Central Idea:
The article highlights the longstanding issue of identical or similar brand names for drugs in India, posing serious risks of confusion and prescription errors. Despite past recommendations, the problem persists due to poor regulatory oversight and a lack of comprehensive databases. The consequences are particularly alarming in a country with a multilingual population and lax pharmacy regulations.
Key Highlights:
- Identical brand names for drugs treating different conditions, such as ‘Linamac,’ raise concerns about patient safety.
- The problem of similar names extends beyond identical matches to include phonetically and visually similar names.
- The article points out that India’s pharmacies are poorly regulated, increasing the likelihood of errors, especially with drug names being predominantly in English.
- Previous recommendations from the Supreme Court and Parliamentary Committee were ignored until 2019 when the Ministry of Health introduced rules, but they seem ineffective.
Key Challenges:
- Lack of comprehensive data on prescription errors in India hampers understanding and acknowledgment of the problem.
- Weak regulatory mechanisms and self-certification by pharmaceutical companies contribute to the persistence of confusing drug names.
- The absence of a centralized database for pharmaceutical brand names complicates efforts to prevent confusingly similar names.
- Limited political will within the Ministry of Health’s Drug Regulation Section to implement reforms exacerbates the issue.
Key Terms:
- Pharmaceutical Trademark Infringement: Legal disputes among pharmaceutical companies over trademarks.
- Undertaking: A commitment or assurance made by pharmaceutical companies regarding the uniqueness of their drug brand names.
- CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation): The central regulatory body for pharmaceuticals and medical devices in India.
Key Phrases:
- “Identical trade names for drugs with different active ingredients”
- “Phonetically and visually similar trade names”
- “Poorly regulated Indian pharmacies”
- “Flimsy system” for preventing confusing drug names
Key Quotes:
- “The consequences of confusion between these medications at the pharmacy can be serious for patients.”
- “The problem of similar or identical trade names for drugs has been known for several decades.”
Key Statements:
- “The Ministry of Health brought in the Drugs and Cosmetics (Thirteenth Amendment) Rules, 2019, putting in place a flimsy system…”
- “As a country, India has no data on prescription errors. And for the Ministry of Health, the absence of data is the absence of a problem.”
Key Examples and References:
- Dr. Vincent Rajkumar’s shock over drugs with identical names treating different conditions.
- Example of the brand name ‘Medzole’ used by different companies for drugs treating various medical conditions.
Key Facts:
- English language used on drug packaging, spoken by less than 10% of the population.
- Poor regulation of Indian pharmacies dispensing drugs without prescriptions.
Critical Analysis:
The article critically assesses the inadequacies of the regulatory framework, emphasizing the ineffective self-certification system and the absence of a centralized database. It underscores the lack of political will to address a long-standing issue that jeopardizes patient safety.
Way Forward:
- Establish a comprehensive database of pharmaceutical brand names.
- Strengthen regulatory mechanisms to prevent confusingly similar drug names.
- Implement effective measures, possibly modeled after systems in the United States and Europe, to minimize prescription errors.
- Increase awareness among pharmaceutical companies about the importance of unique and easily distinguishable drug names.
- Advocate for policy changes that prioritize patient safety in drug nomenclature.
In conclusion, addressing the issue requires a multi-faceted approach involving regulatory reforms, data collection, and industry awareness to ensure patient safety in the pharmaceutical landscape in India.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Erga Omnes Obligation
Mains level: rules-based international order
Central Idea:
The article discusses the legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) initiated by South Africa against Israel, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention in the conduct of military operations in Gaza. The international legal context, arguments presented by both sides, and potential provisional measures are highlighted.
Key Highlights:
- South Africa’s legal action against Israel based on the Genocide Convention.
- Debate and international reactions to the case, with Bangladesh and Jordan supporting South Africa, and Germany supporting Israel.
- The significance of provisional measures in protecting rights before a final determination.
- Challenges in proving the specific intent for genocide and contrasting arguments from South Africa and Israel.
- Potential outcomes and the broader context of international law legitimacy.
Key Challenges:
- Demonstrating specific intent for genocide.
- Varying international reactions and political divisions.
- Crafting effective provisional measures acceptable to both parties.
- Addressing the split between formerly colonial powers and others in international law opinions.
Key Terms:
- Genocide Convention: An international treaty prohibiting acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.
- Provisional Measures: Interim orders issued by a court to protect rights pending a final determination of a case.
- Erga Omnes Obligation: The obligation of states to take action to prevent genocide, a duty owed to the international community as a whole.
- Dolus Specialis: Specific intent required to establish the crime of genocide.
- International Criminal Court (ICC): An international tribunal that prosecutes individuals for the international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.
- Rules-Based International Order: A system where international relations are governed by agreed-upon rules and principles.
Key Phrases:
- “Provisional measures” as interim orders.
- “Erga omnes obligation” for states to prevent genocide.
- “Dolus specialis” indicating specific intent for genocide.
- “Rules-based international order” questioned by the proceedings.
Key Quotes:
- “Provisional measures are issued pending the final determination of a case.”
- “The split seems to track the divide between formerly colonial or imperial powers and others.”
- “The legitimacy of international law itself is at stake.”
Key Statements:
- South Africa’s claim based on being unrelated to the conflict but having an obligation to prevent genocide.
- Israel’s defense focused on the absence of a dispute and the multiple interpretations of statements.
- International law viewed as invented by the imperial “West.”
Key Examples and References:
- The Gambia versus Myanmar case.
- Germany’s contrasting positions in different legal cases.
- Alleged genocidal statements by Israeli politicians echoed by soldiers on TikTok.
Key Facts:
- December 29, 2023: South Africa initiates ICJ proceedings against Israel.
- January 11-12, 2024: ICJ hearing on provisional measures.
- 24,000-plus deaths in Gaza during the present war.
- Destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza.
- Germany’s intervention in The Gambia versus Myanmar case.
Key Data:
- Data includes 24,000-plus deaths in Gaza during the present war and destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza.
Critical Analysis:
The article critically examines the challenges of proving genocide, the international split in opinions, and questions the legitimacy of the “rules-based international order.” It underscores the broader implications of the ICJ’s decision on the perception of international law.
Way Forward:
- Await the ICJ’s ruling on provisional measures.
- Consider potential alternatives for provisional measures, such as a humanitarian ceasefire or facilitating resource entry into Gaza.
- Observe how nation-states respond to the ICJ’s decision and its impact on international law legitimacy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Karpoori Thakur
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- On January 23, the Indian government made a significant announcement, posthumously awarding the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, to Karpoori Thakur, the former chief minister of Bihar.
- Thakur, affectionately known as ‘Jannayak’ or the leader of the people, leaves behind a legacy of enduring policy decisions that continue to shape Bihar and the nation.
Karpoori Thakur: Life and Career
- A Leader of Contrasts: Thakur, born on January 24, 1924, in Bihar, emerged as the foremost backward caste leader in the state, despite hailing from the minority nai (barber) caste.
- Political Activism: He actively participated in the freedom struggle, enduring imprisonment for his convictions.
- Decades of Public Service: Thakur served as an MLA from 1952 until his passing in 1988, except for a brief period when he became an MP in 1977.
- Respected Clean Image: Despite holding public office for three decades, Thakur maintained a clean image and refrained from personal enrichment through government resources.
Landmark Policy Decisions
- Education Reform: Removed English as a compulsory subject for matriculation examinations, aiming to make education more accessible.
- Prohibition of Alcohol: Enforced a ban on alcohol consumption to address societal issues stemming from alcohol abuse.
- Job Opportunities for Engineers: Introduced preferential treatment for unemployed engineers in government contracts, leading to employment for approximately 8,000 engineers.
- Layered Reservation System: Implemented the ‘Karpoori Thakur Formula’ in June 1970, providing 26% reservation, including 12% for OBCs, 8% for economically backward OBCs, 3% for women, and 3% for economically disadvantaged individuals from upper castes.
Challenges and Consequences
- Immediate Opposition: Thakur’s reservation policy faced significant opposition, especially from upper castes, and his government fell due to its implementation.
- Polarization and Derogatory Remarks: His caste background led to derogatory slogans and polarization in society, despite his clean governance record.
- Political Fallout: Thakur’s decision to prioritize the reservation policy was perceived by some as hasty, unlike leaders who consolidated their positions before introducing similar policies.
Karpoori Thakur’s Enduring Legacy
- Mandal-Kamandal Politics: Thakur’s legacy remains influential in the ongoing Mandal-Kamandal political landscape.
- Recognition by Leaders: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, himself from a numerically small EBC community, has closely associated himself with Thakur’s legacy.
- Political Continuation: Thakur’s policies continue to shape the agendas of political parties in Bihar, highlighting the lasting impact of his commitment to social justice.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pulsars, Neutron Stars, Glitches
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- In 1967 a group of astronomers at the University of Cambridge stumbled upon a celestial mystery that would unravel the secrets of neutron stars.
- Jocelyn Bell Burnell and Antony Hewish observed periodic signals emanating from the depths of space, eventually discovering the first pulsar, PSR B1919+21.
Pulsars and Neutron Stars
- The Birth of a Pulsar: PSR B1919+21 initially puzzled scientists, who considered various explanations, even the possibility of signals from extraterrestrial life.
- Neutron Stars: Neutron stars are born from the remnants of massive stars that didn’t become black holes. They are incredibly dense and primarily made up of neutrons.
Behind the Radiation: Lighthouse Effect
- Radiation Beams: Pulsars emit focused beams of radio waves, similar to a lighthouse’s rotating light.
- Rotation Slowdown: Neutron stars gradually slow down their rotation, and this process generates the pulsar’s radio signals.
The Mystery of Glitches
- Sudden Speed-Ups: In 1969, scientists noticed unexpected and brief increases in the rotation speed of pulsars, known as “glitches.”
- Unsolved Riddle: Even after more than four decades of study, the cause of these glitches remains a mystery, although scientists have developed some ideas.
- Common Occurrence: Around 700 glitches have been observed in more than 3,000 pulsars.
Clues in the Rotation
- Post-Glitch Behavior: During a glitch, the pulsar’s rotation rate temporarily increases before gradually returning to its previous speed.
- Sign of Internal Changes: The slow post-glitch recovery suggests that the neutrons inside the star behave like a special kind of fluid, called a superfluid, with very low friction.
- Superfluids and Vortices: Superfluids, like the one inside a neutron star, exhibit vortex behavior, which is like tiny whirlpools.
The Glitch Mechanism
- Neutron Star Structure: Neutron stars have a solid outer layer with superfluid patches and a core primarily made of superfluid.
- Vortex Pinning: Vortices within the superfluid like to stick to the crust or solid parts of the star, which keeps the superfluid rotating.
- How Glitches Happen: As the star loses energy over time, the crust slows down, but the pinned vortices stay at their original speed. When the difference becomes too great, the vortices are released, transferring energy from the superfluid to the crust, causing a glitch in the pulsar’s rotation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Vaibhav Fellowship Scheme
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- In a significant move to bolster India’s scientific research ecosystem, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) recently unveiled the first batch of ‘Vaibhav’ fellows.
About Vaibhav Fellowship Scheme
- The Vaibhav Fellowship, initiated in June 2023, is designed to attract Indian-origin scientists residing abroad for short-term collaborations with Indian institutions.
- These collaborations aim to foster research excellence and innovation by tapping into the expertise of Indian scientists from around the world.
Benefits for Vaibhav Fellows
- Collaboration: Fellows commit to spending a month or two annually in India for a maximum of three years, collaborating with host Indian institutions.
- Financial Support: Each selected Vaibhav fellow receives a stipend of ₹4 lakh per month, along with accommodation during their stay in India.
- Renowned Host Institutions: Host institutions encompass esteemed names like the IISc, IIT, and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, among others.
- Research Grant: The host institutions are provided with a research grant to support collaborative projects and technology start-ups initiated by the fellows.
- Long-term Research Connections: Fellows are encouraged to build enduring research connections with host institutions, collaborate with faculty, and bring fresh ideas to the field, contributing to Indian university and research settings.
Vaibhav vs. Vajra: Distinct Objectives
- Vaibhav Fellowship Scheme: Primarily targets the Indian diaspora for collaborations, with a focus on translational outcomes in critical areas of scientific research.
- Vajra Scheme: Open to all foreign scientists, it promotes short-term visits by foreign faculty to Indian institutions, offering a broader platform for international collaboration.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ASER 2023 Key Findings
Mains level: Gender Equity in Education
Introduction
- Education is a cornerstone of societal development, and addressing gender-related issues within it is crucial for progress
- While ASER 2023 data on learning outcomes may suggest gender equity, a closer look reveals persistent gender discrimination.
Gender Equity: Learning Outcomes Parity
- Gender Equity in Learning: Analysis of learning outcomes, such as test scores, shows parity between boys and girls in elementary and secondary classes across India.
- Example: In Classes 3 and 5, girls and boys score equally in mathematics, both at 63 and 53, respectively.
- Subject Scores: Gender differences in subject scores rarely exceed one percentage point.
Widening Gender Gap
- Increased Education: Girls in India are receiving more education than ever before, with the mean years of schooling nearly tripling from 1.7 years in 1990 to 4.7 years in 2018.
- Boys’ Progress: Boys have also seen educational improvements, with the average attainment increasing from 4.1 to 8.2 years.
- Growing Gender Gap: Despite girls making significant strides in education, the gender gap, measured as the difference in attainment between males and females, has grown over time, from 2.4 years to 3.5 years.
- Global Trends: India’s divergence from global trends is notable, as many countries have seen equal improvements in education for both genders.
Barriers to Education
- Progressive Gender Gap: As education levels rise, barriers for girls become more significant, influenced by social norms, stereotypes, and adolescent-related factors.
- Class 1 to Class 8: Dropout rates shift dramatically, with nearly twice as many girls dropping out by Class 8 compared to boys.
Early Childhood Education (ECE)
- Gender Bias in ECE: Gender discrimination begins at the earliest stages of education, as revealed by the Annual Status of Education Report “Early Years.”
- Private vs. Government Schools: More boys are enrolled in private institutions, while girls are often sent to free government schools, reflecting societal biases.
- Age Correlation: A five percentage point gender difference in enrollment exists at the age of four, growing to eight percentage points by age eight.
- Impact of Gender Norms: Societies valuing male children’s education tend to withdraw more girls from school.
Focus on ECE
- Policy Shift Needed: Addressing the gender gap in education requires a shift towards Early Childhood Education (ECE) to tackle the roots of gender norms.
- Age of Influence: Children between three and seven are highly impressionable, forming biases about gender roles during this period.
- Challenges: Insufficient funding, poor quality, and the absence of legislation for universal ECE access pose challenges in India.
- Investment Returns: Longitudinal studies indicate that every dollar invested in ECE yields substantial returns, proving its cost-effectiveness.
- Government Initiatives: Programs like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” and the Draft National Education Policy emphasize the importance of ECE.
Conclusion
- The gender gap in education, particularly in the early years, requires immediate attention and intervention. Establishing a regulatory framework, adequate funding, and quality standards for ECE is essential.
- By eliminating gender stereotypes in preschools, we can work towards erasing the gender gap in education.
- The benefits of investing in girls’ education are vast, ranging from reduced poverty and crime to improved economic development.
- It is time to prioritize early childhood education to create a brighter and more equal future for all.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Police Atrocities
Introduction
- In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India, made oral observations condemning the 2022 incident involving four Gujarat Police officers.
- These officers had publicly flogged some men, restraining them to a pole, under the allegation of disrupting a garba event in the Kheda district.
Kheda Incident
- Public Flogging and Video Documentation: The incident in question involved the public flogging of some men who were tied to a pole. Shockingly, videos of the brutal act were also recorded.
- Lack of Legal Authority: Justice B.R. Gavai questioned whether the officers had any legal authority to restrain individuals in such a manner and subject them to physical abuse. Justice Sandeep Mehta expressed similar concerns.
Ethical Dimensions Put to Question
- Human Rights: Police misconduct and brutality violate citizens’ fundamental rights, including the right to life, liberty, dignity, equality, and justice. They also breach international human rights standards.
- Rule of Law: Such actions undermine democratic societies based on the rule of law, diminishing law enforcement agencies’ legitimacy and fostering a culture of impunity where police act as judge, jury, and executioner.
- Professionalism: Police misconduct erodes the professionalism, integrity, and morale of the police force. It negatively impacts training, discipline, supervision, and leadership, pressuring honest officers to conform to unethical practices.
- Social Harmony: Police misconduct disrupts social cohesion, breeding resentment, fear, anger, and distrust, especially among marginalized groups. It contributes to social conflicts, violence, and extremism, threatening national peace and stability.
Violation of D.K. Basu Judgment (1996)
- Supreme Court’s Historical Verdict: The actions of the police officers were found to be in contempt of the Supreme Court’s landmark D.K. Basu judgment of 1996. This judgment emphasized the importance of protecting individuals from torture and abuse by the police and law-enforcing officers.
- Prohibition of Third-Degree Methods: The D.K. Basu verdict explicitly prohibited the use of “third degree” methods or torture during interrogation and investigation.
Supreme Court’s Response
- Ignorance of Law: Justices Gavai and Mehta were not convinced by the argument put forth by senior advocate Siddharth Dave, representing the police officers, that there was no “willful disobedience” of the D.K. Basu verdict by his clients. The Bench questioned whether ignorance of the law could serve as a defence in this context.
- Duty of Police Officers: The Bench emphasized that every police officer must be aware of the legal principles established in the D.K. Basu judgment.
Conclusion
- The Supreme Court’s strong stance against the actions of the Gujarat Police officers in this case underscores the importance of upholding the principles of justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
- This incident serves as a reminder of the duty and responsibility that law enforcement agencies have in protecting the rights and dignity of individuals while performing their duties.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gini Coefficient
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- A recent report by the State Bank of India (SBI) has illuminated a significant decline in income inequality in India over the past decade.
- This report, which analyzes taxpayer data, indicates a substantial reduction in the Gini coefficient, a widely accepted measure of income inequality.
What is the Gini Coefficient?
- The Gini Coefficient, often referred to as the Gini Index or Gini Ratio, is a measure of income or wealth inequality within a specific population, region, or country.
- It assigns a numerical value between 0 and 1.
- 0 represents perfect income or wealth equality (everyone has the same income or wealth), and 1 signifies perfect inequality (one person or household has all the income or wealth, and everyone else has none).
- To calculate the Gini Coefficient, income or wealth data is typically arranged in ascending order, from the poorest to the richest individuals or households.
- A Lorenz curve is plotted, which is a graphical representation of the actual income or wealth distribution. It compares the cumulative income or wealth of the population to the cumulative share of the population.
- The Gini Coefficient is calculated by measuring the area between the Lorenz curve and the line of perfect equality. This area is then divided by the total area under the line of perfect equality.
Gini Coefficient and Income Inequality
- Gini Coefficient: The Gini coefficient measures income inequality, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (perfect inequality).
- Reported Decline: The Gini coefficient has dropped from 0.472 in 2014-15 to 0.402 in 2022-23, marking a nearly 15% reduction in income inequality.
Examining Income Inequality across Employment Types
- Taxpayer Data Limitation: The SBI report focuses on taxpayer data, potentially excluding a significant portion of income earners.
- Significant Majority below Tax Threshold: Approximately 80% of income earners earn less than ₹2.5 lakh per annum, the minimum taxable amount.
A Closer Look at the Gini Coefficient
- Preliminary Analysis: Data from the 2017-18 and 2022-23 Periodic Labour Force Surveys (PLFS) is analyzed to evaluate changes in income inequality among various employment categories.
- Gini Coefficient Trends: While the Gini coefficient decreases slightly from 0.4297 to 0.4197, the changes are minimal.
- Disaggregated Gini: The Gini coefficient falls for regular wage and casual wage workers but rises for the self-employed, though the shifts are modest.
Uncovering Income Polarization
- Beyond the Gini Coefficient: Income polarization becomes evident when examining the top 10% compared to the bottom 30% of income earners.
- Divergence in Income Growth: The top deciles witnesses’ faster income growth (around 7.23%) compared to the bottom 20% and even the third decile. In contrast, the bottom decile experiences the slowest growth (approximately 1.67%).
- The 90/10 Ratio: The ratio of incomes between the 90th percentile (top 10%) and the 10th percentile (bottom 10%) rises from 6.7 in 2017-18 to 6.9 in 2022-23, indicating increased income disparity.
- Variation among Employment Types: The 90/10 ratio falls for wage earners but significantly increases for the self-employed, particularly among top earners.
Analyzing the Changes
- Preliminary Assessment: While this analysis offers initial insights, further research is needed to comprehensively understand these trends.
- Impact of Women’s Participation: The rise in women’s labor force participation, primarily in low-paid self-employed roles, may explain the increased polarization among income earners.
- Tax Data Limitations: Taxpayer data might not capture the pace of inequality reduction among the broader population.
- Complex Inequality Dynamics: Reduction in the Gini coefficient conceals income divergence, and future growth may either mitigate or exacerbate this disparity.
Conclusion
- The SBI report’s revelation of declining income inequality in India is a positive development.
- However, a deeper examination of income distribution across employment types and deciles unveils a more complex picture.
- Income polarization, particularly among the self-employed, challenges the overarching narrative of reduced inequality.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kesavananda Bharati case
Mains level: relevance and importance of the Basic Structure doctrine in maintaining a balance of power in a democracy
Central Idea:
The article underscores the significance of the Kesavananda Bharati case in Indian constitutional history, highlighting how it established a crucial safeguard against potential tyranny and dictatorship. The case introduced the concept of the Basic Structure doctrine, asserting that even constitutional amendments passed by a parliamentary majority could be declared unconstitutional if they violated the fundamental principles integral to the Indian Constitution.
Key Highlights:
- The Kesavananda Bharati case marked a turning point by introducing the Basic Structure doctrine, preventing the constitutionalization of gross aberrations or tyranny through amendments.
- The Basic Structure doctrine empowers the judiciary to act as a check against potential misuse of power by the majority, safeguarding democracy.
- The article traces the evolution of this doctrine from earlier cases, such as Shankari Prasad, Sajjan Singh, and Golaknath, leading up to the Kesavananda Bharati judgment.
Key Challenges:
- The Basic Structure doctrine has faced challenges from those seeking to dilute or ignore its significance, posing a threat to the enduring democratic principles it upholds.
- The potential for misuse or misinterpretation of the Basic Structure doctrine could lead to controversies and confrontations in politics and governance.
Key Terms:
- Basic Structure: The fundamental principles and core features of the Indian Constitution that cannot be altered by constitutional amendments.
- Parliamentary Majority: The voting majority in the Parliament required to pass constitutional amendments.
- Constitutional Amendments: Changes made to the constitution, often requiring a special majority in the Parliament.
Key Phrases:
- “Basic Structure makes it impossible to constitutionalize gross aberrations.”
- “Anti-majoritarian safeguards”: Mechanisms in place to protect against the potential tyranny of the majority in a democracy.
Key Quotes:
- “Even a constitutional amendment can be declared unconstitutional if it violates the Basic Structure.”
- “The power of amendment… does not include the power to abrogate the Constitution.”
Anecdotes:
- The unsavoury episode of Chief Justice A N Ray attempting to unilaterally review the Kesavananda Bharati judgment in 1975 is highlighted, adding drama to the historical significance of the case.
- The description of Nani Palkhivala’s arguments as “divinity speaking through him” during the case adds a personal touch to the historical narrative.
Key Statements:
- “The highest bulwark of such safeguards is the Indian Constitution.”
- “Long live Basic Structure, despite the attempt of constitutional pygmies to jettison, dilute or ignore it.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the Shankari Prasad, Sajjan Singh, and Golaknath cases to illustrate the evolution of the Basic Structure doctrine.
- Mention of the 24th to 26th constitutional amendments enacted in 1971 to overrule specific judgments and provide context to the Kesavananda Bharati case.
Key Facts and Data:
- The Kesavananda Bharati case involved 703 pages of judgment spread over 11 judicial opinions, making it India’s longest argued case with the largest bench.
- The Golaknath case in 1967 had a 6-5 majority holding the entire Part 3 of the Constitution unamendable.
Critical Analysis:
The article presents a critical analysis of the Kesavananda Bharati case, highlighting its significance as a safeguard against potential misuse of power. It underscores the importance of the Basic Structure doctrine in preserving democratic principles and preventing constitutional aberrations.
Way Forward:
- Emphasize the continued relevance and importance of the Basic Structure doctrine in maintaining a balance of power in a democracy.
- Advocate for a nuanced understanding and application of the doctrine to ensure its integrity while addressing any legitimate concerns about its misuse.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Non-tariff barriers (NBTs). Quality control order (QCO)
Mains level: success of 'Make in India' policies in the toy industry
Central Idea:
The article discusses India’s toy industry’s recent shift to net exports, attributing the success to protectionist measures under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It raises questions about the efficacy of these policies and calls for a public release of an officially sponsored research study by the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM-L) to facilitate a more informed policy discussion.
Key Highlights:
- Between 2014-15 and 2022-23, India’s toy exports increased significantly, turning the country into a net exporter, while imports declined.
- An unpublished IIM-L case study, sponsored by DPIIT, credits the export success to promotional efforts under ‘Make in India.’
- The article questions the reported success and analyzes official statistics to understand the factors behind the industry’s turnaround.
Key Challenges:
- Lack of transparency regarding the IIM-L case study, creating ambiguity about the actual impact of ‘Make in India’ on the toy industry.
- Concerns about the sustainability of protectionist measures and the potential for “rent-seeking” behavior in the absence of complementary policies.
- The decline in labor productivity and other indicators in the toy industry despite protectionist measures.
Key Terms:
- ‘Make in India’ initiative.
- Net exports (exports minus imports).
- Protectionism.
- Non-tariff barriers (NBTs).
- Quality control order (QCO).
- Annual Survey of Industries (ASI).
- Fixed capital per worker.
- Gross value of output.
Key Phrases:
- “Turnaround in the labour-intensive industry.”
- “Rising protectionism since 2020-21.”
- “Infant industry argument.”
- “Learning by doing.”
- “Virtuous circle of expanding domestic capabilities.”
Key Quotes:
- “India has turned into a net toys exporter since 2020-21. ‘Make in India’ policies made it possible.”
- “Perhaps the IIM-L’s study uses different evidence to buttress its contention.”
- “Rising tariff and non-tariff barriers have made it possible.”
Key Statements:
- The article questions the correlation between ‘Make in India’ policies and the reported success in the toy industry.
- Concerns are raised about the impact of protectionism on the industry’s long-term competitiveness.
- Calls for transparency and public release of the IIM-L case study to facilitate informed policy discussions.
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the tripled customs duty on toys in February 2020 and the imposition of non-tariff barriers since January 2021.
- Mention of the decline in labor productivity and other indicators in the toy industry despite protectionist measures.
Key Facts and Data:
- Toy exports increased significantly between 2014-15 and 2022-23, making India a net exporter.
- The trade balance for toys turned positive in 2020-21 after a gap of 23 years.
- Customs duty on toys was raised to 70% in March 2023.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically examines the reported success of ‘Make in India’ policies in the toy industry, emphasizing the role of protectionism.
- Concerns are raised about the sustainability of protectionist measures and the need for complementary policies to enhance domestic capabilities.
- The decline in labor productivity challenges the notion that protectionism has led to improved industry competitiveness.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for transparency by making the IIM-L case study public to inform meaningful policy discussions.
- Emphasize the need for a comprehensive policy approach, combining protectionism with investment policies and infrastructure development.
- Encourage a dialogue on the long-term impact of protectionist measures on the toy industry’s competitiveness and the potential for “rent-seeking” behavior.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL)
Mains level: Semiconductor global value chain (GVC)
Central Idea:
The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme in India, designed to foster semiconductor design capabilities, faces challenges due to limited results and structural issues. The article suggests a comprehensive revamp, addressing key challenges, emphasizing the importance of the design ecosystem, and proposing a shift in focus to cultivate indigenous semiconductor design capabilities.
Key Highlights:
- The DLI scheme, part of the $10 billion Semicon India Program, has approved only seven start-ups, falling significantly short of the target to support 100 over five years.
- India’s semiconductor strategy aims to reduce dependence on imports, build supply chain resilience, and leverage its comparative advantage in chip design.
- The article underscores the need to prioritize the design stage for stimulating India’s semiconductor industry.
Key Challenges:
- The DLI scheme has witnessed lackluster results and low participation.
- Barriers include restrictions on foreign funding and ownership for beneficiary start-ups.
- Modest incentives and a challenging funding landscape impede semiconductor start-ups in India.
- Concerns are raised about the nodal agency’s role, posing potential conflicts of interest.
Key Terms:
- Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme.
- Semiconductor global value chain (GVC).
- Foundry and assembly stages of the semiconductor GVC.
- Electronic design automation (EDA) tools.
- Production-Linked Incentive schemes.
- Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL).
- India Semiconductor Mission.
Key Phrases:
- “Cultivate semiconductor design capabilities.”
- “Build supply chain resilience.”
- “Delink ownership from semiconductor design development.”
- “Shift focus to facilitate design capabilities for a wide array of chips.”
- “Revise policy to boost financial stability and provide global exposure.”
Key Quotes:
- “Stimulating the design ecosystem is less capital-intensive than foundry and assembly stages.”
- “The primary aim should be to cultivate semiconductor design capabilities in India.”
- “Enhance the financial outlay of the scheme substantially to support this policy shift.”
Key Statements:
- The article critiques the DLI scheme for its limited results and highlights barriers hindering effectiveness.
- Challenges faced by semiconductor start-ups, including funding issues and policy restrictions, are discussed.
- The need for a revamped DLI scheme, focusing on broader objectives and increased financial support, is emphasized.
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the Karnataka government’s Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL) as a potential model for an implementing agency.
- Mention of the Union government’s recent statement emphasizing the importance of “India-designed chips.”
Facts and Data:
- Only seven start-ups approved under the DLI scheme, significantly below the target of supporting 100.
- Modest incentives under the DLI scheme, capped at ₹15 Crore for Product DLI and ₹30 Crore for Deployment Linked Incentive.
- The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme is a part of India’s $10 billion Semicon India Program.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically evaluates the current DLI scheme, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive and effective approach.
- Concerns about the nodal agency’s role and potential conflicts of interest are highlighted.
- The article stresses the significance of cultivating indigenous semiconductor design capabilities in India for sustained success.
Way Forward:
- Revise the DLI scheme to delink ownership, enhance financial incentives, and broaden the focus on semiconductor design capabilities.
- Consider a new implementing agency, such as the Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL), for a more effective approach.
- Emphasize the importance of cultivating indigenous semiconductor design capabilities in India for long-term success.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cannabis , THCBD
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- To combat the menace of growing antibiotic resistance, scientists at CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu, have made a groundbreaking discovery.
- They found that phytocannabinoids, compounds found in the cannabis plant, possess previously untapped antibiotic properties.
Understanding India’s AMR Challenge
- Escalating AMR Threat: AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antibiotics, leading to increased disease risk and treatment complications.
- Alarming Statistics: In 2019, India reported 2.97 lakh deaths attributed to AMR and 10.42 lakh linked to AMR-related factors.
- Contributing Factors: Overuse of antibiotics, misuse in animal husbandry, and inadequate waste disposal practices are exacerbating AMR, potentially making India the “AMR capital of the world.”
Cannabis Unveils Antibiotic Potential
- Phytocannabinoid Research: IIIM researchers explored the antibiotic properties of tetrahydrocannabidiol (THCBD), a semisynthetic phytocannabinoid derived from cannabis.
- Fighting MRSA: THCBD exhibited remarkable efficacy against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a highly resistant strain of bacteria responsible for numerous deaths worldwide.
- Synergy with Existing Antibiotics: THCBD complemented or showed indifference to common antibiotics like mupirocin, penicillin G, and ciprofloxacin, suggesting potential combinatory treatments.
Overcoming Cannabis Research Challenges
- Legal Constraints: Cannabis research faces legal constraints due to its intoxicating properties, making collaboration with other institutes challenging.
- Policy Advocacy: The research project aims to advocate for a unified national policy for cannabis research, highlighting its antibacterial potential and transforming it into a valuable resource.
Future Prospects for THCBD
- Collaborative Efforts: IIIM researchers seek collaborations to expedite their progress in developing THCBD as a potential drug.
- Addressing Solubility Challenge: Ensuring THCBD’s solubility is a critical step. The molecule leans slightly towards lipophilicity, requiring optimization for proper absorption in biological systems.
- Healthcare Impact: This research not only promises significant contributions to the healthcare system but also offers economic benefits by establishing related industries and creating sustainable job opportunities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SIGHT Program
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has embarked Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Programme within the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
SIGHT Programme: An Overview
- Mission Alignment: SIGHT is an integral component of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, strategically designed to foster domestic electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production.
- Financial Commitment: A substantial investment of Rs 17,490 crore has been allocated to SIGHT until 2029-30.
- Dual Incentive Mechanisms: SIGHT introduces two distinct financial incentive mechanisms:
-
- Incentive for Electrolyser Manufacturing: To boost the production of essential electrolysis equipment.
- Incentive for Green Hydrogen Production: Encouraging the generation of clean and sustainable green hydrogen.
- Adaptive Evolution: The incentive schemes and programs will evolve in response to market dynamics and technological advancements, ensuring the Mission’s adaptability.
- Execution Authority: The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) is entrusted with executing the scheme, driving its effective implementation.
About National Green Hydrogen Mission
- Strategic Implementation: Launched by the MNRE, the mission commits an outlay of ₹ 19,744 crore from FY 2023–24 to FY 2029–30.
- Global Hub for Green Hydrogen: The overarching aim is to position India as a global hub for the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives.
- Vision for 2030:
-
- Production Capacity: India’s green hydrogen production capacity is projected to reach 5 million metric tons (MMT) per annum, diminishing fossil fuel imports and saving ₹1 lakh crore by 2030.
- Economic Impact: The mission anticipates attracting over ₹8 lakh crore in investments and generating employment for more than 6 lakh people.
- Carbon Emission Reduction: A targeted production and utilization of green hydrogen is expected to avert nearly 50 MMT per annum of CO2 emissions.
- Pilot Projects: The Mission encompasses support for pilot initiatives in low-carbon steel, mobility, shipping, and ports.
- Flexible Allocations: The Mission allocates resources for various sub-components like SIGHT, pilot projects, research and development (R&D), enabling the funding of selected projects.
- State-Wide Impact: While the Mission has no state-wise allocation, its broad scope promises nation-wide benefits.
Significance of Green Hydrogen
- Eco-Friendly Production: Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy sources like solar, wind, or hydropower.
- A Sustainable Fuel: This process yields a clean, emission-free fuel with immense potential to supplant fossil fuels and mitigate carbon emissions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Batadrava Than
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- A politician was recently denied entry to Assam’s Batadrava Than for his political campaigning.
About Batadrava Than
- Location: Situated in Nagaon district, Batadrava Than, also known as Bordowa Than, holds deep significance for Assamese Vaishnavites.
- Birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva: It stands at the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva (1449-1568), a revered Vaishnavite reformer-saint.
- Founder of Kirtan Ghar: Sankardeva established the first-ever Kirtan Ghar at Bordowa in 1494 AD, where he practiced and preached the neo Vaishnavite faith.
Sankardeva’s Philosophy
- Ek Saran Naam Dharma: Sankardeva’s philosophy centered on worship through bhakti (devotion) to Lord Krishna, emphasizing the singing and congregational listening of His name and deeds.
- Society Based on Equality: He advocated for a society free from caste distinctions, orthodox Brahmanical rituals, and sacrifices, promoting equality and fraternity.
- Devotion over Idol Worship: Sankardeva’s teachings favored prayer and chanting (naam) over idol worship.
- Four Components of Dharma: His dharma was founded on four components: deva (god), naam (prayers), bhakats (devotees), and guru (teacher).
Legacy of Sankardeva’s Movement
- Monastic Institutions: Sankardeva’s Neo-Vaishnavite reformist movement led to the establishment of monastic institutions known as Thans/Sattras across Assam.
- Religious, Social, and Cultural Reforms: These Thans/Sattras became centers for religious, social, and cultural reforms in the 16th century.
- “Worship Through Art” Approach: Today, the Sattras propagate Sankardeva’s unique approach of “worship through art” with music (borgeet), dance (xattriya), and theater (bhauna).
- Nucleus of Naamghar: Each Sattra has a naamghar (worship hall) as its nucleus and is led by an influential “Sattradhikar.”
Political Significance and Controversies
- Assamese Identity: Thans/Sattras are integral to Assamese identity, and Batadrava Than is frequently visited by politicians.
- Electoral Issue: The government has highlighted “land grabbing around Sattras by illegal settlers” as an electoral issue.
- Proposed Land Law: The CM has announced plans for a law preventing “non-indigenous people” from buying land within an eight-kilometer radius of Batadrava Than.
- Beautification Project: Home Minister Amit Shah launched a Rs 188 crore beautification project at Batadrava Than in 2021.
Also read:
Assam’s Sattras and their Political Significance
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 1.5 degree Celsius Threshold
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The year 2023 witnessed alarming signs of climate change, from record-breaking summer temperatures to shrinking Antarctic sea ice and extreme weather events across the globe.
- Despite the overwhelming scientific consensus on climate change, there remains confusion and misinformation on this critical issue.
Is the Earth Becoming Warmer?
- Temperature Measurement: Temperature measurements since the late 1880s show global warming trends. Satellite data confirms an increase of at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1880.
- Indirect Verification: Analyzing natural indicators like tree rings and ice cores. Observing effects such as warming oceans, shrinking ice cover, and rising sea levels. Multiple monitoring systems enhance confidence in global-scale warming.
- Acceleration of Warming: Recent decades witness unprecedented rapid warming. The majority of warming observed since 1975. 2022 marked the 46th consecutive year of temperatures above the 20th-century average.
Role of Human Activities
- Natural Factors: Throughout Earth’s history, natural factors like solar variations and volcanic activity influenced climate.
- Current Acceleration: However, natural factors exert too little influence and operate too slowly to account for recent rapid warming, as acknowledged by NASA.
- Greenhouse Gases: The primary driver of global warming is the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and water vapor.
- Human Influence: Since the Industrial Revolution, human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, have released substantial greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
- Unprecedented Change: Changes that would typically occur over hundreds of thousands of years are now happening within decades.
Overwhelming Evidence
- Scientific Consensus: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has stated that “human influence on the climate system is clear and growing.”
- Unprecedented Warmth: 2022 marked the 46th consecutive year with global temperatures exceeding the 20th-century average, with the last nine years ranking among the warmest.
1.5 Degree Celsius Threshold
- Paris Agreement: 195 countries pledge to limit warming to “well below 2 degrees Celsius” and aim to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
- Baseline Year: Pre-industrial levels based on measurements from 1850 to 1900, providing a reliable historical reference.
- Reason for 1.5 Degrees: Scientific consensus: 1.5 degrees is a defense line against severe climate impacts. It avoids extreme and irreversible consequences associated with 2 degrees warming.
- Continuous Improvement: Lowering the target reduces climate risks further. Science supports aiming for the lowest possible temperature increase.
Consequences of Breaching the Threshold
- Increased Extreme Weather: More frequent and intense heavy precipitation. Elevated drought intensity and frequency in some regions.
- Warmer Oceans: Higher number of strong hurricanes with rapid strengthening.
- Intensified Wildfires: Longer-lasting and more intense wildfires.
- Rapid Sea Ice Melt: Accelerated sea-level rise.
- Emerging Consequences: Many of these impacts are already underway. Breaching the threshold exacerbates these effects.
How Close Are We to Breaching the Threshold?
- WMO Warning: World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) warns of a 66% chance of crossing the 1.5-degree limit between 2023 and 2027.
- Hottest Year: 2023 declared the hottest year on record, 1.48 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels.
- Daily Fluctuations: Daily temperatures occasionally exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius, but long-term trends are the focus.
Conclusion
- The evidence of climate change and global warming is undeniable.
- Human activities, primarily the release of greenhouse gases, are driving these changes at an unprecedented rate.
- Understanding the science behind climate change is crucial in addressing this real global crisis.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: FCRA
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- In recent developments, the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA) registration of two prominent non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the Centre for Policy Research (CPR) and World Vision India (WVI), has been cancelled.
FCRA: Regulating Foreign Donations
- Objective: FCRA regulates foreign donations to ensure they do not adversely affect India’s internal security.
- Compulsory Registration: Any association, group, or NGO intending to receive foreign donations must register under FCRA.
- Amendments: The FCRA was first enacted in 1976 and amended in 2010, with further changes in 2020.
Registration and Renewal
- Initial Registration: NGOs initially register under FCRA for five years, with the possibility of renewal if they adhere to the specified norms.
- Scope of Usage: Registered groups can receive foreign contributions for various programs, including social, educational, religious, economic, and cultural.
Cancellations and Renewals
- Cancellations: Since 2015, over 16,000 NGOs have had their FCRA registrations cancelled due to violations.
- Active NGOs: As of January 22, 16,989 FCRA-registered NGOs were active in India.
- Expired Registrations: Nearly 6,000 NGOs’ FCRA registrations ceased from January 1, 2022, either due to the MHA’s refusal to renew or NGOs not applying for renewal.
Significance and Controversies
- Risk of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing: The MHA’s 2012 report highlighted the vulnerability of the NGO sector to money laundering and terrorist financing risks.
- Record Number of Registrations: In 2023, 1,111 associations received fresh FCRA registrations.
- Reasons for Rejection: Out of 1,615 applications received for FCRA registration in 2021 and 2022, 722 were granted clearance, while 225 were rejected.
- Foreign Contribution Amount: In 2019-2022, a total of 13,520 associations received ₹55,741.51 crore in foreign contributions.
Reasons for Cancellation: CPR and WVI
- CPR Allegations: The MHA accused CPR of diverting foreign donations to fund protests and legal battles against developmental projects, affecting India’s economic interests. CPR’s publication of current affairs programs using foreign funds was deemed a violation.
- CPR’s Response: CPR deemed the ministry’s decision incomprehensible and disproportionate, challenging the reasoning behind equating policy reports on their website with current affairs programming.
- WVI’s Allegations: WVI had its FCRA registration cancelled for alleged violations from 2012-13 to 2020-21. WVI received the highest amount of foreign donations among all NGOs registered under the Act in 1986.
FCRA Amendments: Recent Changes
The FCRA underwent significant amendments in 2020, introducing several restrictions:
- Fund Transfer Prohibition: Section 7 of the Act prohibits the transfer of foreign funds received by an organization to any other individual or association.
- Designated Bank Account: Recipients must open an FCRA bank account in a designated SBI branch in New Delhi, mandating that all foreign funds be received in this account.
- Shared Information: The designated bank informs authorities about foreign remittances with source and receipt details.
- Aadhaar Requirement: The Government can collect Aadhaar numbers of key functionaries of organizations applying for FCRA registration.
- Cap on Administrative Expenditure: The portion of funds allowed as administrative expenditure was reduced from 50% to 20%.
Criticisms and Government’s Perspective
- Arbitrary Restrictions: NGOs criticize the prohibition on fund transfer as arbitrary and restrictive.
- Non-Sharing of Funds: This prohibition hinders the sharing of aid received as material, impacting collaborative efforts.
- Inconvenient Designated Bank: The requirement for a Delhi-based bank account is inconvenient for NGOs operating elsewhere.
- Government’s Justification: The government maintains that these amendments are necessary to prevent foreign state and non-state interference in India’s internal affairs and to curb malpractices in fund utilization.
Conclusion
- The FCRA plays a crucial role in regulating foreign donations to NGOs in India.
- The recent cancellations of CPR and WVI registrations, coupled with the amendments, highlight the complex and evolving landscape of foreign contributions and their impact on Indian NGOs.
- Understanding these developments is essential for comprehending the dynamics of funding, regulation, and accountability in the non-profit sector.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- PM Modi announced the launch of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana,’ a government initiative aimed at providing rooftop solar power systems to one crore households in India.
- This ambitious scheme builds upon previous efforts to promote rooftop solar installations in the country, addressing the growing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources.
About Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana
- Rooftop Solar Installations: The scheme focuses on the installation of solar power systems on 1 crore residential rooftops.
- Reduced Electricity Bills: It aims to reduce electricity bills for households, especially benefitting the “poor and middle class.”
- Energy Self-Reliance: The scheme aligns with India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in the energy sector.
India’s Current Solar Capacity
- Total Solar Capacity: As of December 2023, India boasts a total solar power installed capacity of approximately 73.31 GW.
- Rooftop Solar Capacity: The rooftop solar capacity stands at around 11.08 GW, emphasizing the need for expansion.
- Leading States: Rajasthan leads in total solar capacity with 18.7 GW, while Gujarat tops the list in rooftop solar capacity with 2.8 GW.
Importance of Expanding Solar Energy
- Growing Energy Demand: India is projected to experience substantial energy demand growth over the next 30 years, requiring a reliable energy source.
- Diversifying Energy Mix: To meet this demand and reduce dependency on coal, India aims to reach 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
- Solar Power Growth: India has significantly increased its solar power capacity, from less than 10 MW in 2010 to 70.10 GW in 2023.
Existing schemes: Rooftop Solar Programme
- Launched in 2014: The programme seeks to boost rooftop solar installations in the residential sector.
- Financial Assistance: It offers Central Financial Assistance and incentives to distribution companies (DISCOMs).
- Capacity Target: The programme aims to achieve 40 GW of rooftop solar capacity by March 2026, having already grown from 1.8 GW in March 2019 to 10.4 GW by November 2023.
- Consumer Benefits: Consumers can access the scheme through DISCOM tendered projects or the National Portal. They have the flexibility to select vendors and solar equipment. Subsidies are directly transferred to their bank accounts, and surplus solar power can be exported to the grid, offering monetary benefits.
Conclusion
- The news scheme signifies India’s commitment to harnessing solar power as a clean and sustainable energy source for its growing population.
- With a focus on residential rooftop installations, this scheme aims to reduce electricity bills for millions of households while contributing to India’s energy self-reliance goals.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: COP-28:
Mains level: indigenize supply chains for clean energy
Central Idea:
India aims to balance economic growth and environmental concerns as it strives to become the fastest-growing economy, focusing on decarbonizing the power sector, ensuring development, and securing energy needs. Coal remains crucial, but strategies involve managing existing assets, enhancing coal fleet flexibility, incentivizing energy storage, and promoting domestic manufacturing of renewable energy technologies.
Key Highlights:
- India is actively involved in climate action, reducing fossil fuel subsidies, and planning a threefold increase in renewable power capacity by 2030.
- Coal, despite being essential, is slated to persist until India attains developed country status.
- Strategies include better managing thermal plant outages, increasing coal fleet flexibility, incentivizing energy storage, and promoting domestic clean energy manufacturing.
Key Challenges:
- Balancing economic growth with the imperative to phase down unabated coal.
- Uncertainty in predicting India’s coal reliance due to rising electricity demand.
- Adapting existing coal plants for flexibility in integrating renewable energy.
- Compensating entities for energy storage services and boosting domestic value and job creation in clean energy.
Key Terms:
- COP-28: The 28th Conference of the Parties, relevant to global climate change negotiations.
- Unabated Coal: Coal burning without a reduction in carbon emissions.
- Renewable Power Generation: Electricity from sustainable sources like wind, solar, and hydropower.
- Atmanirbhar: A Hindi term signifying self-reliance, commonly used in promoting domestic manufacturing.
Key Phrases:
- “Decarbonizing the power sector while ensuring economic development and energy security.”
- “Reducing overall fossil fuel subsidies” and “tripling installed renewable power generation capacity by 2030.”
- “Managing thermal plant outages during peak demand periods.”
- “Increasing the flexibility of the existing coal fleet to integrate more renewable energy into the grid.”
- “Indigenizing supply chains for battery storage and renewable energy technologies.”
Key Quotes:
- “India has reduced overall fossil fuel subsidies by 76% between FY14 and FY22.”
- “Coal will remain a vital energy source until India reaches the status of a developed country.”
- “Entities deploying batteries must be compensated for the value they bring to grid operation.”
- “Boosting domestic value and job creation in clean energy will mitigate concerns associated with disruptions in the global supply chain.”
Key Statements:
- “To keep the economy powered while decarbonizing, India must use existing assets better and invest in energy storage capabilities.”
- “Improving availability and utilization of existing plants can mitigate the need for investments in new thermal assets.”
- “Indigenizing supply chains for clean energy will support exports and domestic value additions, mitigating concerns of global supply chain disruptions.”
Key Examples and References:
- “In 2023, coal-based power plants in India witnessed unplanned outages during peak demand days.”
- “The PLI scheme committed funds to solar manufacturing, supporting domestic value additions.”
Key Facts and Data:
- “India reduced overall fossil fuel subsidies by 76% between FY14 and FY22.”
- “India produced coal worth substantial amounts in FY22, providing significant revenues to the government.”
- “The PLI scheme committed funds to solar manufacturing, supporting potential domestic value addition.”
Critical Analysis:
- The article underscores the tension between economic growth and environmental concerns in India’s energy strategy.
- Emphasizing strategies for managing existing assets and enhancing coal fleet flexibility reflects a pragmatic approach to the transition to renewables.
- Highlighting the importance of incentivizing energy storage services and promoting domestic manufacturing underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustainable energy policy.
Way Forward:
- Prioritize transparent assessments of long-term opportunity costs of conventional power sources.
- Focus on affordable electricity for all segments of the economy.
- Build on the success of the PLI scheme to further indigenize supply chains for clean energy.
- Implement policies encouraging flexibility in the coal fleet and compensating entities for energy storage services.
- Continue investing in renewable energy and storage technologies to align with global decarbonization commitments while ensuring energy security.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: S.R. Bommai case
Mains level: potential consequences of One Nation, One Election
Central Idea:
The article discusses the formation and potential implications of the ‘High Level Committee on One Nation, One Election’ set up by the Union Government in September 2023. It delves into the reasons for and against the concept, focusing on the financial aspects and governance downtime. The author raises legal concerns, particularly regarding the constitutional autonomy of states, linguistic bias in consultations, and the role of the Election Commission. The looming possibility of a constitutional showdown in the Supreme Court is emphasized, drawing parallels with the U.S. case of Baker v. Carr.
Key Highlights:
- Formation of the ‘High Level Committee on One Nation, One Election’ chaired by former President Ramnath Kovind.
- Reasons supporting the concept include reducing election expenses and minimizing governance downtime caused by the Model Code of Conduct.
- Opposition argues that democratic processes, including elections and the Model Code of Conduct, are essential for a functioning democracy.
- Legal concerns raised, citing potential violation of state autonomy and constitutional provisions, particularly as stated in the S.R. Bommai case.
- The linguistic bias in consultations, with the committee’s website available only in English and Hindi, is highlighted.
- The Election Commission’s seemingly passive role and lack of involvement in the process are questioned.
Key Challenges:
- Constitutional and legal concerns regarding the potential alteration of the duration of State Legislative Assemblies.
- Linguistic bias in consultations, limiting the inclusivity of the decision-making process.
- Potential compromise of the Election Commission’s independence and autonomy.
- Balancing financial considerations with the fundamental principles of democracy.
- The challenge of ensuring a fair and unbiased decision-making process amid political interests.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- One Nation, One Election
- High Level Committee
- Model Code of Conduct
- S.R. Bommai case
- Constitutional autonomy
- Governance downtime
- Baker v. Carr moment
- Linguistic bias
- Election Commission
- Constitutional showdown
Key Quotes:
- “The cost of holding free and fair elections… is a price that can never be high.”
- “The introduction of a common election process would necessarily require alteration of the existing duration of a number of State Legislatures.”
- “Similar to demonetisation, when the Reserve Bank of India was kept in the dark, the Election Commission seems to be a silent spectator.”
Key Statements:
- “The Supreme Court would be called upon to determine the ultimate fate of Indian democracy.”
- “The potential alteration of the duration of State Legislatures would be anti-federal and unconstitutional.”
- “The stage is set for a constitutional showdown in the not-too-distant future.”
Key Examples and References:
- Baker v. Carr case in the U.S. as a reference for the potential role of the Supreme Court in a constitutional showdown.
- Comparison with demonetization to highlight concerns about the Election Commission’s apparent lack of involvement.
Key Facts and Data:
- The estimated cost of the 2014 general elections was ₹3,870 crore.
- The High Level Committee’s website is available only in English and Hindi.
Critical Analysis:
The article critically examines the potential consequences of One Nation, One Election, questioning its feasibility and highlighting legal and constitutional concerns. It underscores the importance of democratic processes and the need for the Supreme Court to play a pivotal role in preserving India’s constitutional architecture.
Way Forward:
- Ensure comprehensive and inclusive consultations in multiple languages to address linguistic bias.
- Strengthen the autonomy of the Election Commission and ensure its active participation in decision-making processes.
- Balance financial considerations with the preservation of democratic principles.
- Address legal concerns, particularly those related to state autonomy and constitutional provisions.
- Encourage public discourse to raise awareness and engage citizens in the decision-making process.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 16th Finance Commission
Mains level: inclusion of tax contribution, particularly from Goods and Services Tax (GST) and petroleum consumption, as a significant efficiency indicator in the distribution formula used by Finance Commissions to allocate Union tax revenue among states.
Central Idea:
The article advocates for the inclusion of tax contribution, particularly from Goods and Services Tax (GST) and petroleum consumption, as a significant efficiency indicator in the distribution formula used by Finance Commissions to allocate Union tax revenue among states. The authors argue that these measures provide a fair and stable representation of a state’s economic contribution to the national exchequer.
Key Highlights:
- Finance Commissions play a crucial role in recommending the distribution of Union tax revenues among states.
- Historically, tax contribution had less weight in the distribution formula, but it was completely dropped since the 10th Finance Commission.
- The article contends that tax contribution, especially under the GST regime, is a reliable measure of efficiency, unlike other indicators like tax effort and fiscal discipline.
- The authors propose that GST and petroleum consumption, being stable and indicative of income, should be given a substantial weight in the distribution formula.
Key Challenges:
- Resistance from states that may perceive a potential shift in their shares based on tax contribution.
- The stability of indicators like tax effort and fiscal discipline is questioned, making it challenging to assign them higher weights.
- The need to ensure that the inclusion of tax contribution does not lead to unfair outcomes or discourage states from adopting progressive tax policies.
Key Terms:
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): A unified consumption-based destination tax equally divided between the State and Central governments.
- Tax Contribution: The amount of revenue generated by a state through taxes, considered as an efficiency indicator.
- Finance Commission: A body responsible for recommending the distribution of Union tax revenues among states in India.
Key Phrases:
- “Equity and efficiency in tax revenue transfers.”
- “Tax contribution as an efficiency indicator.”
- “GST and petroleum consumption as fair measures of states’ contributions to the national exchequer.”
Key Quotes:
- “Tax contribution is an efficiency indicator because a State’s level of development and economic structure decides its tax contribution.”
- “GST satisfies the criterion of stability in tax structure, making it an ideal efficiency indicator.”
- “There is a persuasive case for the 16th Finance Commission to debate and include these ratios as a measure of efficiency.”
Key Statements:
- “Since the 10th Finance Commission, tax contribution was dropped from the distribution formula.”
- “GST is a consumption-based destination tax that is equally divided between the State and Central governments.”
- “The Finance Commissions have always favored assigning more than 75% weight to equity indicators.”
Key Examples and References:
- The article references the 15th Finance Commission’s distribution formula, which included tax effort, fiscal discipline, and demographic performance.
- The stability of GST as an efficiency indicator is supported by calculations presented by the authors.
Key Facts:
- The share of personal and corporate income taxes is 64% in Central tax revenue in 2021-22.
- Finance Commissions historically assigned 10% to 20% weight to tax contribution in the distribution formula.
Key Data:
- The weightage of tax effort in the 15th Finance Commission’s distribution formula was 2.5%, with demographic performance receiving a weight of 12.5%.
- The recommended weight for equity indicators in the same formula was 85%.
Critical Analysis:
The article provides a compelling argument for the inclusion of tax contribution in the distribution formula, highlighting the stability and fairness of GST as an efficiency indicator. However, potential challenges such as resistance from states and the need for careful consideration to prevent unintended consequences are acknowledged.
Way Forward:
The authors suggest that the 16th Finance Commission should actively debate and consider including GST and petroleum consumption with a substantial weight in the distribution formula. This, they argue, would better represent states’ contributions to the national exchequer and promote efficiency in resource allocation.
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