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

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS2

  • Centre withdraws DNA Bill

    dna

    Central Idea

    • The Union government recently withdrew the DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2019, from the Lok Sabha.

    DNA Bill, 2019: Highlights

    • The Bill, first proposed in 2003, aims to establish a regulatory framework for obtaining, storing, and testing DNA samples of individuals, primarily for criminal investigations and establishing identity.
    • Over the years, the Bill has undergone changes and was referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee in 2019.
    • The committee raised concerns about potential misuse based on religion, caste, or political views.

    Key Features

    • Objective: The Bill sought to create a regulatory framework for DNA sample collection, testing, and storage, primarily for criminal investigations and establishing a person’s identity.
    • Existing Uses of DNA Technology: DNA testing is already employed for criminal investigations, parentage establishment, and locating missing individuals.
    • Proposed Institutional Structures: The Bill aimed to establish a DNA regulatory board and a DNA data bank at the national level, with the possibility of regional centers at the state level.
    • Role of the DNA Regulatory Board: The board would frame guidelines and rules for DNA collection, testing, and storage.
    • DNA Data Bank: The data bank would store all DNA samples collected under specified rules.
    • Restricted Testing: DNA sample testing would be allowed only at laboratories authorized by the regulatory board.
    • Handling of DNA Samples: The Bill specified the circumstances under which individuals could be asked to submit DNA samples, the purposes for such requests, and the exact procedures for handling, storing, and accessing these samples.

    Controversies and Objections against the Bill:

    • Reliability of DNA Technology: Critics raised concerns about the foolproof nature of DNA technology and its potential for error.
    • Risk of Misuse: The main debate centered on the possibility of abuse of DNA information. Detractors feared that intrusive DNA data collection and storage could lead to misuse and violations of individual privacy.
    • Privacy Concerns: DNA information reveals not only a person’s identity but also physical and biological attributes such as eye, hair, or skin color, susceptibility to diseases, and possible medical history. Critics argued that storing such personal information could compromise privacy rights.

    Standing Committee’s Concerns

    • Technical and Sensitive Nature: The Standing Committee’s report acknowledged that the Bill was technical, complex, and sensitive.
    • Addressing Fears: The report recognized and addressed concerns expressed by several members about the potential misuse of DNA technology based on factors like religion, caste, or political views.

    Government’s Defense of the Bill

    • International Precedents: The government argued that nearly 60 countries have enacted similar legislation, justifying the need for such a law in India.
    • Limited Information Storage: The government contended that only a limited set of numbers, just 17 out of the billions that DNA samples can reveal, would be stored in the indices. This information would act as a unique identifier and not reveal any personal details.

    Conclusion

    • The withdrawal of the Bill marks a pause in the government’s efforts to create a regulatory framework for DNA technology usage.
    • The controversies and objections raised highlight the need for a balanced approach.
    • The Centre must address concerns over misuse and privacy while harnessing the potential benefits of DNA technology for criminal investigations and other purposes.

    Back2Basics: DNA

    • DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries the genetic instructions necessary for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses.
    • It is often referred to as the “building blocks of life.”

    Key features of DNA include:

    1. Molecular Structure: DNA is a double-stranded molecule, consisting of two long chains of nucleotides that form a double helix. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
    2. Base Pairing: The two DNA strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs. Adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always pairs with guanine (G).
    3. Genetic Code: The sequence of nucleotide bases along the DNA strand constitutes the genetic code, which determines the specific traits and characteristics of an organism.
    4. Genes: DNA is organized into specific segments called genes, which are responsible for encoding proteins or functional RNA molecules. Proteins play a crucial role in various biological processes, while RNA molecules contribute to gene expression and protein synthesis.
    5. Replication: DNA has the unique ability to replicate itself through a process called DNA replication. During cell division, the DNA unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical DNA molecules.
    6. Inheritance: DNA is passed from one generation to the next through reproduction, ensuring the transmission of genetic information from parents to offspring.
    7. Role in Protein Synthesis: DNA provides the instructions for protein synthesis through a two-step process. First, the information in a gene is transcribed into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. Then, the mRNA is translated by ribosomes in the cell to produce specific proteins.
    8. Genetic Variation: Mutations, or changes in the DNA sequence, can lead to genetic variation within a species. These variations are essential for evolution and adaptation to changing environments.

  • Sri Lanka’s 13th Amendment: A Controversial Pursuit of Power

    sri lanka 13a

    Central Idea

    • PM Modi’s recent call for Sri Lanka to fulfill its commitment to implement the 13th Amendment has stirred controversy within the political landscape.
    • The ruling party led by President Wickremesinghe, rejected the prospect, arguing that the President lacked the mandate for it.
    • Not much earlier, President Wickremesinghe had promised that the Sri Lankan government will “fully implement” the 13th Amendment.

    Tamil issue in Sri Lanka

    • Violent persecution against the Tamil population erupted in the form of the 1956, 1958, 1977, 1981, and 1983 anti-Tamil pogroms in Sri Lanka.
    • Over 13 years since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, in which tens of thousands of civilians were killed and disappeared, survivors continue demanding justice and accountability for war-time crimes.
    • In the post-war years, Sri Lanka’s human rights defenders have frequently flagged concerns over persisting militarisation, especially in the Tamil-majority north and east; repression, and the shrinking space for dissent.

    What is the 13th Amendment?

    • It is an outcome of the Indo-Lanka Accord of July 1987, signed by the then PM Rajiv Gandhi and President J.R. Jayawardene, in an attempt to resolve the ethnic conflict and civil war.
    • The 13th Amendment led to the creation of Provincial Councils and assured a power-sharing arrangement to enable all nine provinces in the country, including Sinhala majority areas, to self-govern.
    • Subjects such as education, health, agriculture, housing, land and police are devolved to the provincial administrations.
    • Sinhala nationalists have resisted the full implementation of the 13th Amendment since its inception over 35 years ago.

    Challenges to Full Implementation

    • Historic Demand: Sri Lanka’s Tamil polity maintains that even full implementation of the 13th Amendment falls short of addressing the historic demand for the right to self-determination.
    • Unfulfilled Promises: Successive governments have promised to implement the 13th Amendment fully but have failed to do so, further deepening the contentious issue.
    • UN Human Rights Council Resolution: The UNHRC resolution adopted in October 2022 urged Sri Lanka to fulfill its commitments on devolving political authority for reconciliation and the enjoyment of human rights for all citizens.

    Why is it contentious?

    • The 13th Amendment carries considerable baggage from the country’s civil war years.
    • It was opposed vociferously by both Sinhala nationalist parties and the LTTE.
    • The opposition within Sri Lanka saw the Accord and the consequent legislation as an imprint of Indian intervention.
    • It was widely perceived as an imposition by a neighbour wielding hegemonic influence.
    • The Tamil polity, especially its dominant nationalist strain, does not find the 13th Amendment sufficient in its ambit or substance.
    • However, some find it an important starting point, something to build upon.

    India’s reservations

    • Because of restrictions on financial powers and overriding powers given to the President, the provincial administrations have not made much headway.
    • In particular, the provisions relating to police and land have never been implemented.

    Significance of 13A

    • To date, the Amendment represents the only constitutional provision on the settlement of the long-pending Tamil question.
    • In addition to assuring a measure of devolution, it is considered part of the few significant gains since the 1980s, in the face of growing Sinhala-Buddhist majoritarianism.

  • Is there a Rural Bias in National Surveys?

    survey

    Central Idea

    • The Centre has appointed a panel to review the methodology of the National Statistical Organisation (NSO).
    • This step comes amid discussions regarding the accuracy of national surveys such as the National Sample Survey (NSS), National Family Health Survey (NFHS), and Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS).

    About National Statistical Office (NSO)

    Historical Background:

    • The NSO was established in 1950 as the Central Statistical Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Planning.
    • It was later renamed the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 1970 and subsequently became the NSO in 2019.
    • Over the years, it has evolved to become the primary statistical agency in India.

    Organizational Structure:

    • The NSO consists of several divisions and units responsible for different statistical functions.
    • These include the Survey Design and Research Division, Field Operations Division, Data Processing Division, National Accounts Division, Price Statistics Division, and Social Statistics Division, among others.

    Key organizations under NSO: Central Statistical Office (CSO)

    • The CSO is a part of the NSO and focuses on macroeconomic statistics and national income accounting.
    • It is responsible for producing key economic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Wholesale Price Index (WPI).

    Important Surveys Conducted:

    1. Population Census: The NSO conducts a decennial Population Census in collaboration with the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. The census collects data on population size, composition, and other demographic characteristics.
    2. National Sample Survey (NSS): The NSS is a large-scale household survey conducted by the NSO to collect data on various socio-economic aspects. It provides valuable information on employment, consumer expenditure, poverty, education, health, and other important indicators.
    3. Economic Census: The NSO conducts the Economic Census periodically to collect data on the number of business establishments, their distribution across sectors and regions, employment, and other relevant economic variables.
    4. Annual Survey of Industries (ASI): The ASI is conducted by the NSO to collect data on the performance and structure of the industrial sector in India. It covers various aspects such as employment, wages, production, and financial indicators.
    5. Agricultural Census: The NSO conducts the Agricultural Census periodically to collect comprehensive data on agricultural holdings, cropping patterns, land use, irrigation, livestock, and other relevant agricultural variables.
    6. Health and Morbidity Survey: The NSO conducts surveys on health and morbidity to gather data on healthcare utilization, access to healthcare services, prevalence of diseases, and other health-related indicators.

    Why under review?

    • Concerns about Methodology: Experts argue that the usage of outdated survey methodology in national surveys may have systematically underestimated India’s development.
    • Narrower capture of data: The dynamic nature of the Indian economy over the last 30 years might not be adequately captured.
    • Different Perspectives: While some experts believe there is no systematic underestimation of development by these surveys, they acknowledge the presence of errors that should be minimized.
    • Role of National Data: Accurate national-level data is crucial for research, policymaking, and development planning.

    Focus on NFHS Data

    • Crucial development data: The National Family Health Survey provides vital data on health and family welfare indicators.
    • Claims of Bias: Some experts suggest that national surveys, including NFHS, may exhibit a “rural bias” in representation, leading to an underestimation of India’s development.
    • Issue of Error and Random Bias: While errors in population estimations have occurred in some rounds, they appear to be random rather than systematic.

    Minimizing Errors in Data Collection

    • Improving Response Rates: Efforts to increase response rates in both rural and urban areas can lead to more accurate data.
    • Importance of Sample Weights: Proper assignment of sample weights can significantly improve the accuracy of estimations and correct any underrepresentation of rural or urban populations.

    Recommendations for the Review Panel:

    • Addressing Concerns: The review panel should focus on ensuring that the samples are adequately representative rather than proposing a complete overhaul of survey methodologies.
    • Correcting Bias Where It Exists: While addressing any perceived biases, the panel should aim to eliminate bias where it genuinely exists without introducing new biases in policymaking and planning.

    Conclusion

    • Accurate data serves as the bedrock of progress and development in the country.
    • Reviewing the methodology of national surveys is vital to ensure accurate and representative data for India’s development.
    • Striking the right balance between addressing concerns and minimizing errors will lead to more informed decision-making and policy formulation.

  • Adjournment Motion in Indian Parliament

    Central Idea

    • During the monsoon Session of Parliament, Opposition parties demanded discussions on alleged sexual assaults in Manipur and ongoing ethnic violence.
    • Many MPs moved adjournment motions, leading to the Lok Sabha’s adjournment.

    Let’s explore the various motions raised in Indian Parliament and their significance.

    (A) Short Duration Discussion (Rule 193)

    • Applicability: This procedure is available in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
    • Description: A short-duration discussion can take place when the Chairman or Speaker believes that a matter is urgent and of sufficient public importance. The discussion can last for a maximum of two and a half hours.

    (B) Motion with a Vote (Rule 184)

    • Applicability: This motion is relevant in Lok Sabha.
    • Description: If a motion meets certain conditions, such as not containing defamatory statements, being on a matter of recent occurrence, and not being pending before any statutory authority or court of enquiry, it can be admitted. The Speaker can then allocate a time period for the discussion. This type of motion involves a vote to determine Parliament’s position on the issue and requires the government to follow Parliament’s decision.

    (C) Adjournment Motion

    • Applicability: The adjournment motion is relevant only in Lok Sabha and is not available in Rajya Sabha.
    • Description: An adjournment motion is moved to discuss a “definite matter of urgent public importance” with the Speaker’s consent. The notice for this motion must be given before 10 AM on a given day to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General. The motion must meet specific criteria to be admitted. The passage of an adjournment motion does not require the government to resign but is seen as a strong censure of the government.

  • Tele-MANAS counsels 2 Lakh distressed people

    manas

    Central Idea: The government-run national tele-mental health programme, Tele MANAS, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving over 2,00,000 calls from individuals across India since its launch in October 2022.

    What is Tele-MANAS?

    • Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative has been launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2022.
    • It aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas.

    Implementation of the scheme

    • Counselling: The programme includes a network of 38 tele-mental health centres of excellence spread across 27 States and UTs working in over 20 languages.
    • Helpline: A toll-free, 24/7 helpline number (14416) has been set up across the country allowing callers to select the language of choice for availing services. Service is also accessible at 1-800-91-4416.

    Two-tier working

    • Tele-MANAS will be organised in a two-tier system; Tier 1 comprises state Tele-MANAS cells which include trained counsellors and mental health specialists.
    • Tier 2 will comprise specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e-Sanjeevani for audio-visual consultation.

    Call Demographics and Concerns

    • Age Group: Two-thirds of the callers fall in the 18-45 years age group, while 12.5% belong to the 46-64 years age group, and 8% are below 18 years of age.
    • Gender Distribution: Of the two lakh calls, 59.6% were made by male callers, and 40% by female callers.
    • Top Concerns: The most common reasons for seeking help were general feelings of sadness (28.8%), sleep-related problems (27.6%), anxiety (20.4%), relationship issues (10%), aggression (9.2%), and low interest in activities (9.7%).

    Expansion of the scheme

    • The initial rollout providing basic support and counselling through a centralized Interactive Voice Response system (IVRS) is being customized for use across all States and UTs.
    • It is being linked with other services like National teleconsultation, e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat, mental health professionals, health centres, and emergency psychiatric facilities for specialized care.
    • This will not only help in providing immediate mental healthcare services but also facilitate a continuum of care.
    • Eventually, this will include the entire spectrum of mental wellness and illness, and integrate all systems that provide mental health care.

    Back2Basics: National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP)

    • The Indian Government announced the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the Union Budget 2022-23.
    • The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru is the nodal centre for the programme.
    • The programme sought to establish a digital mental health network that can address the mental health crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • The pandemic has brought forth challenges to mental health, and the NTMHP aims to provide accessible and affordable mental health services to all.
    • The programme will involve the use of digital platforms such as teleconsultations, chatbots, and mobile applications to deliver mental health services.
    • The NTMHP will integrate with existing mental health services to provide a comprehensive and coordinated approach to mental healthcare.

  • Eighth Schedule of Indian Constitution

    langauge eighth

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court said it cannot direct the Centre to include Rajasthani as an official language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

    About Eighth Schedule

    • The Eighth Schedule outlines the official languages of the Republic of India.
    • Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Constitution contain constitutional provisions relating to the Eighth Schedule.
    • It was originally created to grant representation on the Official Languages Commission and enrich Hindi and English, the official languages of the Union.
    • Candidates appearing for public service examinations have the privilege of using any language from the Eighth Schedule as a medium to answer the exam papers.
    Article 344(1): It mandates the appointment of a Commission by the President after 5 years from the date the Constitution comes into effect.

    Article 351: It places the responsibility on the Union to promote and develop the Hindi language, enabling it to be a medium of expression for India’s diverse cultural elements.

    Article 351(1): The President is required to establish a commission every five years, and subsequently every ten years, with a chairman and members representing languages listed in the Eighth Schedule. The primary role is to provide advice to the President on the effective use of Hindi for official purposes by the GOI.

    Languages included

    • 22 languages: Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
    • Classical Languages among these: Tamil (declared in 2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), and Odia (2014).

    Chronological Additions

    • 1950: The Constitution initially included 14 languages in the Eighth Schedule.
    • 1967: Sindhi was added through the 21st Constitutional Amendment Act.
    • 1992: Konkani, Manipuri (Meitei), and Nepali were included through the 71st Constitutional Amendment Act.
    • 2003: Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, and Santali were added through the 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act.
    • 2011: The spelling “Oriya” was replaced with “Odia” through the 96th Constitutional Amendment Act.

    Try this PYQ:

    Consider the following languages:

    1. Gujarati
    2. Kannada
    3. Telugu

    Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language / Languages’ by the Government?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”unf849h9qq” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

     

  • Opposition calls for President’s Rule in Manipur

    manipur president rule
    PC: The Hindu

    Central Idea

    • A political party has called for the dismissal of the state government in Manipur and immediate imposition of President’s Rule to initiate a peace process under a neutral administration.

    What is President’s Rule?

    • Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, commonly known as President’s Rule, empowers the President to impose central rule in a state where the constitutional machinery has broken down.
    • While initially intended for extraordinary circumstances, it has often been misused by central governments for political purposes.

    Provisions of Article 356:

    • Imposition of President’s Rule: Article 356 allows the President to withdraw the executive and legislative powers of a state government when it cannot function in accordance with the Constitution.
    • Triggering factors: The President can invoke Article 356 based on a report from the Governor or suo motu if the constitutional machinery has broken down in the state.
    • Duration: It can be imposed for six months at a time, with a maximum duration of three years.
    • Parliamentary approval: Every six months, Parliament’s approval is required to continue the imposition of President’s Rule.

    Historical Origins

    • Inspiration from the Government of India Act, 1935: Article 356 was inspired by Section 93 of this act, which allowed the Governor of a province to assume the powers of the government under certain circumstances.
    • Controlled democracy: The provision provided some autonomy to provincial governments while enabling British authorities to exercise ultimate power when necessary.

    Political Misuse of Article 356

    • Early instances: During Congress dominance, Article 356 was used against governments of the Left and regional parties in states. Jawaharlal Nehru’s government utilized it six times until 1959, including to dislodge Kerala’s elected communist government.
    • Increasing misuse: In subsequent decades, Article 356 was used frequently against state governments by various central governments, including those led by Indira Gandhi and the Janata Party.

    Landmark Judgment: S R Bommai Case

    • Landmark Supreme Court ruling: In the 1994 R. Bommai v. Union of India case, the Supreme Court provided detailed guidelines on the use of Article 356.
    • Specific instances for imposition: The court stated that President’s Rule can be invoked in cases of physical breakdown of the government or a ‘hung assembly.’
    • Curbing arbitrary use: The judgment emphasized the need to give the state government a chance to prove its majority or instances of violent breakdown before imposing President’s Rule.

    Try this PYQ:

    Which of the following are not necessarily the consequences of the proclamation of the President’s rule in a State?

    1. Dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly
    2. Removal of the Council of Ministers in the State
    3. Dissolution of the local bodies

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 1 and 3

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”v9p0oai83g” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here. [/wpdiscuz-feedback]

     

  • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023

    cinema

    Central Idea

    • Union Information and Broadcasting Minister has introduced the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha, with the goal of addressing piracy concerns in the film industry.
    • It seeks to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

    What is the Cinematograph Act, 1952?

    • The Cinematograph Act of 1952, was enacted by the Parliament to ensure that films are shown in accordance with the limits of tolerance of society.
    • The Act establishes the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC, or the censor board) to certify films.
    • Under the Act, the Board scrutinizes the films following the procedure laid down in the Act and can either reject or grant a certificate, valid for ten years.
    • The Act authorizes the police to perform search and seizure actions if the film is being exhibited in contravention of any of the provisions of the Act.

    Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023

    Amendment The bill proposes to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952
    Harsher Penalty The act has provisions for harsher penal provisions for film piracy
    New Age Categories It introduces new sub-age categories for films to bring about uniformity in categorisation across platforms
    Perpetual Certification The certification once given will be perpetual
    New Sub-age based Certification UA-7+’, ‘UA-13+’, and ‘UA-16+’ in place for 12 years
    Alignment The act will be aligned with Supreme Court judgments
    Recertification Recertification of the edited film for television broadcast
    Public Exhibition Only Unrestricted Public Exhibition category films can be shown on television
    Uniformity It will make the act provisions in line with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 to maintain uniformity

    Stringent Laws against Piracy

    Details
    Imprisonment and Penalty It includes imprisonment for three years and a Rs 10 lakh penalty for those found involved in piracy
    Legal Offence The act of piracy will be a legal offense, and even transmitting pirated content will be punishable

    Indian Cinema: A Backgrounder

    • The history of Indian cinema dates back to the late 19th century, with the screening of the Lumiere Brothers’ short films in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1896.
    • Dadasaheb Phalke is considered to be the father of Indian cinema.
    • The first Indian-made film, Raja Harishchandra, was released by him in 1913 and marked the beginning of Indian cinema.
    • The first Indian talkie, Alam Ara, was released in 1931, marking a new era in Indian cinema.

    Contribution of Indian Cinema

    (1) Economic contribution

    • Revenue Source: The film industry contributes significantly to the country’s economy, generating substantial revenue through production, distribution, and exhibition.
    • Employment Generation: The film sector offers employment opportunities to millions of people in various related fields.
    • Allied Sectors: The film industry provides a boost to other industries like advertising, hospitality, tourism, and fashion.
    • Entertainment Economy: Cinema houses and multiplexes generate revenue through ticket sales, concessions, and merchandise sales.

    (2) Societal Contribution

    • Social Cause: Movies have addressed crucial social issues, raising awareness and encouraging discussions.
    • Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Strong female characters in films challenge traditional gender roles, positively impacting women’s status.
    • Accessible Entertainment: Cinema breaks social barriers by providing affordable and accessible entertainment.
    • Inspirational Aspects: Movies inspire the youth, leading them to look up to their favorite stars as role models.

    (3) Nation Building

    • Promotion of Social Harmony: Indian cinema showcases diversity and cultural richness, promoting social harmony and unity.
    • Inculcation of Moral Values: Films play a crucial role in imparting moral values and social responsibilities.
    • Creating Awareness about Social Issues: Movies raise awareness about various social issues, breaking taboos and addressing important topics.

    Issues with Indian Cinema

    • Portrayal of Violence and Sexuality: Some films depict violence and sexual content, impacting younger viewers negatively.
    • Reinforcement of Stereotypes: Certain films reinforce gender, caste, and religious stereotypes, perpetuating prejudice.
    • Promotion of Materialism: Movies that promote materialism can lead to unrealistic expectations and values.
    • Lack of Diversity: The lack of diversity in mainstream films needs to be addressed to ensure equal representation.
    • Undue Commercialization: Excessive commercialization may overshadow the importance of quality content.
    • Nepotism: The practice of nepotism can hinder deserving talent from entering the industry.

    Way Forward

    • Revising the Certification Process: Ensure transparency and accountability in the certification process.
    • Protecting Artistic Freedom: Safeguard artistic freedom and creativity in filmmaking.
    • Encouraging Regional Cinema: Promote and support regional cinema through incentives and subsidies.
    • Promoting Cultural Diversity: Encourage filmmakers to explore diverse cultures and promote intercultural dialogue.
    • Combating Piracy: Take effective measures to combat film piracy and protect revenues.
    • Developing Film Infrastructure: Invest in developing film infrastructure and educational facilities.

  • What is an adjournment motion, moved by Congress MPs in Parliament?

    adjournment

    What’s the news?

    • In the second day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the Lok Sabha witnessed adjournment proceedings as Opposition parties demanded an urgent discussion on the alleged sexual assault of women in Manipur amid the ongoing ethnic violence in the state.

    Central idea

    • Congress MPs moved adjournment motions, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the matter and uphold the government’s constitutional commitment to protect religious minorities and Scheduled Tribes. This article will delve into the concept of adjournment motions and their differences from other parliamentary motions raised in Indian Parliament.

    What is an adjournment motion?

    • An adjournment motion is a parliamentary procedure used to raise an issue of urgent public importance that requires immediate discussion and debate.
    • It allows Members of Parliament (MPs) to interrupt the regular business of the house and seek the attention of the entire house on a specific matter that is deemed pressing and critical.
    • Adjournment motion can be moved in the Lok Sabha by any member who seeks the Speaker’s consent to discuss a definite matter of urgent public importance.
    • The notice for an adjournment motion must be given before 10 am to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General on the day it is to be raised.

    Parliamentary Procedures in Indian Parliament

    • Members of Parliament in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have various procedures to draw attention to relevant issues.
    • There are four main procedures under which discussions can take place in the Lok Sabha – a debate without voting under Rule 193, a motion (with a vote) under Rule 184, an adjournment motion, and a no-confidence motion.
    • Similar measures, except no-confidence motion, also exist in the Rajya Sabha.

    Rule 193: Short Duration Discussion

    • Under Rule 193 of the Lok Sabha’s rules and Rule 176 of the Rajya Sabha’s rules, Short Duration Discussions can take place.
    • These discussions require the Chairman or Speaker’s satisfaction that the matter is urgent and of sufficient public importance.
    • The Chairman or Speaker can then fix a date for discussion, allowing a time period of up to two and a half hours.
    • Disagreements over the rule to invoke led to the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha on the issue of Manipur.

    Rule 184: Motion with a Vote

    • A motion on a matter of general public interest can be admitted under Rule 184 if it satisfies certain conditions.
    • The motion should not contain arguments, inferences, ironical expressions, imputations, or defamatory statements.
    • It must be restricted to a recent occurrence and cannot pertain to a matter pending before any statutory authority, commission, or court of enquiry.
    • The Speaker can allow such a motion to be raised at his own discretion, and a time period for discussion can be allotted.

    Significance of the adjournment motion

    • It allows the Parliament to discuss pressing matters promptly, ensuring that critical issues do not get overlooked or delayed.
    • It serves as a tool for holding the government accountable for its actions or inactions.
    • By raising urgent matters and initiating discussions, MPs can seek clarifications, explanations, and government responses, which promotes transparency in governance.
    • The discussions resulting from an adjournment motion bring urgent matters into the public domain, raising awareness among citizens about significant issues affecting the country.
    • The government is obligated to address the concerns raised during the adjournment motion debate.
    • It provides an opportunity for the government to present its stance, actions, and plans to address the issue, thus ensuring greater accountability.
    • It empowers the Opposition to raise important issues and bring government shortcomings to the forefront.
    • It gives them a platform to voice dissent and critique government policies, fostering healthy democratic debates.

    Criticisms over the adjournment motion

    • The adjournment motion, once admitted, disrupts the regular proceedings of the house.
    • Other important legislative business, debates, or bills scheduled for that session may get delayed or postponed, affecting the overall productivity of the Parliament.
    • The debate resulting from an adjournment motion can be time-consuming
    • Some critics argue that the adjournment motion overlaps with other parliamentary motions, such as the calling attention motion and the motion for an urgent discussion, which also provide opportunities to discuss urgent matters.
    • In some cases, the adjournment motion can be misused for political purposes rather than genuinely addressing urgent matters.
    • While the adjournment motion raises urgent matters and demands government attention, it does not guarantee immediate action or resolution.

    Conclusion

    • The recent demand for an urgent discussion on the ethnic violence in Manipur through an adjournment motion resulted in the Lok Sabha’s adjournment. Parliament has various procedures to address relevant issues, each with its own set of conditions and implications. As the proceedings are set to resume, it remains to be seen how the government and Opposition parties will navigate the demands for discussion on this critical matter.

    Also read:

    Short Duration Discussions in Parliament

  • Places in news: Kerch Bridge

    kerch

    Central Idea

    • The Kerch Bridge, linking the Russian mainland to the Crimean Peninsula, suffered an attack by Ukrainian sea drones, leading to retaliatory actions by Russia.

    About Kerch Bridge

    • The Kerch Bridge, across the Kerch Strait, is 19 km long and has two parallel rail and roadways.
    • It was opened in 2018 by Russian President Vladimir Putin with great fanfare, four years after Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine through a contested referendum.
    • It is also a symbol of Russia’s control over Crimea, annexed in 2014.
    • It holds symbolic importance for Russia, as it provides direct connectivity between the mainland and the annexed Crimea.

    Significance of the Kerch Bridge for Russia

    • Establishing Connectivity: Following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, the bridge was constructed to secure a “land bridge” between mainland Russia and Crimea.
    • Logistical Supply Link: The bridge plays a critical role in facilitating logistical supplies to Russian troops in southern Ukraine.
    • Strategic Vulnerability: The bridge remains within range of Ukrainian fire, making its security vital for Russia’s military operations.