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GS Paper: GS2

  • 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.

  • 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.