Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: President's/Governor's Address
Mains level: Significance of the address
Introduction
- The recent episode in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, where Governor R.N. Ravi declined to deliver the customary address, has reignited debates surrounding the significance of the Governor’s Address.
- He actually walked out in response to an insult of National Anthem in TN Assembly.
President’s/Governor’s Address
- Constitutional mandate: Articles 87 and 176 of the Constitution confer authority upon the President and Governor, respectively, to address the legislature.
- Occasions for Address: The addresses are reserved for two specific occasions: the commencement of a new legislative session post-election and the inauguration of the annual legislative session.
- Significance: Termed the President’s or Governor’s Address, these speeches are pivotal for initiating legislative proceedings.
Governor’s Address to the State Legislature: A Constitutional Obligation
- Prescribed Duties: Article 176 delineates the Governor’s obligation to address the Legislative Assembly at the onset of each legislative year and post-general elections, with both Houses convened if a Legislative Council exists.
- Procedural Norms: Established rules govern the time allocated for deliberating the address’s contents, ensuring parliamentary discourse.
Global Parallels: Similar Practices across Democracies
- Cross-National Comparison: Analogous provisions are observed in democratic nations worldwide.
- State of the Union: In the United States, it manifests as the “State of the Union” address (1790), while in the United Kingdom, it is the Queen’s Speech (1536), heralding the parliamentary year’s commencement.
- Indian Context: India’s Presidential Address mirrors the British model, reflecting the ceremonial role of the President, a sentiment echoed during the Constitution’s framing by Dr. B R Ambedkar.
Features of the Address Content
[A] Address Content: Proposals and Achievements
- Legislative Agenda: The President’s or Governor’s speech encapsulates legislative proposals and government policy initiatives, coupled with a retrospective glance at previous accomplishments.
- Government Input: Inputs for this address are curated from various government ministries, embodying the administration’s agenda.
[B] Authorship and Agency: Government Responsibility
- Constitutional Mandate: Governed by constitutional mandate, both the President and Governor are obligated to adhere to the Cabinet’s advice (1950) in their functions, including address preparation.
- Policy Reflection: Hence, the address is meticulously crafted by the government, serving as a reflection of its policy stance.
[C] Flexibility vs. Normative Adherence: Presidential/Governor Discretion
- Adherence to Protocol: While refusal to deliver the address is impermissible, deviations from the prepared script are permissible.
- Instances of Departure: Instances of Governors veering off the scripted path have transpired, although such actions remain rare for Presidents.
Judicial Pronouncement: Upholding Constitutional Framework
- Legal Precedent: The Supreme Court, in Shamsher Singh v. State of Punjab (1975), underscored the President’s (or Governor’s) adherence to Cabinet advice across functions.
- Contested Discretion: While discretion to modify the speech is contested, any departure from parliamentary norms may invoke debate.
R. Venkataraman’s Perspective
- Venkataraman’s Critique: R. Venkataraman, who served as President from 1987 to 1992, vehemently opposed the practice of Presidential and Governor’s addresses, deeming it a “British anachronism” and a “meaningless formality.”
- Calls for Constitutional Amendment: Venkataraman repeatedly urged PM Rajiv Gandhi and Chandra Shekher to abolish this tradition through a Constitutional amendment, emphasizing its lack of relevance and inherent biases.
Perceptions of the Address
- Government’s Voice: Venkataraman viewed the address as a mere reflection of the ruling regime’s perspectives, rendering Presidents and Governors mere “mouthpieces” devoid of independent expression.
- Controversies and Criticism: He expressed dismay over controversies surrounding Governors’ addresses in states like Maharashtra and West Bengal, condemning the opposition’s heckling of figures like Governor Nurul Hasan.
- Symbolic Adjustments: Venkataraman, in presenting his maiden Presidential address in 1988, advocated for subtle changes like replacing “My government” with “The government,” aligning with India’s constitutional ethos framed by the people.
- Legacy of British Colonialism: He underscored the incongruity of retaining British-era conventions in India’s democratic framework, emphasizing the need for symbolic adjustments to reflect the nation’s sovereignty.
Conclusion
- Symbol of Governance: The tradition of Presidential and Governor’s addresses, rooted in constitutional mandate, and symbolizes the fusion of ceremonial protocol with legislative functionality.
- Executive-Legislative Nexus: As integral components of democratic governance, these addresses underscore the synergy between executive authority and parliamentary accountability, while navigating the delicate balance between tradition and evolving norms.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah and his contemporaries
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- A digital twin of the Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah’s tomb was unveiled by a reality technology company, Hexagon in Hyderabad.
Who was Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah?
- Parentage: Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah was born on April 4, 1565, as the third son of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah Wali and his Hindu mother Bhagirathi.
- Literary Talent: He was not only an able administrator but also a skilled poet who composed verses in Persian, Telugu, and Urdu.
Contemporaries of Quli Qutb Shah
- Akbar (1556–1605): Mughal Emperor known for his religious tolerance and administrative reforms.
- Rani Durgavati (1550–1564): Queen of the Gondwana Kingdom in central India, renowned for her bravery in resisting Mughal expansion.
- Maharana Pratap (1572–1597): Rajput ruler of Mewar, famous for his defiance against Mughal Emperor Akbar and his valor in battles.
- Chand Bibi (1550–1599): Regent of the Ahmednagar Sultanate in Deccan, known for her role in defending Ahmadnagar against Mughal forces.
- Guru Ram Das (1574–1581): Fourth Sikh Guru who established the city of Amritsar and contributed significantly to Sikhism’s growth.
- Sher Shah Suri (1540–1545): Founder of the Sur Empire in North India, celebrated for his administrative reforms and construction of the Grand Trunk Road.
|
Key Accomplishments
[A] Reign and Accomplishments
- Ascension to the Throne: Muhammad Quli succeeded his father in 1580 at the age of 15 and ruled for 31 years.
- Military Campaigns: Despite facing rebellions, he effectively led troops and quelled disturbances, ensuring stability in his realm.
[B] Foundation of Hyderabad
- Urban Planning: Concerned about overcrowding in Golkonda, Muhammad Quli initiated the construction of Hyderabad in 1591.
- Land Selection: While folklore suggests a romanticized version of land selection, Muhammad Quli’s vision for Hyderabad’s development aimed at relieving congestion and promoting growth.
[C] Architectural Marvels and City Planning
- Charminar: As the architectural centrepiece, Charminar was built under Muhammad Quli’s patronage, symbolizing the city’s grandeur.
- City Layout: Hyderabad was meticulously planned with a gridiron layout, featuring significant landmarks like Darulshafa, Mecca Masjid, and Badshahi Ashurkhana.
[D] Support for Arts and Literature
- Calligraphic Art: Under Muhammad Quli’s rule, calligraphy flourished, with various scripts adorning buildings such as the Mecca Masjid.
- Literary Contributions: Muhammad Quli’s poetic works in Urdu and Dakhni languages reflected his diverse interests and cultural appreciation.
- Taraqqi: He was a poet himself and composed poetry in Persian and Telugu under the pen name “Taraqqi”.
[E] Medical and Literary Contributions
- Intellectual Hub: Hyderabad became a centre for medical and literary pursuits, with scholars producing notable works during Muhammad Quli’s reign.
- Preservation of Culture: Muhammad Quli’s literary legacy, including his Diwan, is preserved in institutions like the Salar Jung Museum, showcasing his contribution to cultural heritage.
Legacy and Influence
- Cultural Integration: Muhammad Quli’s reign represents a period of cultural fusion, blending Hindu and Islamic traditions in the Deccan region.
- Symbol of Unity: His efforts to promote harmony and coexistence endure as a testament to the inclusive ethos of his administration.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: APAAR, One Nation, One Student ID
Mains level: Read the attached storyapaar
Central Idea
- About 25 crore Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) have been created, Union Education Minister informed at a national conference on ‘APAAR: One Nation One Student ID Card.’
What is APAAR?
- What is it? : APAAR serves as a unique identification system for all students across India, commencing from early childhood.
- Lifelong Student ID: Every student is assigned a lifelong 12-digit ID, simplifying the tracking of academic progress from pre-primary education through higher education.
- Gateway to Digilocker: APAAR functions as a gateway to Digilocker, a digital repository where students can securely store crucial documents, including exam results and report cards, for convenient access during future endeavours such as higher education or job applications.
How does APAAR ID function?
- Unique Identification: Each individual receives a unique APAAR ID, linked to the Academic Bank Credit (ABC), a digital repository housing a student’s earned credits throughout their academic journey.
- Seamless Data Transfer: When students change schools, whether within the state or to another state, their data in the ABC is seamlessly transferred to the new school by sharing the APAAR ID, eliminating the need for physical document submission.
- All-Inclusive Repository: APAAR allows students to store certificates and credits from both formal and informal learning experiences, with digital certification from authorized institutions.
Rationale behind APAAR
- Streamlined Education: APAAR’s introduction aims to streamline education processes, reducing the burden on students to carry physical documents.
- NEP 2020 Initiative: This initiative was launched as part of the National Education Policy 2020 by the Ministry of Education.
- Empowering State Governments: APAAR empowers state governments to monitor literacy rates, dropout rates, and educational improvements effectively.
- Combatting Fraud: It seeks to combat fraud and the proliferation of duplicate educational certificates by providing a single, reliable reference for educational institutions, ensuring authenticity through first-party verification.
How to get an APAAR ID?
- Registration Process: To enrol for APAAR, students provide basic details such as name, age, date of birth, gender, and a photograph, all of which are verified using their Aadhar number.
- Aadhar Authentication: The Aadhaar number is used solely for verification purposes to match the name and date of birth, with no sharing of this data during registration.
- Parental Consent for Minors: For minors, parental consent is mandatory for using the student’s Aadhar number for authentication with UIDAI.
- Voluntary Registration: Registration for creating an APAAR ID is voluntary, not mandatory.
Concerns surrounding APAAR
- Data Security Concerns: Parents and students express concerns about sharing their Aadhar details, fearing potential leaks of personal information to external parties.
- Government Assurance: The government assures that shared information will remain confidential and will only be disclosed to entities engaged in educational activities, including UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus), scholarships, academic record maintenance, educational institutions, and recruitment agencies.
- Data Control: Students retain the option to cease sharing their information with these entities at any time, with a halt in data processing. However, previously processed data remains unaffected if consent is withdrawn.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Endometrial Stem Cells
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- Approximately 20 years ago, biologist Caroline Gargett embarked on a quest to uncover remarkable cells within hysterectomy tissue.
- Dr. Gargett discovered two types of cells in the endometrium through rigorous microscopy examination, suspected to be adult stem cells due to their regenerative capabilities.
- The discovery of these cells, known as endometrial stromal mesenchymal stem cells, opened new avenues for research in tissue repair and disease treatment.
What are Endometrial Stem Cells?
- Potential for Regeneration: Endometrial stem cells possess the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including neurons, cartilage, fat, bone, heart, liver, and skin cells.
- Collection Methods: These stem cells can be obtained through a biopsy procedure or harvested from menstrual blood, offering a less invasive and more accessible means of procurement.
Application in Women’s Health
- Understanding Endometriosis: Endometrial stem cells have been linked to endometriosis, a condition affecting millions of women worldwide, providing insights into its etiology and potential therapeutic targets.
- Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potential: Differences in menstrual stem cells between healthy individuals and those with endometriosis offer promising avenues for diagnostic tests and targeted treatments.
- Treatment Innovations: Clinical trials exploring the transplantation of menstrual stem cells have shown potential for treating pelvic organ prolapse and other gynecological conditions.
Beyond Gynecological Diseases
- Wider Therapeutic Applications: Research indicates the potential of menstrual stem cells in treating diseases beyond gynecological disorders, including diabetes and wound healing.
- Clinical Trials and Future Prospects: Small-scale trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of stem cell transplantation in humans, paving the way for further exploration and application in diverse medical fields.
Challenges and Biases
- Underrepresentation in Research: Despite their therapeutic potential, menstrual stem cells constitute a minuscule fraction of stem cell research, attributed to cultural taboos and biases surrounding menstruation.
- Funding and Investment: Limited funding and gender bias in research funding pose significant challenges to advancing research on menstrual stem cells, necessitating greater advocacy and support.
Way Forward
- Addressing Bias: Tackling sex and gender bias in research funding is crucial for fostering equitable investments in women’s health research.
- Recognition and Validation: By overcoming cultural taboos and biases, menstrual stem cells can be recognized as a valuable resource in regenerative medicine, transforming perceptions of menstruation from inconvenience to scientific opportunity.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India's evolving relations with the Gulf
Central Idea:
The article discusses the significant transformation in India’s relations with the Gulf region under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, highlighted by recent diplomatic achievements such as the inauguration of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi and the release of Indian ex-naval personnel from Qatar. It identifies five key factors contributing to this transformation: diplomatic efforts, political engagement, religious perceptions, economic collaboration, and counter-terrorism cooperation.
Key Highlights:
- Modi’s proactive diplomacy in the Middle East, contrasting with the previous administration’s limited engagement.
- The shift from transactional to strategic economic ties, recognizing the Gulf’s growing influence in global capitalism.
- Improvement in religious tolerance in the Gulf, symbolized by the construction of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
- Enhanced counter-terror collaboration between India, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
- The potential for deeper defense cooperation and India’s role as a regional security provider.
Key Challenges:
- Historical religious tensions and the need to overcome past perceptions.
- Maximizing defense collaboration potential amid shifting regional geopolitics.
- Ensuring sustainable economic partnerships beyond oil purchases and labor exports.
Main Terms:
- Diplomacy
- Political engagement
- Religious tolerance
- Economic modernization
- Counter-terrorism collaboration
- Defense cooperation
Important Phrases:
- “Transformation of India’s relations with the Gulf”
- “Personal connection with the emirs”
- “Gulf’s emergence as a major center of global capitalism”
- “Growing religious tolerance”
- “Counter-terror collaboration”
- “Regional security provider”
Quotes/Useful Statements:
- “Modi’s proactive diplomacy contrasts with the previous administration’s limited engagement.”
- “The shift from transactional to strategic economic ties is crucial.”
- “Enhanced counter-terror collaboration signals a new phase in regional security.”
- “The construction of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi symbolizes growing religious tolerance.”
- “India must maximize defense collaboration potential amid shifting regional geopolitics.”
Examples and References:
- Narendra Modi’s 15 visits to the Middle East contrasted with the previous Prime Minister’s limited engagements.
- The inauguration of the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi and the release of Indian ex-naval personnel from Qatar serve as tangible examples of improved relations.
- The establishment of the I2U2 group and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor illustrate India’s reoriented geopolitical engagement.
Facts and Data:
- Modi’s 15 visits to the Middle East compared to the previous Prime Minister’s four visits during the UPA rule.
- The release of Indian ex-naval personnel from Qatar following their espionage charges.
- The establishment of the I2U2 group and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
Critical Analysis:
- The article provides a comprehensive overview of India’s evolving relations with the Gulf, highlighting both achievements and challenges.
- It emphasizes the importance of Modi’s proactive diplomacy and the need for deeper economic and defense cooperation.
- However, it also acknowledges historical tensions and the complexities of navigating religious and geopolitical dynamics in the region.
Way Forward:
- India should continue to strengthen diplomatic ties and capitalize on economic opportunities in the Gulf.
- Deeper defense collaboration and regional security cooperation should be prioritized.
- Efforts to promote religious tolerance and overcome historical tensions are essential for fostering long-term stability and prosperity in the region.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: na
Mains level: a shift in the approach of Indian scientists towards addressing real-life problems
Central Idea:
The article argues for a shift in the approach of Indian scientists towards addressing real-life problems by integrating knowledge from various disciplines, including the humanities. It emphasizes the need for scientists to engage with societal issues, collaborate across disciplines, and embrace diverse forms of knowledge to find holistic solutions.
Key Highlights:
- Critique of the current scientific paradigm in India, where pursuit of quick rewards and adherence to disciplinary boundaries hinder problem-solving.
- Advocacy for a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates insights from the humanities and social sciences.
- Emphasis on the importance of understanding human complexities and societal context in scientific endeavors.
- Proposal for scientists to engage with communities, embrace humility, and recognize diverse forms of knowledge.
- Criticism of the hierarchical and reductionist tendencies within the scientific community.
- Assertion that addressing complex problems requires creativity, flexibility, and integration of diverse perspectives.
Key Challenges:
- Resistance from scientists accustomed to disciplinary silos and reductionist methodologies.
- Lack of institutional support and incentives for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Need for a shift in mindset among scientists to prioritize societal impact over academic achievements.
- Overcoming entrenched power dynamics within the scientific community.
- Bridging the gap between academic research and practical problem-solving.
- Incorporating diverse forms of knowledge while ensuring rigor and reliability.
Main Terms:
- Scientific temper
- Reductionism
- Multidisciplinary approach
- Human sciences
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Social embeddedness
- Empirical testing
- Holistic understanding
Important Phrases:
- “Science-society border”
- “Climb down from the ivory tower”
- “Human complexities”
- “Tacit knowledge”
- “Integration of knowledge”
- “Extended peer community”
- “Proper scientific temper”
- “Cross-cultural conversation”
Quotes:
- “While religion is a sacred cow that doubles up as a cash cow, science is a cash cow that can often double up as a sacred cow in India.”
- “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”
- “Science leaves this kind of integration of knowledge from other sources out of the ‘scientific method’ altogether.”
- “A traditional puzzle solver scientist is like the mediocre artist who starts with a clearly visualized picture in mind and ends up painting it without leaving any scope for growth and change during the process.”
Useful Statements for mains value addition:
- “The time has come for a large chunk of scientific forces to be re-deployed on the science-society border to scout for solutions to real-life problems.”
- “The natural sciences then need to work in tandem with human sciences.”
- “A variety of perspectives and methods from different disciplines need to be brought to bear on a complex real-life problem.”
- “Philosophy has interacted fruitfully with business and medicine on issues of ethics and reproductive technologies.”
- “Science must confront the uncomfortable prospect of dealing with human complexities.”
Examples and References for qauality enrichment:
- The frothing Bellandur lake in Bengaluru vs. scholarly papers on the “giant gravity hole in the Indian Ocean.”
- Collaborations between philosophy, business, and medicine on ethical issues.
- Real-life problems such as human cloning, stem cell research, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with religious components.
Facts and Data:
- Reference to Manu Rajan, a retired information scientist from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.
- Mention of the threats posed by developments such as artificial intelligence.
- Reference to the prevalence of disciplinary silos and reductionist approaches in Indian scientific institutions.
Critical Analysis:
The article provides a compelling critique of the current scientific paradigm in India, highlighting its limitations in addressing real-life problems. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of knowledge from the humanities and social sciences. However, it could provide more concrete examples of successful interdisciplinary efforts and practical strategies for fostering collaboration. Additionally, the article could address potential challenges in implementing its proposed changes, such as institutional resistance and resource constraints.
Way Forward:
- Promote interdisciplinary research initiatives and provide incentives for collaboration.
- Establish platforms for dialogue and knowledge exchange between scientists and diverse stakeholders.
- Invest in education and training programs that emphasize holistic problem-solving skills.
- Foster a culture of humility, curiosity, and openness to diverse perspectives within the scientific community.
- Encourage partnerships between academic institutions, government agencies, and civil society organizations to address pressing societal challenges.
In conclusion, the article advocates for a paradigm shift in Indian science towards a more inclusive, interdisciplinary approach that prioritizes real-life problem-solving and societal impact. By embracing diverse forms of knowledge and collaborating across disciplines, scientists can better address the complex challenges facing society.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Disguised unemployment
Mains level: India's economic stagnation, particularly in terms of industrialization and employment generation,
Central Idea:
The article explores India’s economic stagnation, particularly in terms of industrialization and employment generation, and proposes a shift towards high-skill, services-driven growth as advocated by Raghuram Rajan and Rohit Lamba in their book “Breaking the Mould: Reimagining India’s Economic Future”. It argues that traditional approaches to industrialization have not been effective in India and suggests that focusing on high-skill services, particularly in the IT sector, could stimulate manufacturing and address socio-economic inequalities.
Key Highlights:
- India’s historical struggle with industrialization despite various reform efforts.
- Proposal for a shift towards high-skill services-led growth to stimulate manufacturing.
- Critique of traditional industrial policy and its failure to address unemployment and trade deficits.
- Challenges posed by poor employment elasticity of services-led growth and inequality in the service sector.
- Impact of unequal access to education on labor market outcomes and economic disparities.
- Cultural factors contributing to India’s industrial stagnation, including undervaluing certain occupations and skills.
- Importance of mass education and collective absorptive capacity for innovation and economic development.
Key Challenges:
- Poor employment elasticity of services-led growth.
- Inequality in the service sector, particularly in terms of wages.
- Unequal access to education and skills training, exacerbating socio-economic disparities.
- Cultural attitudes towards certain occupations hindering innovation and industrial development.
- Lack of mass education and collective absorptive capacity for technological progress.
Main Terms:
- Industrialization
- Services-driven growth
- High-skill services
- Information technology (IT)
- Unemployment
- Trade deficit
- Inequality
- Mass education
- Absorptive capacity
- Technological progress
Important Phrases:
- “Premature deindustrialization”
- “Disguised unemployment”
- “Mass school education”
- “High-skill services pitch”
- “Cultural prerequisite for industrialization”
- “Useful knowledge”
- “Organic innovation in manufacturing”
- “Collective absorptive capacity”
- “Deep industrialization”
Quotes:
- “Rural entrepreneurship was able to grow out of the traditional agricultural sector on a massive scale [in China]. The rural Indian, in contrast, hampered by a poor endowment of human capital, were not able to start entrepreneurial ventures remotely on the scale of the Chinese.” – Yasheng Huang
- “India needs deep industrialization, not just the service sector, that has the power of changing the foundations of society.” – Authors (Rajan and Lamba)
Useful Statements:
- “India’s historical struggle with industrialization despite various reform efforts.”
- “Proposal for a shift towards high-skill services-led growth to stimulate manufacturing.”
- “Impact of unequal access to education on labor market outcomes and economic disparities.”
- “Importance of mass education and collective absorptive capacity for innovation and economic development.”
Examples and References:
- Periodic Labour Force Survey, 2021-22.
- Raghuram Rajan and Rohit Lamba’s book “Breaking the Mould: Reimagining India’s Economic Future”.
- Economic historian Joel Mokyr’s insights on the role of useful knowledge in economic development.
- Comparison between India and China’s approaches to rural entrepreneurship and industrialization.
Facts and Data:
- India’s manufacturing share in output and employment has been stagnant and below 20%.
- India’s trade deficit has been widening, largely driven by imported goods.
- Inequality in the service sector is higher compared to manufacturing.
- India is one of the world’s most unequal countries in terms of education.
Critical Analysis:
- The article presents a critical examination of India’s historical industrialization efforts and their limitations.
- It questions traditional approaches to industrial policy and offers a provocative alternative centered around high-skill services.
- The critique of inequality in the service sector and its implications for socio-economic disparities adds depth to the analysis.
- The cultural factors influencing India’s industrial stagnation provide valuable insights into the broader challenges faced by the country.
Way Forward:
- Emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to economic development that addresses both industrialization and service sector growth.
- Invest in mass education and skills training to enhance collective absorptive capacity and promote innovation.
- Reevaluate cultural attitudes towards certain occupations to foster organic innovation in manufacturing.
- Ensure that economic policies prioritize reducing inequality and promoting inclusive growth.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MSP, National Commission on Farmers, 2004
Mains level: Farmers woes and role of MSP
Introduction
- More than 200 farmers’ unions from Punjab plan to march to Delhi, demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP).
- The imposition of Section 144 across Delhi highlights the significance of this protest.
Behind the Protest: Key Demands
- Legal Guarantee for MSP: Farmers demand a law to enforce MSP for all crops, aligned with the recommendations of the Dr. M S Swaminathan Commission.
- Full Debt Waiver: Complete debt waiver for farmers and laborers.
- Land Acquisition Act Implementation: Implementation of the Land Acquisition Act of 2013, with provisions for farmer consent and fair compensation.
- Withdrawal from WTO: India’s withdrawal from the World Trade Organization (WTO) and freezing of all free trade agreements.
- Pensions for Farmers: Provision of pensions for farmers and farm laborers.
- Compensation for Protest Deaths: Compensation for farmers who lost their lives during protests, including job opportunities for their family members.
- Scrapping of Electricity Amendment Bill 2020: Rejection of the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020.
- Enhanced MGNREGA Benefits: Increase in the number of days of employment under MGNREGA, higher daily wage, and linkage with farming activities.
- Penalties for Fake Seeds and Pesticides: Imposition of strict penalties on companies producing fake seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers.
- National Commission for Spices: Establishment of a national commission for spices such as chili and turmeric.
- Indigenous Peoples’ Rights: Ensuring the rights of indigenous peoples over water, forests, and land.
Why such furore over MSP?
- Market Dynamics: Farmers often operate in a buyer’s market, lacking the bargaining power to influence prices for their produce.
- Need for Stability: MSP provides farmers with a safety net, ensuring they receive a minimum price for their crops regardless of market fluctuations.
What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?
- MSP in India originated in response to food shortages in the 1960s, notably during the Bihar famine of 1966–1967.
- Agricultural Price Commission (APC) was established in 1965 to implement price policies like procurement at pre-decided prices and MSP.
- Over time, the APC evolved into the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) in 1985, with broader terms of reference.
- Announcement: The government bases its announcement on the recommendations given by the Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP).
- Formulae for Calculation:
- A2: Costs incurred by the farmer in production of a particular crop. It includes several inputs such as expenditure on seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, leased-in land, hired labour, machinery and fuel
- A2+FL: Costs incurred by the farmer and the value of family labour
- C2: A comprehensive cost, which is A2+FL cost plus imputed rental value of owned land plus interest on fixed capital, rent paid for leased-in land
- National Commission of Farmers also known as the Swaminathan Commission (2004) recommended that the MSP should at least be 50 per cent more than the weighted average CoP, which it refers to as the C2 cost.
- The government maintains that the MSP was fixed at a level of at least 1.5 times of the all-India weighted average CoP, but it calculates this cost as 1.5 times of A2+FL.
- Crops covered are-
- The CACP recommends MSPs for 22 mandated crops and fair and remunerative price (FRP) for sugarcane.
- The mandated crops include 14 crops of the kharif season, 6 rabi crops and 2 other commercial crops.
Criticism of MSP and Alternatives
- Economists’ Perspective: Many economists criticize government-fixed MSPs, advocating for income support schemes as a more efficient alternative.
- Income Support Schemes: Direct income support offers fixed payments to farmers, irrespective of crop choice or market conditions, aiming to provide stable income.
Approaches to Guarantee MSP
- Conventional Methods: Historically, MSP was enforced through mandatory buyer payments or government procurement. However, these methods face challenges in implementation and sustainability.
- Price Deficiency Payments (PDP): PDP offers an alternative approach, wherein the government compensates farmers for the difference between MSP and market price, without physical procurement.
PDP Models in Practice
[1] Madhya Pradesh: Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana
- Model: It experimented with PDP but encountered challenges in sustainability and central support.
- Operational Mechanism: Market price is determined based on average modal rates in APMC mandis, with payments backed by sale agreements, weighment slips, and payment letters.
[2] Haryana: Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana
- Model: It combines physical procurement with PDP, demonstrating feasibility in certain crops.
- Operational Platform: BBY operates on the ‘Meri Fasal, Mera Byaura’ portal, where farmers register their details and area sown under different crops.
- Registration Process: Registration for kharif and rabi crops is open during specific periods, followed by crop area verification through satellite imaging.
- Hybrid Approach: Haryana combines physical procurement with PDP under BBY, depending on the gap between MSP and market price.
- Payment Structure: PDP rates are fixed, derived from average quotes at the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange, with farmers paid based on the three-year average yield for their block/sub-district.
Way Forward
- Scaling PDP Nationwide: A nationwide PDP scheme, with central funding, could incentivize states to adopt similar models, leveraging existing market infrastructure for efficient MSP delivery.
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in market infrastructure and transaction recording systems is crucial for widespread MSP implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Conclusion
- Policy Implications: The debate over MSP guarantee underscores the need for balanced policies that address farmers’ concerns while ensuring market efficiency.
- Alternative: Exploring innovative mechanisms like PDP alongside traditional approaches can offer a viable solution to the challenge of MSP guarantee, benefiting farmers across diverse agricultural landscapes.
Back2Basics: National Commission on Farmers, 2004 (MS Swaminathan Commission)
- Established in 2004 under the chairmanship of Prof. M. S. Swaminathan.
- Submits five reports between December 2004 and October 2006.
- Reflects priorities outlined in the Common Minimum Programme.
Key Recommendations
- Addressing Agrarian Distress: Implement holistic national policy for farmers; Ensure farmers’ control over resources like land, water, credit, and markets.
- Land Reforms: Distribute surplus land and prevent diversion of agricultural land; Advocate for inserting “Agriculture” in the Concurrent List of the Constitution.
- Water Management: Ensure sustained water access and promote rainwater harvesting.
- Infrastructure Investment: Increase public investment in agricultural infrastructure; Promote conservation farming and soil health.
- Credit and Financial Support: Expand rural credit, lower interest rates, and establish agriculture risk fund; Provide debt restructuring and health insurance to farmers.
- Food Security: Establish universal public distribution system and nutrition support programs.
- Preventing Farmers’ Suicides: Provide measures to prevent farmers’ suicides, including health insurance and debt restructuring.
- Market Reforms: Promote farmers’ organizations, improve MSP implementation, and market reforms.
- Employment Opportunities: Focus on creating productive employment opportunities and improving wage parity.
- Bioresources: Preserve traditional rights, conserve biodiversity, and enhance crop and animal breeds.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Deputy CM
Mains level: Political alliances and their stable functioning
Introduction
- The Supreme Court recently dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of Deputy Chief Ministers in States, stating that the position does not breach the Constitution.
- Despite lacking constitutional backing, Deputy CM play significant roles in state governments, raising questions about their powers, significance, and concerns.
What is the Deputy CM Position?
- Constitutional Status: Unlike the Vice President of India, the Deputy CM post is political rather than constitutional.
- Origin: The post traces back to the Deputy PM position established in 1947 post-independence, leading to the evolution of Deputy CM roles in states.
- Appointment and Tenure: Deputy CMs are appointed and removed at the discretion of the Chief Minister, who may appoint multiple Deputy CMs.
- Historical Context: Anugrah Narayan Sinha of Bihar was the first Deputy CM post-Independence, with 12 states in India having Deputy CMs as of July 2023.
Powers and Responsibilities
- Rank and Pay: Deputy CMs hold a rank equivalent to cabinet ministers, receiving similar pays and perks.
- Portfolio Allocation: They are entrusted with portfolios, although typically smaller in scale compared to the Chief Minister.
- Financial Powers: Deputy CMs hold no specific financial authority, requiring approval from the Chief Minister for expenditures exceeding allocated budgets.
- Administrative Role: They facilitate governance and administration, acting as a bridge between the ruling party and its allies.
Significance of Deputy CMs
- Political Stability: Deputy CMs contribute to coalition government stability by bridging gaps between ruling parties and allies, reducing incidents of anti-defection.
- Representation and Trust: Their presence ensures better representation of communities, fostering public trust in governance.
- Succession and Accountability: Deputy CMs serve as potential successors to the Chief Minister, promoting transparency and accountability in government.
Concerns and Suggestions
- Lack of Constitutional Backing: Raises concerns about role ambiguity and potential exploitation by Chief Ministers.
- Multiplicity of Appointments: No limit on the number of Deputy CMs can lead to appeasement and governance complexities.
- Complexity in Governance: Overlapping roles with cabinet ministers may complicate governance and administration.
Future Perspectives
- Clarity and Limitations: Need for a defined role and limitations for Deputy CMs to simplify governance structures.
- Political Literacy: Enhancing awareness among citizens about the role and function of Deputy CMs is essential for informed governance.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RuPay and UPI
Mains level: Rupee as regional and global currency
Introduction
- RBI has announced the establishment of RuPay card and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) connectivity between India and Mauritius, as well as UPI connectivity between India and Sri Lanka.
- This initiative aims to deepen financial integration and facilitate digital payments among citizens of the three countries.
Discussion: Rupee Integration with Neighbours
- UPI in Mauritius: Indian travellers visiting Mauritius can now pay merchants in Mauritius using UPI, while Mauritian travellers can utilize the Instant Payment System (IPS) app for payments in India.
- RuPay Adoption: The MauCAS card scheme in Mauritius will leverage RuPay technology, allowing banks to issue RuPay cards domestically. These cards can be used at ATMs and Point of Sale (PoS) terminals in Mauritius and India.
- First Adoption: Mauritius becomes the first country outside Asia to implement RuPay technology, enabling acceptance of Indian RuPay cards at ATMs and PoS terminals within Mauritius.
- QR Code Payments in SL: Indian travellers can make QR code-based payments at merchant locations in Sri Lanka using their UPI apps.
About RuPay and UPI
[A] RuPay Debit Cards
|
Details |
| Launch Year |
2012 |
| Conceived by |
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) |
| Key Features |
First global card payment network of India
Wide acceptance at ATMs, POS devices, and e-commerce websites |
| Security Measures |
Highly secure network against anti-phishing
Supports electronic payments at all Indian banks and financial institutions |
| International Acceptance |
NPCI maintains ties with Discover Financial, JCB for international acceptance |
| Issuers |
More than 1100 banks including public sector, private, regional banks, and cooperatives |
| Core Promoter Banks |
SBI, PNB, Canara Bank, BOB, Union Bank of India, Bank of India, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Citibank, HSBC |
[B] Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
|
Details |
| Launch |
April 11, 2016 |
| Developed by |
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) |
| Key Features |
Enables simple, easy, and quick transactions using Unified Payments Interface (UPI) |
| Payment Methods |
Direct bank payments using UPI ID or QR code scanning
Requesting money from a UPI ID |
| Working |
Transfers using UPI ID, mobile number, QR code, or Virtual Payment Address.
Offers consistent transaction PIN across apps, enhancing cross-operability.
Supports push and pull transactions, over-the-counter payments, and recurring payments such as utility bills and subscriptions. |
Countries where UPI works
|
Details |
| Bhutan |
Launched in July 13, 2021.
Partnership between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) and the Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) of Bhutan.
First country to adopt UPI. |
| Oman |
Launched on October 4, 2022.
Enables acceptance of Indian RuPay cards at all OmanNet network ATMs, POS & E-commerce sites.
Allows reciprocal acceptance of Oman cards/MPCSS in the networks of NPCI in India. |
| Mauritius |
Connectivity allows Indian visitors in Mauritius to use UPI for local payments, and vice versa for Mauritian tourists in India using the Instant Payment System (IPS) app.
Enables issuance of RuPay cards by banks in Mauritius through the MauCAS card network. |
| Sri Lanka |
Digital payments connectivity enables Indian travellers to make QR code-based payments at merchant locations in Sri Lanka using their UPI apps. |
| Nepal |
Nepali users can make bank transfers to India using a unified payment interface (UPI) ID through mobile banking. |
| France |
UPI service launched at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France this year.
Partnership between NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Lyra, a French leader in securing e-commerce and proximity payments. |
| Southeast Asia |
Agreement signed between NIPL and Liquid Group to enable QR-based UPI payments in 10 countries: Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. |
Why such move?
- Tourism Promotion: Facilitating digital payments through RuPay and UPI encourages tourists from India to visit Mauritius and Sri Lanka by providing them with convenient payment options.
- Financial Integration: The rollout of RuPay and UPI fosters closer economic ties between India, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka by enabling cross-border transactions and financial services.
- Diversification (away from Maldives): By providing modern payment infrastructure and options comparable to those in popular tourist destinations like Mauritius and Sri Lanka can attract more tourists and diversify their tourism sectors.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Black Hole and related terminologies
Mains level: Evidences confirming gravitational waves, relativity theory and black holes
Introduction
- Scientists have revealed new insights into a colossal black hole located 53 million light-years away, initially captured by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) in 2017.
- This groundbreaking achievement provided the first visual confirmation of the existence of black holes, validating a key prediction of Einstein’s theory of general relativity.
Key Findings by EHT
- The new data, obtained with improved telescope coverage and resolution, reiterated the previous discovery of the black hole’s ‘shadow’.
- The findings confirmed the presence of an asymmetric ring structure consistent with strong gravitational lensing effects.
- Observations indicated a stable ring formation process over time, with subtle changes suggesting variations in the magnetic field structure.
About Event Horizon Telescope (EHT)
|
Description |
| About |
A large telescope array consisting of a global network of radio telescopes.
Uses Very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI).
Resolution of 25 micro-arc-seconds |
| Collaboration |
International collaboration involving over 300 members and 60 institutions across 20 countries and regions |
| Launch Year |
Initiated in 2009 |
| First Image Published |
April 10, 2019 (First image of a black hole, M87*) |
| Objective |
Observation of objects the size of a supermassive black hole’s event horizon |
| Key Targets |
Black holes including M87* and Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) |
| Recent Developments |
First image of black hole (March 2021), first image of Sgr A* (May 12, 2022) |
| Reconstructive Algorithms |
Includes CLEAN algorithm and regularized maximum likelihood (RML) algorithm |
| Scientific Implications |
Verification of general relativity, measurement of black hole mass and diameter, study of accretion processes |
Back2Basics: Black Holes and Related Concepts
|
Definition |
| Black hole |
A region in space where gravity is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. |
| Event horizon |
The boundary surrounding a black hole beyond which nothing can escape its gravitational pull. |
| Singularity |
A point within a black hole where gravity becomes infinitely strong and spacetime curvature becomes infinite. |
| Gravitational collapse |
The process by which massive stars collapse under their own gravity to form black holes. |
| Schwarzschild radius |
The radius of the event horizon of a non-rotating black hole. |
| Hawking radiation |
Radiation emitted by black holes due to quantum effects near the event horizon, predicted by physicist Stephen Hawking. |
| Accretion disk |
A rotating disk of matter that forms around a black hole as it pulls in surrounding gas and dust. |
| Supermassive black hole |
A black hole with a mass millions or billions of times greater than that of the Sun, found at the center of most galaxies. |
| Quasar |
A luminous object powered by an active galactic nucleus, thought to be fueled by the accretion of material onto a supermassive black hole. |
| Neutron star |
A highly compact star composed primarily of neutrons, formed from the collapsed core of a massive star. |
| White dwarf |
A small, dense star composed of electron-degenerate matter, formed from the remnants of a low to medium mass star. |
| Gravitational waves |
Ripples in spacetime caused by the acceleration of massive objects, such as black holes or neutron stars. |
| Black Hole Information Paradox |
The theoretical problem concerning the loss of information about the initial state of matter swallowed by a black hole, which contradicts the principles of quantum mechanics. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SWATI Portal
Mains level: Women in STEMM, Various initiatives
Introduction
- The “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” Portal was recently launched by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.
About SWATI Portal
- Objective: Designed to be a comprehensive online platform, SWATI aims to showcase the contributions of Indian women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM).
- Single portal: SWATI serves as a single online portal representing Indian women and girls in STEMM fields.
- Database: It hosts a database that will aid in policy-making to address gender-gap challenges in STEMM.
- Interactive Platform: SWATI offers an interactive database, a pioneering initiative in India, developed, hosted, and maintained by the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), New Delhi.
- Faculty: Featuring faculty members from Indian universities, autonomous organizations, and key ministries such as the Ministry of Science and Technology, CSIR, DBT, DST, MHRD, UGC, GATI, and KIRAN.
Objectives
- Scaling Efforts: The portal seeks to exponentially scale up efforts to include every Indian woman in science (WiS), covering all career stages and subjects in both academia and industry.
- Research Facilitation: By enabling reliable and statistically significant long-term research on equality, diversity, and inclusivity issues in India, SWATI aims to develop an active search engine and searchable database.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women’s Reservation Bill.
Mains level: policies and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equity and inclusion
Central Idea:
The article highlights India’s commitment to gender equity and equality, emphasizing initiatives taken by both the government and industry to advance women’s empowerment. It discusses key achievements, challenges, and the launch of the ‘Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality’ to drive inclusive development globally.
Key Highlights:
- India’s dedication to equality and inclusion as pillars of development, evidenced by initiatives like the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration and the Women’s Reservation Bill.
- Increase in female participation in various sectors, including politics, education, and entrepreneurship.
- Launch of the ‘Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality’ at the World Economic Forum, aiming to accelerate socio-economic progress on a global scale.
- India’s leadership in areas such as ed-tech, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, reflected in the Alliance’s goals.
- The Alliance’s partnership with stakeholders like the CII, Ministry of Women and Child Development, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, along with support from the World Economic Forum.
Key Challenges:
- Addressing persistent gender disparities in various sectors despite progress.
- Ensuring effective implementation of policies and initiatives to promote gender equity.
- Overcoming societal and cultural barriers that hinder women’s advancement.
- Mobilizing resources and sustaining momentum for inclusive development efforts.
- Encouraging broader global participation and collaboration to drive meaningful change.
Main Terms:
- Gender equity: Fair treatment and opportunities for all genders.
- Gender equality: Equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for all genders.
- Women’s empowerment: Enhancing women’s ability to access resources and participate fully in society.
- Inclusive development: Economic growth that benefits all segments of society, including marginalized groups.
- Stakeholders: Individuals or organizations with an interest or concern in a particular issue or initiative.
Important Phrases:
- “Women-led development”: Development initiatives driven by and focused on women’s empowerment.
- “Mainstreaming gender equality”: Integrating gender considerations into all aspects of policymaking and development efforts.
- “Shared direction”: Collaborative approach towards addressing gender-related challenges and promoting inclusion.
- “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”: Indian philosophy emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings and the world.
- “Sabka Saath, Sabka Prayaas, Sabka Vikaas”: Indian motto promoting inclusive development for all.
Quotes:
- “Equality and inclusion are the cornerstones of India’s development journey.”
- “The enthusiasm around the We-Lead Lounge… saw global interest and curiosity.”
- “India’s abiding commitment to ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future’.”
Anecdotes:
- Success stories in space exploration, sports, entrepreneurship, and UN peacekeeping operations highlight India’s achievements and influence.
- The We-Lead Lounge at Davos served as a platform for meaningful discussions on inclusive development.
Useful Statements:
- “The Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality aims to drive collective actions to augment women empowerment.”
- “India’s leadership in areas such as ed-tech and healthcare makes it a key contributor to global development efforts.”
- “Industry has an opportunity to invest in proven programs and initiatives to advance gender inclusion in the workspace.”
Examples and References:
- Passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill and increased female labor force participation rates.
- Participation of over nine crore women in self-help groups in rural India.
- India’s digital prowess and leadership in healthcare, highlighted through initiatives like the Alliance for Global Good.
Facts and Data:
- Increase in India’s female labor force participation rate from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 37% in 2022-23.
- Allocation of nearly $27 billion under the gender budget in 2023-24.
- Female enrollment in STEM courses at 43%.
- Participation of over nine crore women in self-help groups in rural India.
Critical Analysis:
- The article showcases India’s progress in promoting gender equity but also acknowledges ongoing challenges.
- It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and other stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
- While highlighting achievements, it also recognizes the need for sustained efforts to address persistent gender disparities.
Way Forward:
- Strengthening implementation of policies and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equity and inclusion.
- Continued investment in programs and initiatives to support women’s empowerment across various sectors.
- Enhancing global collaboration and partnerships to drive inclusive development efforts.
- Addressing societal and cultural barriers through awareness campaigns and education.
- Monitoring and evaluation of progress to ensure accountability and sustainability in gender-related initiatives.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian STEM fields
Mains level: Launch of SWATI portal in 2024
Central Idea:
The article discusses the efforts of Indian science academies to address the gender gap in STEM fields, focusing on initiatives such as the launch of the SWATI portal. It highlights the evolution of these efforts, challenges faced, and the need for more inclusive and effective strategies.
Key Highlights:
- Launch of SWATI portal by Indian science academies to create a database of women in science.
- Evolution of initiatives starting from the INSA report in 2004, highlighting discrimination and proposing solutions.
- Efforts like Lilavati’s Daughters compendium and national conferences to address gender gap issues.
- Gendered perceptions uncovered by sociologists and scientists regarding women leaving academia.
- Critique of initiatives focusing solely on “fixing” women instead of addressing systemic issues.
- Newer policies like GATI charter and STIP 2020 adopting more progressive language and inclusive approaches.
- Concerns about the effectiveness and sustainability of new initiatives like SWATI.
Key Challenges:
- Deep-rooted discrimination based on gender, caste, transgender identity, and disability.
- Lack of accountability for addressing systemic issues within the scientific community.
- Need for rules and laws to ensure gender equity and address unique challenges faced by marginalized groups.
- Risk of new initiatives losing momentum and failing to deliver on promises.
Main Terms:
- Gender gap: Disparity between men and women in STEM fields.
- Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on gender, caste, or other factors.
- Gender equity: Fair treatment regardless of gender.
- Inclusive policies: Strategies that consider diverse identities and experiences.
- STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Important Phrases:
- “Gender gap in STEM”
- “Discrimination in the workplace”
- “Systemic issues”
- “Inclusive group”
- “Gendered perceptions”
Quotes:
- “It is the females who need to be ‘fixed.'”
- “Equity is not just a women’s issue.”
Anecdotes:
- Launch of SWATI portal on International Day for Girls and Women in Science.
- Announcement of promises by then Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal at a national conference in 2008.
Useful Statements:
- “Initiatives focusing solely on ‘fixing’ women overlook systemic issues.”
- “Newer policies like GATI charter and STIP 2020 adopt more progressive language.”
Examples and References:
- Indian National Science Academy (INSA) report in 2004.
- Lilavati’s Daughters compendium by the Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc).
- Launch of SWATI portal in 2024.
Facts and Data:
- Collaboration between scientists and social scientists in the INSA report in 2004.
- Survey of about 800 scientists revealing gendered perceptions in academia.
- Announcement of promises for women scientists by Kapil Sibal in 2008.
Critical Analysis:
The article provides a comprehensive overview of efforts to address the gender gap in Indian STEM fields, highlighting both progress made and persistent challenges. It critiques initiatives that focus solely on individual women without addressing systemic issues and emphasizes the need for more inclusive and effective strategies.
Way Forward:
- Implement and monitor policies that address discrimination and promote gender equity.
- Engage diverse stakeholders, including marginalized groups, in policy development and implementation.
- Ensure transparency and accountability in initiatives like SWATI to maintain momentum and effectiveness.
- Foster a culture of inclusivity and support within the scientific community to retain and empower women in STEM.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project in Rakhine State
Mains level: complexities surrounding the Indian-Myanmar border situation
.jpg)
Central Idea:
The article discusses the complex situation at the Indian-Myanmar border, particularly in Mizoram, highlighting the influx of Myanmar soldiers seeking refuge and the growing influence of rebel groups. It also examines India’s response to these developments, focusing on the challenges posed by border security, economic interests, and diplomatic considerations.
Key Highlights:
- Refugee Crisis: Myanmar soldiers fleeing conflict in Chin State seek refuge in Mizoram, exacerbating tensions at the border.
- Rebel Advancements: Rebel groups, such as the Chin National Army and the Arakan Army, gain control over significant territories along the border, challenging the authority of the Myanmar government.
- Indian Response: India grapples with the security implications of the border situation, considering measures like building fences and ending the Free Movement Regime (FMR).
- Economic Interests: India’s economic interests in Myanmar, particularly in rebel-held areas like Rakhine State, necessitate a cautious approach amid escalating conflict.
- Diplomatic Dynamics: India’s policies in the region are influenced by considerations of regional stability, cooperation with Myanmar’s government, and competing interests with China.
Key Challenges:
- Security Concerns: India faces challenges in maintaining border security amidst escalating conflict and infiltration by armed groups.
- Economic Implications: Balancing economic interests with security concerns poses a dilemma for Indian policymakers.
- Diplomatic Complexity: India must navigate diplomatic relations with Myanmar while considering regional dynamics and competition with China.
- Social Impact: Measures like ending the Free Movement Regime may strain familial and tribal ties across the border, potentially leading to social unrest.
Main Terms:
- Rebel Groups
- Free Movement Regime (FMR)
- Border Security
- Refugee Crisis
- Economic Interests
- Regional Stability
Important Phrases:
- “Liberated zones”
- “Border fencing”
- “Neighbourhood First”
- “Act East”
- “Arakan Army surged”
Quotes:
- “We were surprised by how quickly the army posts fell.”
- “…the kinship and tribal ties are such that they will not be curbed by the measures.”
- “Neither China nor India are likely to change their current policies till such a viable process is in place.”
Useful Statements:
- “Calls for fencing the border have been strongest from the beleaguered Chief Minister of Manipur.”
- “India has not retreated from its support to the army dispensation in Myanmar.”
- “Rebel armed groups, some of which have been fighting the Myanmar army for over 70 years, are unlikely to be able to march on the capital of Naypyidaw.”
Examples and References:
- Chin National Army’s control over Chin State.
- Arakan Army’s campaign in Paletwa.
- India’s Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project in Rakhine State.
Facts and Data:
- Chin refugees sheltering in Mizoram after the 2021 coup in Myanmar.
- India’s eastern border with Myanmar.
- Proposal to end the Free Movement Regime allowing movement up to 16 km across borders.
Critical Analysis:
The article provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding the Indian-Myanmar border situation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of security, economic, and diplomatic factors. It highlights the challenges faced by India in maintaining stability in the region amidst escalating conflict and competing interests with China.
Way Forward:
- India should adopt a balanced approach that prioritizes both security and economic interests.
- Diplomatic engagement with Myanmar should focus on promoting stability and addressing the root causes of conflict.
- Efforts to secure the border should be accompanied by measures to mitigate social and economic impacts on border communities.
Overall, a comprehensive strategy that considers the multifaceted nature of the border situation is essential for India to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by its eastern frontier with Myanmar.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nazool Land, Laws governing it
Mains level: Issues with anti-encroachment drives
Introduction
- Violence erupted in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani district after the administration conducted a demolition drive at the site allegedly on Nazool Land.
What is Nazool Land?
- Definition: Nazool land refers to government-owned land that is often leased out to entities for specific purposes, rather than being directly administered as state property.
- Lease Terms: Entities leasing Nazool land typically hold it for a fixed period, ranging from 15 to 99 years, with the option to renew the lease upon expiration.
Historical Context
- Origins: Nazool land emerged during British rule in India when lands confiscated from opposing kings and kingdoms were designated as state property.
- Post-Independence: After Independence, these lands were transferred to the respective state governments due to a lack of proper documentation to prove prior ownership by the former royal families.
Governance of Nazool Land
- Legal Framework: While various states have implemented government orders to regulate Nazool land, the Nazool Lands (Transfer) Rules, 1956, are frequently utilized for adjudication.
- Lease Renewal Process: The renewal or cancellation of leases for Nazool land is typically managed by the Revenue Department of the local development authority.
Utilization of Nazool Land
- Public Purposes: Nazool land is commonly used by the government for public infrastructure projects such as schools, hospitals, and Gram Panchayat buildings.
- Housing Societies: In urban areas, Nazool land is often leased out for housing societies and other residential developments.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ASEAN, DPDP Bill, GPAI
Mains level: Key takeaways from Global AI Governance Measures
Introduction
- Background: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) recently unveiled its AI governance and ethics guidelines during the 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Singapore.
- Objective: These guidelines outline a voluntary and business-friendly vision for managing AI technologies while fostering economic growth.
About Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
| Established |
August 8, 1967 |
| Members |
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam |
| Objective |
To promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability among member countries. |
| Key Areas of Cooperation |
- Economic Integration
- Political and Security Cooperation
- Social and Cultural Cooperation
|
| Significance |
Promotes economic growth, stability, and peace in the Southeast Asian region. It is also a forum for diplomatic dialogue and conflict resolution. |
| ASEAN Secretariat |
Jakarta, Indonesia (The ASEAN Secretariat is the organization responsible for coordinating ASEAN activities.) |
ASEAN’s AI Regulations
- Flexibility and Specificity: ASEAN’s regulations are less prescriptive compared to the EU’s, reflecting the region’s diverse digital ecosystem and infrastructure.
- Soft Law Approach: Instead of enacting hard law, ASEAN favors voluntary guidelines and codes of conduct to regulate AI.
Comparison with EU’s AI Regulation
- Diverging Approaches: ASEAN’s approach to AI regulation contrasts with the European Union’s (EU) more stringent framework, known as the AI Act, which imposes stricter rules on AI usage.
- EU Lobbying Efforts: EU officials have attempted to persuade Asian nations to align with their regulations, but ASEAN’s guidelines signal a departure from the EU’s stance.
About EU Framework for AI Regulation
European Union has prepared to implement the world’s first comprehensive legislation aimed at regulating AI, with a parliamentary vote expected in early 2024 and potential enforcement by 2025.
Components of the EU Framework:
|
Description |
| Safeguards in Legislation |
- Individuals can file complaints against AI violations.
- Clear boundaries on AI use by law enforcement.
- Strong restrictions on facial recognition and AI manipulation of human behaviour.
- Tough penalties for companies found breaking the rules.
- Real-time biometric surveillance in public areas is permitted only for serious threats.
|
|
| Categorization of AI Applications |
AI applications are classified into four risk categories based on their level of risk and invasiveness.
- Banned Applications: Mass-scale facial recognition and behavioural control AI applications are largely banned.
- High-Risk Applications: Allowed with certification and transparency requirements.
- Medium-Risk Applications: Deployable without restrictions, with disclosure to users about AI interaction.
- No Risk
|
| Other Regulatory Achievements |
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Enforced since May 2018, focusing on privacy and data processing consent. |
Challenges in ASEAN’s Regulatory Landscape
- Diverse Political Systems: ASEAN comprises nations with varied political systems, making consensus-building on issues like censorship challenging.
- Varying Tech Sector Maturity: Disparities exist within ASEAN, with some members boasting advanced tech sectors while others are still developing their digital infrastructure.
ASEAN’s Voluntary Approach
- Avoiding Over-Regulation: ASEAN nations are cautious about over-regulating AI to avoid stifling innovation and driving investment away.
- Emphasis on Talent Development: The guidelines prioritize nurturing AI talent, upskilling workforces, and investing in research and development.
Future Prospects for ASEAN’s AI Regulation
- Potential for Stricter Regulations: While ASEAN’s current approach is incremental, some member states, like Indonesia and the Philippines, have expressed interest in enacting comprehensive AI legislation.
- EU’s Influence: The implementation of the EU’s AI Act will influence ASEAN’s policymakers, shaping their decisions on future AI regulation.
How India is planning to regulate AI?
| Major Advocacies |
- #AIFORALL: Aimed at inclusivity, started in 2018.
- NITI Aayog’s National Strategy for AI (2018): Includes a chapter on responsible AI.
- Principles of Responsible AI: Outlined in a 2021 paper by NITI Aayog.
- IndiaAI Program: Launched in 2023 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
- TRAI Recommendations: Proposed a risk-based framework for regulation.
|
| Major Sector Initiatives |
- Healthcare: Ethical guidelines for AI issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research in June 2023.
- Capital Market: SEBI circular in January 2019 guiding AI policies in the capital market.
- Education: National Education Policy 2020 suggests integrating AI awareness into school courses.
|
| Multilateral |
- India joined the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) as a founding member in 2020.
- Became the Chair of the GPAI in November 2022 after France.
- Hosted the GPAI Summit in December 2023.
|
Conclusion
- Policy Considerations: ASEAN’s approach to AI governance balances the need for regulation with the promotion of innovation and economic growth.
- Monitoring EU Developments: ASEAN will closely monitor the implementation and impact of the EU’s AI Act to inform its own regulatory decisions.
- Evolution of AI Regulation: The trajectory of AI regulation in ASEAN will depend on factors such as technological advancements, regional cooperation, and global regulatory trends.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UAPA Bail Provisions
Mains level: Bail as a diffuser in UAPA Provisions
Introduction
- The Supreme Court’s recent decision to deny bail to an accused in an alleged “Khalistan module,” highlights the stringent bail provisions under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
- Unlike ordinary criminal law, the UAPA imposes higher hurdles for granting bail, reflecting the gravity of offenses related to terrorism and unlawful activities.
About Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA)
|
Description |
| Purpose |
To provide for the prevention of certain unlawful activities of individuals and associations, dealing with terrorist activities, and activities directed against the integrity and sovereignty of India. |
| Applicability |
- Indian and foreign nationals and applies throughout India.
- Citizens of India outside India, persons in the service of the Government, and persons on ships and aircraft registered in India.
|
| Origin |
- Enacted in 1967 based on the recommendation of the Committee on National Integration and Regionalism.
- Followed the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act, 1963, which empowered Parliament to impose reasonable restrictions on freedom of speech and expression, right to assemble peaceably, and right to form associations or unions.
|
| Key Provisions |
- Declaration as unlawful (Section 3): Central government has absolute power to declare any association unlawful.
- Chargesheet (Section 45): Investigating agency must file a chargesheet within 180 days after arrests, extendable further after court intimation.
- Punishment (Section 16, 18): Includes death penalty and life imprisonment.
|
| 2004 Amendment |
- Added “Terrorist Act”: To the list of offenses enabling the ban of organizations involved in terrorist activities.
- Expanded the definition of “unlawful” activities: To include terrorist acts, in addition to actions related to secession and cession of territory.
|
| 2019 Amendment |
- Central Government to designate individuals as terrorists based on specific grounds.
- National Investigation Agency (NIA) DG, authority to approve seizure or attachment of property during NIA investigations.
- NIA officers of the rank of Inspector or above to investigate terrorism cases, expanding the scope from officers of the rank of Deputy Superintendent or Assistant Commissioner of Police.
|
Bail Provisions in UAPA: Section 43D (5)
- Key Provision: Section 43D (5) of the UAPA stipulates that accused individuals charged under specific chapters of the Act shall not be granted bail unless certain conditions are met.
- Bail Criteria: The law places the burden on the accused to demonstrate to the court that the accusations against them are not prima facie true, shifting the onus from the prosecution to the defense.
Impact of Judicial Precedents
- Watali Judgment (2019): The Supreme Court’s ruling in Zahoor Ahmed Shah Watali v NIA established a precedent wherein bail decisions under the UAPA are based solely on accepting the prosecution’s case at face value.
- Limitations on Defense: Legal scholars argue that the Watali judgment restricts the defense’s ability to challenge the prosecution’s case effectively, undermining the principle of a fair trial.
Post-Watali Developments
- Court Discretion: Despite the stringent bail provisions, courts have granted bail in certain cases, emphasizing the need for specific, individual charges supported by credible evidence.
- Differing Judicial Interpretations: Subsequent judgments, such as in Union of India vs KA Najeeb (February 2021) and Vernon Gonsalves v State of Maharashtra (July 2023), have provided nuances to the bail criteria, recognizing the importance of balancing liberty with the right to a speedy trial.
Challenges and Future Implications
- Legal Ambiguity: Divergent interpretations by different benches highlight the need for clarity in UAPA bail provisions, with the potential for larger benches to resolve conflicting precedents.
- Case Analysis: The recent denial of bail to a Khalistani protagonist underscores the predominance of the Watali ruling in UAPA bail decisions, despite potential inconsistencies with other judgments.
Conclusion
- Balancing Rights: The debate over UAPA bail provisions reflects the delicate balance between safeguarding national security and protecting individual liberties.
- Legal Evolution: The evolution of judicial interpretations will shape the future landscape of UAPA bail jurisprudence, influencing the rights of accused individuals in cases involving national security concerns.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ayushman Bharat Scheme, ASHA and Anganwadi Workers
Mains level: ASHA and Anganwadi Workers
Introduction
- Following the Centre’s decision to extend health coverage under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme to Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Anganwadi workers and helpers, the Health Ministry has initiated the process of enrollment.
- The Health Ministry has received Aadhaar details of 23 lakh Anganwadi workers and helpers and over three lakh ASHA workers from various states.
About Ayushman Bharat Scheme
|
Details |
| Launch |
2018, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) |
| Aim |
Achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by providing promotive, preventive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care. |
| Funding |
Centrally Sponsored Scheme (expenditure shared between Central and State governments) |
| Coverage |
Targets over 10 crore families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries) based on SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) |
| Implementing Agency |
National Health Authority (NHA) |
| Components |
- Health and Wellness Centres (HWC) providing primary care services.
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) offering health cover of Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year.
|
| Coverage Details |
- Covers secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
- Includes pre-hospitalization and post-hospitalization expenses.
- No restrictions on family size, age, or gender.
|
| Portability of Benefits |
Benefits are portable across the country, allowing cashless treatment at any empanelled public or private hospital in India. |
| Digital Overture |
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM): Launched in 2021 to provide Unique Digital Health IDs (UHID) for all Indian citizens, facilitating electronic access to health records. |
Significance of ASHA Program
- Workforce: As of December 31, 2023, there were over 13 lakh Anganwadi workers and over 10 lakh Anganwadi helpers in the country, along with 9.83 lakh ASHAs in position.
- Program Scale: India’s ASHA program is recognized as the world’s largest community volunteer program, operating across 35 states and union territories.
- Role of ASHAs: The ASHA program serves as a vital component of community healthcare, facilitating access to care and playing a crucial role in the prevention and management of COVID-19.
- Contribution Acknowledged: ASHAs have been recognized for their substantial contribution to improving access to care for communities and are integral to various community platforms under the National Health Mission.
Ayushman Bharat Scheme Impact
- Beneficiary Coverage: Currently, 55 crore individuals corresponding to 12 crore families are covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, with some states/UTs expanding the beneficiary base at their own cost.
- Enrollment and Hospital Admissions: The government has issued approximately 28.45 crore Ayushman cards, authorizing over 6.11 crore hospital admissions amounting to ₹78,188 crores.
- Hospital Empanelment: A total of 26,901 hospitals, including 11,813 private hospitals, have been empanelled under AB-PMJAY to provide healthcare services to scheme beneficiaries.
- Gender Equity: The scheme ensures gender equity in access to healthcare services, with women accounting for approximately 49% of Ayushman cards created and 48% of total authorized hospital admissions.
Back2Basics:
[1] Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA)
|
Details |
| Launch Year |
2005-06 as part of the National Rural Health Mission.
Later extended to urban areas with the National Urban Health Mission in 2013. |
| Program Scope |
Largest community health worker program globally, serving as health care facilitators, service providers, and health awareness generators. |
| Number of ASHAs |
Over 10.52 Lakh ASHAs across all states/UTs (except Goa) as of June 2022. |
| Role |
Provide maternal and child health services, family planning, and services under National Disease Control Programme. |
| Service Population |
Serve populations of approximately 1,000 in rural areas and 2,000 in urban areas, with local adjustments based on workload. |
| Selection Criteria |
- Primarily women residents of the village, preferably aged 25 to 45.
- Literacy preferred and relaxed standards for tribal, hilly, or desert areas.
|
| Employment Classification |
Considered honorary/volunteer positions rather than government workers. |
[2] Anganwadi Programme
|
Details |
| Initiation |
- Started by the Government of India in 1975
- Part of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
|
| Objective |
To combat child hunger and malnutrition |
| Implementation |
Centrally sponsored scheme implemented by States/UTs |
| Services Provided |
- Supplementary nutrition
- Pre-school non-formal education
- Immunization
- Health check-up
- Nutrition and health education
- Referral services
|
| Beneficiaries |
Identified based on Aadhaar |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: DPDP Bill, 2023
Mains level: Children's Online Safety
Introduction
- Recent Congressional hearings, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s public apology, shed light on the alarming rise of online child exploitation, prompting global concerns over children’s safety on social media platforms.
- Tech giants face mounting pressure worldwide as parents and activists demand increased accountability and safer online environments for children, highlighting issues beyond privacy concerns to encompass broader security risks.
Risks to Children’s Online Safety
- UNICEF Report Findings: A UNICEF report titled ‘The Metaverse, Extended Reality and Children’ underscores significant risks associated with virtual environments, including exposure to explicit content, cyberbullying, and data privacy violations, which could have profound impacts on children’s well-being.
- Emerging Dangers: Virtual environments and games, while not fully immersive yet, present dangers such as exposure to inappropriate content and exploitation, raising questions about the ethical implications of children’s digital interactions.
Issues Faced by Children Online
- Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Children may inadvertently encounter violent, pornographic, or hate speech content while navigating the internet.
- Online Predators and Grooming: Children face the risk of encountering online predators who exploit social media and gaming platforms to form relationships and groom them for exploitation.
- Cyberbullying: Children can fall victim to cyberbullying, which entails using digital technology to harass, intimidate, or humiliate others.
- Privacy Concerns: Due to a lack of awareness about privacy settings, children may unintentionally disclose personal information online.
- Addictive Behavior: Excessive screen time and prolonged use of digital devices can foster addictive behaviors, impacting children’s mental and physical well-being, academic performance, and social interactions.
Challenges Posed by Generative AI
- Potential Benefits and Pitfalls: Generative AI offers opportunities for creativity and learning but also poses risks, including the spread of disinformation and harmful content that could influence children’s cognitive development adversely.
- Vulnerability to Misinformation: Children, with developing cognitive abilities, are particularly susceptible to misinformation propagated through AI-generated content, raising concerns about the impact on their perceptions and behaviors.
Measures in India: DPDP Bill, 2023
- Definition of Minors: The DPDP Bill defines individuals under the age of 18 as minors. This definition acknowledges that children are particularly vulnerable and deserve additional safeguards for their personal data.
- Data Processing Obligations: The bill places three specific conditions on data processing entities when handling children’s data:
- Obtaining verifiable parental consent: As mentioned above, entities must ensure they have proper consent from a parent or guardian before processing a child’s data.
- Not causing harm to children: Data processing activities should not harm or exploit children in any way.
- Not tracking or targeting ads at children: Entities are prohibited from tracking children’s online behavior for targeted advertising purposes.
- Exemptions: The bill allows the government to exempt certain entities from the requirement of parental consent and tracking and targeting ads for specific purposes. However, such exemptions must be for the best interests of a child.
Way Forward
- Corporate Responsibility: Tech companies must prioritize ‘safety by design,’ integrating measures to protect children’s well-being and privacy into their platforms, guided by principles outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Regulatory Intervention: Governments play a crucial role in periodically assessing and updating regulatory frameworks to address emerging challenges in child safety online, including combating harmful content and behavior.
- Community Engagement: Upholding existing rules and norms that protect children offline should extend to the digital realm, fostering a collective responsibility among stakeholders to create a safer online environment for children.
Conclusion
- Addressing the multifaceted risks to children’s safety online requires collaborative efforts from tech companies, governments, and communities, guided by a shared commitment to uphold children’s rights and well-being in the digital age.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
