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GS Paper: GS1-06.Salient features of Indian Society

 

  • Govt. approves ‘Caste Census’

    Why in the News?

    In a landmark move, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) has approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the 2025 population census for the first time since India’s independence.

    What is Caste Census?

    • A caste census is the process of recording individuals’ caste identities during a national census.
    • It aims to gather data on the distribution and socio-economic status of different caste groups, helping inform policies related to affirmative action, social justice, and welfare programs in India.
    • Caste plays a significant role in the country’s social, economic, and political life.
    • History of Caste Census:
      • British India (1881–1931): Caste enumeration was part of the decennial census under British rule, used for administrative purposes.
      • Post-Independence (1951): After independence, the Indian government, led by Jawaharlal Nehru, discontinued caste enumeration to promote national unity and avoid social divisions.
      • 1961 Directive: States were allowed to collect their own data on Other Backward Classes (OBCs), leading to fragmented caste data collection at the state level.
      • 1980 Mandal Commission: The commission recommended 27% reservation for OBCs in government jobs, fuelling the demand for caste-based data. The lack of national caste data made the implementation of such policies contentious.
      • 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC): The SECC collected caste data, but it was not officially integrated into the census, and its findings were not fully released, drawing criticism for lack of transparency and application.

    Implications of Caste Census:

    • Political: It can help improve representation for marginalized groups and ensure better-targeted welfare programs.
    • Social: Unveils intersectional disparities, helping identify gaps in services like education, healthcare, and social protection.
    • Policy: Aids in shaping reservation policies and resource allocation for poverty alleviation.
    • Opposition and Concerns: Some worry it may reinforce caste-based divisions, particularly among upper-caste groups and certain political factions.
    • Electoral and Governance: Accurate data influences electoral strategies, helping parties address community-specific needs.
    • Legal and Administrative Impact: The 2025 caste enumeration raises issues regarding data collection, classification, and use, ensuring it is applied effectively without reinforcing caste-based disparities.
    [UPSC 2008] Amongst the following States, which one has the highest percentage of rural population (on the basis of the Census, 2001)?

    Options: (a) Himachal Pradesh* (b) Bihar (c) Odisha (d) Uttar Pradesh

     

  • [29th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Role in a risk society: how women bear a disproportionate burden

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2019] What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?

    Linkage: The article details talk about the various challenges that contribute to women bearing a disproportionate burden, including socio-economic inequalities, health risks, and the burden of caregiving roles.

     

    Mentor’s Comment: In a risk society — where modernisation creates new, man-made dangers like pandemics or climate crises — women face deeper vulnerabilities due to caregiving burdens, poor health, insecure work, and limited access to aid or resources. This gendered risk is not incidental but structural.

    This is relevant for GS Paper 1 (Indian Society) and themes like “Challenges for women across time and space”.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The term ‘risk society’, coined by Ulrich Beck in his book Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity, refers to a shift from an industrial society to a society where uncertainty and dangers, caused by technology and environmental changes, play a larger role in shaping our lives.

    Why are women more vulnerable to the consequences of risks in a risk society, especially in developing countries?

    • Unequal Access to Resources: Women often have less access to land, credit, education, and technology compared to men. Eg: In rural areas of Africa and South Asia, women farmers typically control smaller plots and have less access to irrigation or improved seeds, making them more vulnerable to climate shocks like droughts.
    • Caregiving Responsibilities Increase Exposure: Women are usually responsible for caregiving roles (childcare, eldercare, healthcare), exposing them more to environmental and health risks. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, women healthcare workers (70% of health workforce globally) faced higher exposure to the virus.
    • Greater Health Vulnerabilities: Due to physiological factors and social inequalities (like poor nutrition), women face higher health risks during environmental crises. Eg: In India, 57% of women suffer from anaemia (NFHS-5), making them more vulnerable during food shortages or health crises.
    • Social and Cultural Norms Deepen Disadvantages: Gender norms often prioritize men’s needs over women’s during disasters, leading to unequal relief, recovery, and aid access. Eg: After natural disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, women had lower survival rates partly because cultural norms restricted their ability to swim or climb trees.
    • Economic Insecurity Limits Resilience: Women are overrepresented in informal, low-wage, and insecure jobs, making it harder for them to recover from economic disruptions. Eg: During lockdowns in 2020, women in informal sectors (like domestic work or street vending) lost incomes faster and found it harder to regain employment.

    How do manufactured risks differ from natural risks?

    Aspect Natural Risks Manufactured Risks
    Origin of the Risks Arise from natural events or phenomena without human intervention. Result from human activities, often related to technological, industrial, or environmental actions
    Eg. Earthquakes, floods, storms Chernobyl nuclear disaster, pollution from industrial activities
    Predictability and Control Typically unpredictable, though some can be forecasted with scientific tools. Often foreseeable and manageable through technologies or regulations.
    Eg. Earthquakes (hard to predict), hurricanes (can be forecasted) Air pollution (can be reduced through cleaner technologies)
    Scope and Impact Often localized, though some (e.g., pandemics) can have widespread effects. Tend to have global implications, affecting large populations and interconnected systems.
    Eg. Flood in a specific region Climate change causing global consequences (e.g., rising sea levels, extreme weather)

    How did significant disasters like the Chernobyl nuclear accident and the COVID-19 pandemic reveal the vulnerabilities of an interconnected world?

    • Global Spread of Consequences: Both disasters showed how localized events can have widespread, global implications due to the interconnectedness of modern society. Eg: The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 released radioactive material into the atmosphere, which was carried by wind and affected countries across Europe, highlighting how environmental risks can transcend national borders. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic, originating in China, spread rapidly across the globe, disrupting economies and health systems worldwide.
    • Overwhelming Existing Systems: Both events overwhelmed existing infrastructures, revealing vulnerabilities in global systems that were ill-equipped to handle large-scale crises. Eg: In Chernobyl, the failure to control the nuclear fallout showed the inadequacies of disaster management and safety protocols, especially with complex technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in healthcare systems, even in developed countries, as hospitals were overwhelmed with patients and unable to cope with the rapid spread of the virus.
    • Amplification of Inequalities: Both disasters deepened existing inequalities, demonstrating how interconnected risks can exacerbate vulnerabilities for marginalized groups. Eg: Chernobyl disproportionately affected nearby populations, including poorer communities, who were more vulnerable to health impacts due to limited access to resources and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic similarly highlighted how marginalized groups, such as low-income workers and people in developing countries, suffered more from economic disruption and limited access to healthcare.

    Who primarily bears the burden of managing risks in households, especially related to environmental and health hazards?

    • Women as Primary Caregivers: In many societies, especially in developing countries, women are the primary caregivers and household managers, placing them at the forefront of managing health and environmental risks. Eg: Women often handle household chores such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children or elderly family members, putting them at increased exposure to risks like air pollution from solid fuel use or water contamination.
    • Gendered Roles in Resource Management: Women are frequently responsible for collecting water, gathering fuel, and managing food resources, making them more vulnerable to environmental hazards like water scarcity, pollution, and food insecurity. Eg: In rural areas, women often walk long distances to collect water, and if these water sources are contaminated, they face health risks directly, such as waterborne diseases.
    • Economic and Social Vulnerabilities: Women’s economic position and access to resources are often limited, making it harder for them to recover from environmental or health-related disasters. Their roles as caregivers are frequently undervalued, and they often lack the financial independence or support to manage risks effectively. Eg: In the aftermath of climate-related disasters like floods or droughts, women, especially in rural or low-income households, may face greater difficulties in accessing relief or rebuilding their livelihoods, further exacerbating their vulnerability.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008 to tackle climate change by promoting renewable energy and enhancing climate resilience (e.g., National Solar Mission).
    • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): Initiated in 2014 to improve sanitation and reduce health hazards through waste management and toilet construction.
    • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Launched in 2016 to provide crop insurance, protecting farmers from losses due to natural calamities.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Gender-Responsive Policies: Develop and implement policies that address the specific needs of women in disaster management, healthcare, and environmental sustainability to reduce vulnerabilities.
    • Enhancing Access to Resources and Technology: Improve access to education, technology, and financial resources for women, particularly in rural areas, to enable them to better manage and mitigate risks.

  • [12th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The Beijing India Report as milestone and opportunity

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2019] What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?

    Linkage: The challenges that women still face are a major concern under the Beijing Platform for Action and are likely to be reviewed in the Beijing India Report. Pointing out these ongoing issues shows how much more needs to be done to reach the goals of the Beijing Declaration.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  It’s been 30 years since the Beijing Declaration set a global plan for gender equality across areas like education, health, and politics. In India, it led to key laws like the Domestic Violence Act and the POSH Act, and encouraged women’s economic empowerment. However, poor implementation still creates a gap between legal rights and the real experiences of women.

    Today’s editorial discusses how gender inequality and climate change are interconnected. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 1 (Women’s Issues), GS Paper 2 (Policy Making), and GS Paper 3 (Impact of Climate Change). It highlights the challenges women face due to climate change and the need for better policies to address these issues.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The report lacks a strong link between climate and gender, and this needs to be fixed through policy improvements and changes at the grassroots level.

    Why does this report lack a strong link between climate and gender?

    • Limited Focus on Gender-Specific Impacts: The report fails to adequately highlight how climate change specifically affects women, especially in rural areas. Eg: It doesn’t emphasize the extra burden women face in collecting water or gathering fuel during droughts, which worsens due to climate change.
    • Insufficient Data on Gendered Vulnerabilities: The report lacks comprehensive data on the gendered impacts of climate change, leaving out how women are disproportionately affected by disasters and resource scarcity. Eg: It overlooks how climate-induced migration increases women’s vulnerability to gender-based violence.
    • Absence of Gender-Responsive Climate Policies: The report doesn’t propose clear actions for integrating gender into climate policies, limiting women’s participation in climate adaptation and decision-making. Eg: There are no specific recommendations for promoting women’s leadership in local climate action plans or agricultural adaptation strategies.

    What challenges do rural women face due to gender inequality and climate change?

    Challenge Impact on Rural Women Example/Evidence
    Education Disruption Climate-induced migration and household burdens force girls to drop out of school. In Dhanelikanhar village, Chhattisgarh, girls are leaving school due to displacement caused by climate stress and migration.
    Unpaid Care Work Resource scarcity increases women’s burden of water, fuel collection, and caregiving, limiting their economic opportunities. Arsht-Rock report: Rural Indian women work over 8 hours daily, with 71% of their labor unpaid, deepening gender inequality.
    Health Vulnerability Malnutrition, anaemia, and reproductive health issues rise due to food insecurity and lack of healthcare access. Over 50% of pregnant women in India are anaemic; food-insecure women are 1.6x more likely to suffer from anaemia.
    Livelihood Loss Extreme weather reduces agricultural output and affects non-farm livelihoods where women are largely employed. Climate change causes up to 33% income loss in rural areas, with women in non-farm sectors most affected.
    Exposure to Violence and Safety Risks Climate stress and resource conflicts heighten risks of intimate partner violence and general insecurity. A study shows every 1°C rise in temperature leads to 8% more physical violence and 7.3% more sexual violence against women in India.

    Why is a gender-climate lens vital for India’s sustainable future, as per the Beijing India Report 2024?

    • Inclusive Policy Design: A gender-climate lens ensures that women’s specific vulnerabilities are addressed in climate policies. Eg: Only 6% of climate policies globally mention women, leading to gender-blind strategies in India’s rural development.
    • Strengthening Resilience: Recognizing women’s roles in natural resource management and agriculture strengthens community resilience to climate shocks. Eg: Rural and tribal women preserve climate-resilient seeds, essential for adaptive farming during droughts and floods.
    • Reducing Inequality: Targeted climate budgeting and gender audits help close gaps in access to resources, services, and decision-making power. Eg: Women’s unpaid work, like water and fuel collection, could rise to 8.3 hours/day by 2050 without gender-responsive policies.
    • Boosting Food Security: Closing the gender gap in agricultural resources increases productivity and national food security. Eg: Empowering women farmers can raise farm yields by 20%-30%, feeding up to 150 million more people.
    • Empowering Local Leadership: Women-led climate initiatives promote local innovation, disaster preparedness, and sustainability. Eg: Women’s self-help groups in climate-vulnerable areas act as first responders during disasters and promote eco-friendly practices.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government?

    • Inclusion in National Climate Frameworks: The government has integrated gender concerns into major climate policies like the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and State Action Plans (SAPCCs). Eg: Some SAPCCs include women’s role in sustainable agriculture and water management initiatives.
    • Legislative and Policy Support for Women’s Empowerment: Laws like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act and POSH Act strengthen the overall gender rights framework, which intersects with climate resilience. Eg: These laws provide safety nets that support women’s participation in community and environmental activities.
    • Promotion of Women-Led Livelihoods in Rural Missions: Schemes like the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) support women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to engage in sustainable practices. Eg: Women SHGs in Odisha and Chhattisgarh are trained in climate-resilient farming and forest produce collection.

    Where should policies and budgets focus to support gender-responsive climate action? (Way forward)

    • Gender-Responsive Climate Budgeting: Policies must ensure budgets address the specific climate vulnerabilities of women and prevent greenwashing. Eg: Creating separate budget lines for women’s disaster relief and climate-resilient livelihood schemes in rural areas.
    • Climate Education and Skill Building: Invest in capacity building for women to participate in climate action and green jobs. Eg: Training rural women in solar panel installation or eco-friendly farming techniques.
    • Support Hubs and Safety Services: Establish community hubs that offer healthcare, disaster relief, and protection from gender-based violence. Eg: Setting up women-centric climate support centers in flood-prone regions of Assam.
    • Non-Farm Livelihood Diversification: Promote alternative income sources for women affected by climate-related agricultural losses. Eg: Funding mushroom farming or tailoring units for women in drought-hit Bundelkhand.
    • Inclusion in Local Governance and Decision-Making: Ensure women’s representation in local climate planning and governance bodies. Eg: Mandating women’s participation in State and District Climate Action Committees in Madhya Pradesh.

  • India ranked 118th on the World Happiness Index

    Why in the News?

    India has improved its position in the World Happiness Report 2025, climbing to 118th place among 147 countries, up from 126th last year.

    About the World Happiness Index (WHI)

    • The WHI is part of the World Happiness Report, a global survey conducted by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), an initiative of the United Nations.
    • The report ranks countries based on citizens’ self-reported happiness, focusing on life satisfaction and overall well-being.
    • The rankings are primarily based on data gathered from the Gallup World Poll, where individuals rate their own lives on a 0-10 scale using the Cantril Ladder method.
    • 6 key factors influence these evaluations:
    1. GDP per capita
    2. Healthy life expectancy
    3. Social support
    4. Freedom
    5. Generosity
    6. Perception of corruption

    Key Highlights of the World Happiness Report 2025:

    • Top Countries: Finland remains the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year. Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden are also in the top ranks. Costa Rica (6th) and Mexico (10th) entered the top 10 for the first time. Israel ranked 8th despite conflicts.
    • Declining Happiness in Western Nations: The United States dropped to 24th, and the United Kingdom fell to 23rd, with both countries experiencing increased social isolation.
    • Least Happy Countries: Afghanistan remains the least happy, with Sierra Leone and Lebanon also in the bottom three.
    • India’s Improvement:
    • India improved its ranking from 126th to 118th, with its happiness score rising from 4.054 to 4.389.
      • Despite its economic growth, technological advancements, and improvements in healthcare and education, it continues to rank lower than its neighboring countries like Pakistan (109th).

    PYQ:

    [UPSC 2004] Human Development Index comprises literacy rates, life expectancy at birth and-

    (a) Gross Domestic Product per head in US dollars

    (b) Gross National Product per head in US dollars

    (c) Purchasing Power Parity in US dollars

    (d) National Income per head in US dollars

     

  • [8th March 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: What ails Pre-Clinical PG Courses?

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC CSE 2018)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the ‘Health for All’ (2018) and primary health structure is a necessary precondition (2021).

    No students enrolled in postgraduate (PG) medical pre-clinical courses like anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, forensic medicine, microbiology, and pharmacology at Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre (VIMS), Bengaluru, until the second round of PG-NEET counselling.

    Today’s editorial discusses the issues related to postgraduate medical seats. This content would help in GS Paper 2 and 3 in the mains paper.

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Many postgraduate medical seats are vacant this year because students are choosing pre-clinical courses.

    Why are postgraduate medical students reluctant to choose pre-clinical courses in Karnataka?

    • Lack of Job Opportunities: Pre-clinical graduates cannot practice as doctors and are limited to working in laboratories, diagnostic centers, or as faculty. Example: Despite reducing tuition fees and offering job guarantees, private institutions like the Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences struggle to fill pre-clinical seats due to limited employment avenues.
    • Lower Salary Compared to Clinical Courses: Pre-clinical roles offer significantly lower remuneration than clinical practice, making them financially unattractive. Example: A clinical doctor can earn a higher salary working in hospitals or private practice, while pre-clinical graduates face salary stagnation in academic or lab-based roles.
    • Limited Career Progression and Mobility: Clinical course graduates have the flexibility to work globally and in various healthcare sectors, while pre-clinical graduates are restricted to teaching or research roles. Example: An MD in General Medicine can practice as a physician anywhere, whereas an MD in Anatomy primarily qualifies for academic positions.
    • High Capital Requirement for Self-Employment: Establishing independent diagnostic centers requires significant investment, which deters pre-clinical graduates from entrepreneurial ventures. Example: Diagnostic centers with advanced technology demand substantial startup costs, making it challenging for pre-clinical graduates to become self-employed.
    • Persistent Seat Vacancies Reflect Low Demand: Consistent under-enrollment over the years signals a long-term disinterest in these courses. Example: In 2024-25, only 6 out of 104 MD Anatomy seats were filled in Karnataka, despite five rounds of counselling and reduced cut-off percentages.

    What is the trend of student enrollment in PG medical courses at the all-India level?

    • Substantial Increase in PG Medical Seats: The number of PG medical seats has risen from 31,185 before 2014 to 70,645 by the 2023-24 academic year, marking a 127% increase.
    • Growth in Medical Colleges: The total number of medical colleges has expanded by 82%, from 387 before 2014 to 704 in 2023. This expansion has contributed to the increased availability of both undergraduate (UG) and PG medical seats.
    • Rising Demand for Medical Education: The number of candidates aspiring to study MBBS grew from 16 lakh in 2019 to 24 lakh in 2024, reflecting a heightened interest in medical education.
    • Improved UG to PG Seat Ratio: The ratio of UG to PG medical seats improved from 2.1:1 in 2018-19 to 1.9:1 in 2022-23, indicating better alignment between the number of medical graduates and available PG training opportunities.
    • Emerging Challenges: Despite the increase in seats, challenges such as geographic disparities in seat distribution and concerns about the quality of education persist.
      • For example,  Karnataka has the highest number of PG medical seats, totaling 5,984, with a significant contribution from private institutions, but States like Arunachal Pradesh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Mizoram, and Nagaland currently do not offer PG medical seats.

    What is the significance of pre-clinical courses? 

    • Foundation for Advanced Medical Practice: Pre-clinical courses (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry) provide the scientific basis for understanding human biology and disease mechanisms. Example: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of biochemistry in vaccine development and understanding viral behavior.
    • Essential for Medical Education and Training: These courses are crucial for training future doctors, ensuring they understand the human body before clinical practice. Example: Medical schools worldwide adopted virtual anatomy labs during the pandemic, enhancing remote learning and maintaining education continuity.
    • Innovation in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques: Pre-clinical research drives advancements in diagnostic tools and medical treatments. Example: Advances in physiology have contributed to wearable health devices like continuous glucose monitors for diabetic patients.

    How has the National Medical Commission (NMC) addressed the issue of unfilled PG medical seats in Karnataka?

    • Reduction of NEET-PG Cut-off Scores: In an unprecedented move, the NEET-PG 2023 cut-off was reduced to zero, making all candidates who appeared for the exam eligible for PG medical programs. This decision aimed to expand the pool of eligible candidates and fill vacant seats across various specialties.
    • Guidelines for Interstate Posting Under District Residency Programme: The NMC issued directives emphasizing strict adherence to the Post-Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023.
      • These guidelines facilitate the interstate posting of PG medical students under the District Residency Programme, ensuring a more even distribution of medical professionals and addressing regional disparities in seat occupancy.
    • Monitoring and Rectifying Seat Allocation Discrepancies: The NMC has been proactive in addressing discrepancies between its records and those of state authorities. For instance, admissions to 23 PG medical seats in Bengaluru were put on hold due to mismatches between NMC and Directorate of Medical Education (DME) lists. Such actions ensure that seat allocations are transparent and accurate.
    • Annual Increase of PG Seats: The NMC has facilitated the process for medical institutions to apply for an increase in PG seats for the academic year 2025-26. By inviting applications and setting clear guidelines, the commission aims to enhance the availability of PG medical seats, thereby reducing the likelihood of vacancies.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Pre-Clinical Career Prospects: Introduce incentives like research grants, industry collaborations, and fellowship programs to improve career progression and salary prospects for pre-clinical graduates.
    • Targeted Seat Distribution and Quality Monitoring: Implement region-specific seat allocation policies and strengthen regulatory oversight to ensure quality education and equitable access across underserved states.

  • India to be part of UN’s 63rd session of Commission for Social Development 2025

    Why in the News?

    India participated in the 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSoCD) from February 10 to 14, 2025, in New York, USA. The Indian delegation was led by Smt. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development.

    What is Social cohesion?

    • Social cohesion refers to the strength of relationships, trust, and sense of belonging among individuals and groups within a society.
    • It ensures that people work together harmoniously, respect diversity, and actively contribute to the well-being of the community.

    What are the Dimensions of the Social Cohesion?

    • Social Inclusion & Equity: Ensures equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights for all individuals, reducing discrimination and marginalization. Example: India’s JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) has enabled financial inclusion for disadvantaged communities, particularly women and rural populations.
    • Trust in Institutions & Social Capital: Building confidence in governance, law enforcement, and civic institutions to enhance cooperation and stability. Example: Sweden’s transparent governance and welfare policies result in high public trust in government institutions.
    • Participation & Civic Engagement: Encouraging individuals and communities to actively engage in decision-making and democratic processes. Example: Rwanda’s high female political representation (over 60% in Parliament) fosters inclusive and equitable policymaking.
    • Solidarity & Shared Identity: Promoting unity while respecting cultural diversity and fostering a common sense of belonging. Example: Canada’s multicultural policies encourage immigrant integration while maintaining cultural heritage.
    • Economic Inclusion & Opportunity: Providing equal access to economic resources, employment, and skill development to ensure upward mobility. Example: Germany’s dual vocational education system equips young people with job-ready skills, reducing unemployment and income inequality.

    What is the virtuous cycle? 

    • A virtuous cycle is a positive, self-reinforcing loop where one beneficial action leads to another, creating a continuous cycle of improvement and progress.
    • It is the opposite of a vicious cycle, which perpetuates negative outcomes.

    What are the roles of Social Cohesion in the Virtuous cycle?

    • Promotes Inclusive Economic Growth: Social cohesion ensures equal access to economic opportunities, reducing disparities and fostering shared prosperity. Example: In Germany, strong social policies and labor rights have contributed to stable economic growth and low unemployment rates.
    • Enhances Trust in Institutions and Governance: When citizens feel included and represented, they trust public institutions, leading to political stability and effective governance. Example: Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Norway have high levels of trust in governance due to inclusive decision-making and welfare policies.
    • Encourages Social Mobility and Equal Opportunities: A cohesive society provides fair access to education, healthcare, and social protection, enabling upward mobility for all. Example: Singapore’s education system focuses on meritocracy, ensuring students from all backgrounds have access to quality education and career opportunities.
    • Strengthens Community Participation and Civic Engagement: Social cohesion encourages people to engage in local governance, volunteerism, and community development initiatives. Example: Japan’s neighborhood associations play a crucial role in disaster response, fostering collective responsibility and mutual support.
    • Reduces Social Conflicts and Crime: By addressing inequalities and fostering a sense of belonging, social cohesion minimizes tensions and crime rates. Example: New Zealand’s restorative justice programs emphasize reconciliation and community involvement, reducing recidivism rates.

    What are the Key Recommendations to promote Social Cohesion? (Way forward)

    • Inclusive Policies and Equal Opportunities: Ensure access to quality education, healthcare, and employment for all, reducing social and economic disparities. Example: Finland’s education system provides free, high-quality education, ensuring equal opportunities for all children, regardless of socioeconomic background.
    • Community Engagement and Trust Building: Promote civic participation, intergroup dialogue, and local governance to strengthen social bonds and mutual respect. Example: South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) helped heal racial divides by addressing historical injustices through public dialogue.
    • Economic and Social Safety Nets: Implement strong social protection systems like universal healthcare, unemployment benefits, and targeted welfare programs. Example: Brazil’s Bolsa Família program reduced poverty and inequality by providing conditional cash transfers to low-income families, improving education and health outcomes.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Eliminating elitism in mental health

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Labour and Employment’s 2024 report indicates that all States and Union Territories must complete harmonization and pre-publication of draft rules for new Labour Codes by March 31, 2025, allowing for mental health provisions.

    How does social inequality impact mental health access and outcomes?

    • Disparity in Access to Care: Social inequality leads to significant disparities in access to mental health care services. Individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, particularly blue-collar workers, often face barriers such as lack of awareness, stigma, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, resulting in a treatment gap of 70% to 92% for mental disorders in India.
    • Workplace Conditions: Blue-collar workers frequently endure demanding jobs with poor working conditions, job insecurity, and inadequate pay, which can exacerbate mental health issues. These conditions contribute to higher rates of stress and mental disorders among this demographic compared to their white-collar counterparts.
    • Limited Legislative Protections: The existing labor laws primarily focus on physical safety and do not adequately address mental health concerns. This legislative gap perpetuates the marginalization of blue-collar workers in accessing mental health resources and support.

    What legislative and policy changes are necessary to promote inclusivity in mental health care?

    • Rights-Based Framework: Establishing a rights and duty-based legislative framework that mandates employers to ensure both physical and mental well-being is crucial. This framework should include clear definitions of occupational diseases that encompass mental health issues arising from work conditions.
    • Inclusion of Mental Health in Labor Codes: The upcoming labor codes should explicitly incorporate provisions for mental health, creating a liability-based framework for employers to prioritize the mental well-being of their employees. This includes recognizing stress-related conditions as occupational hazards eligible for compensation.
    • Awareness and Accessibility Initiatives: Legislative measures should mandate employers to promote awareness of available mental health resources, such as helplines and support programs like Tele Manas, ensuring that blue-collar workers are informed and encouraged to seek help without stigma.

    What are the steps taken by the government? 

    • Implementation of National Mental Health Policies: The Indian government has implemented policies such as the National Mental Health Policy (2014), which emphasizes the integration of mental health services into primary healthcare.
    • Launch of Mental Health Initiatives and Helplines: Initiatives like Tele Manas, a government-run mental health support service, have been introduced to provide confidential telephonic counselling for individuals.
    • Increased Mental Health Awareness through Education and Campaigns: Programs like the “Mental Health Awareness Campaign” and partnerships with organizations like WHO have aimed to educate the public about mental health.

    How can societal attitudes towards mental health be transformed to reduce stigma? (Way forward)

    • Education and Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness through national and local campaigns can help normalize mental health discussions. For example, the “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” campaign in India aimed at addressing mental health issues in the workplace.
    • Media Representation and Positive Portrayal: The media plays a significant role in shaping public attitudes. Portraying individuals with mental health issues as strong, resilient, and capable of leading successful lives can help shift negative perceptions. For instance, Bollywood movies like “Dear Zindagi”.
    • Involvement of Influential Figures: Public figures such as celebrities, politicians, and community leaders can be instrumental in reducing stigma by sharing their personal mental health stories. When Virat Kohli, an Indian cricketer, spoke openly about struggling with mental health issues, it made a powerful impact and encouraged others.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  ”Economic growth in the recent past has been led by increase in labour productivity.” Explain this statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will lead to creation of more jobs without compromising labour productivity. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Substantive equality in child marriage laws

    Why in the News?

    Men are given more time than women to leave a child marriage. This means the age for marriage should be the same for both, at 18, not 21.

    What is the situation of child marriage in India? 

    • National Data: The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), conducted between 2019 and 2021, reveals that 23.3% of women aged 20-24 were married before the age of 18. This shows a decline from 26.8% in NFHS-4 (2015-16), but child marriage remains a widespread issue.
    • State-wise Variation: The prevalence of child marriage varies significantly across states. For example: in Bihar: 40.8% of women aged 20-24 were married before 18, West Bengal: 41.6%, Rajasthan: 25.4% and Kerala: 6.3% (one of the lowest rates in India).
    • Gender Disparity: Although girls are more affected, boys also face child marriage. NFHS-5 reports that 17.7% of men aged 25-29 were married before the age of 21.

    How can existing laws be strengthened to effectively combat child marriage?

    • Uniform Age of Marriage: The legal age for marriage should be standardized at 18 for all genders, eliminating the current disparity that allows men to marry at 21 and women at 18. This would ensure equal rights and protections for both parties under the law.
    • Enhanced Enforcement Mechanisms: Strengthening the enforcement of existing laws, such as the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), is crucial. This includes more rigorous monitoring of marriages, especially in rural areas, and imposing stricter penalties on those who facilitate child marriages.
    • Stricter Penalties for Facilitators: Increase legal penalties for those facilitating child marriages, such as parents, religious leaders, and community officials, to act as a deterrent. Example: Nepal’s law penalizing facilitators of child marriage has reduced its occurrence by holding all involved parties accountable.
    • Awareness Campaigns and Education: Launch nationwide awareness campaigns to educate communities about the legal age of marriage and its harmful effects, empowering families to protect children. Example: In India, campaigns by organizations like “Plan India” have raised awareness and led to a decline in child marriage rates in targeted regions.

    What are the key judgements? 

    • Independent Thought v. Union of India (2017): The Supreme Court ruled that the exception to the prosecution of marital rape for husbands of girls below 18 years of age was unconstitutional. This judgment focused on the rights of girls under 18 in marriages, emphasizing their protection from sexual exploitation.
    • Gender Disparity in Nullity Petition: The Allahabad High Court emphasized that the gender-based difference in the minimum age of marriage (18 years for women and 21 for men) creates an unfair advantage for men, allowing them to annul marriages at a later age (up to 23), while women are restricted to 20. This interpretation contradicts the principle of gender equality.

    What are the societal and cultural factors contributing to the persistence of child marriage despite legal prohibitions?

    • Traditional Practices: In many communities, child marriage is deeply embedded in cultural and religious norms. These cultural beliefs place pressure on families to marry off daughters at a young age.
    • Poverty and Economic Factors: In regions with high poverty rates, families may view child marriage as a way to reduce financial burdens, sometimes even receiving dowry or financial assistance in return for the marriage.
    • Gender Inequality: Patriarchal views often limit girls’ opportunities for education and economic empowerment, which makes them more vulnerable to early marriage. Women may be seen as property to be married off, reinforcing the practice.
    • Lack of Education and Awareness: A lack of awareness about the legal age for marriage and the harmful effects of child marriage perpetuates this practice. Some families may not be fully aware of the legal consequences or the negative impacts on the health and development of girls.

    What role do community-driven approaches play in preventing child marriage?

    • Community Education and Awareness Programs: Empower local communities with knowledge about the dangers of child marriage in terms of legal, health and social consequences which can gradually change attitudes and reduce the incidence of child marriage.
    • Involving Local Leaders: Traditional community leaders, such as religious leaders and village elders, play a significant role in shaping opinions. Engaging them in awareness campaigns and encouraging them to take a stand against child marriage can influence public opinion and reduce the practice.
    • Strengthening Social Networks and Support Systems: Encouraging peer groups, women’s organizations, and NGOs to support girls at risk of child marriage can create an environment where they are less likely to fall victim to early marriage.
    • Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms: Creating anonymous and accessible reporting mechanisms for communities to report child marriages can ensure prompt intervention. Encouraging local participation in safeguarding the rights of children helps address the issue at the community level.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Ensure uniformity in the legal age of marriage for all genders and improve enforcement by establishing dedicated child marriage prevention units at local levels.
    • Community Empowerment and Education: Expand community-driven programs focusing on education, raising awareness about the harmful effects of child marriage, and providing support systems for vulnerable girls.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The women’s questions arose in modern India as the part of 19th-century social reform movement. What are the major issues and debates concerning women in that period? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • UNICEF’s ‘Global Outlook 2025: Strengthening the foundations of children’s futures

    Why in the News?

    Recently, UNICEF’s Global Outlook 2025 emphasizes the urgent need for resilient systems to protect children’s rights amid crises like conflict, climate change, and economic instability, ensuring equitable access to essential services globally.

    What are the primary challenges facing children in the current global landscape as per UNICEF’s Global Outlook 2025?

    • Conflict and Displacement: Over 473 million children, or about 19% globally, live in conflict-affected areas—a figure that has nearly doubled since the 1990s. This exposes children to severe risks, including displacement, starvation, disease, and psychological trauma.
    • Economic Instability: Nearly 400 million children live in countries in debt distress, where financial pressures are reducing investments in essential services such as education and healthcare, further deepening their vulnerabilities.
    • Climate Change: Around 1 billion children are at extremely high risk from climate impacts. Disruptions from extreme weather events affect their access to education and healthcare, while only 2.4% of global climate finance is directed toward child-focused initiatives.
    • Digital Inequality: The expansion of digital public infrastructure (DPI) offers opportunities to improve service delivery, but significant digital divides persist, disproportionately affecting children in low-income and marginalised communities.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Launched in 2015, this flagship scheme aims to address the declining child sex ratio and promote the education and empowerment of girls.
    • Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): This savings scheme encourages parents to save for their daughters’ education and marriage by offering attractive interest rates and tax benefits.
    • Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Established in 1975, ICDS focuses on improving the nutritional and health status of children under six years, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
    • National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan): Launched in 2018, this mission aims to reduce malnutrition among children and women through a convergence of various schemes and community-based approaches.
    • Mission Vatsalya: This initiative focuses on child protection services, ensuring that vulnerable children receive necessary support and care.
    • Child Protection Policies: The government has enacted several laws, such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, to safeguard children’s rights and ensure their welfare.
    • National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): The NCPCR plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting children’s rights in India. It has launched various initiatives such as the POCSO e-Box for reporting child sexual abuse and the Bal Panchayat Abhiyan to encourage child-led governance.

    How can global governance and national systems be strengthened to support children’s rights and well-being?

    Global governance: 

    • Strengthening International Mechanisms: The United Nations should develop specialized frameworks to protect children’s rights in the digital environment, ensuring online safety and privacy are integral to global governance policies.
    • Ensuring Accountability: States and corporations must be held accountable for violations of children’s rights, with the adoption of measures like the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to ensure businesses prioritize child protection.
    • Fostering Global Collaboration: Promoting bilateral and multilateral cooperation can address challenges such as cyberbullying and online exploitation through shared best practices and coordinated efforts to safeguard children’s rights worldwide.

    National systems: 

    • Developing Child Rights Governance Systems: Nations should establish comprehensive frameworks that integrate children’s rights into laws and policies, aligning with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) to prioritize children’s needs in governance.
    • Strengthening Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): Enhancing the capacity of CSOs through training programs can improve their ability to advocate for and implement child rights initiatives while effectively engaging with government institutions.
    • Advancing Evidence-Based Advocacy: Utilizing data-driven approaches to shape policy priorities can ensure child rights are central to resource allocation and budgeting at global, regional, and national levels.
    • Empowering Children’s Participation: Encouraging children to actively participate in decision-making processes helps create policies that address their needs and aspirations, fostering a more inclusive governance system.
    • Establishing Robust Monitoring Systems: Implement mechanisms to regularly track and report on children’s well-being indicators to ensure accountability and measure progress in achieving child rights standards.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Global-National Synergy: Strengthen collaboration between international frameworks and national systems to prioritize children’s rights in governance, focusing on accountability, digital safety, and climate resilience through coordinated policies and resource allocation.
    • Child-Centric Policy and Participation: Develop evidence-based policies that directly address children’s vulnerabilities while empowering them to participate in decision-making, ensuring sustainable and responsive governance structures.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [11th January 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Forging leadership with India’s youth power

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC CSE 2016)
    Q) Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.  (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Demographic Dividend’ (2016) and ‘Literacy Issues in India’ (2021 & 2024).

    The 2021 Youth Report highlighted that 36% of youth consider unemployment their primary concern, followed by 16% citing poverty. These economic issues create significant obstacles for youth aspiring to take on leadership roles.

    Today’s Editorial explores how educational institutions, community programs, and innovative initiatives can cultivate leadership among the youth, preparing them to tackle future challenges. This content can be used while writing your answers based on Population issues, Literacy and Employment Issues in the Indian Youth.

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Every year on January 12, India celebrates National Youth Day to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. 

    • This year, the Prime Minister will participate in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, aimed at engaging youth in the nation’s development. 
    • In line with India’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the festival has incorporated workshops, seminars and cultural activities that align with the vision of a greener, more inclusive, future. 
    What are the key areas of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025?

    The dialogue is a four-stage competition aimed at engaging and empowering youth in India’s development.
    • Evaluation Criteria is based on the submissions are assessed based on originality, knowledge, creativity, leadership, and communication skills. The finale provides a unique opportunity for participants to influence national policy and contribute to India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.
    • Viksit Bharat Quiz: Conducted digitally on the My Bharat platform, this stage tests participants’ knowledge of India’s achievements and challenges related to sustainable development, technology, and national policies.
    • Essay and Blog Writing: Top scorers from the quiz advance to write essays or blogs on themes like “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Youth for Viksit Bharat,” focusing on their vision for India’s future.
    • Vision Pitch Deck: Participants present innovative development ideas at the State level through a compelling pitch deck, with the best teams moving forward.

    The 2025 National Youth Festival will feature: 

    • Workshops and panels on leadership and innovation: With a focus on recent and emerging topics it will equip participants with the skills necessary to drive change in their communities.
    • Cultural programmes: The festival will celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, theatre, and folk art performances. 
    • Tech and innovation showcase: It will include exhibitions and presentations from young tech innovators and entrepreneurs who are building solutions to real-world problems in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and urban development. (included with expanded virtual participation)
    • Engagement with leaders: The direct engagement between youth and key leaders as pathbreakers from various sectors, which include government, business and academia will provide participants with insights into leadership, governance, and the path to national progress.
    • Recognition of youth contributions: Awards and recognitions will be presented to young individuals and organisations.

    By focusing on these areas inclusively, India can cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to address the nation’s challenges.

    What are the barriers preventing youth from participating in leadership opportunities?

    • Lack of Representation: Minimal youth representation in decision-making bodies, such as government and political parties, leads to a disconnect between young voices and policy-making.
      • For example, our youth representation in decision-making bodies is minimal, with less than 1.5% of Lok Sabha MPs under Age 30.
    • Financial Barriers: A notable 60% of students pursuing higher education come from families earning less than Rs. 5 lakh annually, indicating that many youth face financial challenges that limit their access to educational and leadership opportunities. (Youth Report 2021)
    • Age-Related Biases: Societal biases against younger individuals in positions of authority discourage them from seeking leadership roles.
    • Limited Resources and Mentorship: Many young people lack access to mentorship and resources necessary for developing leadership skills (particularly women and less abled people), especially in rural areas.
    Recent Government Initiative: 

    • Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat): It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, plays an instrumental role in shaping and guiding the direction of the National Youth Festival. 
    • As a platform that empowers youth by promoting engagement, knowledge sharing, and participation in nation-building activities, it is crucial in curating the festival’s programmes and ensuring that they align with the aspirations of India’s youth. 

    “Give me one hundred ‘believing’ young men… I will transform India as the number one nation in the entire world….”       — Swami Vivekanand

    In what ways can educational institutions contribute to nurturing future leaders?

    • Structured Leadership Development Programs: Institutions can implement tailored leadership programs that focus on skill development, strategic visioning, and adaptive leadership.
      • For example, the UGC has approved guidelines for such programs in higher education institutions.
    • Experiential Learning Opportunities: Programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experiences can enhance leadership skills.
      • For example, initiatives like the EdLEAP program at IIM Calcutta focus on contemporary management practices.
    • Mentorship and Peer Learning: Establishing mentorship frameworks and peer learning communities can foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among aspiring leaders.
      • For example, the programs like the Primary Leadership Development Program (PLDP) in Delhi emphasize continuous learning and improvement.
    • Focus on Inclusivity and Diversity: Institutions should promote inclusivity by encouraging diverse participation in leadership roles, ensuring that underrepresented groups have access to leadership training and opportunities. This approach helps create a more equitable environment for developing future leaders.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/forging-leadership-with-indias-youth-power/article69086126.ece