Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor recently addressed the issues and vulnerabilities surrounding Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs), highlighting the importance of addressing these concerns.
What are Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)?
- UCBs are primary cooperative banks primarily situated in urban and semi-urban areas, catering to the financial needs of small borrowers and businesses.
- They are governed by the Banking Regulations Act, 1949, the Banking Laws (Cooperative Societies) Act, 1955, and registered under the Cooperative Societies Act of the respective State.
- Initially, UCBs were permitted to lend exclusively for non-agricultural purposes; however, they have diversified their size and operations since 1996.
- Approximately 79% of UCBs are concentrated in five states: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
Types of UCBs
UCBs are categorized into different tiers by the RBI based on their deposit size:
- Tier 1: Deposits up to Rs 100 crore.
- Tier 2: Deposits ranging from Rs 100 to 1,000 crore.
- Tier 3: Deposits between Rs 1,000 to Rs 10,000 crore.
- Tier 4: Deposits exceeding Rs 10,000 crore.
Key concerns/addresses raised by RBI
(1) Operational Stability
- UCBs must enhance their financial and operational resilience to contribute to the overall stability of the financial and banking sector.
- The quality of governance within UCBs plays a pivotal role in ensuring the stability of these individual banks.
(2) Setting up right priorities
- Boards and directors of UCBs must prioritize integrity and transparency in financial reporting, refraining from innovative accounting practices that obscure the actual financial position.
- Proactive management of Asset Liability is essential to manage liquidity risk systematically.
- Establishing robust IT and cybersecurity infrastructure, along with the availability of necessary skills at the bank level, is crucial.
- Governance practices, especially those related to Compliance, Risk Management, and Internal Audit, need strengthening.
(3) Functioning of Boards
- Ensuring directors possess adequate skills and expertise.
- Constituting a professional board of management.
- Considering the diversity and tenure of board members.
- Promoting transparent and participatory board discussions.
- Ensuring the effective functioning of board-level Committees.
(4) Credit Risk Management
- Upholding risk management through robust underwriting standards.
- Implementing effective post-sanction monitoring.
- Timely recognition and mitigation of emerging stress.
- Pursuing follow-ups with large Non-Performing Asset (NPA) borrowers to facilitate recovery and maintain adequate provisioning.
Conclusion
- Addressing the concerns and vulnerabilities in Urban Cooperative Banks is vital for the overall stability and resilience of the banking sector.
- The RBI’s recommendations highlight the importance of governance, risk management, and transparency in ensuring the health of UCBs.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Black Sea Grain Initiatives
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Black Sea grain deal lapsed on July 17. Turkey now seeks to resume the treaty.
- Russia though had not agreed to renew the deal, citing unmet promises and difficulties in its own agricultural exports due to Western sanctions.
Black Sea Grain Initiative
- The Initiative eased Russia’s naval blockade and saw the reopening of three key Ukrainian ports.
- The UN and Turkey brokered the deal in July 2022, allowing cargo ships to travel between Ukrainian ports and undergo inspections to ensure they were not carrying arms.
- The deal has been extended twice but is set to expire on July 17, 2023.
- The agreement created procedures to safely export grain from certain ports to attempt to address the 2022 food crisis.
- It provides a safe maritime humanitarian corridor for Ukrainian exports (particularly for food grains) from three of its key ports: Chornomorsk, Odesa and Yuzhny/Pivdennyi in the Black Sea.
Outcomes of this deal
- Approximately 9.8 million tonnes of grains have been shipped so far since the deal was brokered as per International Grains Council (IGC) Projections.
- The IGC is an intergovernmental organization established in 1949. Its primary purpose is to promote cooperation and consultation on grains trade and related aspects globally.
- India is an exporting member of the IGC.
- The initiative has also been credited for having made a huge difference in the global cost of living crisis.
Why was this deal launched?
- Ukraine’s Role: Ukraine is a significant exporter of food grains, including wheat and corn, and contributes to the UN’s food aid programs.
- Impact of Russian Invasion: Russia’s invasion and blockade of Ukrainian ports raised concerns about food security and soaring prices globally.
Russia’s Opposition and Reasons
- Claims of Unmet Promises: Russia argues that promises made under the deal have not been fulfilled, affecting its own agricultural exports and fertilizers due to Western sanctions.
- Obstacles to Agricultural Exports: Russia faces challenges with payment platforms, insurance, shipping, and logistics, even though there are no direct restrictions on its agricultural products.
- Frustration and Goodwill: Russian President expressed frustration and stated that Russia has shown goodwill in extending the deal but feels enough is enough.
- Shift in Grain Destinations: Russia claims the deal was meant to ensure global food security, but Ukraine has mainly exported to high- and middle-income countries, while the UN notes that food prices have cooled down, benefiting poorer nations.
Impact on Grain Exports and Production
- Russian Wheat Export Dominance: Russia remains the world’s top wheat exporter, primarily targeting the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia.
- Ukraine’s Declining Shipments: Ukraine’s grain shipments are projected to more than halve, with production at an 11-year low.
- Shifting Markets: Ukraine’s grain markets have shifted from Asia and North Africa to Europe, driven by ease of shipment, causing a glut of Ukrainian grain and protests from farmers in Eastern European countries.
International Grains Council
- The International Grains Council (IGC) is an intergovernmental organization that oversees the Grains Trade Convention and aims to promote cooperation in the global grain trade. Established in 1949 as the International Wheat Council, it was renamed in 1995 to reflect its expanded scope.
- India is a member of the International Grains Council (IGC), which is the intergovernmental organization that oversees the global grains trade.
Back2Basics: Black Sea
- Black Sea is bound by Ukraine to the north and northwest, Russia and Georgia to the east, Turkey to the south, and Bulgaria and Romania to the west.
- It links to the Sea of Marmara through the Bosphorus and then to the Aegean through the Dardanelles.
Significance of Black Sea for Russia
- Black Sea has traditionally been Russia’s warm water gateway to Europe.
- For Russia, the Black Sea is both a stepping stone to the Mediterranean.
- It acts as a strategic buffer between NATO and itself.
- It showcases the Russian power in the Mediterranean and to secure the economic gateway to key markets in southern Europe.
- Russia has been making efforts to gain complete control over the Black Sea since the Crimean crisis of 2014.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ecocide
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Mexico’s ‘Maya train’ project has generated controversy due to its scale and environmental impact.
- The project aims to connect tourists to historic Maya sites across a 1,525 km route, with a cost of $20 billion.
- Critics have dubbed it a “megaproject of death” for its threats to the Yucatan peninsula’s environment, Indigenous communities, and cave systems, leading to accusations of ecocide and ethnocide.
Understanding Ecocide
- Ecocide, derived from Greek and Latin, means “killing one’s home” or “environment.”
- It encompasses actions like port expansions damaging marine life, deforestation, illegal sand-mining, and polluting rivers.
- Several countries, including Mexico, are considering ecocide legislation, with calls to elevate it to an international crime akin to genocide.
- There is no universally accepted legal definition of ecocide.
- A proposed definition states it as “unlawful or wanton acts committed with knowledge of causing substantial, severe, and either widespread or long-term environmental damage.
Historical Context
- Biologist Arthur Galston in 1970 linked environmental destruction with genocide during the Vietnam War’s Agent Orange use.
- British lawyer Polly Higgins advocated for ecocide as an international crime in 2010.
- The Rome Statute of the ICC deals with four major crimes but only holds perpetrators accountable for intentional wartime environmental damage.
Importance of Ecocide as a Crime
- Ecocide is a crime in 11 countries, with 27 others considering similar laws.
- The European Parliament voted unanimously to include ecocide in law.
- Ecocide laws provide a crucial legal instrument to protect the environment.
- They can hold individuals in corporate leadership accountable and promote ethical investment practices.
- These laws could offer justice to low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected by climate change.
Limitations and Concerns
- Some argue that ecocide definitions are ambiguous, setting a low threshold for implicating entities.
- The concept might unintentionally suggest it’s acceptable to destroy the environment for human benefit.
- Proving ecocide may be challenging, especially for transnational crimes involving corporations.
- The ICC’s limited jurisdiction, inability to hold corporate entities liable, and uneven track record in securing convictions are concerns.
India’s Stance
- India has recognized the legal personhood of nature in some judgments.
- Some Indian judgments have used the term ‘ecocide,’ but it hasn’t fully materialized in law.
- India’s legislative framework includes various environmental laws, which need consolidation and streamlining.
- The National Green Tribunal lacks jurisdiction over certain critical environmental matters.
- Addressing issues of liability and compensation remains a challenge, as seen in cases like the Bhopal gas disaster and CAMPA fund misuse.
- India should align its environmental laws with the concept of ecocide.
Conclusion
- Ecocide laws are crucial for protecting the environment and holding perpetrators accountable.
- However, challenges in defining, proving, and enforcing ecocide must be addressed.
- India needs to update its environmental laws to incorporate ecocide principles, promoting a more comprehensive approach to environmental protection.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Basic concepts
Mains level: Growing tax base, recent trends, opportunities and challenges
What’s the news?
- India sees a surge in taxpayer base amidst tax policy challenges; a stable tax-to-GDP ratio raises questions on fiscal maneuverability and economic growth prospects.
Central idea
- In the lead-up to each budget, the Union government cites limited tax revenues as a spending constraint. Recent years have seen a surge in direct and indirect tax payers, challenging the idea that only a small segment contributes. This should ideally raise the tax-to-GDP ratio, yet tax rate cuts and pandemic disruptions have limited fiscal gains, hinting at a deliberate shift to a low-tax regime.
What is meant by fiscal maneuverability?
- It refers to the government’s ability to adjust its revenue and expenditure policies in response to changing economic conditions, budget constraints, and policy goals.
What is Tax-to-GDP Ratio?
- The Tax-to-GDP ratio is a financial indicator that measures the total tax revenue collected by a government as a percentage of its overall GDP for a specific period, typically a fiscal year.
- This ratio is used to assess the level of taxation relative to the size of the economy.
- A higher Tax-to-GDP ratio suggests that a larger portion of a nation’s economic output is being collected in the form of taxes.
What Factors Have Led to the Government’s Limited Fiscal Maneuverability Before Budgets?
- The common refrain: Historically, the Union government has often cited its limited tax revenues as a significant constraint on its ability to maneuver effectively in the run-up to budgets.
- Steady increase in tax base: It’s noteworthy that there has been a consistent increase in both direct and indirect tax payers over recent years.
- Economic context: This expansion in the tax base has occurred during a phase of slower, uneven economic growth.
- Impact of tax cuts and disruptions: Despite the increase in taxpayers, cuts in both direct and indirect tax rates (including GST) and pandemic-induced economic disruptions have limited the fiscal gains from this surge in taxpayers.
How Has the Taxpayer Base Evolved in Recent Years?
- Growth in the taxpayer base: The tax base has shown substantial growth in recent years, challenging the belief that only a small section of society pays taxes.
- Direct tax base expansion: The number of companies paying tax grew by about 43 percent, from 7.46 lakh to 10.7 lakh, between the assessment years 2014–15 and 2022–23.
- Individual taxpayers: Individual taxpayers increased by 65 percent over the same period, rising from 5.38 crore to 8.9 crore.
- Role of small taxpayers: It’s important to note that a significant number of these new tax payers have incomes less than Rs 5 lakh.
Trends and Factors in the Expansion of the Indirect Tax Base
- Indirect tax base growth: The number of active GST payers increased from 1.2 crore in 2019 to 1.4 crore by June 2023.
- Composition: About 80 percent of these taxpayers are proprietorships, with another 10 percent being partnerships.
- Incentives for registration: Smaller establishments are incentivized to register under GST to avail of the input tax credit.
- Indirect tax impact: The growth in the indirect tax base may also be influencing the increase in direct tax payers.
Impact of Tax Rate Reductions
- Corporate tax rate reduction: In September 2019, the government announced a cut in the corporate tax rate for existing companies from 30 percent to 22 percent.
- Impact on revenue: As per government figures, the revenue loss on account of this corporate tax reduction was Rs 1.28 lakh crore in 2019–20 and Rs 1 lakh crore in 2020–21.
- Corporate tax-to-GDP ratio: The corporate tax-to-GDP ratio declined from 3.5 percent in 2018–19 to around 3.1 percent by 2022–23.
- Personal income tax rebates: In the interim budget of 2019, the government announced that individual taxpayers with taxable income up to Rs 5 lakh would get a full tax rebate.
- Personal income tax-to-GDP ratio: The personal income tax-to-GDP ratio increased from 2.5 percent in 2018–19 to 3 percent by 2022–23.
- Increase in zero tax liability: Notably, the number of individuals with zero tax liability also increased from 2.9 crore in 2019–20 to 5.16 crore in 2022–23, which may limit the gains from an expansion in the tax base.
What are the challenges?
- Revenue Sustainability: A challenge arises in ensuring that the gains from an expanding tax base translate into sustainable revenue streams. Despite the increase in taxpayers, tax cuts and disruptions may limit the fiscal benefits.
- Tax Evasion and Avoidance: Addressing tax evasion and avoidance remains a significant challenge. Although the formalization of the economy makes tax evasion more complicated, it requires effective measures to combat tax evasion further.
- Balancing Tax Cuts: The reduction in tax rates, such as the corporate tax cut, has implications for government revenue. Striking a balance between encouraging economic growth through lower taxes and maintaining adequate fiscal resources is a constant challenge.
- Targeted Spending: As the government’s fiscal space expands with a growing tax base, it faces the challenge of allocating resources effectively. Prioritizing and targeting spending on key development objectives while avoiding wasteful expenditures is essential.
Future Prospects
- Fiscal Sustainability: With an expanding economy and tax base, there is potential for improved fiscal sustainability. If managed effectively, this can provide the government with more resources to meet its long-term financial commitments.
- Development Opportunities: The growth in the tax base offers opportunities for increased public investment in critical sectors, fostering economic development, and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.
- Reduced Reliance on Borrowing: An increased tax base can reduce the government’s reliance on borrowing to meet budgetary needs, potentially leading to lower interest payments and debt management challenges.
- Incentive for Formalization: As more individuals and businesses enter the tax net, there’s a natural incentive for greater formalization of the economy. This can reduce the size of the informal sector and promote economic stability.
- Policy Flexibility: A broader tax base can provide the government with greater policy flexibility. It can consider adjustments to tax rates, exemptions, and deductions to support specific policy goals, such as promoting investment or addressing income inequality.
- Enhanced Economic Growth: With appropriate fiscal policies, the increased revenue potential from a growing tax base can contribute to sustained economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Conclusion
- The government’s strategic choices regarding tax rates have influenced the country’s tax landscape, expanded the taxpayer base while maintained stable tax-to-GDP ratios. As India’s economy continues to evolve, these gains should not be squandered through excessive giveaways but rather strategically allocated to promote sustainable development and economic growth.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Three key bills, provisions
Mains level: Indian justice system reforms ,Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill
What’s the news?
- The government recently introduced three key penal bills in a bid to reform the justice system.
Central Idea
- The recent introduction of three penal bills in the Lok Sabha by the government, aimed at decolonizing the Indian justice system, is a significant step in the realm of legal reform. While this initiative is commendable, it is crucial to recognize that the process of law-making and reform requires careful consideration and empirical validation.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill
- This bill aims to replace the existing Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860.
- The IPC defines crimes, sets out their elements, and prescribes corresponding penalties.
- The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill seeks to update and modernize the criminal laws to better reflect evolving societal values and democratic aspirations.
Why Public Participation Matters in Legal Reform?
- The Colonial Legacy: Learning from Past Mistakes
- The colonial penal law was replaced not due to inherent flaws but because it lacked participation from the Indian populace, imposing foreign ideas and values.
- Recognizing the crucial need for broad public participation to avoid repeating this historical oversight
- Macaulay’s Principle Revisited: Seeking Legal Certainty Through Debate
- Reflecting on Thomas Babington Macaulay’s principle of “uniformity when you can have it, diversity where you must have it, but in all cases certainty.”
- Emphasizing the goal of achieving equal and uniform application of the law through meaningful debate.
- Stressing the significance of precise legal terminology for clarity and legal certainty.
What constitutes undesirable behavior?
- Changing Norms: The Evolution of Legal Definitions
- Highlighting the evolving societal perceptions concerning behaviors deemed undesirable.
- Citing examples like the transition of attempted suicide from a criminal offense to a recognized mental health issue under Section 115(1) of the Mental Health Care Act, 2017.
- Examining the Supreme Court’s role in redefining adultery and its legal implications
- From Offense to Health Issue: The Case of Attempted Suicide
- Illustrating the transformation of attempted suicide from a crime to a mental health concern, reflecting a more compassionate and holistic approach.
- Challenging Tradition: Adultery and the Supreme Court Decision
- Analyzing the Supreme Court’s decision to redefine adultery and emphasizing the judiciary’s role in adapting to evolving social norms
- The Call for Social Audit: Rethinking “Undesirable” Behavior
- Advocating for a comprehensive social audit to redefine the concept of “undesirable” behavior, taking into account changing societal perspectives.
- Stressing the importance of empirical analysis in this process.
- Independent Oversight: The Need for Impartiality
- underscoring the necessity of an independent and impartial body to conduct the social audit to ensure fairness and objectivity in evaluating behavioral norms.
How to Balance Simplicity and Complexity in Penal Laws?
- Simplification’s Promise: Streamlining the Legal Framework
- Acknowledging efforts to simplify the legal framework through the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and highlighting potential benefits like enhanced clarity and efficiency in legal procedures.
- The Challenge of Overload: Retaining and Adding Offenses
- Addressing concerns about the risk of retaining and introducing new offenses, which could offset the advantages of simplification and potentially overwhelm the legal system.
- Revisiting Special Laws: The Malimath Committee’s Proposal
- Noting the proliferation of special penal laws post-Indian Penal Code to address emerging crimes.
- Suggesting an evaluation of whether these should be incorporated into the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita or managed through existing special laws or a new composite law, as proposed by the Malimath Committee.
Addressing Gender and Children’s Rights: What the Bill Says?
- Constitutional Alignment: Article 15(3) and Article 51A(e)
- Recognizing the alignment of the proposed Offenses Against Women and Children’ with the constitutional vision, specifically referencing Article 15(3) and Article 51A(e),
- Outdated Notions: Analyzing Clause 63 on Marital Rape
- Highlighting concerns with Clause 63, which excludes sexual intercourse between spouses above 18 from the definition of rape, and drawing parallels with colonial-era legal thinking
- Contradictory Provisions: Clauses 20 and 21 vs. Juvenile Justice Act of 2015
- Pointing out inconsistencies between retaining Clauses 20 and 21 in Chapter III (General Exceptions) and the philosophy of special laws for children outlined in Section 1(4) of the Juvenile Justice Act of 2015.
What does the new penal law prioritize?
- A Shift in Focus: Departing from the Colonial Framework
- Recognizing a departure from the colonial chapter scheme that favored the interests of the ruling class over body and property offenses.
- Placing bodily interests in Chapter VI, just before offenses against the state, indicating a significant shift in priorities.
- Measuring against the Constitution: Article 13(2)
- Raising questions about whether the proposed reforms will align with the constitutional vision enshrined in Article 13(2), which prohibits laws that infringe upon fundamental rights.
- Upholding Values: Autonomy, Equality, and Fraternity
- Highlighting the vital role of the proposed reforms in upholding principles of autonomy, equality, and fraternity as guaranteed by the Preamble of the Constitution
Conclusion
- The government’s initiative to reform the Indian justice system is laudable, but it must be accompanied by extensive public participation, a thorough examination of undesirable behavior, and a balanced approach to legal complexity. Only through careful consideration and a commitment to justice can the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill truly decolonize and rejuvenate the Indian justice system.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BRICS
Mains level: BRICS Expansion and significance
What’s the news?
- The 15th BRICS summit held in Johannesburg recently made headlines with its announcement to expand its membership.
Central idea
- The 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg made waves in international diplomacy when it announced the invitation of six new members: Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina. This move signifies BRICS’ commitment to challenging the West-dominated world order and building a more representative international system.
Expanding BRICS: A New Global Landscape
- The expansion of BRICS to include Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina
- It was reported that 40 countries have shown interest in BRICS’ membership, with 22 having submitted formal applications.
- BRICS has been a platform for emerging economies to voice their dissatisfaction with Western-dominated global institutions like the World Bank, IMF, and UN.
- At the Johannesburg summit, the UN Secretary General labeled these institutions of yesterday’s world, reflecting the need for change.
- With the inclusion of new members, BRICS now represents 46% of the world’s population and 37% of the global GDP in PPP terms, surpassing the G-7.
- This expansion also greatly impacts the energy sector, with the BRICS now accounting for 42% of global oil production.
Significance of BRICS Expansion
- Economic Clout: The BRICS’ share of global GDP in PPP terms rises from 31.5% to 37%, surpassing the G-7. This expansion creates a formidable economic bloc with the potential to shape global economic policies and trade dynamics.
- Demographic Powerhouse: The BRICS now represent 46% of the world’s population, giving them significant demographic weight. This diverse population can influence global consumer markets and labor forces.
- Energy Dominance: The inclusion of new members from energy-rich regions, especially West Asia, boosts BRICS’ role in global energy markets. It solidifies BRICS as a major player in shaping global energy policies.
- Geo-Strategic Influence: West Asian members already have strong ties with BRICS countries, contributing to the group’s geo-strategic significance. Egypt and Ethiopia hold key positions in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region, adding to BRICS’ strategic reach.
- Shared Political Views: BRICS members have historically shared political views on global issues. The new members’ alignment with these views strengthens BRICS’ collective stance on the United Nations, Middle East conflicts, and global terrorism.
- Multipolar Advocacy: BRICS challenges the Western-dominated international order. The expansion reaffirms BRICS’ commitment to advocating for a multipolar world order and reforming global institutions.
- Cooperative Opportunities: The inclusion of new members opens avenues for increased cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure, and technology transfer. This expansion promotes South-South collaboration.
- Global Balance Shift: BRICS’ expansion further shifts the global balance of power away from Western-dominated institutions. It elevates the influence of emerging economies in shaping global policies.
BRICS’ Substantial Achievements
- Consistent Declarations: BRICS leaders have met for over 15 years, consistently overcoming internal divisions and competitions to issue consensual “Declarations” at each summit. These declarations have expanded in content, reflecting the group’s evolving priorities and interests.
- Focus on Specific Deliverables: The declarations have increasingly focused on specific deliverables, indicating BRICS’ commitment to achieving tangible outcomes. This shift from broad rhetoric to concrete action is a substantial achievement.
- Intra-BRICS Cooperation: The Johannesburg Declaration emphasizes the importance of intra-BRICS cooperation. Member countries are committed to encouraging the use of local currencies in internal trade and financial transactions, promoting economic integration within the group.
- Outreach to Developing Nations: BRICS recognizes its role in supporting other developing nations. The group aims to extend its cooperation beyond its borders, reaching out to other countries that share similar development challenges.
- Shared Political Views: BRICS members have a history of sharing common political views on various global issues. This shared perspective strengthens their collective voice on matters such as the centrality of the United Nations, conflicts in the Middle East, and global terrorism.
- Promoting Multipolarity: BRICS challenges the Western-dominated international order by advocating for a multipolar world. This advocacy represents a substantial achievement in pushing for reforms and greater representation for emerging economies in global institutions.
Criticisms directed at the BRICS
- Talk-Shop with No Vision: Some Western commentators have criticized BRICS as being a talk-shop with no clear shared vision or meaningful achievements. This criticism suggests that BRICS meetings and declarations may lack substance and practical outcomes.
- Lack of Shared Vision: Critics argue that BRICS members have not demonstrated a cohesive or unified vision for the group’s role in global affairs. This criticism implies that the members may have divergent interests that hinder effective cooperation.
- Limited Achievements: Some critics have suggested that BRICS has not achieved significant or tangible results in its over 15 years of existence. This criticism questions the group’s ability to translate its discussions into meaningful actions or outcomes.
- Emerging Global Binary Divide: While not explicitly mentioned in the article, there is an implied criticism that BRICS may contribute to an emerging global binary divide or a new cold war between Western and non-Western nations. This view suggests that BRICS could exacerbate global divisions rather than promote cooperation.
Outlook for Regional Affairs
- The new BRICS members from West Asia, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have pursued independent foreign policy paths since 2020.
- Saudi Arabia, for instance, has actively engaged in de-escalation efforts, including ending the Qatar blockade in January 2021, establishing relations with Turkey, and initiating interactions with Iran in April 2021.
- These diplomatic engagements culminated in a significant China-brokered accord with Iran in March of the following year.
- Maritime Expansion: The UAE has also normalized ties with Iran and is actively expanding its maritime presence across key strategic regions, including the Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Horn of Africa. This maritime expansion underscores the UAE’s growing influence in these areas.
Outlook for Global Affairs
- Rejecting the Binary Divide:
- In contrast to Western commentators who perceive an emerging global binary divide or a new cold war, India and other BRICS members reject this view.
- They insist on asserting their strategic autonomy within a multipolar world order, rejecting the idea of being drawn into simplistic global power struggles.
- A recent media report described the Johannesburg summit as a turning point in modern history.
- This suggests that the expansion of BRICS, combined with its evolving role in global affairs, is seen as a pivotal and historic moment with profound implications for the contemporary international landscape.
Conclusion
- BRICS continues to assert its strategic autonomy and push for a multipolar world order, challenging Western-led international institutions. This expansion is a turning point in modern history, reflecting the evolving dynamics of global diplomacy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CBDI, UPI
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The convergence of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Quick Response (QR) codes with Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) applications is set to revolutionize digital transactions in India.
- This strategic integration enables users of the retail digital rupee to seamlessly transact using UPI QR codes, making transactions convenient for both customers and merchants.
Understanding Interoperability
- Interoperability refers to the technical compatibility that allows different payment systems to function together.
- It empowers various payment systems to process transactions across platforms, contributing to efficiency, innovation, and adoption for end-users.
UPI QR Code-CBDC Interoperability: Explained
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is driving this interoperability between UPI and CBDC as part of its ongoing pilot project for the retail digital rupee (e₹-R).
- Initially, e₹-R users required a specific QR code for transactions.
- With UPI-CBDC interoperability, any UPI QR code becomes compatible with CBDC apps.
- The digital rupee, issued by RBI, is a tokenized digital version of the rupee stored in a digital wallet linked to a savings bank account.
- UPI, directly linked to a user’s account, can now transact seamlessly with CBDC.
Benefits for Customers and Merchants
The convergence of UPI and CBDC yields several advantages:
- Customers can use a single QR code for various transactions, eliminating the need for multiple platforms.
- Daily essentials like groceries and medicines can be purchased using any UPI QR code.
- Merchants can accept CBDC payments without creating separate QR codes.
- Transactions are streamlined and efficient, enhancing the user experience.
Enhancing CBDC Adoption
The UPI-CBDC interoperability leverages the widespread use of UPI to boost digital rupee adoption.
- More than 70 mobile apps and 50 million merchants already accept UPI payments.
- Integrating UPI with CBDC simplifies transactions, increasing the digital rupee’s utility.
- Prominent banks like State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, and Axis Bank have introduced UPI interoperability on their digital rupee platforms.
- This seamless integration is expected to transform the digital currency landscape, driving its acceptance and utilization.
Conclusion
- The UPI-CBDC interoperability marks a significant milestone in India’s digital payment ecosystem.
- By merging the familiarity of UPI with the innovation of CBDC, the retail digital rupee becomes more accessible, user-friendly, and efficient.
- This strategic integration is poised to accelerate the adoption of digital currencies, reshaping the way transactions are conducted in the country.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hubble Constant
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Researchers from India and the US have come up with a new way to answer a big question about the universe.
- This question is about how fast the universe is getting bigger.
Story of Our Universe
- The universe began around 13.8 billion years ago with a massive explosion called the Big Bang.
- As time passed, the universe kept getting bigger, with moments of speeding up and slowing down.
- Scientists want to understand this expansion to figure out what’s happening in the universe.
Hubble Constant: A Big Question
- The Hubble constant is a special number that tells us how quickly the universe is expanding.
- This number was first talked about by a scientist named Edwin Hubble in 1929.
- But scientists today are still not sure about its value.
Two Important Things to Measure
To know the Hubble constant, we need to measure two things carefully:
- How far away things in space are from us.
- How fast these things are moving away from us because of the universe’s expansion.
Old Ways vs. New Idea
Until now, scientists used a few methods to measure the Hubble constant:
- Looking at bright explosions in space called supernovae.
- Using special light from the early universe.
- Studying waves created by big crashes in space.
But now, a fresh idea has been propounded by Indian researchers:
- To measure using a thing called “gravitational lensing.”
Gravitational Lensing: A New Approach
- Gravitational lensing is like bending light using gravity. Imagine it like a magnifying glass in space.
- This idea came from a long time ago but got better recently.
- Scientists think they can use this lensing trick to measure the Hubble constant.
- They want to look at waves from space collisions that get bent by gravity.
- These bent waves could tell us about how fast the universe is expanding.
The Big Idea: A Bridge between Time
- This new idea is cool because it connects different times in the universe’s history.
- It could give us a good answer about the Hubble constant.
Challenges
- While this idea is exciting, there are some challenges to solve:
-
- Making sure the signals are clear enough to measure.
- Using the new method to answer other questions too.
- If this new way works, it could help us learn about things like dark matter and other universe stuff.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan (2023-37)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan (MIPP) 2023-37 was unveiled at the Naval Commanders Conference.
- It signifies a forward-looking strategy aimed at fostering sustainable maritime architecture.
About MIPP
- Aligned with the overarching vision of the PM Gati Shakti project, this comprehensive plan was introduced by the Minister of State for Defence.
- The plan’s objectives span over the next 15 years and strive to synergize the Navy’s infrastructure requirements in a dynamic and encompassing model.
Features of the MIPP
- Synchronizing Infrastructure Needs:
- The MIPP 2023-37 envisions an integrated approach to address the Navy’s infrastructure requirements.
- It aims to harmonize naval infrastructure development over the next 15 years through a meticulously designed perspective plan.
- Compliance with Broader Policies:
- The plan adheres to the broader policy directives of the PM Gati Shakti Project, Disaster Resilience, and Transition to Net Zero, among others.
- Sustainability and compliance with national policy priorities are key principles underpinning the plan’s formulation.
- Modernization Efforts:
- To accommodate technological advancements and promote self-reliance, the revised “IRS Rules and Regulations Handbook for Construction and Classification of Naval Combatants” was introduced.
- This handbook reflects the naval shipbuilding industry’s growth and aligns with the philosophy of ‘AatmaNirbharta’ (self-reliance).
- Transformational Initiatives:
- The release of the “Family Logbook for Defence Civilian Personnel of the Indian Navy” serves as a milestone in maintaining personal records efficiently.
- The launch of the “Electronic Service Document Project” is poised to revolutionize HR record-keeping within the Navy.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- PM Gati Shakti Project: A government initiative aimed at enhancing infrastructure connectivity and development across various sectors, contributing to economic growth and national development.
- Indian Register for Shipping (IRS): An organization responsible for ship classification and certification in India, ensuring that ships comply with international standards for safety and environmental performance.
- Blue Economy: Economic activities related to oceans and water bodies, including fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and shipping, which contribute significantly to a nation’s economy.
- Geoeconomics: The study of how economic factors and policies influence international relations and geopolitics.
- Geopolitics: The study of political and territorial issues influenced by geographical factors and international power dynamics.
Conclusion
- The Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan 2023-37 stands as a blueprint for India’s maritime progress, exemplifying the commitment to self-reliance, sustainability, and modernization.
- With a focus on comprehensive development and adherence to national policies, the plan charts a course towards a stronger, more resilient naval infrastructure.
- It aligns with the evolving security landscape and the broader objectives of the nation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Etymology of India
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India, with its rich heritage, has borne various names throughout its history, each encapsulating a distinct facet of its identity.
- The process of naming this diverse land has sparked debates, controversies, and reflections on its collective consciousness.
Historical Evolution of Names
- Meluha (Third Millennium BCE):
- The ancient Mesopotamian texts referenced ‘Meluha’ to denote the Indus Valley Civilization, highlighting India’s antiquity and interactions with ancient civilizations.
- ‘Meluha’ is believed to have been used to describe the Indus Valley Civilization in texts from the third millennium BCE.
- Bharata (Ancient Times to Modern Era):
- Rooted in Puranic literature and the Mahabharata, ‘Bharata’ resonates with religious and socio-cultural connotations.
- Associated with a supraregional and subcontinental territory where Brahmanical society prevailed.
- Evident during the freedom struggle through slogans like ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’.
- ‘Bharata’ was derived from the mythological founders of the race, and its popularity during modern times is also due to its usage during the freedom movement.
- Aryavarta, Jambudvipa, Nabhivarsa (Ancient Vedic Period):
- ‘Aryavarta’ referred to the land between the Himalayas and Vindhya ranges, where the Indo-Aryans resided.
- ‘Jambudvipa’ and ‘Nabhivarsa’ were also used in Vedic texts and Jain literature to signify the subcontinent, emphasizing different cultural contexts.
- Hindustan (7th Century BCE):
- Originated during Persian occupation, ‘Hindustan’ referred to the lower Indus basin.
- ‘Hind’ in Persian meant ‘Sindhu’ (Indus river), leading to its application to the region beyond Indus.
- The Persian suffix ‘stan’ (land) was added to form ‘Hindustan’.
- India (Ancient to Colonial Era):
- The Greeks transliterated ‘Hind’ as ‘Indus’, establishing ‘India’ as a name for the region.
- Colonial usage solidified ‘India’ as a political and geographical term, signifying the subcontinent under British rule.
- ‘India’ was adopted due to its Graeco-Roman associations, history of use in Europe, and bureaucratic usage such as the Survey of India.
Constitutional Deliberations (1947-1949)
- The Constituent Assembly engaged in heated debates over the nation’s official name.
- Jawaharlal Nehru noted the significance of ‘Hindustan’, ‘Bharat’, and ‘India’.
- Nehru’s book “The Discovery of India” captured the coexistence of these names in the collective consciousness.
- The Constitution retained ‘India’ and ‘Bharat’, reflecting diverse visions of the nation.
- The first Article of the Constitution reads, “India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of states.”
Fact for Prelims
- In the ancient Indian text, Vishnu Purana, the name ‘Bharat’ finds mention as the landmass that lies north of the ocean and south of snow mountains. It states:
Uttaraṃ yatsamudrasya himādreścaiva dakṣiṇam
varṣaṃ tadbhārataṃ nāma bhāratī yatra santatiḥ
- This shloka means: “The country (Varsam) that lies north of the ocean and south of the snowy mountains is called Bharatam; there live the descendants of Bharata.
|
Contemporary Reflections
- Identity and Pride (2023):
- Recent developments suggest a potential change in India’s official name to ‘Republic of Bharat’.
- Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hinted at the change, signaling a reset in India’s central identification.
- Political leaders and citizens expressed opinions on the potential change, invoking sentiments of national pride.
- Symbolism and Debate:
- The change of name is interpreted as a move to reflect India’s ancient identity and cultural heritage.
- Congress leader Jairam Ramesh discussed the implications of the change on national identity and opposition alliances.
- Shashi Tharoor, a former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, highlighted the significance of both ‘India’ and ‘Bharat’.
- Constitutional and Historical Context:
- Article 1 of the Indian Constitution declares ‘India, that is Bharat’ as a ‘Union of States’.
- Some leaders emphasized the importance of preserving the brand value associated with the name ‘India’.
- The historical roots of ‘Bharat’ as described in ancient texts and its constitutional adoption were highlighted.
- ‘Bharat’ and ‘India’ Coexistence:
- Both ‘Bharat’ and ‘India’ have been used interchangeably, signifying the country’s diverse identity.
- The official names ‘Bharat Ganarajya’ (in Hindi) and ‘Republic of India’ (in English) are present on Indian passports.
- The names reflect the continuity of historical legacy and modern nation-building.
Conclusion
- The journey of India’s names mirrors its complex identity, blending history, culture, and politics.
- As India continues to evolve, its names continue to encapsulate its essence, fostering a deep connection with its past and an ever-evolving future.
- Each name is a testament to India’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and collective consciousness.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UPI, QR Code-CBDC and applications
Mains level: UPI QR Code-CBDC interoperability, significance and benefits
What’s the news?
- The fusion of UPI and CBDC is an essential component of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) ongoing pilot project aimed at propelling the retail digital rupee.
Central idea
- Banks are boosting digital rupee (e₹-R) adoption by integrating UPI QR codes with CBDC or e₹ apps. Users can now scan any UPI QR code for transactions, while merchants can accept digital rupee payments using their existing UPI QR codes.
Definition- Interoperability
- Interoperability, as defined by the RBI, is the technical compatibility that enables a payment system to operate harmoniously with other payment systems.
- This fosters the seamless execution, clearance, and settlement of payment transactions across diverse systems.
- The synergy between payment systems contributes to fostering adoption, coexistence, innovation, and efficiency for end-users.
Understanding QR Codes
- A Quick Response (QR) code is a pattern of black squares arranged in a grid on a white background, interpretable by imaging devices like cameras. It carries information about the attached item.
- This versatile tool provides an alternative contactless payment channel, allowing merchants to directly receive payments into their bank accounts.
What is a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)?
- CBDC is a legal tender issued by the central bank in digital form. Like rupee notes or coins, which are in physical form.
- Simply put, it’s just like rupee (₹) notes but in digital form (e₹). You can also exchange e₹ for physical currency notes.
- However, unlike fiat currency that’s usually stored in banks and hence their liability, CBDC is a liability on the RBI’s balance sheet. That’s why you don’t necessarily need to have a bank account to own a digital rupee.
- UPI is India’s mobile-based fast payment system, which enables customers to make round-the-clock payments instantly using a virtual payment address (VPA) created by the customer.
- It eliminates the risk of the remitter sharing bank account details with the remitter.
- UPI supports both Person-to-Person (P2P) and Person-to-Merchant (P2M) payments, and it also enables a user to send or receive money.
The interoperability between UPI and CBDC
- The interoperability between UPI and CBDC introduces the concept of UPI QR code-CBDC interoperability. This entails the compatibility of all UPI QR codes with CBDC applications.
- In the pilot phase of the retail digital rupee, e₹-R users had to scan a specific QR code for transactions. However, with UPI-CBDC interoperability, transactions can now be initiated using a single QR code.
- The digital rupee, a tokenized digital variant of the rupee, is issued by the RBI as CBDC. The e₹ is stored within a digital wallet linked to a customer’s existing savings bank account, while the UPI directly connects to the customer’s account.
Significance of Interoperability
- Enhanced User Experience: Interoperability simplifies the payment process, allowing users to seamlessly make transactions using any UPI QR code. This eliminates the inconvenience of switching between multiple payment apps or systems, enhancing user satisfaction.
- Accelerated Adoption of the Digital Rupee: Leveraging the popularity of UPI, interoperability promotes the adoption of the retail digital rupee. This aligns with the government’s objectives to drive digital currency usage and reduce reliance on physical cash.
- Merchant-Friendly: Merchants benefit from this interoperability as it eliminates the need for them to manage a separate QR code for digital rupee payments. This lowers the entry barrier for merchants to accept digital currency, making it more accessible to a wider range of businesses.
- Expanding Financial Inclusion: Interoperability has the potential to extend financial inclusion efforts, particularly in underserved regions. Users and merchants with limited exposure to digital payments can now participate more easily in the digital economy.
- Efficiency and Cost Savings: For both users and merchants, interoperability reduces the operational costs associated with maintaining multiple payment platforms. It simplifies accounting and transaction management for businesses.
How will it drive CBDC adoption?
- Presently, UPI is a widely used payment method. The interoperability between UPI and CBDC is poised to accelerate the adoption of the digital rupee.
- With over 70 mobile apps and 50 million merchants accepting UPI payments, the existing UPI ecosystem sets the stage for the retail digital rupee’s growth.
- The RBI reported 1.3 million customers and 0.3 million merchants using e₹-R in July, with daily transactions ranging from 5,000 to 10,000.
- Prominent banks, including State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Yes Bank, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, and IDFC First Bank, have introduced UPI interoperability on their digital rupee applications.
Benefits for Users
- Seamless Transactions: Users can effortlessly execute digital rupee transactions by scanning any UPI QR code, eliminating the need for multiple apps or QR codes for different transactions.
- Wider Acceptance: Users are no longer restricted to specific QR codes; they can utilize their digital wallets linked to UPI for transactions at various merchants, increasing flexibility.
- Financial Inclusion: Interoperability ensures that users, including those in remote areas, can easily access and use the digital rupee without specialized infrastructure or additional QR codes, promoting financial inclusion.
- Reduced Transaction Costs: Users can avoid extra fees associated with using multiple payment platforms. Interoperability makes digital rupee transactions more cost-effective.
- Streamlined Wallet Management: Users can consolidate their digital transactions within a single digital wallet, simplifying financial management.
Benefits for Merchants
- Ease of Adoption: Merchants can accept digital rupee payments without the complexity of creating and maintaining a separate QR code for CBDC, simplifying onboarding for businesses, including small retailers.
- Expanded Customer Base: With interoperability, merchants can cater to a broader range of customers using digital rupees, regardless of whether customers possess a specific QR code.
- Reduced Infrastructure Costs: Merchants save on expenses related to setting up and maintaining additional payment infrastructure, such as separate QR codes or payment terminals.
- Efficient Settlement: The integration allows for efficient settlement of digital rupee payments, whether or not the merchant has a CBDC account. This ensures prompt and secure payment receipts for merchants.
- Increased Sales: Simplified payment options often lead to smoother and quicker checkouts, potentially boosting customer satisfaction and increasing sales for merchants.
Conclusion
- The convergence of UPI and CBDC through interoperability marks a transformative phase in the realm of digital payments. With the fusion of two powerful platforms, the retail digital rupee is poised to gain widespread adoption, revolutionizing the landscape of digital transactions in India.
Also read:
India’s Central bank digital currency (CBDC) in detail
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change
Mains level: Climate Change and its Impact on Women, gender equality and environmental sustainability
What’s the news?
- In the current era, the fusion of gender equality and environmental sustainability presents a dynamic duo that holds the key to accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Central Idea
- The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) aptly points out that gender equality and environmental goals are not isolated endeavors; they forge a symbiotic relationship that can amplify progress towards a sustainable future.
Vulnerability in a Changing Climate
- Climate change, a pressing global concern, has repercussions that reverberate across demographics, with women bearing a disproportionate brunt of its impact.
- The International Labour Organization (ILO, 2019) forecasts that by 2030, scorching temperatures will result in a 2.2% loss of global working hours—equivalent to 80 million full-time jobs.
- The United Nations (2009) highlighted that across genders, women are considered to be more vulnerable and disproportionately affected by climate change than men.
- Estimates project that by 2050, climate change risks, coupled with natural disasters and food inflation, could push 130 million people into poverty, disproportionately affecting women’s inequality.
Climate Change and its Impact on Women, Particularly in Low-Income Countries
- Gendered Vulnerability in Low-Income Countries:
- Women across the globe face heightened risks to their health, safety, and quality of life. Yet, the vulnerability is notably more pronounced in developing and less developed countries, especially those grappling with low-income realities.
- This vulnerability is rooted in their reliance on natural resources and labor-intensive work, making them more susceptible to climate change impacts.
- A crucial aspect of this vulnerability lies in the interconnectedness of poverty and climate change.
- Climate Crisis Intensifying Basic Needs Struggles:
- Rural women, in particular, are burdened with the responsibility of ensuring access to essentials like clean water, cooking fuel, and nutritious food for their families.
- This often involves arduous journeys and exposes them to health and safety risks.
- Underpaid and Overworked:
- Despite their pivotal role in food production systems, women engaged in agriculture face persistent challenges.
- Data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlights that over 60% of working women in southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are in agriculture. Unfortunately, they often receive inadequate pay and work under challenging conditions.
- Owning Land: A Gender Disparity:
- A significant gender disparity exists in land ownership, with women owning only a small fraction of cultivated land.
- Despite being the backbone of the food production system, women own only about 10% of the land used for farming.
- This discrepancy further diminishes their resilience against the impacts of climate change.
- Projected Displacement and Urgent Action:
- As a grim outlook, studies like McAllister’s 2023 research forecast a potentially staggering 1.2 billion climate refugees by 2050.
- This underscores the urgency of addressing these intertwined challenges.
Gender-specific issues
- Displacement and Vulnerability: A UN study reveals a stark reality – a substantial 80% of those displaced by climate-related disasters are women and girls.
- Challenges for Vulnerable Women: Women, especially from marginalized communities, grapple with distinct challenges in the aftermath of natural disasters. Their displacement increases their susceptibility to prejudice and exploitation, exacerbating the hardships they already face.
- Exploitation Post-Disasters: The disruption caused by disasters creates an environment ripe for exploitation, with women as primary targets. Notably, the aftermath of the 2015 Nepal earthquake exposed women to trafficking and exploitation, further highlighting the risks they face.
- Gender-Based Violence Intensifies: The upheaval following disasters leads to an alarming escalation of gender-based violence against women. Disrupted communities and increased vulnerability create an environment where women are at greater risk.
- Limited Access to Essential Services: Essential services like employment, education, healthcare, and psychosocial support become scarcer post-disaster. For women, this translates into further limitations and challenges, exacerbating their already marginalized status.
- Resource and Knowledge Disparities: Women in agriculture face barriers in accessing quality resources, education, and technical knowledge. As climate change compounds these challenges, their vulnerability is magnified.
Way Forward: Empowering Women for Climate Resilience and Action
- Women’s Role in Climate Adaptation: Acknowledging the potential women possess to contribute to climate adaptation is crucial. Women bring unique perspectives and knowledge to the table, making their engagement indispensable in finding effective solutions.
- Empowerment Through Education and Training: Investing in women’s education and training is paramount for building resilience to the impact of climate change. Equipping women with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable practices, such as agriculture, water management, and energy generation, fosters their capacity to adapt to changing conditions.
- Supporting Women Farmers: Initiatives like the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in India exemplify the importance of imparting knowledge to women farmers on how to navigate shifting climate patterns.
- Women in Climate Policy Decision-Making: Acknowledging the disparities women face in climate change impacts, the need for their active involvement in decision-making becomes evident.
- Programs to Amplify Women’s Voices: Initiatives like the Gender and Climate Change Development Programme in South Asia seek to elevate women’s influence in policymaking, granting them a stronger voice in shaping climate strategies that directly impact their lives.
- Global Imperative for Women-Led Climate Action: The call for women-led climate action is not confined to specific regions; it’s a global imperative. Developing and emerging countries, where women often bear the brunt of climate impacts, necessitate collective efforts to empower women as agents of change.
Conclusion
- The convergence of gender equality and environmental sustainability is no longer an abstract concept; it is a tangible pathway towards a more equitable and resilient world. In a future marred by climate uncertainty, investments in women’s education, training, and participation stand as beacons of hope.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY) by the Central Government has outperformed its initial employment targets, proving its effectiveness in fostering job creation during the COVID-19 crisis.
About Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY)
| Launch |
Introduced in November 2020 |
| Purpose |
As part of Atmanirbhar Bharat Package 3.0 to boost post-Covid-19 employment |
| Government’s Contribution |
Subsidy for provident fund contributions in EPFO-registered organizations |
| Coverage |
Up to 1000 employees: Both employee (12%) and employer (12%) contributions for two years
Over 1000 employees: Employee (12%) contribution for two years |
| Subsidy Disbursement |
Subsidy credited upfront to Aadhaar-linked EPFO accounts (UAN) of new employees |
| Eligibility Criteria |
Establishments adding new employees compared to September 2020 reference base |
| Target Beneficiaries |
Employees with monthly wages under Rs. 15,000 joining EPFO-registered establishments
Individuals reemployed on or after October 1, 2020, who left jobs between March 1 and September 30, 2020 |
Achievements and Numbers
- The scheme, open for registrations until March 31, 2022, targeted around 7.18 million employees across India.
- By July 31, 2023, ABRY had already exceeded its target, enrolling over 7.58 million new employees.
- Benefiting 1,52,380 establishments with 60,44,155 new employees, the scheme disbursed benefits totaling Rs. 9,669.87 Crore.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Disksha 2.0
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The National eGovernance Division (NeGD) plans to incorporate Personalised Adaptive Learning (PAL) into its existing Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing (DIKSHA) platform.
- PAL offers individualized learning experiences based on students’ unique needs and abilities.
DIKSHA 2.0 Portal
- Diksha Portal was launched in 2017 to provide a digital platform to teachers giving them an opportunity to learn and train themselves and connect with the teacher community.
- It serves as the National Digital Infrastructure for Teachers.
- It aids teachers to learn and train themselves for which assessment resources will be available.
- It houses digitized National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbooks, teaching videos, and practice questions.
- It also has assistive technologies for learners with disabilities, but it’s a static content repository.
Integration of PAL
- NCERT seeks MeitY’s expertise in implementing PAL within DIKSHA.
- PAL provides customized learning paths for each student based on their learning progress.
- PAL can loop back students to basic concepts if they make mistakes, enhancing learning efficiency.
Challenges and Implementations in States
- PAL development involves categorizing and tagging content, potentially creating new material.
- Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics for Classes 9 to 12 are prioritized for PAL development.
- Several states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Haryana experimented with PAL, facing budget constraints.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Stem Cells, Autism
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Delhi High Court granted permission for two children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to undergo Stem Cell Therapy for their condition.
- The court’s decision followed a challenge against the Ethics and Medical Registration Board’s (EMRB) recommendation against stem cell treatment for ASD.
Understanding Stem Cells
- Stem cells are the foundational cells that can differentiate into specialized cells with distinct functions.
- Two main categories: pluripotent stem cells (can differentiate into various adult cells) and adult stem cells (tissue/organ-specific).
- Pluripotent stem cells are found in embryos; reprogramming of adult cells leads to induced pluripotent stem cells.
Stem Cells in Medicine
- Stem cells’ regenerative properties make them valuable in regenerative medicine.
- Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation treats conditions like leukaemia.
- Challenges: Limited adult stem cells post-removal, focus on making them pluripotent.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
- ASD is a neurological and developmental disorder affecting communication, behaviour, and interactions.
- Conventional therapies focus on symptom management, social skills training, behaviour analysis, and speech and occupational therapy.
Potential of Stem Cell Therapy for ASD
- Some experts suggest stem cells could enhance immune system regulation and neural connectivity in the brain.
- Current clinical trials show mixed results; treatment is experimental, lacks sufficient data.
- EMRB recommendations against stem cell therapy due to limited evidence, risks, side effects, and absence of established protocol.
EMRB’s Concerns
- EMRB’s recommendation stemmed from “predatory marketing” of stem cell therapy, giving false hope to parents about “curing” ASD.
- The Delhi HC ruling doesn’t assess the general validity of stem cell therapy but permits ongoing treatment for specific cases.
Conclusion
- The court’s verdict allows continued stem cell therapy for ASD, acknowledging the ongoing uncertainty and potential of the treatment.
- The decision underlines the need for further research and data to establish stem cell therapy’s efficacy and safety for treating autism.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pulikkali Celebrations, Onam
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The culmination of Onam festivities witnessed the Pulikkali celebration, a traditional folk art form from Kerala, where humans dressed as tigers and leopards paraded through the streets.
About Pulikkali
- Pulikkali, also known as Tiger Dance, is a unique folk art of Kerala.
- Celebrated on the fourth day of Onam, artists adorn themselves as tigers with distinctive yellow, red, and black stripes, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional percussion instruments like thakil, udukku, and chenda.
- The central theme revolves around tiger hunting, with individuals playing the roles of both the tiger and the hunter.
- It was introduced by Maharaja Rama Varma Sakthan Thampuran, the former ruler of Cochin, Pulikkali reflects a rich cultural heritage.
Onam Festival: Key Highlights
- Onam, the most significant celebration in Kerala, holds great cultural importance.
- Occurring at the onset of Chingam, the first month of the Malayalam Calendar, it’s a harvest festival celebrating prosperity.
- The Onam Carnival extends for four to ten days, with Atham (first day) and Thiruonam (tenth day) as the most pivotal.
- A popular belief holds that Onam welcomes King Mahabali’s spirit, who is believed to visit Kerala during this period.
- The festival includes Vallamkali, a thrilling snake boat race ‘Vallamkali’ conducted on the Pampa River.
- Onam showcases Kaikotti kali and Thumbi Thullal, graceful dances performed by women, adding elegance to the celebrations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chandrayan-3
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Chandrayaan-3 accomplished India’s historic achievement of soft landing on the Lunar South Pole.
- Its mission success marked by several noteworthy observations since touchdown on August 23.
Chandrayaan-3’s: Key Achievements
- Pragyan rover’s Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument identified elements like aluminium, sulphur, calcium, iron, and more.
- Vikram lander recorded a ‘moonquake’ and detected an ultra-thin layer of plasma in the lunar atmosphere.
- These findings hint at distinct characteristics of the moon’s atmosphere compared to Earth.
Significance of Observations
- Sulphur discovery carries paramount importance in comprehending the moon’s origin and past surface (explosiveness) conditions.
- The presence of significant sulphur amounts can provide insights into lunar volcanic activity, potentially indicating the presence of subterranean water.
- Sulphur’s presence could offer clues about past lunar life support and constructing structures for human habitation.
Exploring Lunar Water
- Chandrayaan-3’s findings, particularly sulphur and oxygen on the moon’s surface, play a crucial role in narrowing down possible water sources.
- The presence of sulphur and oxygen enhances the prospects of water detection.
- ISRO was actively pursuing information about lunar hydrogen, another potential indicator of water.
Other mission Lunar Discoveries
- China’s Chang’e 5 mission unveiled a new lunar mineral, Changesite-(Y), and identified water in glass beads.
- Chandrayaan-3’s sulphur detection aligns with the quest for similar glass beads.
- NASA previously confirmed lunar water presence in shadowed craters and sunlit regions.
Present status of Ch-3 Mission
- Chandrayaan-3’s core objectives attained; Pragyan rover placed in ‘sleep’ mode.
- The rover’s solar panels will recharge during the next lunar sunrise.
- Plans to reactivate the rover for further observations remain underway.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RTI
Mains level: Excusions to RTI queries and issues
Central Idea
- Activists worry about the diminishing effectiveness Right to Information Act, 2005 in holding officials accountable.
- The Act has exemptions for political parties, the judiciary, and intelligence agencies.
- Recent amendments have sparked concerns, such as personal data protection provisions.
The DPDP Act and RTI
- The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, of 2023 prohibits personal data disclosure, even for social audits, reducing transparency.
- Critics fear this blanket ban may hinder accountability and transparency efforts.
About the Right to Information (RTI)
| Enactment |
June 15, 2005 |
| Objective |
Promote transparency and accountability |
| Applicability |
All public authorities at central, state, local levels |
| Scope |
Access to information on matters of public interest, government policies, budgets, etc. |
| RTI Application |
Filed in writing with the concerned public authority |
| Response Time |
Within 30 days (48 hours for life or liberty issues) |
| Exemptions |
Some information exempted to protect national security, privacy, etc.
Judiciary |
| Fees |
Nominal fee varies based on state and information requested |
| First Appellate Authority |
Filed if dissatisfied with the response |
| Second Appeal |
Filed with the relevant Information Commission |
| Whistleblower Protection |
Safeguards against victimization for exposing corruption |
| Impact |
Promotes transparency, accountability, and good governance |
Challenges in Implementation
- Implementation issues undermine the transparency that the Act aims to achieve.
- The Act’s effectiveness depends on subordinate rules set by the Union and State Governments.
- Slow appointments to information commissions delay appeals and erode trust in the system.
Barriers and Online Solutions
- Payment methods for RTI applications vary among States, causing complications.
- Online RTI portals remove barriers but are not widespread, hindering access.
- The Union Government’s RTI portal has usability issues, impacting data retrieval.
Growing Dissatisfaction
- Rising first appeals indicate growing dissatisfaction with the information provided.
- Structural problems in institutions and websites hinder RTI effectiveness.
- Activists emphasize the importance of addressing broader institutional issues.
Conclusion
- The RTI Act’s efficacy is hampered by implementation challenges, amendments, and online barriers.
- A holistic approach is needed to restore and enhance the Act’s effectiveness.
- Addressing these issues will strengthen transparency, accountability, and citizens’ access to information.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Adiitya L1 Mission
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- India’s maiden solar observatory mission, Aditya-L1, was successfully launched by ISRO on September 2.
- Carried by the PSLV in its 59th flight, the spacecraft’s mission aims to study the sun’s behaviour and phenomena.
- Aditya-L1 will spend 16 days orbiting Earth, undergoing five manoeuvres for required velocity.
- Subsequent Trans-Lagrangian insertion will begin a 110-day journey towards L1 Lagrange point.
- Aditya-L1 will orbit around L1, a balanced position between Earth and the sun, 1.5 million km away from Earth.
Aditya-L1 Mission
- ISRO introduces the Aditya-L1 mission, a novel space-based observatory designated for studying the Sun.
- The spacecraft will be positioned in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) in the Sun-Earth system, approximately 1.5 million km from Earth.
- The L1 point’s strategic location enables continuous solar observation devoid of eclipses, furnishing invaluable insights into solar activities and their real-time effects on space weather.
- Once Aditya exits Earth’s sphere of influence, it will head towards the Lagrange point L1, a distance of 1.5 million km.
Significance of Lagrange Point 1
- Lagrange points are equilibrium positions where gravitational forces counteract centripetal forces, offering a stable environment for satellites.
- The spacecraft will be positioned around L1, affording an unobstructed view of the Sun for unhindered observation.
- Different Lagrange points offer unique advantages, such as L1’s consistent view of the Sun, as demonstrated by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory Satellite (SOHO).
Aditya-L1’s Scientific Endeavors
- Aditya-L1 carries seven payloads to investigate the photosphere, chromosphere, and corona using a range of detectors.
- The payloads encompass instruments like Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC), Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT), Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer (SoLEXS), and more.
- Payloads examining solar dynamics in the interplanetary medium contribute to a better understanding of phenomena like coronal heating, mass ejections, and space weather.
Significance of Solar Study
- Solar Influence on the System: The Sun significantly shapes planetary evolution and weather, extending its impact to satellites, electronics, power systems, and even Earth’s climate.
- Predicting Solar Storms: Continuous solar observations are essential for tracking Earth-bound solar storms and predicting their potential impacts.
- Gateway through L1: All solar storms heading towards Earth pass through L1, making it a crucial point for monitoring.
Key Feature: Mighty LAM Engine
- The Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engine, developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), is vital to the Aditya-L1 mission’s success.
- LAM has played pivotal roles in missions like Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) and Chandrayaan-3.
- LAM engines facilitate satellite and spacecraft orbital adjustments, conserving fuel and ensuring optimal positioning.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Election- Constitutional provisions
Mains level: One nation, one election plan, advantages and concerns and challenges and federalism
What’s the news?
- The government forms a committee to explore the possibility of One Nation, One Election.
Central idea
- On September 1st, the Central government established a committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind to assess the viability of the ‘one nation, one election’ (ONOE) proposal. This concept revolves around synchronizing the timing of Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections across all states to reduce the frequency of electoral processes across the country.
What is the ONOE plan?
- Concept: The ONOE plan aims to synchronize the timing of the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections across all states in India to reduce the frequency of election cycles nationwide.
- Historical Context:
- After the enforcement of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, the first-ever general elections for both the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies occurred simultaneously in 1951-1952.
- This practice continued for the following three Lok Sabha elections until 1967, streamlining the election process.
- Disruption:
- In 1959, the cycle was disrupted as the Central government invoked Article 356 of the Constitution, leading to the dismissal of the Kerala government, due to a perceived failure of constitutional machinery.
- Subsequent to 1960, defections and counter-defections among political parties led to the dissolution of several State Legislative Assemblies.
- This fragmentation resulted in separate election cycles for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
- Current Scenario: Presently, only specific States such as Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha conduct their assembly polls concurrently with the Lok Sabha elections.
Reports and Perspectives on ONOE
- Law Commission of India (LCI) Report – 2018:
- The LCI, led by Justice B. S. Chauhan, issued a draft report in August 2018 that scrutinized simultaneous elections.
- The report acknowledged the constitutional and legal complexities surrounding this proposal.
- It emphasized that the current constitutional framework necessitates amendments for the plan to be realized.
- The LCI also recommended seeking approval from at least 50% of the States for such an overhaul.
- Despite feasibility challenges, the report recognized potential benefits, including cost savings, reduced administrative burden, timely policy execution, and focused governance.
- Historical Context – LCI Report 1999:
- Notably, the LCI, headed by Justice B. P. Jeevan Reddy, supported the concept of simultaneous elections as early as 1999.
- This historical context underscores that the idea has been debated over time.
- Balancing Perspectives:
- The reports and perspectives reveal a dualistic landscape: ONOE offers advantages like efficient governance and reduced election strain, but it’s hampered by practical and constitutional complexities.
- In assessing ONOE’s viability, the focus is on a well-rounded understanding that considers both the potential benefits and the intricate challenges.
Concerns Regarding the One Nation, One Election Plan
- Feasibility and Constitutional Implications:
- The Constitution outlines fixed tenures (Article 83(2) and 172) for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, raising doubts about the feasibility of simultaneous elections.
- The possibility of mid-term government collapse necessitates a clear mechanism for holding fresh elections or imposing the President’s rule.
- Federalism and Conceptual Incompatibility:
- ONOE seems to conflict with the federal structure, contradicting the idea of India as a Union of States (Article 1).
- Altering this balance might affect the autonomy and authority of state governments.
- Frequency, Accountability, and Blending of Issues:
- Frequent elections allow citizens to address national and state issues separately, enhancing accountability.
- ONOE’s merging of issues might dilute accountability mechanisms and lead to a less-focused governance approach.
- Cost Misconceptions:
- While the Central government highlights the substantial costs of frequent elections, critics argue that the actual expenses are not as massive.
- The analysis questions whether the Election Commission’s expenditure of ₹8,000 crore over five years, amounting to ₹1,500 crore annually or ₹27 per voter per year, is a significant expense for maintaining India’s democratic pride.
Way forward
- Comprehensive Constitutional Review:
- Engage legal experts to meticulously assess necessary constitutional amendments for ONOE.
- Develop a contingency plan to handle midterm government collapses, ensuring stability and smooth transitions.
- Balancing Federalism and Centralization:
- Initiate dialogues with state governments to understand and address their concerns about centralization.
- Craft a balanced framework that respects both federal principles and national electoral efficiency.
- Hybrid Accountability Model:
- Explore a hybrid approach that retains staggered elections for select states while implementing ONOE for others.
- Maintain distinct accountability mechanisms for national and state issues, promoting effective governance.
- Transparent Cost-Benefit Analysis:
- Conduct an independent and transparent assessment of the costs and savings associated with ONOE.
- Present factual data to address misconceptions and inform stakeholders about the financial implications.
- Pilots and Gradual Implementation:
- Begin ONOE implementation through pilot projects in a limited number of states.
- Assess challenges, gather insights, and refine the approach before nationwide adoption.
Conclusion
- The proposal for one nation, one election envisions synchronizing Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections to curtail the frequency of polls. The Indian democracy’s complex dynamics and diverse contexts warrant a comprehensive assessment before implementing such a transformative change.
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