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GS Paper: GS2

  • Section 69 (A) of IT Act

    Central Idea

    • The Indian government has exercised its powers under Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
    • It requested Twitter and other social media platforms to remove a video depicting the naked parade and sexual assault of two Manipur women.

    What is Section 69(A) of the IT Act?

    • Empowering Content Takedown: Section 69(A) allows the government to issue content-blocking orders to online intermediaries like ISPs, web hosting services, search engines, etc.
    • Grounds for Blocking: Content can be blocked if it is considered a threat to India’s national security, sovereignty, public order, or friendly relations with foreign states, or if it incites the commission of cognizable offenses.
    • Review Committee: Requests made by the government for blocking content are sent to a review committee, which issues the necessary directions. Such orders are typically kept confidential.

    Supreme Court’s Verdict on Section 69(A)

    • Striking Down Section 66A: In the case of Shreya Singhal vs. Union of India (2015), the Supreme Court struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, which penalized the sending of offensive messages through communication services.
    • Section 69(A) Validated: The Court upheld the constitutionality of Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Rules 2009, noting that it is narrowly drawn and includes several safeguards.
    • Limited Blocking Authority: The Court emphasized that blocking can only be carried out if the Central Government is satisfied about its necessity, and the reasons for blocking must be recorded in writing for legal challenges.

    Other Rulings on Section 69(A)

    • Twitter’s Challenge: Twitter approached the Karnataka High Court in July last year, contesting the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s (MeitY) content-blocking orders issued under Section 69(A).
    • Court’s Dismissal: In July of this year, the single-judge bench of the Karnataka HC dismissed Twitter’s plea, asserting that the Centre has the authority to block tweets.
    • Extending Blocking Powers: Justice Krishna D Dixit ruled that the Centre’s blocking powers extend not only to single tweets but to entire user accounts as well.

    Conclusion

    • The application of Section 69(A) has been a subject of legal and societal debate, as it aims to balance national security and public order concerns with the protection of free speech and expression.

  • Short Duration Discussions in Parliament

    Central Idea

    • The Opposition called for the suspension of all other business under Rule 267 to discuss the Manipur issue, while the government preferred a “Short Duration Discussion” under Rule 176.
    • Understanding the nuances of these rules and their implications is essential for effective parliamentary discussions.

    Rule 267: Suspension of Business

    • Overview: Rule 267 allows Rajya Sabha MPs to suspend all listed business and engage in discussions on matters of national importance.
    • Consent and Suspension: As per the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Rajya Sabha, any member can seek the Chairman’s consent to suspend the application of a rule related to the day’s listed business.
    • Temporary Suspension: If the motion receives approval, the concerned rule is temporarily suspended.

    Short Duration Discussions under Rule 176

    • Brief Duration Discussions: Rule 176 facilitates short-duration discussions in Rajya Sabha, lasting up to two-and-a-half hours.
    • Notice and Explanatory Note: MPs desiring to raise urgent public matters must provide a written notice to the Secretary-General, including an explanatory note justifying the discussion.
    • Scheduling and Procedure: The Chairman, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, schedules the discussion without formal motions or voting.
    • Statement and Reply: The member who issued the notice presents a brief statement, followed by a concise reply from the Minister.

    Contention Surrounding Rule 267

    • Opposition’s Discontent: The Opposition expresses discontent as their notices under Rule 267 have not been addressed recently.
    • Past Precedents: In the past, several discussions on diverse subjects occurred under this rule during different Chairmen’s tenures.
    • Misuse of Rule: Experts suggest that Rule 267 is being misused as a substitute for the adjournment motion in Lok Sabha, where discussions involve motions with elements of censure, which do not apply to Rajya Sabha.

    Why discuss this?

    • Parliamentary debates hold significant value in addressing pressing public matters and discussing issues critical to the nation.
    • They provide a platform for representatives from various political parties to engage in informed discussions, leading to more effective decision-making and improved governance.

  • China backing Russia, NATO looking East: Why Indo-Pacific is at centre of global order

    Indo-Pacific

    What’s the news?

    • The Russia-Ukraine conflict has made NATO summits more significant than ever. The wide presence of four Asia-Pacific countries: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea has made this year’s summit more prominent especially for Indo- pacific

    Central idea

    • The recent NATO summit was held in Vilnius, Lithuania, marked a significant turning point for the alliance. The summit showcased NATO’s increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific region, signifying the importance of this area for Euro-Atlantic security.

    What is Indo-Pacific?

    • The Indo-Pacific is a geographic region interpreted differently by different countries.
    • For India, the geography of the Indo-Pacific stretches from the eastern coast of Africa to Oceania whereas, for US, it extends up to the west coast of India which is also the geographic boundary of the US Indo-Pacific command.

    NATO’s Historical Background and Pivot Towards Asia

    • Founded in 1949, NATO emerged as a response to concerns over expanding Soviet influence in Eastern Europe.
    • Originally cantered on trans-Atlantic security, the alliance has evolved to address pressing global security challenges.
    • The recent summit’s agenda highlighted issues in the Indo-Pacific, such as North Korea’s nuclear activities, ballistic missile tests, and China’s military expansion and modernization.

    Indo-Pacific Partnerships and Collaborations during the summit

    • NATO and Japan:
    • Individually Tailored Partnership Program between NATO and Japan was signed for the period of 2023-2026- focuses on cooperation in new technologies, space, and supply chain resilience.
    • NATO and New Zealand:
    • New Zealand was recognized as a valued partner by NATO during the summit.
    • The alliance praised the collaboration with New Zealand in various areas, including cyber defense, counter-terrorism, arms control, and new technologies.
    • NATO and South Korea:
    • A significant agreement was reached between NATO and South Korea further strengthening their collaboration in emerging areas, particularly related to hybrid threats.
    • NATO and Australia: Presence of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the NATO summit indicates a willingness to strengthen ties and foster cooperation in areas of common concern

    Significance of the Indo-Pacific for NATO

    • The Indo-Pacific is home to numerous security challenges that have implications beyond the region.
    • These challenges include North Korea’s nuclear and missile activities, China’s military expansion, territorial disputes, and non-traditional security threats such as cyber-attacks and terrorism.
    • China’s growing economic, political, and military influence in the Indo-Pacific has global ramifications.
    • China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its assertive actions in the South China Sea have raised concerns among NATO allies about potential disruptions to regional stability and international norms.
    • The Indo-Pacific region is a major driver of the global economy, with many NATO member states heavily reliant on trade and economic ties with countries in the area.
    • Ensuring the security of critical sea lanes and trade routes is essential for NATO’s economic interests and stability.
    • Collaborating with Indo-Pacific countries can contribute to a rules-based international order and strengthen NATO’s global reach.

    Concerns Over NATO’s Role in Indo-Pacific

    • Ambiguity and uncertainty within the alliance regarding NATO’s official presence and role in the Indo-Pacific.
    • French President Emmanuel Macron’s public opposition to the idea of opening a NATO liaison office in Tokyo highlighted these concerns.
    • Establishing an official NATO presence in proximity to China could potentially unsettle the Chinese security establishment and may be perceived as a challenge to China’s regional interests.
    • Unease among ASEAN and other South Asian countries with strategic interests in the area.
    • Some ASEAN countries’ centrality in the Indo-Pacific being replaced by bloc politics led by NATO.
    • It could stretch the alliance’s resources and capabilities- divert attention away from NATO’s core mission in the Euro-Atlantic region.

    Interesting read: What is Thucydides’ Trap?

    • Thucydides’ Trap is a term derived from the historical work “History of the Peloponnesian War” by the ancient Greek historian Thucydides. Thucydides chronicled the conflict between the city-state of Athens and the rising power of Sparta in the 5th century BC, which eventually led to the Peloponnesian War.
    • The central idea behind Thucydides’ Trap is that when a rising power challenges an established power, the competition between the two can lead to conflict or war.
    • Thucydides famously wrote, “It was the rise of Athens and the fear that this instilled in Sparta that made war inevitable.” The rising power’s ascent and the fear it generates in the established power create a dangerous and unstable situation that may lead to a conflict as both sides jostle for power and influence.
    • In the context of modern times, NATO’s involvement in the region could inadvertently contribute to the Thucydides’ Trap, where a rising power (China) and an established power (United States) risk conflict
    • It serves as a warning to policymakers that managing the rise of a new power and avoiding a potential conflict requires careful diplomacy, strategic communication, and the establishment of mechanisms to peacefully resolve disputes

    Conclusion

    • The recent NATO summit in Vilnius showcased the alliance’s Look East moment, highlighting its increased focus on the Indo-Pacific region. Strengthening ties with Indo-Pacific partners is crucial amid the evolving global strategic landscape. However, NATO must navigate carefully and exercise caution while addressing the challenges of the 21st century and the changing dynamics of the international order.

    Also read:

    North East as Gateway to Indo-Pacific Strategy

  • Using name ‘INDIA’ in Political Alliances

    india

    Central Idea

    • A complaint has been lodged with the Delhi police against 26 Opposition parties for the alleged “improper use” of the name ‘INDIA’ in their newly formed alliance.

    Why discuss this?

    • The complainant argues that the parties have violated the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950.
    • It has allegedly attempted to gain “undue influence” in elections by using the name ‘INDIA’ for their coalition.
    • It alleges that by naming their alliance as ‘INDIA’, they have attempted to exert undue influence on the electorate and may be prosecuted under Section 171F of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.

    About Emblems Act, 1950

    • The Emblems Act, 1950 aims to prevent the improper use of certain emblems and names for commercial and other purposes.
    • The Act seeks to protect the dignity and sanctity associated with national emblems, insignia, and names of international organizations.

    Key features of the Emblem Act

    Description Article/Sections
    Protected Emblems and Names Identifies specific emblems and names protected under the Act, including national emblem, UN emblems, Red Cross, and notified emblems.

    Ensures their dignity and sanctity.

    		 Section 3
    Prohibition of Improper Use Prohibits unauthorized use of protected emblems and names for commercial or misleading purposes.

    Maintains their integrity and respect.

    		 Section 5
    Offenses and Penalties Establishes penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violating the Act’s provisions. Section 7
    Exceptions and Permitted Use Allows certain circumstances and purposes where use of protected emblems and names is permitted with relevant authorities’ permission. Section 4
    Enforcement and Authorities Grants powers to authorized Police for enforcement, investigation, and legal actions against violators. Section 8

     

  • Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) to curb Land-Linked Illegal Activities

    land ulpin

    Central Idea

    • President Murmu emphasized the importance of implementing a Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN).

    What is ULPIN?

    • ULPIN or Bhu-Aadhaar is a 14-digit Alpha–Numeric Unique ID for each land parcel.
    • This is the next step in the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP) which began in 2008.
    • The identification will be based on the longitude and latitude coordinates of the land parcel, and is dependent on detailed surveys and geo-referenced cadastral maps.
    • ULPIN is generated using the Electronic Commerce Code Management Association (ECCMA) standards during the importing of the geo-referenced shape file into BhuNaksha, a cadastral mapping solution of NIC.

    Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP)

    • DILRMP is a central sector scheme implemented by the Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development.
    • Erstwhile National Land Record Modernization Programme, it was revamped and converted as a Central Sector Scheme with effect from 1st April, 2016 with 100% funding by the Centre.
    • The program aims to develop an Integrated Land Information Management System (ILIMS) across the country by leveraging the commonalities in land records systems in different states.
    • It integrates land records processes and databases with financial institutions, banks, circle rates, registration offices, and other sectors.
    • The program includes the computerization of land records, survey/re-survey activities, and digitization of registration processes.

     

    Benefits of ULPIN

    • Curbing malpractices: The implementation of ULPIN and digitization of land records can significantly reduce unethical and illegal activities related to land. The transparency brought about by digitization enhances accountability and curbs malpractices.
    • Efficient Land Use: ULPIN will facilitate proper utilization of land parcels and aid in the formulation and implementation of new schemes.
    • Linkage with E-Courts: Connecting E-Courts with land records and registration databases offers multiple benefits, including improved accessibility to information and streamlined legal processes related to land disputes.
    • Indestructible documentation: Digitization of land records proves valuable in times of calamities such as floods and fires, as it helps in preventing loss of documents and expedites the recovery process.

    Impacts on Development and Welfare

    • Development Catalyst: By providing transparent and accessible land information, digitization supports informed decision-making and effective resource management.
    • Proper Scheme Implementation: Linking land records with various government departments facilitates the efficient implementation of welfare schemes ex. PM Awas Yojana.
    • Beneficiary targeting: Accurate and up-to-date land data helps identify beneficiaries and ensures the targeted delivery of benefits and services.

  • NATO Vilnius Summit, 2023: Key Takeaways

    nato

    Central Idea

    • The Vilnius Summit held in July 2023 was significant in assessing the progress made by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in the past year and preparing for future conflicts.
    • While expectations were high regarding Ukraine’s membership timeline, the summit fell short in this regard.

    About NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
    Formation Established on April 4, 1949
    Members Consists of 30 member countries
    Headquarters Located in Brussels, Belgium
    Mission Safeguard freedom and security through political and military cooperation
    Key feature: Article 5 Mutual defense provision, attack on one is an attack on all
    Operations Involved in peacekeeping and crisis management operations worldwide
    NATO-Russia Relations Complex relationship with Russia, involving cooperation and tensions
    Evolving Security Challenges Adapts to address evolving security challenges like terrorism, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare

     

    Also read:

    NATO+5 Status and India

    Key takeaways from Vilnius Summit

    (1) NATO’s Response to Threats:

    • Russian Threat: The summit communique acknowledged Russia as the most significant and direct threat to the security, peace, and stability of NATO allies in the Euro-Atlantic area.
    • Concerns over Belarus and Iran: NATO expressed concerns about Belarus providing territory and infrastructure for Russian aggression against Ukraine. It also highlighted Iran’s delivery of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to Russia for attacks on critical infrastructure in Ukraine.

    (2) Recalibrations in the Baltic Sea:

    • Finland and Sweden’s Inclusion: The summit marked Finland’s first participation as a NATO member, while Turkey agreed to ratify Sweden’s bid to join the alliance.
    • Curbing Russian dominance: This paves the way for a strategic recalibration in the Baltic Sea region that was previously dominated by Russia.

    (3) Commitments to Ukraine:

    • Membership Timeline: Despite expectations, no concrete timeline for Ukraine’s NATO membership was provided.
    • Concrete Outcomes: Ukraine secured short-term and long-term security commitments from NATO members, including the creation of the NATO-Ukraine Council and a multi-year program to help upgrade Ukrainian forces.
    • Defense Support: Member states such as Germany, Norway, and France made commitments to support Ukraine’s defense, including financial assistance, military equipment, and bilateral security cooperation.

    (4) Concerns over China:

    • Beijing’s Threat: The summit reiterated NATO’s recognition of China as a threat to its security, interests, and values. It highlighted China’s opaque strategy, intentions, military build-up, and its support to Russia.
    • Indo-Pacific Engagement: NATO emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific region’s security, linking it to Euro-Atlantic security.

    (5) Defense Spending and Readiness:

    • Burden-Sharing: NATO acknowledged the need for increased defense spending beyond the 2 percent of GDP baseline due to the more contested security order.
    • Regional Defense Plans: Allies reached an agreement on regional defense plans to enhance the alliance’s readiness. The plans focus on upgrading forces, increasing interoperability, and addressing financial implications.

    Conclusion

    • Overall, the summit reaffirmed NATO’s relevance and strategic priorities in an evolving security landscape.

  • Marital Rape Case hearing soon: SC

    marital rape

    Central Idea

    • CJI DY Chandrachud has agreed to list a series of petitions seeking the criminalisation of marital rape for an early hearing.
    • The petitions, triggered by decisions from the Karnataka and Delhi High Courts, aim to challenge the exception in Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) that currently decriminalises marital rape.

    What is Marital Rape?

    • Marital rape is the act of sexual intercourse with one’s spouse without her consent.
    • It is no different manifestation of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
    • Sex and sexual violence are different altogether irrespective of the person in intercourse.

    Why discuss this?

    • Historical Perspective: Marital rape was historically considered a right of spouses, but it is now recognized as a form of sexual abuse and domestic violence in many societies worldwide.
    • Indian Penal Code: Marital rape is not explicitly recognized as a criminal offense under Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
    • Exception: Exception Two of Section 375 decriminalizes marital rape, stating that sexual intercourse by a man with his own wife, who is not under 18 years of age, without her consent is not considered rape.
    • Non-Criminalization: India is one of the fifty countries that have not yet outlawed marital rape.

    Background and High Court Decisions

    • Karnataka HC: It had in April 2022 held that a husband could be charged with rape if he had forcible sexual intercourse with his wife.
    • Delhi HC: A Division Bench delivered a split verdict in May 2022 on the issue of marital rape. It struck down ‘exception two’ as unconstitutional, while another judge rejected the plea to criminalise marital rape, suggesting that any changes in the law should be addressed by the legislature.
    • Gujarat HC: Before this ruling, in 2018, the Gujarat High Court also called for a relook at the marital rape immunity but quashed the charge of rape against the married man.

    marital rape

    Justice J.S. Verma Committee Recommendations (2013)

    • It recommended the removal of the exception for marital rape.
    • It proposed that the law should specify that the “marital or other relationship between the perpetrator or victim is not a valid defence against the crimes of rape or sexual violation.”

    Key observations by Delhi High Court

    • Spousal Intimacy: The court highlighted that consent within a marriage is often given as a part of spousal intimacy, even when the will to engage may be absent.
    • Written Agreements: The court suggested that treating every such case as marital rape could result in partners having to draft detailed written agreements for survival in a marriage.
    • Burden of Evidence: The court expressed concerns about creating a detailed evidentiary record of every act of intimacy or involving a third party as a witness.
    • Marriage Obligations: The court emphasized that marriage entails obligations, including conjugal expectations, financial responsibilities, and duties towards progeny.
    • Sexual Liberty: The court noted that signs of injury on a partner may not necessarily indicate non-consensual sex but could be a result of passion in the age of sexual liberation.
    • Cruelty vs. Rape: The court stated that forced sexual intercourse between spouses cannot be treated as rape and, at most, could be considered sexual abuse under the Domestic Violence Act.

    Reasons against Criminalization

    • Traditional Views: The reluctance to criminalize non-consensual sex between married couples is attributed to traditional views of marriage.
    • Religious Doctrines: Interpretations of religious doctrines often influence the perceptions of marital relationships.
    • Gender Norms: Societal expectations of male and female sexuality and the subordination of wives to their husbands contribute to the resistance against criminalization.
    • Subjectivity: Determining consent in marital rape cases can be subjective and intricate.
    • Potential Misuse: Without adequate safeguards, criminalizing marital rape could be misused by dissatisfied wives to harass their husbands, similar to the misuse of dowry laws.
    • Judicial Burden: Criminalizing marital rape could increase the burden on the judiciary, diverting resources from other important cases.

    Arguments for Criminalization

    • Associated Violence: Marital rape is often accompanied by physical violence, making it a more dangerous form of sexual abuse.
    • Mental Harassment: Research indicates that marital rape can cause more emotional and physical harm than rape by a stranger.
    • Abusive Relationships: Marital rape is frequently part of an abusive relationship rather than a one-time event.
    • Violation of Rights: Criminalizing marital rape is seen as a violation of fundamental rights, including the right to privacy and bodily integrity guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

    Challenges in Prosecuting Marital Rape

    • Lack of Awareness: Limited public awareness and reluctance of authorities to prosecute are common challenges globally.
    • Gender Norms: Societal norms that subordinate wives to their husbands make it difficult for women to recognize and report marital rape.
    • Acceptability: Prevailing social norms often prevent the acceptance of the concept of marital rape.

    Present Regulations in India

    • Indian Penal Code: The IPC criminalizes rape in most cases, but marital rape is not illegal when the woman is over 18 years of age.
    • Age of Consent: Until 2017, men married to women between 15 and 18 years old could not be convicted of rape.
    • Separated Wives: Marital rape of an adult wife who is separated, officially or unofficially, is a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment.
    • Domestic Violence Act: The Protection of Women From Domestic Violence Act (2005) provides married women subjected to marital rape with the right to demand financial compensation and seek shelter or aid homes.

    Way forward

    • Recognition of Rights: Sanctioning marital rape acknowledges a woman’s right to control her body and self-determination.
    • Need for Concrete Law: The absence of a clear law makes it challenging for the judiciary to decide domestic rape cases without solid evidence.
    • Balancing Rights and Duties: The judiciary should consider the rights and duties of both partners before providing a final interpretation.

  • Rajasthan minimum income Bill: provisions, what makes it unique

    income

    What’s the news?

    • Rajasthan government has introduced ‘The Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023’ in the Assembly, what is widely expected to be the last session before the State goes for polls in less than four months.

    Central Idea

    • Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, aim at providing guaranteed wages or pensions to the entire adult population of the state. Social activists have reacted positively to the bill, highlighting its unique features and praising its focus on providing employment and pensions through legislation rather than cash transfer schemes.

    What is the Bill?

    • All families of the state get guaranteed employment of 125 days every year,
    • The aged, disabled, widows, and single women get a minimum pension of Rs 1,000 per month.
    • The pension will be increased each year at the rate of 15 per cent.
    • The Bill has three broad categories: right to minimum guaranteed income, right to guaranteed employment, and right to guaranteed social security pension.
    • The government anticipates an additional expenditure of Rs 2,500 crore per year for this scheme, which may increase with time

    Major provisions of the Bill

    1. Minimum guaranteed income:
    • Guaranteed minimum income for 125 days- each year – every adult citizen of Rajasthan.
    • Implemented through- Indira Gandhi Shahri Rozgar Guarantee Yojana for urban areas and MGNREGA for rural areas.
    • Supplement MGNREGA’s 100 days- additional 25 days of employment in rural regions.
    1. Guaranteed employment:
    • After completion of work- minimum wages should be paid on a weekly or fortnightly basis.
    • Implementation responsibility – through A program officer– ensures- job sites are located within a five-kilometer radius of the registered job card address in both urban and rural areas.
    • If the program officer fails to provide employment within 15 days of receiving an application- applicant will be entitled to a weekly unemployment allowance.
    1. Guaranteed social security pension:
    • Individuals falling into the categories- old age, specially-abled, widows, and single women with prescribed eligibility- entitled to a pension.
    • The pension amount will increase annually by 5% in July and 10% in January, beginning from the financial year 2024-2025.

    What is the Rationale behind the Bill?

    • The bill aligns with the principle of social justice and aims to provide support and security to the most vulnerable members of society.
    • Treating the most marginalized individuals with fairness and dignity.
    • “Mahatma Gandhi’s message that the true measure of a society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable members”
    • As part of a bouquet of schemes and measures undertaken by the government to provide relief from inflation
    • Provide a safety net and alleviate financial burdens on the most vulnerable sections of society.

    Criticism over the bill

    • The bill’s introduction close to the upcoming elections- politically motivated
    • Populist measure designed to appeal to voters
    • Financial feasibility of implementing the bill’s provisions- securing sustainable funding
    • Burden on the state’s finances in the long run.
    • Proper identification of beneficiaries, monitoring mechanisms, and ensuring efficient delivery of guaranteed income, employment, and pensions

    Conclusion

    • The Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, is being seen as a pioneering step towards securing social security for all residents of the state. If implemented properly and efficiently the legislation will pave the way towards building a just and inclusive society, where the welfare of every citizen is a priority.

    Also read:

    A Social Security Board for Gig Workers: Rajasthan’s Pioneering Step

     

     

  • More than court action, revisit the Indus Waters Treaty

    Indus

    What’s the news?

    • India raised objection when Pakistan initiated arbitration at the Permanent Court of Arbitration to address the interpretation and application of the IWT.
    • On July 6, 2023, the court unanimously passed a decision (which is binding on both parties without appeal) rejecting each of India’s objections.

    Central Idea

    • The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), 1960 has long been hailed as a remarkable example of cooperation between India and Pakistan, despite their tumultuous relationship. The treaty has endured numerous conflicts and established detailed procedures for dispute resolution. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in the utilization of judicial recourse to settle disputes arising from India’s construction of run-of-river hydroelectric projects.

    What is Indus Water Treaty (IWT)?

    • The Indus Waters Treaty is a water-distribution treaty between India and Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank signed in Karachi in 1960.
    • According to this agreement, control over the water flowing in three eastern rivers of India the Beas, the Ravi and the Sutlej was given to India.
    • The control over the water flowing in three western rivers of India the Indus, the Chenab and the Jhelum was given to Pakistan

    Basis of the treaty

    • Back in time, partitioning the Indus rivers system was inevitable after the Partition of India in 1947.
    • The sharing formula devised after prolonged negotiations sliced the Indus system into two halves.
    • Underlying the treaty is the principle that water does not recognise international boundaries and upper riparian’s have a responsibility to lower riparian’s.

    What are the Disputes and Challenges?

    • Construction and design of run-of-river hydroelectric projects by India- Kishanganga (a tributary of the Jhelum) and Ratle, a hydro-electric project on the Chenab- objections from Pakistan– potentially impact the flow and utilization of water downstream.
    • Pakistan initiated arbitration at Permanent Court of Arbitration- India objected to the jurisdiction of the court– advocating for the use of the neutral expert process instead.
    • Pervasive atmosphere of distrust and strained relations between India and Pakistan, which hampers effective cooperation under the treaty.
    • As precipitation patterns and runoff are altered, the assumption of fixed water availability under the IWT becomes increasingly uncertain.
    • The treaty’s allocation of water resources does not adequately consider the potential impact of climate change on future water availability, creating a need for flexible mechanisms.
    • The IWT does not sufficiently address the rapidly growing industrial and agricultural needs of both countries.

    Principles of water course

    • Equitable and Reasonable Utilization (ERU): This principle emphasizes the fair and reasonable use of water resources among riparian states.
    • No Harm or Do No Harm Rule (NHR): The no harm principle states that riparian states should not cause significant harm to other states sharing the same watercourse. It requires taking necessary measures to prevent or mitigate any adverse impacts that might arise from water-related activities.
    • Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM): IWRM approach considers water resources as an interconnected system, taking into account social, economic, and environmental factors. Achieve optimal and sustainable use of water resources.
    • Basin-wide Management: Water resources should be managed at the basin or watershed level, as it is the most natural unit for water management.
    • Prior Informed Consent: Obtaining the consent of affected communities and stakeholders before implementing projects or activities that may have significant impacts on water resources.
    • Environmental Protection: Need to protect and conserve the ecological integrity of watercourses. Preservation of aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, and water quality.
    • The Role of the World Bank: The World Bank, as a party to the treaty, could utilize its platform to foster a transnational alliance of epistemic communities.

    Conclusion

    • By incorporating principles of equitable water utilization and preventing significant harm, the IWT can better address the evolving needs and climate change impacts of India and Pakistan. The World Bank’s involvement in facilitating collaboration and policy convergence could play a pivotal role in shaping a revised treaty that fosters long-term cooperation and sustainability in the shared management of the Indus waters

    Also read:

    Indus Water Treaty: A Case of Hydropolitics

  • India achieves record DPT3 vaccination coverage in 2022: WHO

    dpt3

    Central Idea

    • The coverage rate for DPT3 vaccines (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) in India reached an all-time high of 93% in 2022, surpassing the pre-pandemic record of 91% in 2019.
    • This significant increase from the 85% coverage in 2021 was reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).

    What is DPT3?

    • DPT3 vaccines refer to a combination vaccine that provides protection against three infectious diseases: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus.
    • The “DPT” in DPT3 stands for the initials of these three diseases:
    1. Diphtheria: It is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It can cause severe throat and nose congestion, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, it can lead to heart and nerve damage.
    2. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): It is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound when gasping for breath. Pertussis can be particularly dangerous for infants and young children.
    3. Tetanus: Also known as lockjaw, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It enters the body through wounds or cuts and produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles.

    WHO records on immunization

    • DPT3 Coverage Recovery: The WHO South-East Asia Region saw the DPT3 coverage recover to pre-pandemic levels of 91% in 2022, a significant increase from 82% in 2021.
    • Measles Vaccine Coverage: The region also witnessed a six percent improvement in measles vaccine coverage, rising to 92% in 2022 from 86% in 2021.
    • Zero-Dose Children: The number of zero-dose children (those who have not received even the first dose of the DPT vaccine) halved from 4.6 million in 2021 to 2.3 million in 2022.
    • Partially Vaccinated Children: The number of partially vaccinated children (those who received at least one dose but not the complete three-dose series) decreased from 1.3 million in 2021 to 650,000 in 2022.