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GS Paper: GS2

  • The government’s new PhD guidelines will make Universities more Elite

    Why in the news?

    The UGC chairperson announced that students with four-year undergraduate degrees can now appear for the National Eligibility Test (NET), an exam that certifies eligibility for lectureship in colleges and universities in India, and PhD programs.

    Key Implication of this Announcement:

    • Lowering of Standards: Allowing students with four-year undergraduate degrees to appear for the National Eligibility Test (NET) and pursue PhD programs without a Master’s degree may lead to concerns about the lowering of academic standards.
    • Quality of Teaching: Concerns arise regarding the quality of teaching in universities and colleges if fresh undergraduate students are recruited to teach other undergraduate students.
    • Impact on University Rankings: The decision may have implications for the rankings and reputation of Indian universities, particularly those with prestigious tags like the Institution of Eminence and high NAAC ratings.
    • Dilutes the perception: Allowing candidates to pursue a PhD in a subject unrelated raises concerns about the diversity and interdisciplinary nature of research.
      • The decision to broaden access to PhD programs may be aimed at dismantling the perception of PhD as an elite qualification.
      • However, critics may argue that diluting the entry requirements for PhD programs could undermine the rigor and prestige associated with earning a doctorate.
    • Impact on Research Culture: Lowering the barriers to entry for PhD programs may have implications for the research culture and scholarly integrity within academic institutions.

    Measures to maintain standards for the National Eligibility Test (NET):

    • Retain Postgraduate Degree Requirement: Maintain the requirement of a postgraduate degree for appearing in the NET to ensure that candidates have a solid foundation in their respective fields of study.
    • Reintroduce MPhil Programs: Reinstate MPhil programs to provide an intermediary step between postgraduate and doctoral studies. MPhil programs offer an opportunity for students to further develop their research skills and prepare for doctoral-level research.
    • Enhanced Mentoring and Preparation Period: Implement a structured mentoring program for NET aspirants to help them transition from undergraduate to postgraduate and eventually doctoral-level research.
    • Specialized Entrance Exams for PhD Programs: Instead of eliminating separate entrance exams for PhD programs, consider introducing specialized entrance exams that assess candidates’ research aptitude, subject knowledge, and suitability for doctoral-level research

    Way Forward: 

    • Promote Interdisciplinary Research: Encourage interdisciplinary research by providing opportunities for collaboration and exchange across different academic disciplines.
    • Maintain Research Standards: Uphold rigorous standards for doctoral research and teaching positions to ensure the quality and integrity of academic programs. Implement quality assurance mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the standards of the NET and PhD programs.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss.(UPSC IAS/2015).

  • [8 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A dignified peaceful passing is everyone’s right

    Mains PYQ Relevance: 

    Q) Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieving ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018)
    Q) To enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Right to life; Right to health; Right to die with dignity;

    Mains: Judicial Intervention in Health Care sector;

    Mentor comments: Death is inevitable, the one certainty in life. When the time comes, and if you have an incurable disease, how would you like to go? Would you prefer your bed in your home, with your loved ones around you? Or would you prefer being all alone in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with a tube in every orifice, hooked to machines that measure the functioning of every vital organ in your body, with each malfunctioning organ supported artificially? When facing an incurable illness, the choice between passing away at home surrounded by loved ones or in an ICU on life support is deeply personal (Right to Privacy). Some prefer the comfort and intimacy of home, while others seek every medical intervention, even if alone. There have been long debates on euthanasia and Palliative care for old people to protect their rights. Courts, through various decisions, have recognized the right to die with dignity as a fundamental right and an integral part of the right to life under Article 21.

    Let’s learn

    —

    Why in the News?

    Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the USA, died at 93 in his home surrounded by his family members (2004). However, India’s former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee died (2018), nine years after a stroke that had left him non-ambulant. 

    • Hence, communicating end-of-life wishes is crucial to ensure one’s final moments align with their values.

    What is the difference between Life support System and Palliative Care?

    Life support SystemPalliative Care System
    What is it?It aims to prolong life by artificially maintaining vital bodily functions.It focuses on improving quality of life by relieving symptoms, pain, and distress, regardless of prognosis.
    Treatment It involves invasive medical interventions like ventilators, dialysis, and feeding tubes.It emphasizes comfort-oriented, non-curative treatments to alleviate suffering.
    GoalsTo sustain life, even if it means prolonging the dying process.To enhance quality of life and provide comfort, even if it means foregoing life-prolonging treatments.
    TimingUsed in critical, end-stage illness when curative treatment is no longer possible.Can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, even alongside curative treatments.

    End-of-Life Practices: West vs. India

    • West Scenario: Advance directives for common, terminally ill allowed Natural Death by withdrawing life support.
    • Europe Scenario: Only 10.3% die on life support, others shifted to Palliative Care.
    • Indian Scenario:
      • 70% of incurable patients die on life support in ICUs, alone.
      • The remaining 30% die through “Left Against Medical Advice” – ethically questionable. A survey in Pune showed 83% prefer to die at home.
    What is the LAMA/DAMA Practice?

    Left Against Medical Advice/Discharged Against Medical Advice (LAMA/DAMA) refers to a patient leaving the hospital against the advice and recommendation of their treating healthcare providers.

    Its Causes:  Financial constraints, Belief in alternative therapies, Dissatisfaction with care, Terminal/advanced illness, and Lack of understanding about the treatment process. It adversely affects patient outcomes, increasing the risk of mortality and the need for readmission.

    The practice is considered ethically questionable, as it represents unplanned treatment limitations without a formal shift to palliative care.

    Challenges in Indian Context:

    • ICU Routinisation: 
      • Society has a mistaken belief in prolonging life at all costs and accepts ICU death as normal 
      • In recent years, a lack of adherence to ethical principles and routinization of intensive care deaths has become more common.
    • Lack of Legal Clarity:
      • Lack of death literacy and inability to make informed decisions plays a major setback in Indian Society.
      • Further, the absence of a Legal Framework for End-of-life Care in India creates wider challenges for hospital staff and patients.
      • The term “Passive Euthanasia” is considered a misnomer by ICMR. Withholding or withdrawing life support in futility is not euthanasia but allowing natural death.

    Initiatives taken on Palliative Care and Living Wills:

    • By WHO:
      • WHO defines health as “physical, social, and mental well-being” beyond just the absence of disease.
      • World Health Day (April 7) has passed and the theme for 2024 was “My health, my right”. 
    • By India (through Judicial intervention):
      • SC in 2018 recognized passive euthanasia and the ‘Right to die with dignity’ as a fundamental right subject to guidelines.
        • India’s Supreme Court (three-member Bench) ruled that the ‘Right to Health’ includes the ‘Right to palliative care’.
      • SC verdict of 2023 recognizes advance medical directives and withdrawal of life support in futility cases.

    Conclusion: The Lancet Commission Report 2022 speaks on the Value of Death and that modern society has become death-illiterate. Therefore, it is much required to bring awareness in our Indian Society on the value system of “dignified death”.

  • India press freedom score falls, says Reporters sans Frontieres

    Why in the news?

    India’s score in the World Press Freedom Index fell over the last year, from 36.62 to 31.28, according to Reporters Without Borders. In South Asia, India finds itself ranked at 159th, while its neighbor Pakistan stands marginally higher at 152.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Deterioration Since 2014: Press freedom in India has significantly deteriorated since 2014.
    • Government vs Media Nexus: The government is criticized for maintaining a close relationship with big media families, leading to a lack of independence and critical journalism being labeled as “anti-national and anti-India“.
    • Self-Censorship: Fear of political backlash has forced journalists to censor themselves, as Modi’s supporters aggressively target critical reporting of the government.
    • Corporatization of Media: There’s an increasing trend of wealthy businessmen close to Modi owning a majority of mainstream media outlets, which undermines media independence and diversity.
    • BBC Raids: Recent raids on the BBC offices in India have drawn international criticism and contributed to India’s declining press freedom ranking.
    • Comparative Analysis: While India’s press freedom declines, neighboring countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka have improved, although they still lag behind global leaders in press freedom rankings.

    India’s Initiative of “Index Monitoring Cell”:

    • Purpose of the Cell: The Index Monitoring Cell has been set up to work on improving India’s press freedom ranking. It will consist of representatives from various government agencies and credible journalists suggested by the Press Council of India.
    • Ranking Parameters: The cell will engage with agencies publishing the World Press Freedom Index, like Reporters Without Borders, for a better understanding of the parameters and methodology used for the rankings. This will help formulate an action plan to address the issues identified.
    • Coordination with State Governments: The cell will coordinate with state governments to appoint nodal officers who can provide regular updates on the state of press freedom and any issues faced by journalists at the local level.
    • Engagement with Stakeholders: This aims to improve communication and visibility of steps taken to support press freedom and address concerns raised by global media watchdogs.
    • Reporting Mechanisms: Setting up proper reporting mechanisms is crucial to ensure that the data and information provided to ranking agencies are up-to-date and accurate. This will help in portraying a clearer picture of the press freedom landscape in India.

    Conclusion: India needs to enact and strengthen laws to protect the freedom of the Press and ensure journalists’ safety. This includes legislation to prevent harassment, attacks, and threats against journalists, as well as provisions for swift and effective legal recourse in cases of censorship or intimidation.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q What do understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Why Youth Unemployment is India’s biggest challenge?

    Why in the News?

    The India Employment Report (IER) 2024, brought out by the Institute for Human Development (IHD) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), has attracted widespread attention.

    • The analysis compares four years — 2000, 2012, 2019, and 2022 — which capture the changes over the past 22 years.

    Positives in the IER Report, 2024:

    • Employment Quality Improvement: The report highlights a robust improvement in employment conditions as indicated by the Employment Condition Index, with an increase in non-farm employment and a decline in agriculture employment, suggesting structural transformation in the economy.
    • Female Workforce Participation: There has been a significant increase in the female workforce participation rate, albeit mainly in the agricultural sector and in own-account and unpaid family work. The Female workforce participation (FWFP) rate from 24.5% in 2019 to 37.0% in 2023.
    • Labour Market Resilience Amidst COVID: Despite the global slowdown induced by the pandemic, the labor market in India bounced back well, with wages of casual workers increasing, leading to a reduction in extreme poverty and deprivation.
    • Unemployment Trends: Unemployment and underemployment rates increased until 2018 but have declined thereafter. The unemployment rate has declined from 6 percent in 2018 to 3.2 percent in 2023.

    Challenges as per the IER Report, 2024:

    • Emerging Employment Challenges: Challenges include a skewed employment pattern towards agriculture, increasing capital and skill-intensive production processes, low women’s participation, and rising educated youth unemployment.
    • Youth Unemployment Focus: The report emphasizes youth unemployment as a principal challenge, especially among educated youth, who account for a significant portion of total unemployment.
    • Informal Employment: Despite improvements, the majority of jobs remain informal and of lower productivity, with over 90% of employment being informal and 83% in the informal sector.

    Way Forward 

    • Policy Recommendations: Policy measures suggested include making production more employment-intensive, improving job quality, addressing labor market inequalities, enhancing skills training, and generating reliable statistics to better understand labor market dynamics.
    • Demographic Advantage: India is likely to have a demographic advantage for the next decade, and policy measures are recommended to leverage this advantage for robust economic growth.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss.(UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [6 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The PM’s speeches fall foul of the Model Code of Conduct

    Mains PYQ Relevance: 

    Q) Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC IAS/2022)

    Q) ‘Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people’ Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2017)

    Prelims:
    We adopted parliamentary democracy based on the British model, but how does our model differ from that model?​ (UPSC IAS/2021)
    1. As regards legislation, the British Parliament is supreme or sovereign but in India, the power of the Parliament to legislate is limited.​
    2. In India, matters related to the constitutionality of the Amendment of an Act of Parliament are referred to the Constitution Bench by the Supreme Court.​
    Select the correct answer using the code given below.​
    (a) 1 only 
    (b) 2 only​
    (c) Both 1 and 2 ​
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Model Code of Conduct (MCC);

    Mains: Issues around Elections and Parliamentary Representation;

    Mentor comments:The ongoing Lok Sabha elections spotlight manifesto deficiencies. The Prime Minister’s false claims against the Congress indicate a narrative lacking factual basis. The absence of a law governing manifestos and weak enforcement of electoral regulations contribute to the erosion of democratic principles and the malaise persists despite constitutional mandates.

    Let’s learn

    —

    Why in the News?

    The Prime Minister’s recent statement about the opposition’s intentions through their manifestos ( including gold and mangalsutra) has stirred controversy. Leaders must uphold factual accuracy and responsible discourse during this critical time.

    The contents of the two Manifestos

    • Congress Manifesto (‘Nyay Patra’):
      • Wealth Creation: The manifesto emphasizes rapid growth and wealth generation, setting a target of doubling the GDP in the next 10 years.
      • Welfare: Prioritizes the welfare of the poor as the first charge on government resources, aiming for a fair, just, and equal-opportunity economy under the Nav Sankalp Economic Policy.
      • Equity: Acknowledges the disparity among marginalized communities (SC, ST, OBC) and proposes a nation-wide Socio-Economic and Caste Census to strengthen affirmative action based on data.
    • Constitutional References:
      • Preamble: The manifesto echoes the principles of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, aiming to secure justice, social, economic, and political; liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship; and equality of status and opportunity for all citizens.
      • Directive Principles of State Policy (Articles 39, 38, 46): Highlights the constitutional mandate for the state to ensure adequate means of livelihood, equitable distribution of resources, promotion of welfare, minimization of income inequalities, and promotion of educational and economic interests of weaker sections, especially Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
    • BJP’s Manifesto:
      • Uniform Civil Code: Criticizes the BJP’s aggressive push for a uniform civil code, suggesting that the BJP’s actions contradict its own manifesto’s commitments to the principles of the Constitution.
      • Comparison with BJP’s Manifesto: Contrasts the BJP’s manifesto promises with those of the Congress, highlighting initiatives like free rations, health insurance, and housing provided by the BJP.
      • Accusation of Misguidance: Accuses the BJP of misguiding the nation by turning a serious document (the Congress manifesto) upside down.

    Major Challenge: No law to govern the Manifesto

    • S. Subramaniam Balaji v. Government of Tamil Nadu & Ors. (2013): Supreme Court highlighted the absence of legislation governing election manifestos. Consequently, the Court directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to collaborate with political parties to formulate guidelines.
      • The ECI, following a meeting with political parties on August 12, 2013, issued ‘Instructions to political parties on manifestos’ on April 24, 2015. These guidelines, acknowledging that election manifesto promises are not considered corrupt practices under Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, underscored the influence of freebies on voters and the importance of fair elections.
    • Violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC): The Prime Minister’s statements against the opposition and minority communities are cited as violations of the MCC, particularly regarding the prohibition on appealing to caste or communal feelings for securing votes. This indicates a challenge in ensuring compliance with the MCC by political leaders and parties.
    • Corruption in Electoral Practices: The Supreme Court’s rulings identify speeches of a religious nature aimed at influencing voters as corrupt practices. However, the passage suggests that such appeals continue to occur, indicating a challenge in effectively combating corruption in electoral practices.
    • Weak Enforcement of Rule of Law: Despite regulations and legal provisions prohibiting certain activities during elections, such as appeals based on religion, caste, or community, there are challenges in enforcing these laws effectively. The passage criticizes the weak rule of law, indicating a broader challenge in ensuring adherence to electoral regulations and upholding democratic principles.
    • Composition and Functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI): The passage suggests dissatisfaction with the ECI’s performance and its failure to ensure free and fair elections. This raises concerns about the composition and functioning of the ECI, indicating a challenge in maintaining the independence and effectiveness of electoral authorities.

    Way Forward:

    • Legislation on Manifestos: Introduce legislation to regulate election manifestos, outlining guidelines for their content, transparency, and accountability. This law can be based on the guidelines formulated by the ECI, ensuring that manifestos align with democratic principles and do not incite communal or divisive sentiments.
    • Strengthening the Model Code of Conduct (MCC): Enhance the MCC to include stricter provisions against appeals to caste, religion, or community for securing votes. Ensure that violations of the MCC are swiftly addressed and penalties are imposed on erring political parties or candidates.
    • Improved Enforcement Mechanisms: Strengthen enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with electoral laws and regulations. This may involve empowering the Election Commission with greater authority and resources to monitor election campaigns, investigate violations, and take prompt action against offenders.

  • Make the poor richer without making the rich poorer

    Why in the News? 

    Since the Congress Party released its Election Manifesto ’Nyay Patra’, the word ‘redistribution’ has dominated the election discourse.

    Arguments against the redistribution of wealth:

    • Against the fair mean: Wealth redistribution stems from a ‘zero-sum’ thought to reduce economic disparity. However, this approach conflates the process of acquiring wealth with the outcome, potentially penalizing even those who acquired their wealth through fair means.
    • Hindrance to Economic Growth: Implementing confrontational policies to make the rich poorer can hinder investments and trigger capital flight, which is essential for economic growth. Economic growth is necessary for increasing the overall economic pie and improving prosperity for all.

    Measures needed to reduce Inequality:

    • On Wealth and Inheritance Taxes: Wealth and inheritance taxes are seen as potentially punitive measures that may not effectively address economic inequality. The government needs to focus on fixing systemic issues rather than penalizing the wealthy.
    • On Policies: Economic growth is emphasized as crucial for addressing inequality. Policies should prioritize investment and avoid hindrances that might deter capital flow.
    • Job Creation and Labour Market Policies: Jobless growth and imbalance in capital-labour relations contribute to inequality. Labor market-focused policy incentives, such as employment-linked schemes and promoting labor-intensive activities, are proposed to rebalance this skew.
    • Overhaul of the taxation structure: The taxation system is criticized for burdening the poor and middle class disproportionately compared to corporations. There’s a call for an overhaul of the taxation structure to ensure fairness and simplicity, with a focus on lowering the tax burden for the common person.
    • Social Welfare Programs: Social welfare programs are deemed essential to provide a safety net for the poor until they can benefit from economic growth. Funding for such programs can come from a combination of faster growth, efficient tax collection, and welfare delivery mechanisms.

    Steps taken by the Government:

    • For addressing Social Inequality
        • Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana- National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM): These schemes aim to create additional employment opportunities in both rural and urban areas.
        • Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): This scheme provides a legal guarantee for 100 days of employment per year to rural households
        • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: This scheme provides affordable housing to the urban and rural poor
    • For improving Financial Inclusion
        • Atal Pension Yojana: This pension scheme targets the unorganized sector and private sector employees without pension benefits
        • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana: This scheme aims to provide universal access to banking facilities for all households
    • For enhancing Access to Basic Necessities
      • Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: This scheme provides LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households
      • Swachh Bharat Mission: This program focuses on providing toilets for every household and cleaning India’s cities and villages

    Conclusion: The Indian government implements schemes to reduce inequality. For example targeting financial inclusion, health protection, and economic development to reduce inequality. Beneficiaries include rural and urban poor, low-income families, and women from Below Poverty Line households.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty, and malnutrition be broken through the microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • An overview of Sudan’s civil war 

    Why in the News? 

    The inability of successive governments to articulate a shared vision has resulted in the unfair distribution of wealth and resources in Sudan.

    ANKARA, TURKIYE – NOVEMBER 3: An infographic titled ”Sudanese civil war intensifies in the western cities” is created in Ankara, Turkiye on November 3, 2023. Since mid-April, the intensity of the conflicts between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, which have resulted in nearly 10,000 casualties, shifted from the capital Khartoum and its surroundings to the western cities. (Photo by Yasin Demirci/Anadolu via Getty Images)

    Historical background  of Conflict: 

    • In 1956: The government that came to power in 1956 emphasized an Arab and Islamic identity based on Mahdist principles. It was not representative of diverse communities and demanded compliance, leading to widespread resistance.
    • In 1989: In 1989, a new government seized control under the National Islamic Front, an alliance between army officers and the Muslim Brotherhood. Omar al-Bashir came to power, supported by Islamist leader Hassan al-Turabi, aiming to establish an Islamic state.
    • In 1991: The government set up an internal security apparatus, arresting and torturing dissenters. It introduced a new penal code in 1991 to impose an Islamization agenda.
    • In 2003: The al-Bashir (in 2003) regime enlisted Janjaweed militias to quell an insurgency in Darfur. These militias were later designated as the Rapid Support Forces in 2013.
    • In 2018-19: After protests in 2018 and al-Bashir’s removal in 2019, a transitional military government was established. Despite challenges and a failed coup attempt, a power-sharing agreement was reached, but another coup led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan derailed the democratic transition.

    Causes of the present conflict in Sudan:

    • Deep-rooted Crisis in Governance: The conflict reflects a longstanding crisis within Sudan’s governing structure since gaining independence in 1956, characterized by power struggles and frequent coups.
    • Identity Crisis and Rebellion: Sudan has experienced numerous rebellions fueled by an identity crisis, with marginalized populations seeking autonomy and fair representation within the state.
    • Ethnic and Regional Disparities: Sudan comprises of 19 major ethnic groups and about 597 ethnic sub-groups. Since independence, the Sudanese have experienced 35 coups and attempted coups, more than any other African country.
    • Religious and Political Ideologies: Shifts in government ideologies, such as the establishment of an Islamic state in 1989, have exacerbated tensions and led to further marginalization of certain groups.
    • Role of Militias: The emergence of paramilitary forces, such as the Rapid Support Forces, has complicated the conflict dynamics, with militias vying for power and control over resources.
    • Other country’s involvement: External influences, including support from foreign entities like Russia, have played a role in shaping the conflict landscape, particularly in resource-rich regions like Darfur.
    • Economic Interests: Economic factors, such as control over lucrative industries like gold mining, have contributed to the entrenchment of certain groups in power and fueled conflict dynamics.

    Way Forward:

    • Establish a Civilian-Led Government: Sudan needs to prioritize the establishment of a transparent, civilian-led government that represents the diverse Sudanese populace. This government should ensure inclusivity and participation in decision-making processes.
    • Disarm and Demobilize Militias: Urgent action is needed to disarm and demobilize militias like the Rapid Support Forces. This will prevent militia dominance over the state and reduce the risk of armed confrontations and conflicts.
    • International Support for Reconstruction: Sudan requires collaborative efforts from the international community to aid in post-conflict reconstruction. This support can include financial assistance, capacity-building programs, and technical expertise to rebuild infrastructure, institutions, and communities affected by conflict.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Africa was chopped into states artificially created by accident of European competition. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) and the Dynamics of OBC Inclusion

    Why in the news?

    • The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) has begun a comprehensive review of State OBC Lists to reassess the inclusion of communities benefiting from prolonged advantages.
    • The NCBC’s scrutiny has led to questioning the overrepresentation of Muslim communities in State OBC lists, particularly in Karnataka and West Bengal.

    NCBC’s contention over Over-representation:

    • Despite repeated requests, states like West Bengal and Karnataka lack current socio-economic data on OBCs, hindering the NCBC’s assessment.
    • The absence of data complicates the task of justifying continued inclusion in OBC lists.
    • The NCBC plans to extend its review to Kerala, Odisha, Bihar, Maharashtra, and other states to ensure maximum OBC reservation within the 50% limit.

    Who are the Other Backward Classes (OBCs)?

    • Other Backward Class is a collective term used to classify castes which are educationally or socially disadvantaged. 
    • It is one of several official classifications of the population of India, along with General Class, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs).
    • The OBCs were found to comprise 55% of the country’s population by the Mandal Commission report of 1980, and were determined to be 41% in 2006.

    About National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)
    Established Constitution Amendment Act, 2018 (also known as 102nd Amendment Act, 2018) under Article 338B of the Indian Constitution
    Jurisdiction Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India
    Purpose
    • Active participation and advisory role in the socio-economic development of socially backward classes (OBCs).
    • Evaluating the progress of their development.
    Statutory Backing The outcome of the Indra Sawhney & Others v. Union of India case (16.11.1992)
    Composition
    • Chairperson (MoSJ), Vice-Chairperson, and three other members appointed by the President.
    • Conditions of service and tenure determined by the President.
    Functions and Powers
    • Inclusions and exclusions in the lists of backward communities for job reservations.
    • Providing advice to the Central Government.
    • Investigating and monitoring safeguards for backward classes.
    • Inquiring into specific complaints related to their rights and safeguards.
    • Participating in socio-economic development and evaluating progress.
    Reports and Recommendations
    • Annual reports to the President and recommendations for effective implementation of safeguards.
    • Recommendations for measures to protect, welfare, and socio-economic development of backward classes.
    Other Functions Discharging functions specified by the President and subject to parliamentary laws
    Constitutional Amendment 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act (2018) empowered NCBC to address grievances of Other Backward Classes

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body.

    [2016] Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment.

  • [4 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The paradox of India’s Global rise, its Regional decline

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario..(UPSC IAS/2016)

    Q India needs to strengthen measures to promote the pink revolution in food industry for ensuring better nutrition and health. Critically elucidate the statement.(UPSC IAS/2013)

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: NA

    Mains: Challenges facing by India in south Asia,Factors contributing to India’s regional decline,

    Mentor comments:India’s paradoxical foreign policy sees a rising global stature fueled by economic growth, military strength, and multilateral engagements like the Quad and BRICS. Yet, regionally, it faces weakning influence due to relative power shifts vis-à-vis China, loss of primacy in South Asia, and evolving geopolitics in the region.

    Why in the news? 

    In contemporary Indian foreign policy, a perplexing paradox emerges as India rises on the global stage while concurrently experiencing a decline in regional influence.

    Factors contributing to India’s Regional decline:

    • American withdrawal and China’s influence: The withdrawal of the United States from the region has created a power vacuum, allowing China to expand its influence. This has been disadvantageous to India’s regional influence but has also led to increased interest from the United States and its allies in accommodating India’s global interests to counterbalance China.
    • Indo-Pacific focus: While India’s focus on the Indo-Pacific has garnered global attention, it may have stretched India’s resources too thin in its continental neighborhood. This shift in focus towards the great power balance in the Indo-Pacific has potentially contributed to India’s declining influence in South Asia.
    • Dynamic of comparative power: India’s regional decline is a result of the dynamics of comparative power, where the rise of China and the geopolitical choices made by the region’s smaller powers have shifted the balance of influence. Overlooking the balancing acts of smaller regional powers in favor of solely focusing on great power dynamics could be counterproductive for understanding the complexities of India’s regional decline.

    Challenges faced by India in South Asia: 

    • Rise of China: China’s ascent poses a significant challenge to India’s regional influence, with its growing power shifting the balance in South Asia.
    • Shift in regional dynamics: The arrival of China in South Asia, coupled with the withdrawal of the U.S. from the region, has altered the regional balance of power, creating geopolitical competition for influence.
    • Strategies of smaller South Asian nations: India’s smaller neighbors are adopting various strategies, such as balancing, bargaining, hedging, and bandwagoning, in response to the changing power dynamics, often viewing China as a useful hedge against India.
    • Obsolescence of South Asia as a geopolitical construct: The traditional concept of South Asia as a geopolitical entity is becoming obsolete, further challenging India’s hold on the region.

    What needs to be done? 

    • Revisiting traditional conceptions: India must reassess its traditional conceptions of the region and modernize its approach to maintain primacy in South Asia.
    • Accepting changing realities: Acknowledging the fundamental changes in the region’s geopolitics is crucial for India to effectively address the challenges it faces.
    • Focus on strengths: India should leverage its strengths rather than attempting to match China’s might in every aspect. Reclaiming its traditional strengths, such as its Buddhist heritage, can be beneficial.
    • Leveraging maritime advantages: Given the challenges in its continental strategy, India should capitalize on its maritime advantages in the Indo-Pacific to enhance trade, form minilaterals, and build issue-based coalitions.
    • Engaging with smaller South Asian neighbors: India should include its smaller South Asian neighbors in Indo-Pacific strategic conversations to wean them away from China’s regional grand strategy and strengthen partnerships with key players like Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Bangladesh.
    • Adopting a non-India centric approach: India’s willingness to view the region through a non-India centric lens signals openness to collaborating with external friendly partners in addressing common challenges in the Indian Ocean and South Asia.

    Way Forward 

    • Diversify Engagement: India should diversify its engagement strategies to encompass both global and regional interests effectively. This could involve maintaining robust relationships with global powers while simultaneously strengthening ties with regional neighbors.
    • Enhance Regional Cooperation: India should prioritize enhancing cooperation and collaboration within South Asia. This could involve revitalizing initiatives like SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and promoting bilateral partnerships with individual South Asian countries.

  • A look at how Article 361 provides immunity.

    Why in the News? 

    Even as a complaint alleging sexual harassment has been filed in Kolkata against West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose, Constitutional immunity bars the police from naming the Governor as an accused or even investigating the case.

    What is Article 361? 

    Article 361 of the Constitution that deals with immunity to the President and the Governors states that they “shall not be answerable to any court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his office or for any act done or purporting to be done by him in the exercise and performance of those powers and duties”.

    The provision also has two crucial sub-clauses: 

    (1) that no criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be initiated or continued against the President, or the Governor of a State, in any court during the term of his office.

    (2) No process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President, or the Governor of a State, shall issue from any court during his term of office.

    Immunity power of the Governor:

    • Ceases to be in office: The police can act only after the Governor ceases to be in office, which is when either the Governor resigns or no longer enjoys the confidence of the President.” 
    • Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India: In the landmark 2006 ruling in Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India, that outlined the immunity enjoyed by the Governor “even on allegation of personal malafides,” the Supreme Court held that “the position in law, is that the Governor enjoys complete immunity.”
    • In 2017, criminal conspiracy in the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid case: The trial did not take place for former UP Chief Minister Kalyan Singh since he was then the Governor of Rajasthan.

    Constitutional Provisions:

    • Appointment: The Governor is appointed by the President of India and holds office during the pleasure of the President (Article 155).
    • Qualifications: The Governor must be a citizen of India, must be at least 35 years old, and must not hold any office of profit (Article 157).
    • Powers and Functions: The Governor is the constitutional head of a state and performs various functions including:
      • Executive Functions: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other Council of Ministers, and allocates portfolios among them (Article 164).
      • Legislative Functions: The Governor summons and prorogues the state legislature, addresses it, and lays down its policy. He/she also has the power to dissolve the Legislative Assembly (Article 174).
      • Financial Functions: The Governor causes to be laid before the State Legislature the Annual Financial Statement (budget) and has powers related to money bills (Article 202).
    • Discretionary Powers: The Governor has discretionary powers in certain matters, such as appointing the Chief Minister when no party has a clear majority after elections (Article 164).
    • Relation with the Union: The Governor is appointed by the President and acts as a link between the state and the Union. He/she can send reports to the President regarding the administration of the state (Article 356).
    • Oath or Affirmation: Before entering office, the Governor must take an oath or affirmation according to the form set out in the Third Schedule of the Constitution (Article 159).

    Conclusion: 

    Article 361 of the Indian Constitution provides immunity to the President and Governors from court proceedings and arrest during their term. Police action against a Governor can only occur after they cease office.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature.