From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Opium Wars
Mains level: World History: Decolonization in Asia
Central Idea
The Opium Wars, waged by European colonial powers on China, exemplify how opium, as an inanimate object, became a powerful historical agent under specific social and political circumstances.
Possible mains question:
Q. Discuss the historical significance of opium as a powerful agent in shaping world history, with a focus on its role in the Opium Wars and its impact on colonialism and Chinese society.
Story of Opium and Tea
Tea’s Introduction to Europe: Tea, originating in China over 2,000 years ago, became popular among the British elite in the mid-17th century and transcended class barriers to become the quintessential British beverage.
Trade Deficit with China: However, the British East India Company faced a trade deficit with China due to the import of tea.
Opium as a Solution: In 1763, the British acquired a monopoly on opium production and trade, which was already in demand in China. Selling opium to China from their rapidly growing colony in India helped offset the trade deficit caused by tea imports.
Opium Cultivation in India
Rapid Growth: Under the British Opium Department, opium production in India saw a massive increase, rising almost 800% within a century. India’s total opium exports to China increased a hundred-fold between 1780 and 1880.
Selective Selling: Interestingly, while India grew all the opium, the British avoided selling it in their own colony, choosing instead to push it into Chinese society.
China’s Addiction and Socio-economic Crises
Addiction Spreads: The highly addictive and debilitating drug led to widespread addiction among China’s upper classes and literati, causing socio-economic crises.
Decline of Qing Dynasty: The ruling Qing dynasty’s inability to curb opium trade eroded the machinery of the state and legitimacy of China’s governance.
The Opium Wars
Discovery of Opium: In 1839, after discovering his son’s opium use, the Qing Emperor launched a crackdown, leading to tensions with British opium traders in Canton.
First Opium War (1839-42): British forces arrived in China to protect “free trade,” leading to a series of defeats for China. The Treaty of Nanking forced China to compensate British opium traders, cede Hong Kong, and open more ports for European trade.
Second Opium War (1856-60): Triggered by a conflict between a Chinese official and British traders, the war further expanded European presence in China and legalized opium trade.
Opium as a Historical Agent
Colonialism and Opium: The Opium Wars epitomized colonialism in Asia, generating immense profits for colonialists at the expense of Indian labor and Chinese sobriety.
Continued Impact: Opioid crises worldwide show opium’s capacity to transcend social classes, making it a historical force with tragic consequences.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Golden Triangle , Golden Crescent
Mains level: Narco-terrorism and associated violence
Central Idea
A civil society organization has written a letter to the European Parliament (EP) expressing concerns over the portrayal of violence in Manipur as a religious conflict.
The organization highlighted the dangers of Manipur becoming a new Golden Triangle, a notorious drug trafficking corridor in Southeast Asia.
Golden Triangle Reference to Manipur
Golden Triangle: The Golden Triangle is a well-known area spanning China, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, notorious for opium poppy cultivation and drug trafficking.
Chin-Kuki and Meitei Communities: Manipur is home to various ethnic groups, with the Kukis being the third-largest community, after the non-tribal Meiteis and the tribal Nagas. The ethnically-related Chins are primarily from Myanmar, and some have allegedly settled illegally in Manipur over the years.
Rise of Narco-Terrorism in India
Golden Crescent Influence: India’s proximity to the “Golden Crescent” provides easy access to narcotics from Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.
Cross-Border Connections: India shares borders with countries known for their involvement in drug trafficking, such as Pakistan.
Financing Mechanism: Socioeconomic factors like poverty and unemployment contribute to the involvement of individuals in the drug trade.
Corruption and Weak Law Enforcement: Corruption within law enforcement agencies facilitates drug trafficking operations, especially in Punjab.
High Profits and Demand: The lucrative nature of the drug trade makes it an attractive revenue source for terrorist organizations.
Transnational Networks: Transnational drug syndicates collaborate with terrorist groups, enabling the flow of drugs and funding for terrorist activities.
Security Implications of Narco-Terrorism
Criminalization of Youth: Drug trafficking and abuse lead to increased crime, violence, and corruption within communities.
Public Health Concerns: Drug addiction and related health issues pose significant challenges to public health systems.
Threat to National Security: The linkages between drug trafficking networks and terrorist organizations create a complex security environment.
Drain on Resources: Combating narco-terrorism requires substantial human resources, equipment, and funding.
Efforts to Combat Narco-Terrorism
Rehabilitation Programs and Counselling Centers: Government-funded drug rehabilitation measures and counselling centres are established across all districts.
Operation Sadbhavana: The Indian Army conducts de-addiction counselling centres and awareness camps to combat drug addiction.
Nasha Mukt J&K Campaign: The campaign aims to make J&K drug-free, with a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics. The same should be replicated in North East.
Recommendations to Curb Narco-Terrorism
Strengthening ED: The Enforcement Directorate’s jurisdiction should be improved to monitor terrorist financing and money laundering.
Anti-Drone Technology: Enhance anti-drone technology along the Line of Control and international borders to counter drug trafficking via drones.
Way Forward
Community Engagement and Rehabilitation: Focus on community awareness, education, and rehabilitation programs.
Target Financing Networks: Strengthen efforts to track and disrupt financing networks supporting narco-terrorism.
Cross-Border Intelligence Sharing: Strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with countries affected by drug trafficking.
De-radicalization: Implement sustainable economic development programs to provide alternatives to communities involved in the drug trade.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Marine Heat Waves
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
MHWs have engulfed regions like the northeast Pacific, southern Indian Ocean, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean, as reported by Mercator Ocean International.
In April, the Sea Surface Temperature (SST) peaked at 21.1 degrees Celsius, breaking the previous record set in 2016.
What are Marine Heat Waves (MHWs)?
While we often associate heatwaves with the atmosphere, they can also occur in the ocean, known as Marine Heatwaves (MHWs).
These prolonged periods of excessively warm sea surface temperatures (SST) can have significant consequences for marine ecosystems and industries.
SST is the temperature of the top layer of the ocean, typically measured at a depth of 1 millimeter to a few meters using buoys.
MHWs can happen in both summer and winter, with “winter warm-spells” affecting specific regions and species.
How are MHWs measured?
Threshold Criteria: A marine heatwave is characterized by seawater temperatures exceeding a seasonally-varying threshold (often the 90th percentile) for at least 5 consecutive days.
Continuity of Events: Successive heatwaves with gaps of 2 days or less are considered part of the same MHW event.
Causes of Marine Heatwaves
Air-sea heat flux: Ocean currents and air-sea heat flux are common drivers of MHWs, leading to the build-up of warm water in specific areas.
Influences of Wind and Climate Modes: Wind patterns can enhance or suppress MHWs. They influence the likelihood of events occurring in certain regions.
Intensification with Global Warming: Rising global temperatures have resulted in longer-lasting, more frequent, and intense MHWs in recent decades.
Human Influence: 87% of MHWs can be attributed to human-induced warming, with the oceans absorbing significant amounts of heat due to greenhouse gas emissions.
Oceans as Heat Sink: Oceans have absorbed 90% of the additional heat caused by greenhouse gas emissions, increasing global mean sea surface temperature by nearly 0.9 degrees Celsius since 1850.
Impacts of Marine Heatwaves
Ecosystem Structure: MHWs can disrupt ecosystem structure, supporting certain species while suppressing others.
Kelp Forest Destruction: MHWs along the Western Australian coast in 2010-2011 devastated kelp forests and fundamentally altered the ecosystem of the coast.
Economic Losses: MHWs can cause economic losses, particularly in fisheries and aquaculture industries.
Vulnerability of Temperature-Sensitive Species: Species such as corals are highly vulnerable to MHWs. The 2016 marine heatwaves in northern Australia caused severe bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef.
Impact on Marine Ecosystems
Catastrophic Effects: MHWs have led to the death of numerous marine species, altered migration patterns, and caused coral bleaching, endangering coral reefs.
Coral Bleaching: High ocean temperatures in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean in 2005 led to a massive coral bleaching event, impacting over 80% of surveyed corals, with severe consequences for marine life.
Invasive Species and Ecological Imbalance: MHWs fuel the growth of invasive alien species, disrupting marine food webs and posing threats to wildlife. Ex. Whale entanglements in fishing gear.
Consequences for Humans
Amplifying Storms: Higher ocean temperatures associated with MHWs make storms like hurricanes and cyclones stronger, leading to severe weather events and flooding.
Threat to Coral Reefs: Half a billion people depend on coral reefs for food, income, and protection, but MHWs pose a grave threat to these ecosystems, impacting human livelihoods.
Socio-Economic Impact: Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable to the socio-economic impacts of MHWs, affecting fisheries and tourism.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gyanvapi Complex
Mains level: Places of Worship Act
Central Idea
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has commenced a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
It aims to ascertain whether the mosque was constructed atop a pre-existing Hindu temple, a matter that has been a subject of contention.
The mosque is not an ASI-protected site, and the ASI has no role in its maintenance or upkeep.
Updates till date
(A) Varanasi Court’s Order
Discovery during Previous Survey: During a court-mandated survey in May 2022, a structure claimed to be a “Shivling” by the Hindu side and a “fountain” by the Muslim side was found in a sealed section, which remained inaccessible since a previous Supreme Court order.
Exclusion from Survey: The court directed the ASI to exclude the sealed section from the survey while emphasizing the necessity of a scientific investigation to establish the historical facts.
(B) Supreme Court’s Ruling
Protection Order: Earlier, the Supreme Court ordered the protection of the area around the claimed “Shivling” discovered during a video survey of the complex.
Mosque Management’s Argument: The mosque management contended that the structure in question is part of the water fountain mechanism at the ‘wazukhana’, the reservoir where devotees perform ablutions before offering namaz.
Legal Implications: Lawyers representing the mosque cited the Place of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits altering the character of any place of worship from its status on August 15, 1947. However, this Act does not apply to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid legal dispute.
History of the Gyanvapi Mosque
Construction: The Gyanvapi Mosque was constructed in 1669 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who ordered the demolition of the existing Vishweshwar temple and its replacement with a mosque.
Temple Elements Incorporated: The plinth of the original temple was left intact, serving as the mosque’s courtyard, while one wall was spared and turned into the qibla wall, facing Mecca. Evidence of the temple’s materials can still be seen in the mosque’s construction.
Name Origin: The mosque’s name is derived from an adjoining well known as the Gyanvapi or Well of Knowledge.
Current Temple: The present Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built in the 18th century, adjacent to the Gyanvapi Mosque, becoming a significant Hindu religious centre over the years.
Longstanding Claims and Legal Framework
Claims of Hindu Worship: Many Hindus believe that the original deity of the Vishweshwar temple was hidden inside the Gyanvapi well during Aurangzeb’s raid. This belief has fueled the desire to perform puja and rituals at the site.
Places of Worship Act: The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, stipulates that the nature of all places of worship, except for the one in Ayodhya, should be maintained as it was on August 15, 1947. It aims to preserve the character of religious sites and prevents legal challenges to pre-existing structures.
Conflicting Claims: The case involved arguments from both sides, with the temple worshipers claiming that the mosque was built on the site of an older temple, while another side pleaded that it was built on Wakf premises.
Issue in the Limelight
Archaeological Survey: In April 2021, a Fast Track Court Civil Judge ordered the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive physical survey of the complex. The survey aimed to determine the structural relationship between the two religious structures.
Critique of the Cut-off Date: Worshippers argue that the cut-off date of August 15, 1947, prohibiting claims to religious sites, is arbitrary and denies Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs the right to “reclaim” their places of worship.
Opposition to the Law: Some groups have opposed the Places of Worship Act since its introduction, contending that the Centre lacks the authority to legislate on pilgrimage or burial grounds, which fall under the state list.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ethanol-blended petrol and its benefits
Mains level: India's ethanol-blended petrol program, advantages and way forward
What’s the news?
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has recently announced an ambitious plan to achieve 20% ethanol-blended petrol nationwide by 2025.
Central idea
India’s ethanol production program has witnessed significant strides in the last five years, with both increased quantities supplied to oil marketing companies (OMCs) and a shift towards diverse raw materials, including rice, damaged grains, maize, and millets. Ethanol, a 99.9% pure alcohol blendable with petrol, has seen a remarkable transformation in its sourcing, production, and utilization.
What is Ethanol?
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol, is a clear, colorless, and flammable liquid. It is a type of alcohol with the chemical formula C2H5OH.
Ethanol is one of the most common types of alcohol and is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast or other microorganisms.
Applications of Ethanol
Ethanol is a key component in alcoholic beverages
Ethanol is now heavily used as a biofuel or an additive to gasoline, creating a blend known as ethanol-blended petrol or gasohol
Ethanol is used in various industrial processes, including in the production of solvents, cleaning agents, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and chemicals
Its ability to kill bacteria and viruses makes it a valuable ingredient in antiseptics and hand sanitizers
Ethanol is utilized in food processing for various purposes, including as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and food-grade solvent
An overview: Evolution of India’s ethanol production
Traditional Feedstocks: Until 2017-18, ethanol production in India relied mainly on ‘C-heavy’ molasses, a by-product of sugar production. Sugar mills produced ethanol from molasses with a sugar content of 40-45%, yielding 220–225 liters of ethanol per tonne.
Policy Changes: In 2018-19, the Indian government introduced a differential pricing policy to incentivize the use of alternative feedstocks for ethanol production. Higher prices were fixed for ethanol produced from B-heavy molasses and sugarcane juice, compensating mills for reduced sugar production.
Feedstocks Diversification: Apart from molasses and sugarcane juice, ethanol production expanded to include rice, damaged grains, maize, jowar (sorghum), and other millets. Ethanol yields from grains were found to be higher than from molasses.
Year-Round Production: Leading sugar companies invested in modern distilleries equipped to operate on multiple feedstocks throughout the year. This flexibility allowed distilleries to switch between B-heavy molasses during the crushing season and grains during the off-season, ensuring continuous ethanol production.
Increase in Ethanol Blending: The government’s policy and the adoption of diverse feedstocks led to a significant boost in ethanol production and blending with petrol. The all-India average blending of ethanol with petrol increased from 1.6% in 2013-14 to 11.75% in 2022-23.
Environmental Sustainability: Distilleries implemented modern techniques like the multi-effect evaporator (MEE) units to treat liquid effluents (spent wash), reducing pollution.
Promoting Green Energy: The evolution of ethanol production in India aligns with the country’s goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable and green energy sources
Advantages of India’s ethanol production program
Ethanol production reduces India’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, enhancing the country’s energy security and reducing vulnerability to fluctuating global oil prices.
Blending ethanol with petrol lowers carbon emissions. This helps combat climate change and improve air quality.
Ethanol production from various feedstocks supports agricultural diversification and provides additional income sources for farmers, benefiting the rural economy.
The program utilizes agricultural byproducts and residues to produce ethanol, promoting efficient resource utilization and reducing waste.
The ethanol production program creates job opportunities in rural areas, particularly near sugar mills and distilleries, contributing to rural economic growth.
Ethanol production aligns with India’s renewable energy goals, contributing to the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
Byproducts of ethanol production
Spent Wash:
During alcohol production, liquid effluent known as spent wash is generated. Spent wash is a byproduct that can pose serious environmental problems if discharged without proper treatment.
It contains residual sugars and other substances from the fermentation process, making it a high-strength organic wastewater.
DDGS (Distillers’ Dried Grain with Solubles):
DDGS is a byproduct of grain-based distilleries.
After the liquid from the spent wash is separated, the remaining solid material undergoes a drying process, resulting in distillers’ dried grain with solubles (DDGS).
How byproducts of ethanol production can be beneficial?
Concentrating the spent wash reduces its volume, and using it as a boiler fuel along with bagasse offers a sustainable energy source, minimizing the need for fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The ash resulting from the incineration of the concentrated spent wash contains up to 28% potash. This potash can be used as fertilizer, promoting soil health and supporting agricultural sustainability.
Byproduct utilization in the form of DDGS as animal feed optimizes resource utilization and minimizes waste.
The conversion of spent wash and wet cake into useful products reduces waste generation.
The byproduct utilization exemplifies the principles of a circular economy where waste is minimized, and resources are recycled and reused.
Way forward
India should continue to diversify its feedstocks for ethanol production, including cane molasses, direct sugarcane juice, rice, damaged grains, maize, jowar, bajra, and other millets.
States like Uttar Pradesh, a major sugarcane grower, can contribute significantly to ethanol production from cane and molasses, while Bihar, known for maize cultivation, can play a crucial role in utilizing maize for ethanol.
Emphasize research to optimize the conversion of maize and other grains into ethanol, reducing the process duration and enhancing overall productivity.
Build new distilleries and upgrade existing ones
Provide stable and long-term policy support, including differential pricing, tax incentives, and mandates for ethanol blending with petrol, tailored to the specific characteristics of different feedstocks.
Gradually increase the blending percentage of ethanol with petrol
Explore opportunities for international collaboration in ethanol production and blending
Conclusion
The move towards a 20% ethanol-blended petrol by 2025 demonstrates the nation’s commitment to energy independence and a greener future. By leveraging multiple feedstocks and adopting sustainable practices, the ethanol industry can continue to play a vital role in India’s journey towards a cleaner and more self-reliant energy landscape.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tele-MANAS
Mains level: Mental health and telemedicine
Central Idea: The government-run national tele-mental health programme, Tele MANAS, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving over 2,00,000 calls from individuals across India since its launch in October 2022.
What is Tele-MANAS?
Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative has been launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2022.
It aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas.
Implementation of the scheme
Counselling: The programme includes a network of 38 tele-mental health centres of excellence spread across 27 States and UTs working in over 20 languages.
Helpline: A toll-free, 24/7 helpline number (14416) has been set up across the country allowing callers to select the language of choice for availing services. Service is also accessible at 1-800-91-4416.
Two-tier working
Tele-MANAS will be organised in a two-tier system; Tier 1 comprises state Tele-MANAS cells which include trained counsellors and mental health specialists.
Tier 2 will comprise specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e-Sanjeevani for audio-visual consultation.
Call Demographics and Concerns
Age Group: Two-thirds of the callers fall in the 18-45 years age group, while 12.5% belong to the 46-64 years age group, and 8% are below 18 years of age.
Gender Distribution: Of the two lakh calls, 59.6% were made by male callers, and 40% by female callers.
Top Concerns: The most common reasons for seeking help were general feelings of sadness (28.8%), sleep-related problems (27.6%), anxiety (20.4%), relationship issues (10%), aggression (9.2%), and low interest in activities (9.7%).
Expansion of the scheme
The initial rollout providing basic support and counselling through a centralized Interactive Voice Response system (IVRS) is being customized for use across all States and UTs.
It is being linked with other services like National teleconsultation, e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat, mental health professionals, health centres, and emergency psychiatric facilities for specialized care.
This will not only help in providing immediate mental healthcare services but also facilitate a continuum of care.
Eventually, this will include the entire spectrum of mental wellness and illness, and integrate all systems that provide mental health care.
Back2Basics: National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP)
The Indian Government announced the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the Union Budget 2022-23.
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru is the nodal centre for the programme.
The programme sought to establish a digital mental health network that can address the mental health crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pandemic has brought forth challenges to mental health, and the NTMHP aims to provide accessible and affordable mental health services to all.
The programme will involve the use of digital platforms such as teleconsultations, chatbots, and mobile applications to deliver mental health services.
The NTMHP will integrate with existing mental health services to provide a comprehensive and coordinated approach to mental healthcare.
Mains level: voluntary tax transparency framework, benefits challenges and way ahead
What’s the news?
While India’s tax reforms have been awe-inspiring in magnitude and scale in recent years, the country needs a voluntary tax transparency framework to sustain its current economic growth.
Central Idea
As the Indian economy aims to surpass the $5 trillion milestone, focusing on sustainable growth has become paramount. Achieving this goal requires the active participation of key stakeholders, including the government, corporations, investors, and civil society. In this context, tax transparency emerges as a crucial catalyst for sustaining India’s economic growth.
What is meant by voluntary Tax Transparency?
Voluntary tax transparency refers to a proactive approach taken by organizations, businesses, or individuals to disclose their tax-related information and practices willingly and without any legal obligation. In this context, the term voluntary implies that there is no specific legal requirement or regulatory mandate forcing entities to disclose their tax-related information.
The Framework for Voluntary Tax Transparency
The proposed voluntary tax transparency framework aims to incentivize organizations operating in India, encompassing private companies, multinationals, and public-sector units, to disclose their strategies and approaches towards domestic and international taxation.
Moreover, these voluntary disclosures could be linked to the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework, creating a standard of commitment to sustainability for every company.
What is a tax transparency report (TTR)?
Globally, a tax transparency report (TTR) serves as a format for such disclosures, providing annual voluntary information on a company’s global tax strategies.
While some large companies voluntarily file these reports, the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project initiated by the OECD is working towards addressing gaps and mismatches in international tax regulations, which, over the years, have allowed many multinationals to minimize their tax outgo through creative tax structuring.
Benefits of Tax Transparency
Economic benefits:
Tax transparency serves as a litmus test to assess each company’s contribution to India’s growth and provides valuable insights into corporate tax strategies.
It will attract international investors who prioritize transparency and responsible tax behavior, resulting in increased capital inflow, job opportunities, economic expansion, and overall prosperity.
Environmental benefits:
It will attract larger capital inflows, particularly in sectors like infrastructure and green energy.
It fosters healthy competition among companies, encouraging them to disclose tax strategies and engage in responsible tax practices, thereby improving their ESG scores.
Extending transparency to include environmental practices, such as reporting environmental taxes related to carbon emissions, plastic usage, waste management, and water consumption, incentivizes businesses to adopt greener practices.
Social benefits:
Tax transparency highlights a company’s contributions to areas such as social insurance, healthcare, and pension premium
Additionally, under governance disclosures, the framework motivates companies to align their ESG policies with tax behavior, promoting robust corporate governance practices, accountability, and transparency.
The Influence of Tax Transparency on Consumer Behavior
As India approaches the $5 trillion milestone and witnesses growing per capita income, the younger generation’s consumer behavior is undergoing a noticeable shift.
These individuals prioritize a company’s ESG performance when making purchasing decisions or evaluating job prospects.
Tax transparency, falling under the broader ESG umbrella, will play a significant role in influencing these choices.
Challenges for implementing voluntary tax transparency in India
Lack of awareness and understanding of the concept of voluntary tax transparency among companies and organizations. Many may not fully grasp the benefits and importance of voluntarily disclosing tax-related information.
Some companies may be hesitant to embrace voluntary tax transparency due to concerns about revealing sensitive financial information or competitive advantages.
India’s tax system is known for its complexity. Companies may find it challenging to navigate India’s complex tax system
The absence of clear regulations or guidelines on voluntary tax transparency
Companies may be cautious about how the public, investors, and other stakeholders will perceive the information disclosed voluntarily.
Smaller companies or organizations with limited resources might find it challenging to allocate time and effort to prepare and disclose voluntary tax-related information.
What India needs to do to promote voluntary tax transparency?
India should develop a well-defined voluntary tax transparency framework that incentivizes organizations, including private companies, multinationals, and public-sector units, to disclose their domestic and international tax strategies voluntarily.
Link tax transparency with the broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework.
Social contributions and governance policies should also be considered as part of the disclosure.
Launch extensive awareness campaigns to educate businesses, investors, and the public about the benefits and significance of voluntary tax transparency
India can establish a voluntary framework for companies on the lines of TTR to solidify its economic foundations and cultivate a business environment cantered around integrity.
Set up a monitoring and evaluation mechanism to assess the effectiveness of voluntary tax transparency efforts regularly.
Ensure that India’s voluntary tax transparency framework aligns with international best practices and standards.
Ensure that the voluntary tax transparency framework does not hinder the ease of doing business in India.
Conclusion
India’s pursuit of becoming a global economic powerhouse demands sustained and responsible growth. Adopting a voluntary tax transparency framework will not only attract sustainable investments but also demonstrate India’s commitment to a greener, more socially responsible, and transparent business environment. By embracing tax transparency, Indian companies can become trailblazers in promoting sustainable development and fostering a prosperous future for the nation
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change mitigation efforts
Mains level: Climate change impact, mitigation targets, efforts and challenges, way forward
What’s the news?
The media’s attention has been focused on the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming target and the influence of El Niño this year. While crossing this temperature threshold is a cause for concern, the hyperbolic end-of-the-world messaging around the climate crisis deserves revaluation.
Central idea
The target in the Paris Agreement, to keep the planet’s surface from warming by 2 degrees Celsius by 2100, has been touted as a monumental goal. However, despite negotiations for more than two decades, global carbon emissions have not slowed. Also, the target was not derived scientifically. Instead of fixating on alarming scenarios, it is crucial to approach the climate challenge with a balanced perspective.
What is 2 Degrees Celsius Target?
In 2015, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, the Paris Agreement was adopted by nearly all countries of the world.
The central aim of the agreement is to keep global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
The 1.5 degrees Celsius target was introduced to address concerns raised by vulnerable nations, particularly small island states.
To achieve the 2 degrees Celsius target, countries are required to make nationally determined contributions (NDCs) that outline their planned efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Paris Agreement emphasizes the importance of global cooperation and collective action to tackle climate change
What is Earth System Models (ESM’s)?
ESM’s are complex computational models used by climate scientists to simulate the Earth’s climate system.
These models are designed to represent the interactions and feedbacks between various components of the Earth system, including the atmosphere, oceans, land surface, ice, and biogeochemical processes.
These models use numerical methods to solve these equations over a grid covering the entire globe, allowing scientists to simulate climate processes and changes over both short and long-time scales.
Key concerns regarding 2 Degrees target
The 2 degrees Celsius target was not established based on robust scientific evidence or a comprehensive understanding of the potential impacts of such warming.
Despite the international efforts and commitments made under the Paris Agreement, global carbon emissions have not shown signs of significant reduction.
The 2 degrees Celsius target may not adequately address the regional variations in climate impacts.
ESM’s used for climate projections struggle to accurately simulate regional-scale climate variations, especially in places like the Indian subcontinent.
There are doubts about the ability to distinguish between the consequences of 1.5- and 2-degrees Celsius warming and to design region-specific climate adaptation policies.
Uncertainties for India
Uncertainties in ESM’s make it difficult to accurately predict regional climate impacts at the scale of the Indian subcontinent.
Climate change affects water availability, precipitation patterns, and glacial melt in the Himalayas. Unpredictability of these factors can have significant implications for India’s overall water security.
Uncertainties in climate projections impact India’s agricultural sector, making it challenging to predict crop yields and plan for food security.
Coastal areas in India, including major cities like Mumbai and Kolkata, are vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels, leading to increased risks of flooding and coastal erosion.
Climate change can exacerbate health issues, including heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and air pollution. Uncertainties in how climate change affects disease patterns make it challenging to plan and implement effective public health responses.
Way forward
Set ambitious and science-based climate targets that align with the latest climate research and international commitments.
Revisit the 2 degrees Celsius warming target and consider more stringent goals to limit global warming.
Invest in climate science and research to enhance the accuracy of regional climate projections and improve understanding of climate impacts on India.
Strategies should focus on sectors like agriculture, water resources, infrastructure, and health to build resilience against the impacts of climate change.
Accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
Develop and implement measures to protect coastal areas from sea-level rise and extreme weather events.
Strengthen public health systems to address health challenges related to climate change. This includes heatwave preparedness, disease surveillance, and measures to reduce air pollution.
Foster climate education and empower citizens to participate in climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Conclusion
The 2 degrees Celsius target, while widely accepted and seen as a significant milestone in addressing climate change, is not without its flaws and uncertainties. Going forward, it is essential for the global community to reassess and update climate targets based on the best available scientific evidence and consider the specific needs of different regions to effectively combat the climate crisis.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Surat Diamond Bourse
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
The Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), hailed as the world’s largest office space project, is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister.
About Surat Diamond Bourse
The SDB is a large-scale project located in Surat, Gujarat, India.
It is claimed to be the world’s biggest office space in a single project.
It is built to expand and consolidate the diamond trading business from Mumbai to Surat.
Surat is renowned as a major hub for cutting and polishing diamonds, and the development of SDB aims to bring all diamond-related activities and infrastructure under one roof.
Key features
Location: The SDB is situated at DREAM (Diamond Research and Mercantile) city in Surat.
Size: The bourse spans an area of 66 lakh square feet (approximately 6.6 million square feet), making it one of the largest office spaces in the world.
Design: The thematic landscaping of the project is based on the ‘panch tatva’ theme, representing the five elements of nature – air, water, fire, earth, and sky.
Infrastructure: The SDB consists of nine towers, each with ground plus 15 floors. It will accommodate over 4,200 offices with sizes ranging from 300 square feet to 7,500 square feet.
Security: Given the high-security nature of the diamond industry, over 4,000 CCTV cameras have been installed at different locations inside and outside the SDB.
Shifting from Mumbai: The bourse seeks to address the space crunch and expensive office real estate in Mumbai, where much of the diamond trading currently takes place.
Economic significance of SDB
Businesses: The complex will house various diamond-related businesses, including the sale of rough and polished diamonds, diamond manufacturing machinery, diamond planning software, diamond certificate firms, lab-grown diamonds, and more.
Employment: The SDB is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, providing direct employment to over 1 lakh people in various roles related to the diamond industry.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IMD Heat Index
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Union Ministry of Earth Sciences informed that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has introduced the Heat Index on an experimental basis.
IMD Heat Index
The Heat Index aims to provide general guidance for regions in India where the combination of temperature and humidity leads to higher apparent temperatures, causing discomfort for people.
It is derived using an equation similar to the one used by the National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the USA.
It considers the impact of humidity on high temperatures, providing a “feel-like” temperature for human beings and indicating the level of discomfort.
Color Codes for Experimental Heat Index
The Heat Index is represented with different color codes to signify the varying levels of heat impact and discomfort:
Green: Below 35°C
Yellow: Range of 36-45°C
Orange: Range of 46-55°C
Red: Above 55°C
Mitigating heat impact in India
The Heat Index is currently being implemented on an experimental basis across India, including Andhra Pradesh.
Under the Heat Action Plan, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) collaborates with local agencies such as the Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) to implement the Heat Index project for Bhubaneshwar and Ahmedabad.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Export Preparedness Index (EPI
Mains level: Not Much
PC: Live Mint
Central Idea
Tamil Nadu has emerged as the most export-competitive state in India, securing the top spot in the Export Preparedness Index 2022 by Niti Aayog.
Export Preparedness Index (EPI)
EPI is a comprehensive tool aimed at gauging the export readiness of India’s states and union territories (UTs).
The index analyses various parameters, enabling the identification of strengths and weaknesses in each region and offering valuable insights for effective policy formulation.
EPI focuses on four pillars:
Policy: This pillar evaluates the effectiveness of a state’s trade policy, providing strategic direction for both exports and imports.
Business Ecosystem: The efficiency of a business ecosystem is crucial for attracting investments and fostering an enabling infrastructure for startups and entrepreneurship.
Export Ecosystem: This pillar assesses the business environment specific to exports, determining the level of support and facilitation provided to exporters.
Export Performance: The sole output-based parameter, this pillar examines the reach of export footprints in states and UTs, measuring their actual export achievements.
10 Sub-pillars include: Export Promotion Policy; Institutional Framework; Business Environment; Infrastructure; Transport Connectivity; Export Infrastructure; Trade Support; R&D Infrastructure; Export Diversification; and Growth Orientation.
States performance
Export-Competitive State:Top Contenders: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat (last year’s leader) followed closely, while Haryana claimed the fifth position.
Coastal States’ Dominance: Coastal states dominated the top rankings, with four out of the top five positions occupied by them. Andhra Pradesh also secured the ninth spot.
Gujarat- Leading Merchandise Exporter: Gujarat holds the top position as the leading merchandise exporter, accounting for one-third of India’s total merchandise exports.
Top Five Exporting States: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh complete India’s top five exporters.
Seven States’ Dominance: An impressive 75% of India’s total exports are contributed by just seven states.
Reasons for export boost
Export Promotion Policies: The top-performing states have implemented export promotion policies at both state and district levels.
Diversified Export Basket: These states have a diverse export basket, showcasing their global footprint.
Promoting Unique Products: Successful states focus on promoting products unique to their region. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka lead in exporting geographical indication (GI) products.
India’s Export Performance
Resilient Exports: Despite pandemic challenges and supply-side issues, India’s goods exports remained robust, reaching an all-time high of $447 billion in FY23.
Target for FY24: The government refrained from setting a specific export target for FY24 due to global headwinds but may aim for $450 billion to $500 billion in goods exports.
Services Exports: Services exports amounted to $323 billion in FY23, bringing India’s overall exports to $770 billion.
Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Eighth Schedule, Classical Languages
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
The Supreme Court said it cannot direct the Centre to include Rajasthani as an official language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
About Eighth Schedule
The Eighth Schedule outlines the official languages of the Republic of India.
Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Constitution contain constitutional provisions relating to the Eighth Schedule.
It was originally created to grant representation on the Official Languages Commission and enrich Hindi and English, the official languages of the Union.
Candidates appearing for public service examinations have the privilege of using any language from the Eighth Schedule as a medium to answer the exam papers.
Article 344(1): It mandates the appointment of a Commission by the President after 5 years from the date the Constitution comes into effect.
Article 351: It places the responsibility on the Union to promote and develop the Hindi language, enabling it to be a medium of expression for India’s diverse cultural elements.
Article 351(1): The President is required to establish a commission every five years, and subsequently every ten years, with a chairman and members representing languages listed in the Eighth Schedule. The primary role is to provide advice to the President on the effective use of Hindi for official purposes by the GOI.
| Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: President Rule
Mains level: Read the attached story
PC: The Hindu
Central Idea
A political party has called for the dismissal of the state government in Manipur and immediate imposition of President’s Rule to initiate a peace process under a neutral administration.
What is President’s Rule?
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, commonly known as President’s Rule, empowers the President to impose central rule in a state where the constitutional machinery has broken down.
While initially intended for extraordinary circumstances, it has often been misused by central governments for political purposes.
Provisions of Article 356:
Imposition of President’s Rule: Article 356 allows the President to withdraw the executive and legislative powers of a state government when it cannot function in accordance with the Constitution.
Triggering factors: The President can invoke Article 356 based on a report from the Governor or suo motu if the constitutional machinery has broken down in the state.
Duration: It can be imposed for six months at a time, with a maximum duration of three years.
Parliamentary approval: Every six months, Parliament’s approval is required to continue the imposition of President’s Rule.
Historical Origins
Inspiration from the Government of India Act, 1935: Article 356 was inspired by Section 93 of this act, which allowed the Governor of a province to assume the powers of the government under certain circumstances.
Controlled democracy: The provision provided some autonomy to provincial governments while enabling British authorities to exercise ultimate power when necessary.
Political Misuse of Article 356
Early instances: During Congress dominance, Article 356 was used against governments of the Left and regional parties in states. Jawaharlal Nehru’s government utilized it six times until 1959, including to dislodge Kerala’s elected communist government.
Increasing misuse: In subsequent decades, Article 356 was used frequently against state governments by various central governments, including those led by Indira Gandhi and the Janata Party.
Landmark Judgment: S R Bommai Case
Landmark Supreme Court ruling: In the 1994 R. Bommai v. Union of India case, the Supreme Court provided detailed guidelines on the use of Article 356.
Specific instances for imposition: The court stated that President’s Rule can be invoked in cases of physical breakdown of the government or a ‘hung assembly.’
Curbing arbitrary use: The judgment emphasized the need to give the state government a chance to prove its majority or instances of violent breakdown before imposing President’s Rule.
Try this PYQ:
Which of the following are not necessarily the consequences of the proclamation of the President’s rule in a State?
Dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly
Removal of the Council of Ministers in the State
Dissolution of the local bodies
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cinematograph Act, 1952
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
Union Information and Broadcasting Minister has introduced the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha, with the goal of addressing piracy concerns in the film industry.
It seeks to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
What is the Cinematograph Act, 1952?
The Cinematograph Act of 1952, was enacted by the Parliament to ensure that films are shown in accordance with the limits of tolerance of society.
The Act establishes the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC, or the censor board) to certify films.
Under the Act, the Board scrutinizes the films following the procedure laid down in the Act and can either reject or grant a certificate, valid for ten years.
The Act authorizes the police to perform search and seizure actions if the film is being exhibited in contravention of any of the provisions of the Act.
Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023
Amendment
The bill proposes to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952
Harsher Penalty
The act has provisions for harsher penal provisions for film piracy
New Age Categories
It introduces new sub-age categories for films to bring about uniformity in categorisation across platforms
Perpetual Certification
The certification once given will be perpetual
New Sub-age based Certification
UA-7+’, ‘UA-13+’, and ‘UA-16+’ in place for 12 years
Alignment
The act will be aligned with Supreme Court judgments
Recertification
Recertification of the edited film for television broadcast
Public Exhibition
Only Unrestricted Public Exhibition category films can be shown on television
Uniformity
It will make the act provisions in line with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 to maintain uniformity
Stringent Laws against Piracy
Details
Imprisonment and Penalty
It includes imprisonment for three years and a Rs 10 lakh penalty for those found involved in piracy
Legal Offence
The act of piracy will be a legal offense, and even transmitting pirated content will be punishable
Indian Cinema: A Backgrounder
The history of Indian cinema dates back to the late 19th century, with the screening of the Lumiere Brothers’ short films in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1896.
Dadasaheb Phalke is considered to be the father of Indian cinema.
The first Indian-made film, Raja Harishchandra, was released by him in 1913 and marked the beginning of Indian cinema.
The first Indian talkie, Alam Ara, was released in 1931, marking a new era in Indian cinema.
Contribution of Indian Cinema
(1) Economic contribution
Revenue Source: The film industry contributes significantly to the country’s economy, generating substantial revenue through production, distribution, and exhibition.
Employment Generation: The film sector offers employment opportunities to millions of people in various related fields.
Allied Sectors: The film industry provides a boost to other industries like advertising, hospitality, tourism, and fashion.
Entertainment Economy: Cinema houses and multiplexes generate revenue through ticket sales, concessions, and merchandise sales.
(2) Societal Contribution
Social Cause: Movies have addressed crucial social issues, raising awareness and encouraging discussions.
Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Strong female characters in films challenge traditional gender roles, positively impacting women’s status.
Accessible Entertainment: Cinema breaks social barriers by providing affordable and accessible entertainment.
Inspirational Aspects: Movies inspire the youth, leading them to look up to their favorite stars as role models.
(3) Nation Building
Promotion of Social Harmony: Indian cinema showcases diversity and cultural richness, promoting social harmony and unity.
Inculcation of Moral Values: Films play a crucial role in imparting moral values and social responsibilities.
Creating Awareness about Social Issues: Movies raise awareness about various social issues, breaking taboos and addressing important topics.
Issues with Indian Cinema
Portrayal of Violence and Sexuality: Some films depict violence and sexual content, impacting younger viewers negatively.
Reinforcement of Stereotypes: Certain films reinforce gender, caste, and religious stereotypes, perpetuating prejudice.
Promotion of Materialism: Movies that promote materialism can lead to unrealistic expectations and values.
Lack of Diversity: The lack of diversity in mainstream films needs to be addressed to ensure equal representation.
Undue Commercialization: Excessive commercialization may overshadow the importance of quality content.
Nepotism: The practice of nepotism can hinder deserving talent from entering the industry.
Way Forward
Revising the Certification Process: Ensure transparency and accountability in the certification process.
Protecting Artistic Freedom: Safeguard artistic freedom and creativity in filmmaking.
Encouraging Regional Cinema: Promote and support regional cinema through incentives and subsidies.
Promoting Cultural Diversity: Encourage filmmakers to explore diverse cultures and promote intercultural dialogue.
Combating Piracy: Take effective measures to combat film piracy and protect revenues.
Developing Film Infrastructure: Invest in developing film infrastructure and educational facilities.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: India's oil trade with Russia, advantages, implications and way forward
What’s the news?
For over a year, India, the world’s third-largest consumer of crude oil with an import dependency of more than 85%, has been entangled in a passionate affair with Russian oil.
Central idea
Aftermath invasion of Ukraine, Russia began offering deep discounts to willing buyers as Western countries turned their backs on its oil. Prior to the conflict, Russia had a minor role in India’s oil trade, which was predominantly dominated by West Asian suppliers like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. However, the discounts offered by Russia led to a drastic transformation, making it India’s primary source of crude oil
Recent growth in Russian oil imports
According to data from the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCI&S), India’s oil imports from Russia surged more than tenfold since April 2022.
This steady growth gained momentum, particularly after the G7 imposed a $60-per-barrel price cap on seaborne Russian crude in December 2022.
Russia’s market share skyrocketed to 24.2% during the 14-month period, up from a mere 2% in FY22. In contrast, other major suppliers such as Iraq, Nigeria, and the US witnessed substantial declines in their market shares.
OPEC’s share in India’s oil imports fell by almost half, from 75.3% in May 2022 to 40.3% in May 2023.
Among the major suppliers to India, several OPEC members saw their market shares decline, while Russia’s share surged from 6% to 40.4%.
How it transformed India’s energy landscape?
Before the Ukraine conflict, Russia was a minor player in India’s oil trade, and the country relied heavily on West Asian suppliers like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The deep discounts offered by Russia created an opportunity for India to diversify its sources of crude oil, reducing its dependence on a few dominant suppliers and increasing energy security.
The discounts on Russian oil provided significant foreign exchange savings for Indian refiners. Till May 2023, Indian refiners saved approximately $7.17 billion in foreign exchange due to increased purchases of discounted Russian oil.
These savings positively impacted India’s trade balance and current account deficit, contributing to overall economic stability.
What are the concerns?
India’s deepening energy ties with Russia amid geopolitical tensions and international sanctions may expose India to geopolitical risks.
The association with Russian oil could lead to diplomatic complexities with other nations.
Despite diversifying energy sources, there is still concern about over-reliance on Russian oil.
India’s substantial imports from Russia could leave it vulnerable to supply disruptions or geopolitical developments affecting Russian exports.
The volatility of discount levels on Russian oil adds uncertainty to India’s energy trade calculations.
The lack of transparency in the pricing of Russian oil cargoes makes determining exact discounts challenging, leading to uncertainties in trade negotiations and financial planning.
Way forward
India should continue diversifying its sources of crude oil to reduce dependence on a single supplier.
Ensuring transparency in oil pricing and understanding the actual discounts offered by Russia can help in making informed decisions.
As India deepens its energy ties with Russia, it should manage its relationships with other oil-producing nations, especially those from OPEC.
India should develop a comprehensive and forward-looking energy policy that considers both short-term energy needs and long-term sustainability.
Adequate energy infrastructure, including ports, pipelines, and storage facilities, is crucial to support diverse energy sources and efficient energy trade.
Conclusion
The unprecedented shift in India’s oil trade reflects the dramatic impact of Russia’s deep discounts amid geopolitical conflicts. Although the recent erosion of discounts poses challenges for Indian refiners, the affair with Russian oil has left a lasting impact on India’s energy trade dynamics. The future of this relationship remains uncertain, but the profound influence of Russia’s discounts will be remembered as a transformative episode in India’s oil trade history.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NFHS findings
Mains level: Changing dynamics of women in India and Aging women and its implications
What is the news?
The observance of World Population Day (11 July) provides an opportunity to reflect upon India’s demographic journey and its transformative impact on the lives of its citizens, particularly women. This article presents insights and perspectives on how population growth, fertility decline, and social norms have influenced various aspects of women’s lives in India.
Central idea
From a population of 340 million at Independence to a staggering 1.4 billion today, India has experienced remarkable growth fueled by advancements in public health, diminished starvation, and medical breakthroughs. This demographic transition has had profound implications for Indian women throughout their lives, presenting both positive and negative changes.
Challenges Faced by Indian Women
Son Preference and Gender Bias: Indian society’s preference for sons is reflected in the sex ratio imbalance. The number of girls per 100 boys under the age of five dropped from 96 to 91 between 1950 and 2019. This decline can be attributed to practices such as sex-selective abortion and the neglect of sick daughters, resulting in limited opportunities and discrimination against girls.
Early Marriage and Childbearing: The early marriage and childbearing continue to be significant challenges for Indian women. The average age at first birth has remained low, with women born in the 1980s still having a first birth below 22 years of age. Early motherhood limits women’s educational and employment prospects, perpetuating gender inequality.
Limited Access to Education: While recent improvements have been made, access to quality education remains limited for many girls and women in India. The article emphasizes that although over 70% of girls enroll in secondary education, early marriage and childbearing restrict their educational opportunities, hindering their skill development and access to better employment prospects.
Gender-based Violence and Harassment: There is prevalence of gender-based violence and harassment, including domestic violence, dowry-related violence, and sexual harassment. Such incidents negatively impact women’s physical and psychological well-being, restrict their freedom, and limit their ability to fully participate in society.
Limited Economic Opportunities: Gender pay gaps, occupational segregation, and biases in hiring and promotion processes contribute to limited economic opportunities for women in India. The burden of unpaid domestic and caregiving work falls disproportionately on women, hindering their ability to engage in paid employment and achieve economic empowerment.
Lack of Social and Financial Support: The widowed or elderly women often lack adequate social and financial support systems. Dependence on male family members, particularly sons, for financial support can perpetuate gender inequality and leave women vulnerable to economic hardships, social isolation, and limited access to healthcare and pension benefits
Aging women and its implications
Increase in Proportion: The proportion of the female population aged 65 and above has risen significantly over the years. Between 1950 and 2022, the proportion of women aged 65 and above increased from 5% to 11% and is projected to reach 21% by 2050.
Outliving Husbands: Women tend to marry older men and are more likely to outlive their husbands. As a result, a higher percentage of elderly women are widowed compared to men in the same age group. The 2011 Census shows that while only 18% of men above age 65 are widowed, about 55% of the women are widowed.
Financial Challenges: Widowed women often face financial difficulties, as they may lack access to savings, property, and other financial resources. This dependence on their husbands and subsequent reliance on their children, primarily sons, can perpetuate the cycle of son preference.
Limited Agency: Widowed women may experience limited decision-making power and agency in their later years. Their dependence on sons for support can restrict their ability to make independent choices and contribute to a sense of social and economic vulnerability.
Changing Dynamics for Indian Women
Difficulty in ensuring the birth of a son: With families having fewer children, the likelihood of not having a son increased. Social norms, patrilocal kinship patterns, and financial insecurity reinforced the preference for sons. This led to practices such as sex-selective abortion and neglect of sick daughters.
Decreased years spent on active mothering: As fertility rates declined, women had more time for education and employment. NFHS finds that the number of years women spend caring for children under five declined from 14 years in 1992-93 to eight in 2018-20; the years spent caring for children ages six to 15 dropped from 20 to 14 years.
Persistent early marriage and childbearing: While women’s educational attainment increased, with over 70% of girls enrolling in secondary education, early marriage and childbearing remain the predominant forces defining women’s lives. As a recent article by Park, Hathi, Broussard, and Spears documents, the average age at first birth has hardly budged about 20 for women born in the 1940s and still remains well below 22 years for those born in the 1980s.
What is mean by Gender Dividend?
Gender Dividend refers to the concept that societies can achieve greater productivity and equity by investing in women and girls and closing gender gaps, particularly in the labor market.
It emphasizes that by realizing the economic potential of women and girls through increased investments and opportunities, societies can become more productive and equitable.
Strategies to harness the Gender Dividend
Education and Skill Development: Promote gender equality in education by ensuring equal access to quality education for girls and women. Encourage girls’ enrollment and retention in schools, address barriers to education, and provide skill development programs that equip women with relevant skills for employment.
Economic Empowerment: Create an enabling environment for women’s economic participation by addressing gender disparities in the labor market, promoting entrepreneurship, and ensuring equal pay for equal work. Implement policies and programs that support women’s access to financial resources, credit, and business opportunities.
Women’s Leadership and Decision-making: Increase women’s representation and participation in leadership positions across sectors, including politics, business, and public institutions. Encourage women’s involvement in decision-making processes at all levels to ensure their perspectives and voices are heard.
Legal Reforms and Gender Equality: Enact and enforce laws that protect women’s rights and promote gender equality. Address discriminatory practices, such as early marriage, dowry, and violence against women. Strengthen the implementation of existing laws to ensure justice and protection for women.
Health and Well-being: Improve women’s access to healthcare services, including reproductive healthcare, maternal health, and preventive care. Address specific health issues affecting women, such as gender-based violence, reproductive health concerns, and mental health.
Social Support and Safety: Establish social support systems that provide safety nets for women, particularly vulnerable groups such as widows, elderly women, and single mothers. Create awareness campaigns to challenge social norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender inequality and violence against women.
Engaging Men and Boys: Engage men and boys as allies in promoting gender equality and challenging harmful gender norms. Encourage men’s involvement in caregiving, domestic responsibilities, and advocating for women’s rights.
Data Collection and Monitoring: Collect sex-disaggregated data and conduct gender analysis to identify gaps, monitor progress, and inform evidence-based policymaking. Regularly evaluate and measure the impact of gender equality initiatives to ensure accountability and guide future interventions.
Strategies for enhancing childcare access
Utilize National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS): Consider making staffing crèches an acceptable form of work under NREGS. This would involve using NREGS workers to help staff childcare centers, thereby expanding access to affordable childcare services.
Leverage the Self-Help Group Movement: Harness the self-help group movement to establish neighborhood childcare centers in urban and rural areas. This can involve utilizing the network and resources of self-help groups to set up and manage childcare facilities.
Expand Anganwadis: Increase the reach and scope of Anganwadis, which are government-funded centers providing integrated childcare and early education services. Expand their capacity and include provisions for crèche services to accommodate working parents.
National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM): Integrate childcare services within the NRLM framework, which aims to enhance the livelihoods of rural households. This can involve incorporating childcare as part of the skill development and income-generation activities supported by NRLM.
Financial Support for Childcare: Explore the implementation of subsidy programs or financial assistance schemes to make childcare more affordable for low-income families. This could include income-based subsidies, vouchers, or tax credits to alleviate the financial burden of childcare expenses.
Neighbourhood Childcare Centers: Encourage the establishment of neighborhood-based childcare centers, particularly in urban areas, to cater to the local community’s childcare needs. This approach ensures proximity and accessibility for parents, making it easier for them to balance work and childcare responsibilities.
Recognition of Childcare as Work: Recognize the valuable work of childcare providers and promote the professionalization of the childcare sector. This can include offering training programs, certification, and support systems to improve the quality of care provided by childcare professionals
Conclusion
Realizing India’s demographic dividend requires fully harnessing the gender dividend by empowering women throughout their lives. Access to childcare plays a pivotal role in facilitating women’s labor force participation. Efforts to improve childcare access should be combined with strategies to challenge patriarchal norms and create an enabling environment for women’s education, employment, and asset ownership. By embracing these measures, India can empower its women and achieve inclusive and sustainable development.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Motions and other parliamentary procedures and related provisions
Mains level: Adjournment motion, its significance and criticism and various parliamentary procedures
What’s the news?
In the second day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the Lok Sabha witnessed adjournment proceedings as Opposition parties demanded an urgent discussion on the alleged sexual assault of women in Manipur amid the ongoing ethnic violence in the state.
Central idea
Congress MPs moved adjournment motions, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the matter and uphold the government’s constitutional commitment to protect religious minorities and Scheduled Tribes. This article will delve into the concept of adjournment motions and their differences from other parliamentary motions raised in Indian Parliament.
What is an adjournment motion?
An adjournment motion is a parliamentary procedure used to raise an issue of urgent public importance that requires immediate discussion and debate.
It allows Members of Parliament (MPs) to interrupt the regular business of the house and seek the attention of the entire house on a specific matter that is deemed pressing and critical.
Adjournment motion can be moved in the Lok Sabha by any member who seeks the Speaker’s consent to discuss a definite matter of urgent public importance.
The notice for an adjournment motion must be given before 10 am to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General on the day it is to be raised.
Parliamentary Procedures in Indian Parliament
Members of Parliament in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have various procedures to draw attention to relevant issues.
There are four main procedures under which discussions can take place in the Lok Sabha – a debate without voting under Rule 193, a motion (with a vote) under Rule 184, an adjournment motion, and a no-confidence motion.
Similar measures, except no-confidence motion, also exist in the Rajya Sabha.
Rule 193: Short Duration Discussion
Under Rule 193 of the Lok Sabha’s rules and Rule 176 of the Rajya Sabha’s rules, Short Duration Discussions can take place.
These discussions require the Chairman or Speaker’s satisfaction that the matter is urgent and of sufficient public importance.
The Chairman or Speaker can then fix a date for discussion, allowing a time period of up to two and a half hours.
Disagreements over the rule to invoke led to the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha on the issue of Manipur.
Rule 184: Motion with a Vote
A motion on a matter of general public interest can be admitted under Rule 184 if it satisfies certain conditions.
The motion should not contain arguments, inferences, ironical expressions, imputations, or defamatory statements.
It must be restricted to a recent occurrence and cannot pertain to a matter pending before any statutory authority, commission, or court of enquiry.
The Speaker can allow such a motion to be raised at his own discretion, and a time period for discussion can be allotted.
Significance of the adjournment motion
It allows the Parliament to discuss pressing matters promptly, ensuring that critical issues do not get overlooked or delayed.
It serves as a tool for holding the government accountable for its actions or inactions.
By raising urgent matters and initiating discussions, MPs can seek clarifications, explanations, and government responses, which promotes transparency in governance.
The discussions resulting from an adjournment motion bring urgent matters into the public domain, raising awareness among citizens about significant issues affecting the country.
The government is obligated to address the concerns raised during the adjournment motion debate.
It provides an opportunity for the government to present its stance, actions, and plans to address the issue, thus ensuring greater accountability.
It empowers the Opposition to raise important issues and bring government shortcomings to the forefront.
It gives them a platform to voice dissent and critique government policies, fostering healthy democratic debates.
Criticisms over the adjournment motion
The adjournment motion, once admitted, disrupts the regular proceedings of the house.
Other important legislative business, debates, or bills scheduled for that session may get delayed or postponed, affecting the overall productivity of the Parliament.
The debate resulting from an adjournment motion can be time-consuming
Some critics argue that the adjournment motion overlaps with other parliamentary motions, such as the calling attention motion and the motion for an urgent discussion, which also provide opportunities to discuss urgent matters.
In some cases, the adjournment motion can be misused for political purposes rather than genuinely addressing urgent matters.
While the adjournment motion raises urgent matters and demands government attention, it does not guarantee immediate action or resolution.
Conclusion
The recent demand for an urgent discussion on the ethnic violence in Manipur through an adjournment motion resulted in the Lok Sabha’s adjournment. Parliament has various procedures to address relevant issues, each with its own set of conditions and implications. As the proceedings are set to resume, it remains to be seen how the government and Opposition parties will navigate the demands for discussion on this critical matter.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kerch Bridge
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Kerch Bridge, linking the Russian mainland to the Crimean Peninsula, suffered an attack by Ukrainian sea drones, leading to retaliatory actions by Russia.
About Kerch Bridge
The Kerch Bridge, across the Kerch Strait, is 19 km long and has two parallel rail and roadways.
It was opened in 2018 by Russian President Vladimir Putin with great fanfare, four years after Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine through a contested referendum.
It is also a symbol of Russia’s control over Crimea, annexed in 2014.
It holds symbolic importance for Russia, as it provides direct connectivity between the mainland and the annexed Crimea.
Significance of the Kerch Bridge for Russia
Establishing Connectivity: Following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, the bridge was constructed to secure a “land bridge” between mainland Russia and Crimea.
Logistical Supply Link: The bridge plays a critical role in facilitating logistical supplies to Russian troops in southern Ukraine.
Strategic Vulnerability: The bridge remains within range of Ukrainian fire, making its security vital for Russia’s military operations.
Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Section 69A of IT Act
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Indian government has exercised its powers under Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
It requested Twitter and other social media platforms to remove a video depicting the naked parade and sexual assault of two Manipur women.
What is Section 69(A) of the IT Act?
Empowering Content Takedown: Section 69(A) allows the government to issue content-blocking orders to online intermediaries like ISPs, web hosting services, search engines, etc.
Grounds for Blocking: Content can be blocked if it is considered a threat to India’s national security, sovereignty, public order, or friendly relations with foreign states, or if it incites the commission of cognizable offenses.
Review Committee: Requests made by the government for blocking content are sent to a review committee, which issues the necessary directions. Such orders are typically kept confidential.
Supreme Court’s Verdict on Section 69(A)
Striking Down Section 66A: In the case of Shreya Singhal vs. Union of India (2015), the Supreme Court struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, which penalized the sending of offensive messages through communication services.
Section 69(A) Validated: The Court upheld the constitutionality of Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Rules 2009, noting that it is narrowly drawn and includes several safeguards.
Limited Blocking Authority: The Court emphasized that blocking can only be carried out if the Central Government is satisfied about its necessity, and the reasons for blocking must be recorded in writing for legal challenges.
Other Rulings on Section 69(A)
Twitter’s Challenge: Twitter approached the Karnataka High Court in July last year, contesting the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s (MeitY) content-blocking orders issued under Section 69(A).
Court’s Dismissal: In July of this year, the single-judge bench of the Karnataka HC dismissed Twitter’s plea, asserting that the Centre has the authority to block tweets.
Extending Blocking Powers: Justice Krishna D Dixit ruled that the Centre’s blocking powers extend not only to single tweets but to entire user accounts as well.
Conclusion
The application of Section 69(A) has been a subject of legal and societal debate, as it aims to balance national security and public order concerns with the protection of free speech and expression.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Short Duration Discussions
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Opposition called for the suspension of all other business under Rule 267 to discuss the Manipur issue, while the government preferred a “Short Duration Discussion” under Rule 176.
Understanding the nuances of these rules and their implications is essential for effective parliamentary discussions.
Rule 267: Suspension of Business
Overview: Rule 267 allows Rajya Sabha MPs to suspend all listed business and engage in discussions on matters of national importance.
Consent and Suspension: As per the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Rajya Sabha, any member can seek the Chairman’s consent to suspend the application of a rule related to the day’s listed business.
Temporary Suspension: If the motion receives approval, the concerned rule is temporarily suspended.
Short Duration Discussions under Rule 176
Brief Duration Discussions: Rule 176 facilitates short-duration discussions in Rajya Sabha, lasting up to two-and-a-half hours.
Notice and Explanatory Note: MPs desiring to raise urgent public matters must provide a written notice to the Secretary-General, including an explanatory note justifying the discussion.
Scheduling and Procedure: The Chairman, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, schedules the discussion without formal motions or voting.
Statement and Reply: The member who issued the notice presents a brief statement, followed by a concise reply from the Minister.
Contention Surrounding Rule 267
Opposition’s Discontent: The Opposition expresses discontent as their notices under Rule 267 have not been addressed recently.
Past Precedents: In the past, several discussions on diverse subjects occurred under this rule during different Chairmen’s tenures.
Misuse of Rule: Experts suggest that Rule 267 is being misused as a substitute for the adjournment motion in Lok Sabha, where discussions involve motions with elements of censure, which do not apply to Rajya Sabha.
Why discuss this?
Parliamentary debates hold significant value in addressing pressing public matters and discussing issues critical to the nation.
They provide a platform for representatives from various political parties to engage in informed discussions, leading to more effective decision-making and improved governance.
