments for millions of public officials over the last decade. However, doubts linger about the long-term effectiveness of these measures, which heavily rely on punishment rather than institutional checks.
    • Asia Pacific Region: The report notes that the Asia Pacific region is gearing up for a significant election year in 2024, with several countries holding elections. However, the 2023 CPI suggests little to no meaningful progress in curbing corruption in the region.

    Top and Bottom Performers

    • Top-Scoring Countries: Nations like New Zealand (3) and Singapore (5) maintain their positions at the top of the index due to robust corruption control mechanisms. Other countries in the region with strong control measures include Australia (14), Hong Kong (14), Japan (16), Bhutan (26), Taiwan (28), and South Korea (32).
    • Struggling States: The lower end of the index includes fragile states with authoritarian regimes, such as North Korea (172) and Myanmar (162). Afghanistan (162) continues to grapple with one of the worst humanitarian crises in history.

  • Explained: Rajya Sabha Election Process

    Introduction

    • The Election Commission notified elections to 56 Rajya Sabha seats that will be held on February 27.

    Uniqueness of Rajya Sabha Elections

    • Retirement Cycle: One-third of Rajya Sabha members from each State retire every two years, necessitating elections to fill vacancies.
    • Eligible Voters: Only elected members of State Legislative Assemblies are eligible to vote in Rajya Sabha elections.
    • Six-Year Term: Newly elected members serve a six-year term, with vacancies arising due to resignation, death, or disqualification filled through by-polls.

    Election of Rajya Sabha Members

    • Blocs and Elections: A group of MPs from one or more parties can elect a member if they possess the required numbers.
    • Avoiding Majority Rule: This approach ensures that ruling party candidates do not monopolize elections.
    • Union Territories Representation: Delhi and Puducherry Assemblies elect members to Rajya Sabha to represent the respective Union Territories.

    Electoral Process

    • Polling Condition: A Rajya Sabha election requires polling only when the number of candidates surpasses the available vacancies.
    • Predictable Strength: Parties estimate their potential seats based on their strength in the Assembly.
    • Contesting Candidates: Parties field candidates based on their strength; additional candidates trigger a contest.
    • Candidate Nomination: Political party candidates must be proposed by at least 10 Assembly members or 10% of the party’s House strength, whichever is lower.
    • Independent Candidates: Independents require 10 proposers, all Assembly members.

    Voting Procedure

    • Single Transferable Vote: Rajya Sabha elections employ the single transferable vote system, based on proportional representation.
    • Preferences Voting: Electors can vote for multiple candidates in order of preference.
    • Winning Requirement: Candidates need a specific number of first preference votes to win, with each first choice vote valued at 100 in the initial round.
    • Qualification: To qualify, a candidate must secure one point more than the quotient obtained by dividing the total value of seats available in the election plus one.

    Transparency in RS Elections

    • Open Ballot System: Rajya Sabha elections employ an open ballot system with limited transparency.
    • Preventing Cross-Voting: Showing marked ballots to the party’s authorized agent (Whip) is mandatory; not following this rule renders the vote invalid.
    • Secrecy for Independents: Independent candidates are prohibited from showing their ballots to anyone.
    • NOTA in Rajya Sabha: Initially, Rajya Sabha members had the option to use the NOTA (None of the Above) button during elections, as per circulars issued by the Election Commission.
    • Supreme Court Ruling: However, in 2018, the Supreme Court ruled that NOTA is only applicable in general elections and cannot be used in indirect elections based on proportional representation.

    Consequences of Cross-Voting

    • Supreme Court’s Stand: The Supreme Court clarified that not voting for the party candidate in Rajya Sabha elections does not trigger disqualification under the anti-defection law.
    • Legislators’ Freedom: MLAs retain the freedom to vote for a candidate of their choice.
    • Party Action: Parties are free to take disciplinary action against legislators who vote against their candidate.

    Voting Eligibility before Taking Oath

    • Voting Without Oath: The Supreme Court ruled that members can participate in Rajya Sabha elections even before taking the oath as legislators.
    • Non-Legislative Activity: Rajya Sabha voting is considered a non-legislative activity, allowing members to vote without taking the oath.
    • Membership Status: A person becomes a member as soon as the Election Commission notifies the list of elected members.
    • Proposal Rights: Members can also propose a candidate before taking the oath of office.

    Other facts

    • Limited Union Territories (UTs): Only two Union Territories participate in Rajya Sabha elections, not all of them.
    • Conditional Polling: Polling occurs only if the number of candidates exceeds the available vacancies.
    • Independent Members: Independent candidates can also be elected to Rajya Sabha.

  • Key takeaways from All India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE), 2021-22

    Introduction

    • The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) captures student enrollment across eight levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, MPhil, diploma, PG diploma, certificate, and integrated programs.
    • The survey received responses from 10,576 standalone institutions, 42,825 colleges, and 1,162 universities/university-level institutions.

    About AISHE

    • AISHE is a report published by the Ministry of Education since 2011.
    • Aim: Portray the status of higher education in the country.
    • Survey covers all institutions in India providing higher education.
    • Data collected on parameters like teachers, student enrollment, programs, exam results, education finance, and infrastructure.
    • Indicators calculated: Institution Density, Gross Enrolment Ratio, Pupil-teacher ratio, Gender Parity Index, Per Student Expenditure.
    • Higher Education defined as education obtained after completing 12 years of schooling or equivalent.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1] Enrollment Trends: Female Dominance

    • Rising Female Enrollment: The AISHE report reveals a consistent increase in female enrollment in higher education institutions.
    • 2014-15 to 2021-22: Female enrollment grew by 32%, from 1.5 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crores in 2021-22. In the last five years, it increased by 18.7% from 1.74 crore in 2017-18.
    • PhD Enrollment Surge: The most significant growth was observed at the PhD level, with 98,636 women enrolled in 2021-22, compared to only 47,717 eight years ago.
    • Proportion of Women: Among the additional 91 lakh students joining higher education in 2021-22 compared to 2014-15, 55% were women. The postgraduate level saw the highest proportion of female students, with 55.4%.

    [2] Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) and Gender Parity

    • GER Insights: The estimated GER for the age group 18-23 years in India is 28.4, based on 2011 census data.
    • State-wise GER: States with the highest GER include Chandigarh (64.8%), Puducherry (61.5%), Delhi (49%), and Tamil Nadu (47%).
    • Gender Parity Index (GPI): GPI measures the ratio of female GER to male GER. In 26 states and Union Territories, GER favors women. At the national level, the GPI is 1.01, and for SC and ST categories, it is 1.01 and 0.98, respectively.

    [3] Academic Discipline Enrollment

    • UG Enrollment by Discipline: The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program holds the highest enrollment with 1.13 crore students, constituting 34.2% of total undergraduate enrollment. Overall, 3.41 crore students are enrolled in UG programs.
    • UG Discipline Preferences: UG enrollment distribution in 2021-22 is led by Arts (34.2%), followed by Science (14.8%), Commerce (13.3%), and Engineering & Technology (11.8%). BA(Hons) accounts for 6.2%.
    • PG Enrollment: Social science has the highest number of postgraduate students with 10.8 lakh. The Master of Arts (MA) program leads with 20.9 lakh students, constituting 40.7% of total postgraduate enrollment.
    • PhD Discipline: In the PhD category, social sciences rank third after engineering and science. While 52,748 students pursue a PhD in engineering and 45,324 in science, 26,057 opt for PhD in social sciences.

    [4] Preference for Government Institutions

    • Government vs. Private: Surprisingly, 73.7% of all students attend government universities, which constitute only 58.6% of all universities.
    • Government Sector Enrollment: State public universities hold the largest share of enrolment, accounting for around 31% of total university enrolment.
    • Private Universities: In terms of numbers, government-owned universities enroll 71.06 lakh students, while privately managed universities enroll 25.32 lakh students. Students show a preference for government educational institutions.

    [5] Demographics of Graduates

    • Graduation Statistics: In the 2021-22 academic year, an estimated 1.07 crore students graduated from various programs, with 50.8% being women.
    • Category-wise Graduates: Approximately 35% of graduates belong to Other Backward Classes (OBC), 13% are from Scheduled Caste (SC), and 5.7% are from Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
    • Stream-wise Graduation: Arts and social sciences streams exhibit higher graduation rates. At the undergraduate level, BA degrees top the list with 24.16 lakh graduates. MA degrees dominate at the postgraduate level with 7.02 lakh graduates. In PhD programs, science leads with 7,408 graduates, followed by engineering and technology with 6,270 graduates.