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  • [2 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The PMLA — a law that has lost its way

    [2 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The PMLA — a law that has lost its way

    PYQ Relevance:Mains: 

    Q) Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels. (UPSC CSE/2021) 

    Q) Analyze the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism. (UPSC CSE/2021) 

    Q) Money laundering poses a serious security threat to a country’s economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to control this menace?  (UPSC CSE/2013) 

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Polity; Prevention of Money Laundering Act  of 2002;

    Mains: Polity; Internal Security; Prevention of Money Laundering Act  of 2002;

    Mentor comments: The Enormous volume of black money generated through International Drug Trafficking poses a grave threat to our Indian economy as well as many other countries too. We all are awared that the black money is generated through the flourishing of the drug trade and then it is  integrated with the legitimate and domestic economy that can destabilize the world and endanger the integrity and sovereignty of various Nations. Hence, today we are going to discuss some major ongoing issue which is aligned with same context – the issue with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act  of 2002.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (2002),  includes a large number of offenses in its schedule that have nothing to do with the original purpose of this law. So, there is an urgent need to have an effective law with the rising of newer challenges in Drug Money Laundering offenses.

    The Background of the Law:

    • Since the mid-1980s, there has been global concern over the proceeds of criminal activities such as drug trafficking being ‘laundered’ or used in financing terrorism. 
    • The UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances adopted in the Vienna Convention (1988) was the first treaty that called upon nations to adopt domestic laws to combat drug trafficking. As part of these laws, countries were asked to prohibit the conversion or transfer of property gained through dealing in narcotics to conceal its illicit origin. 
    • The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) was established at the G-7 Summit in Paris in 1989 in response to mounting concern over money laundering. The Task Force made recommendations from time to time to strengthen laws on the subject. 
    • The UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime of 2000 (Palermo Convention) also advocated legislative and other measures to combat organized crime, and specifically called for ‘criminalizing the laundering of proceeds of crime’

    About the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002:

    • Enactment of PMLA in India:
      • Article 253: This gave the Union Parliament the exclusive power to make laws for any part of India’s territory to implement any treaty, agreement or convention involving one or more countries.
      • Seventh Schedule: Item 13 (Communication which is subject to provisions in List I and III) in the Union list of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution is specific on this point. 
    • It was enacted in January 2003 and seeks to combat money laundering in India under three major domains:
      • Preventing and controlling Money Laundering
      • Confiscating and seizing the property obtained from the laundered money
      • Issues that are directly connected with Money Laundering in India.
    • Section 3 of the PMLA defines the offense of money laundering as whosoever directly or indirectly attempts to indulge or knowingly assists or knowingly is a party or is actually involved in any process or activity connected with the proceeds of crime and projecting it as untainted property shall be guilty of the offense of money-laundering.
    • The Act was amended by the Prevention of Money Laundering (Amendment) Act, 2009 and by the Prevention of Money Laundering (Amendment) Act, 2012. Recently, the PMLA was amended through the Finance Act, 2015, Finance Act, 2018 and Finance Act, 2019.

    Why PMLA has lost its way? 

    • Draconian Nature: The provisions contained are now being used in other scheduled offenses too without mitigating their rigor. 
    • Redundant Law: The various amendments made in this Act at different times bloated the schedule offenses which now contain such offenses that are either ordinary offenses listed in the IPC or for which there are special laws in force.
      • For Example, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 which is aimed at curbing corruption among public servants. This Act was added to the schedule of offenses in 2009. The PMLA now applies with all its rigor to public servants also. Thus, a public servant charged with corruption and a hard-core drug trafficker are treated alike.
    • Non-aligned with Fundamental Principles: A very disturbing thing about the PMLA is that an accused under this law is presumed to be guilty until proven innocent. A fundamental principle of Anglo-Saxon jurisprudence is that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 
    • Stringent Bail Provisions: An accused will be denied bail by the entire hierarchy of courts because the bail provision contained in section 45 of the PMLA says that a judge can give bail only when he is satisfied that the accused is innocent. 
    • Legislative vs. Judiciary Nexus: The bail provision is invested with a lot of political significance in present-day India. The Act originally aimed to curb the laundering of black money and to save the economy from being destabilized. But the less serious offenses are also under purview of PMLA. The learned judges nearly said that the inclusion of a particular offense in the schedule comes within the domain of the legislative policy.
    Judicial Stand on the Bail Provisions:

    Gudikanti Narasimhulu And Ors vs Public Prosecutor (1978): The judicial perspective on bail was laid out by Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer (Andhra Pradesh HC) where it said that “Personal liberty is deprived when bail is refused, which is too precious value of our constitutional system recognized under Article 21”.

    Nikesh Tarachand Shah vs Union of India (2018): The PMLA Act (Section 45) was held unconstitutional by a two-judge Bench of the Supreme Court of India as it was violating Article 14 and Article 21.  

    Vijay Madanlal Choudhary vs Union of India (2022): Parliament, with great alacrity, restored this provision with certain amendments which was upheld by a three-judge Bench headed by Justice A.M. Khanwilkar in 2022. The top court held that this provision is reasonable and has a direct nexus with the purposes and objects of the PMLA Act. 

  • Solar surge: Moving away from imported solar panels

    Why in the news? 

    The government is finally bringing into effect the policy of an Approved list of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) that will discourage solar power project developers from relying on imported panels. 

    About Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules Order, 2019:

    • Aim: To boost domestic manufacturing of solar panels by registering only those made with domestically manufactured cells, wafers, and polysilicon.
    • Compulsory Registration: The order mandates compulsory registration for solar PV module and cell manufacturers, ensuring they meet certain quality and production standards.
    • Lists: LIST-I for solar PV modules and LIST-II for solar PV cells.
      • Only listed models and manufacturers in these lists are considered approved for use in various government projects and schemes.
    • Eligibility Criteria: To be included in the lists, manufacturers must undergo inspections and meet specific criteria set by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) to ensure the products are genuinely manufactured and not imported.
    • This order ensures the reliability of solar PV products used in installations, promotes domestic manufacturing, and aligns with the government’s initiatives for renewable energy adoption and energy security.

    Efforts made by the Government to promote domestic Solar Manufacturing:

    • Import Restrictions: The creation of the Approved Models and Manufacturers list was aimed at restricting imports from China, which dominates a significant portion of the global solar supply market.
    • Ambitious Renewable Energy Targets: India aims to source about 500 GW of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with at least 280 GW coming from solar power. This necessitates adding at least 40 GW of solar capacity annually until 2030. So there is need to focus on indegenous solar project

    Challenges ahead:

    • Unrealistic Targets: Despite ambitious targets, India’s solar capacity additions have been relatively low in recent years, attributed in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. The country aims to ramp up installations to between 25 GW and 40 GW annually.
    • Reliance on Imports: A significant fraction of India’s solar installations is met by imports, which affects domestic panel manufacturers who must pay for government certification but lose orders to cheaper Chinese panels. For example surge in Solar panel import in  FY 24 around $1,136.28 million  from FY23 imports $943.53 million

    Conclusion: India’s ALMM policy aims to boost domestic solar manufacturing, aligning with ambitious renewable energy targets. Address challenges like meeting targets and reducing reliance on imports through strategic planning and support.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)

    https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/renewables/how-india-became-a-frontrunner-in-the-global-renewable-energy-market/articleshow/100271905.cms?from=mdr

    https://mnre.gov.in/approved-list-of-models-and-manufacturers-almm/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1944075

    https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/indias-solar-panel-imports-set-to-remain-higher-in-fy24/106217488#:~:text=During%20the%20initial%20six%20months,million%2C%20according%20to%20Eninrac%20Consulting

  • 125 years of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

    Why in the news?

    This year marks 125th Year of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO).

    About Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)

    • The idea for an Indian solar observatory emerged in the late 19th century, with then government sanctioning the establishment of the Solar Physics Observatory in Kodaikanal in August 1893.
    • Kodaikanal in the Palani hills of Tamil Nadu was chosen as the site for the observatory due to its favorable atmospheric conditions, following surveys conducted by Charles Michie Smith.
    • The foundation stone for KoSO was laid by Lord Wenlock, the then Governor of Madras, in 1895.
    • Systematic observations at KoSO began on March 14, 1901.
    • KoSO initially housed instruments for solar observations, including telescopes for examining sunspots, prominences, and solar radiations.
    • Presently, KoSO houses advanced instruments like the H-alpha telescope and the White light Active Region Monitor (WARM) for high-resolution solar imaging.

    Do you know?

    • The Bhavnagar Telescope, named after the Maharaja of Bhavnagar, was one of the more famous instruments at KoSO during the early decades of its operation.
    • A 15cm telescope was used to capture solar images onto a photographic film or plate.
    • Solar magnetic plages and prominences were recorded since 1911, taken on photographic films and plates.

    Historical Perspective

    • Ancient Legacy: Throughout history, seafarers, mathematicians, astronomers, and physicists have meticulously studied the Sun and its celestial phenomena.
    • British Era Initiatives: In 1792, the British East India Company established the pioneering Madras Observatory, marking a significant milestone in astronomical research in the region.
    • Madras Observatory’s Legacy: The Madras Observatory documented crucial astronomical observations during 1812-1825, laying the groundwork for solar research in India.
    • Shift to Systematic Observations: Dedicated solar observations commenced in 1878, fostering a deeper understanding of solar phenomena.
    • Advancements in Methodology: The adoption of systematic observational techniques paved the way for more comprehensive and detailed studies of the Sun’s behavior.

    Need for such Observatory

    • Great Drought of 1875-1877: This event triggered by scanty rainfall, propelled the need for comprehensive solar studies to comprehend its implications on weather patterns.
    • India’s Geographical Significance: India’s drought was part of a larger global phenomenon, affecting several countries and leading to widespread famine.
    • Scientific Inquiry: Scientists recognized the potential role of solar variability in influencing climatic patterns, prompting inquiries into the Sun’s behavior and its correlation with environmental phenomena.

    Scientific Endeavors of KoSO

    • The observatory made significant contributions to solar physics, including the discovery of the radial motion of sunspots, known as the Evershed Effect.
    • Over time, KoSO expanded its research areas beyond solar physics to include cosmic rays, radio astronomy, ionospheric physics, and stellar physics.
    • In April 1971, KoSO was brought under the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, as part of the separation of astrophysics from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

    Repository of the KoSO

    • Between 1904 and 2017, all solar observations were traced onto photographic films and plates
    • A new telescope mounted with CCD cameras has taken over and, since 2017, continued to observe the Sun.
    • Digitization of the records was initiated in 1984 by Prof J C Bhattacharyya, and others continued the effort.
    • KoSO is now home to a digital repository of a whopping 1.48 lakh solar images adding up to 10 terabyte of data.
    • These include 33,500 white-light images (showing sunspots), 45,000 images of the Ca II K spectral line (which reveals plages), and 70,000 H-alpha photographic plates that show prominences.

    PYQ:

    2019:

    On 21st June, the Sun-

    (a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle

    (b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle

    (c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator

    (d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Which of the following statements correctly describes the ‘Evershed Effect’ in Sun?

    (a) It refers to the bending of light waves around obstacles, demonstrated by the diffraction pattern observed in a single-slit experiment.

    (b) It is the phenomenon of a magnetic field being generated by the motion of charged particles in the convective zone of the Sun.

    (c) It describes the deflection of moving charged particles, such as electrons, in a magnetic field, leading to the creation of an electric potential difference.

    (d) It is the radial flow of gases in the Sun’s outer atmosphere, observed as a redshift in the spectrum of light emitted by the photosphere.

  • UNCTAD Report Highlights Shifts in India’s Trade Relations

    What is the news?

    • The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Global Trade Report revealed an evolving trade landscape for India, marked by increased reliance on China and the European Union (EU).

    About UNCTAD

    • UNCTAD is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1964.
    • It is part of the UN Secretariat.
    • The UNCTAD Conference ordinarily meets once in four years.
    • It reports to the UNGA and the Economic and Social Council, but has its own membership, leadership and budget.
    • It is also a part of the United Nations Development Group.
    • It supports developing countries to access the benefits of a globalized economy more fairly and effectively.
    • Reports published by the UNCTAD are-
    1. Trade and Development Report
    2. World Investment Report
    3. Technology and Innovation Report
    4. Digital Economy Report

    Membership:

    • UNCTAD’s membership consists of all 195 member states of the United Nations.
    • India is an active member. The second UNCTAD Conference took place in New Delhi, India in 1968.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    1. Key Findings on India
    • Trade Trends: India’s trade dependence on China and the EU rose by 1.2%, while reliance on Saudi Arabia declined by 0.6%.
    • Factors: This shift occurred amidst supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, leading to record-high food and fuel prices.
    • Policy Measures: Despite efforts to reduce dependency on China through initiatives like the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and Quality Control Orders (QCOs), India’s trade relations with China strengthened.
    1. Insights from the Report
    • Stable Proximity: Geographical proximity of international trade remained relatively constant, indicating minimal near-shoring or far-shoring trends.
    • Political Proximity: However, there was a noticeable rise in the political proximity of trade, favouring countries with similar geopolitical stances.
    • Concentration of Trade: Global trade increasingly favored major trade relationships, although this trend softened towards the end of 2023.
    • Sectoral Trends: Most sectors experienced a decline in trade value, except for pharmaceuticals, transportation equipment, and electric cars.
    • Global Forecast: Global merchandise trade is expected to contract by 5% in 2023, with services trade projected to gain 8%.
    1. Impact of Russia-Ukraine Conflict
    • Shifts in Trade: The ongoing conflict led to a surge in Russia’s trade dependence on China by 7.1% while decreasing reliance on the EU by 5.3%.
    • Oil Trade: Russian oil shifted from the EU to China and India, with China becoming a significant trade partner for Russia.
    • US Trade Dynamics: The US managed to reduce reliance on China by 1.2% in 2023, while increasing dependence on the EU and Mexico.

    PYQ:

    The Global Infrastructure Facility is a/an: (2017)

    (a) ASEAN initiative to upgrade infrastructure in Asia and financed by credit from the Asian Development Bank.

    (b) World Bank collaboration that facilitates the preparation and structuring of complex infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to enable mobilization of private sector and institutional investor capital.

    (c) Collaboration among the major banks of the world working with the OECD and focused on expanding the set of infrastructure projects that have the potential to mobilize private investment.

    (d) UNCTAD-funded initiative that seeks to finance and facilitate infrastructure development in the world.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), consider the following statements:

    1. It is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly.

    2. It is part of the UN Secretariat.

    3. India has never hosted the UNCTAD Conference.

    How many of the above statements is/are correct?

    (a) One

    (b) Two

    (c) Three

    (d) None

  • ISRO’s NICES Programme Combatting Climate Change

    Why in the news?

    The National Information System for Climate and Environment Studies (NICES) Program has extended invitations to Indian researchers to contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

    What is NICES Program?

    • The NICES Programme is operated by the ISRO and the Department of Space.
    • It was launched in 2012.
    • It operates within the framework of the National Action Plan on Climate Change.
    • NICES aims to enhance the participation of Indian researchers in addressing climate change-related challenges through multidisciplinary scientific investigations.
    • Focus Areas: Potential areas for project submission include Space-based Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) and Climate Indicators, Climate Change Challenges, Weather Extremes, and Climate Services.

    Activities held under NICES Program

    • NICES invites project proposals from Indian scientists, academicians, and researchers affiliated with various governmental organizations, recognized institutions, universities, and departments.
    • Project proposals should address climate change-related challenges.
    • These projects are expected be completed within 3 years from the date of sanction.

    Objective and Functionality

    • The primary objective of the NICES Programme is to generate and disseminate long-term Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) derived from Indian and other Earth Observation (EO) satellites.
    • These variables, spanning terrestrial, oceanic, and atmospheric domains, are crucial for characterizing Earth’s climate and monitoring changes over time.

    Achievements and Impact:

    • Since its inception in 2012, NICES has developed over 70 geophysical products meeting stringent quality standards.
    • These products have been instrumental in documenting climate change and its impacts, contributing to scientific understanding and evidence-based decision-making.

    PYQ:

    2021: Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference?

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The NICES Program is an initiative of:

    (a) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

    (b) Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)

    (c) Department of Science and Technology (DST)

    (d) None of the above.

  • Tamil Nadu accounts for 30% of India’s electronics exports

    Why in the news? 

    Nearly 40% of India’s smartphone shipments over the past two fiscal years originated from a single district Kancheepuram.

    Context 

    • In FY23, Tamil Nadu emerged as India’s foremost exporter of electronic goods, contributing 30% to the country’s total electronic goods exports in FY24.
    • Historically, the state lagged behind Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka in this sector until FY22.
    • However, in recent years, Tamil Nadu has experienced consistent growth in electronic goods exports, unlike other states where figures have either declined or remained static.

     Chart 1 shows the electronic goods exported from Tamil Nadu in $ billion, year-wise.

    • Between April 2023 and January 2024, Tamil Nadu exported electronic goods valued at over $7.4 billion.

    Chart 2 shows the exports of electronic goods of the top five States in India in $ billion, year-wise

    • In FY24, Tamil Nadu’s exports exceeded the combined exports of Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, which totaled $6.7 billion during that period.
    • Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka were ranked second and third, respectively, in terms of electronic goods exports.
    • Gujarat and Maharashtra, also among the top five exporting states, have experienced stagnant growth in recent years.

    Chart 3 shows the commodity wise share in total exports from India for FY24 (till February) in $ billion

    • Engineering goods were the dominant category of exports from India during the specified period, with a total value of $98 billion.
    • Petroleum products followed closely behind, with exports valued at $78 billion.
    • Gems and jewellery constituted another significant export category, with a total export value of $30 billion.
    • Electronics goods were also notable, although they ranked lower compared to other categories, with exports totaling $25 billion. In FY18, electronics goods were not among the top 10 most exported commodities from India.

     Biggest markets

    • Top most importor of India’s Electronic goods: The United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are the largest markets for India’s electronic goods export. In FY24 (up to February), the U.S. accounted for approximately 35% of India’s electronic goods exports, amounting to $8.7 billion, while the UAE accounted for 12% with $3 billion.
    • Other countries share:The Netherlands and the United Kingdom (U.K.) each held a share of about 5% in India’s electronic goods exports.
    • The primary destination : Since FY21, the United States has consistently been the primary destination for India’s electronics exports, with its share increasing significantly in recent years.

    Conclusion

    Tamil Nadu’s emergence as a key electronics exporter, with 30% of India’s exports, is highlighted. Kancheepuram district’s significant role, alongside Tamil Nadu’s surpassing of Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, underscores its growth in electronic goods exports.

     

    Mains PYQ

    Q  Can the strategy of regional-resource based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019) 

    Q Account for the failure of manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour-intensive rather than capital-intensive exports.(UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Recently Awarded GI Tags

    Why in the news?

    What is a GI Tag?

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years and can be renewed.

    Various GI Tags Awarded:

    Details
    Bihu Dhol (Assam) Traditional drum used during Bihu festivals
    Jaapi (Assam) Bamboo headgear worn in rural Assam
    Sarthebari metal craft (Assam) Traditional metal craft producing utensils and artifacts
    Mishing handloom products (Assam) Handwoven textiles including shawls and sarees
    Asharikandi terracotta craft (Assam) Terracotta pottery and decorative items
    Pani Meteka craft (Assam) Brass and copper utensils adorned with intricate designs
    Bodo Dokhona (Assam) Traditional attire of Bodo women
    Bodo Eri silk (Assam) Silk fabric produced from eri silkworms, known for its soft texture and eco-friendly production
    Bodo Jwmgra (Assam) Traditional scarf worn by Bodo community members
    Bodo Gamsa (Assam) Traditional dress of Bodo men
    Bodo Thorkha (Assam) Traditional musical instrument made from bamboo or wood
    Bodo Sifung (Assam) Long flute used in traditional Bodo music
    Banaras Thandai (Uttar Pradesh) Traditional drink made from milk, nuts, seeds, and spices
    Banaras Tabla (Uttar Pradesh) Pair of drums used in classical Indian music
    Banaras Shehnai (Uttar Pradesh) Traditional wind instrument used in Indian classical music
    Banaras Lal Bharwamirch (Uttar Pradesh) Red chili grown in the Banaras region
    Banaras Lal Peda (Uttar Pradesh) Popular Indian sweet made from condensed milk and sugar
    Pachra-Rignai (Tripura) Traditional dress worn by women, consisting of a wrap-around skirt and blouse
    Matabari Peda (Tripura) Sweet delicacy made from condensed milk, sugar, and ghee
    Garo Textile weaving (Meghalaya) Traditional weaving craft practiced by the Garo tribe
    Lyrnai Pottery (Meghalaya) Traditional pottery making characterized by unique designs and techniques
    Chubitchi (Meghalaya) Traditional dish made with meat, local herbs, and spices

     

    PYQ:

    Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015)

    1.    Banaras Brocades and Sarees

    2.    Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma

    3.    Tirupathi Laddu

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 only 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    India enacted The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (2016):

    (a) ILO

    (b) IMF

    (c) UNCTAD

    (d) WTO

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about the Geographical Indications (GI) Tag:

    1.    The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal agency for GI.

    2.    A GI tag stands valid for 10 years and cannot be renewed.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • Empathic Voice Interface (EVI): World’s first conversational AI with Emotional Intelligence  

    Why in the news?

    • Hume, a prominent research lab and tech firm based in New York, has unveiled Empathic Voice Interface (EVI), world’s first conversational AI endowed with emotional intelligence.

    What is Empathic Voice Interface (EVI)?

    • Hume’s Empathic Voice Interface (EVI) is powered by its proprietary empathic large language model (eLLM).
    • It can decipher tones, word emphasis, and emotional cues, improving the quality of interactions.
    • As an API, EVI can integrate seamlessly with various applications, offering developers a versatile solution for implementing human-like interactions.

    Potential Applications and Future Prospects

    • Enhanced AI Assistants: Hume’s technology enables AI assistants to engage in nuanced conversations, enhancing productivity and user satisfaction.
    • Improved Customer Support: By infusing empathy into customer support interactions, Hume’s AI promises to deliver more personalized service and foster stronger relationships.
    • Therapeutic Potential: Hume’s empathetic AI holds promise in therapeutic settings, offering support and guidance by understanding and responding to human emotions.

    PYQ:

    1. What is ’emotional intelligence’ and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions?  (2013)
    2. “Emotional Intelligence is the ability to make your emotions work for you instead of against you.” Do you agree with this view? Discuss. (2019)
    3. How will you apply emotional intelligence in administrative practices?  (2017)

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Which of the following statements correctly describes the Empathic Voice Interface (EVI)?

    (a) EVI operates as a standalone application, devoid of integration capabilities with other software systems.

    (b) It relies on conventional language models, neglecting emotional cues and word emphasis during interactions.

    (c) EVI, powered by its proprietary empathic large language model (eLLM), detects emotional nuances such as tones, word emphasis, and cues, enhancing interaction quality.

    (d) EVI is developed by the Microsoft.

  • Hepatitis B: Everything you need to know

    Why in the news?

    • A recent study by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, revealed alarming deficiencies in public knowledge (transmission, effects & vaccination) about Hepatitis B in India.
    • Despite the availability of a vaccine for over 30 years, HBV infection rates remain high in India, with prevalence estimates ranging from 2% to 8% and approximately 37 million carriers nationwide.

    About Hepatitis

    • Hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the liver.
    • It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections (hepatitis viruses), alcohol consumption, certain medications, toxins, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders.
    Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Hepatitis C
    Causative Virus Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
    Transmission Fecal-oral route (contaminated food/water) Blood and body fluids (unsafe sex, sharing needles) Blood-to-blood contact (sharing needles, transfusions)
    Vaccine Available Yes Yes Yes
    Chronic Infection No (usually acute) Yes (can become chronic) Yes (often becomes chronic)
    Symptoms Mild flu-like symptoms, jaundice Variable, from none to severe symptoms Often asymptomatic, but can lead to liver damage
    Chronic Complications None Cirrhosis, liver cancer Cirrhosis, liver cancer
    Preventable by Vaccine Yes Yes No
    Treatment Supportive care Antiviral medications Antiviral medications

     

    PYQ:

     

    Which one of the following statements is not correct? (2019)

    (a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.

    (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.

    (c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.

    (d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.

     

    Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing? (2013)

    1.    Chikungunya

    2.    Hepatitis B

    3.    HIV-AIDS

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

     

    Consider the following statements regarding Hepatitis C virus:

    1.    It is spread mainly through contaminated water and food.

    2.    It primarily affects the functioning of respiratory system.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)

    Why in the news?

    • The Supreme Court has rejected review petitions challenging its ruling on the initiation of proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
    • The judgment clarified that Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code cannot be invoked for PMLA proceedings unless the alleged conspiracy pertains to a scheduled offence.

    Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002

     

    • The PMLA was enacted in 2002 with the aim of preventing money laundering and providing for confiscation of property derived from money laundering.
    • It applies to all financial institutions, banks (including the RBI), mutual funds, insurance companies, and their financial intermediaries.
    • The Act empowers government authorities to confiscate property and/or assets earned from illegal sources and through money laundering.
    • It has been amended three times, in 2005, 2009, and 2012.
    • Under the PMLA, the burden of proof lies with the accused, who must demonstrate that the suspect property/assets have not been obtained through proceeds of crime.

     

    Penalties under PMLA:

    • Freezing or Seizure of property and records, and/or attachment of property obtained through crime proceeds.
    • Rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 7 years. In cases where money laundering is linked with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, the punishment can extend up to 10 years, along with a fine.
    • Fine imposition.

     

    Authorities for investigation under PMLA:

    1. Enforcement Directorate (ED): It is responsible for investigating offenses under the PMLA.
    2. Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND): It is the national agency tasked with receiving, processing, analyzing, and disseminating information related to suspect financial transactions.

    What is Article 120 of Indian Penal Code (IPC)?

    • Section 120 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with the concept of “Conspiracy to commit an offense”.
    • It states that when two or more persons agree to do, or cause to be done, an illegal act, or an act which is not illegal by illegal means, such an agreement is designated a criminal conspiracy.
    • Section 120A defines “criminal conspiracy” as when two or more persons agree to do, or cause to be done, an illegal act or an act which is not illegal by illegal means.
    • Section 120B prescribes the punishment for criminal conspiracy, with death, imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment for a term of two years or upwards, shall be punished in the same manner as if he had abetted such offense.

    Punishment for Criminal Conspiracy

    • Nature of Conspiracy: IPC 120B categorizes conspiracy based on the gravity of the offense and prescribes punishments accordingly.
    • Serious Offenses: Conspiracy to commit serious crimes punishable by death, life imprisonment, or rigorous imprisonment for 2 years or more warrants severe punishment equivalent to the offense committed.
    • Other Offenses: Conspiracy for illegal acts not falling under the serious category incurs imprisonment for up to six months, a fine, or both, as per Section 120B.

    Practice MCQ:

    Which of the following statements are correct regarding ‘Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (PMLA)’?

    1. Enforcement Directorate (ED) is responsible for investigating offences under the PMLA

    2. The Act enables government authorities to confiscate property earned through money laundering.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2