From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change impact, Vector borne and water borne diseases
Mains level: Threats posed by climate-induced events, disease management challenges and way ahead
What’s the news?
The vulnerability of urban households to climate change-led events needs attention in India.
Central idea
The current monsoon season in India has garnered significant media attention due to the widespread devastation witnessed in various regions. From the cyclonic storm Biparjoy’s landfall in western India to floods in Assam and heavy rainfall causing havoc in the north, these events have raised concerns, especially among policymakers.
Extreme climate events and its impacts on urban cities
Increased Vulnerability: Urban areas, particularly those with inadequate infrastructure and informal settlements, face heightened vulnerability to extreme climate events. Lack of proper resources and planning exacerbates the impact.
Disease Outbreaks: Post-monsoon, urban areas are prone to waterborne and vector-borne diseases due to stagnant water and conducive conditions. Diseases like malaria, dengue, cholera, and typhoid can spread rapidly in these environments.
Higher Urban Household Susceptibility: Urban households are more susceptible to climate-induced diseases compared to rural households, with increased odds of contracting diseases like malaria and dengue.
Challenges in Disease Management: Coordinating Disease Management in Urban Areas Post-extreme climate events become challenging due to the movement of people across regions and the complex network of agencies involved in healthcare.
Strain on Health Systems: Urban health systems come under strain as they try to manage the increased demand for healthcare services during and after extreme climate events.
Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Vulnerable groups, such as those living in slums or informal settlements, are disproportionately affected by the impacts of extreme climate events due to their marginalized living conditions.
A study on disease vulnerability
Urban vs. Rural Vulnerability: The study reveals that urban households are more vulnerable to climate-induced diseases compared to rural households. This vulnerability is particularly evident in the heightened odds of urban households contracting diseases like malaria and dengue.
Geographic Implications: The study highlights the geographic variation in disease vulnerability. Households in states with higher climate vulnerability are at a greater risk of suffering from diseases, accentuating the importance of considering regional climate contexts.
Malaria and Dengue: Urban households face significantly higher odds of suffering from diseases like malaria and dengue. This emphasizes the urban-specific risk factors contributing to the prevalence of these diseases, including factors related to urbanization, living conditions, and healthcare access.
Climate Vulnerability: The study’s insights point to the connection between climatic conditions and disease vulnerability. Households in states with higher vulnerability to climate change experience elevated risks of disease, signaling the need for targeted interventions in these regions.
Policy Implications: The findings of the study carry substantial policy implications. Policymakers need to recognize the unique vulnerabilities of urban areas and design tailored strategies to mitigate disease outbreaks in these settings.
Steps to mitigate the challenges posed by extreme climatic events
Rebuilding the Urban Health Care System:
Focus on enhancing the urban primary health-care system’s resilience.
Prioritize serving the vulnerable urban population, particularly those residing in urban slums and peri-urban areas.
Develop a health system capable of promptly responding to emergencies, proactively preparing for impending crises, and flexibly adapting to changing public health needs.
Increase Public Investment:
Allocate more substantial public investment, with immediate attention directed towards urban areas most susceptible to climatic shocks.
Address the inadequacy of current funding for primary health care.
Recognize the pressing need to channel funds toward bolstering health care infrastructure and resources.
Empower the National Urban Health Mission:
Support and strengthen the efforts of the National Urban Health Mission.
Address the limitations in revenue generation capacities among urban local bodies.
Ensure sufficient financial resources are available to bolster urban health care systems.
Local Bodies’ Role in Public Health:
Acknowledge that a significant portion of preventive and public health functions fall under the jurisdiction of local bodies.
Recognize the importance of supporting local bodies in carrying out their public health responsibilities.
Establish a Special Fund for Resilience:
Create a dedicated fund sourced from statutory institutions, such as the Finance Commission.
Direct this fund towards building a robust and resilient health system in vulnerable urban areas.
Ensure that the fund is allocated based on identified priorities and needs.
Extend Attention Beyond Cities:
Recognize the need to extend targeted efforts beyond major cities to include towns.
Understand that vulnerability to extreme climatic events is not exclusive to urban centers.
Allocate resources and support to build resilience in towns as well.
Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic on urban health governance
Complex Urban Health Governance:
Recognize the intricacies of urban health governance, marked by the involvement of numerous agencies and fragmented care provision.
Acknowledge the expanding influence and dominance of the private sector in the healthcare landscape.
Coordination and Cooperation:
Learn from the pandemic’s experience that effective public health responses require enhanced coordination and cooperation among diverse actors.
Emphasize knowledge and data sharing, along with coordination in preventive, curative, and treatment aspects.
Regulation and Standardization:
Understand the necessity to regulate rates and enforce quality standards, especially in the private sector.
Recognize the importance of standardized treatment practices to ensure consistent and effective care provision.
Strengthened Surveillance and Information Systems:
Acknowledge the critical role of surveillance and information systems, such as the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program.
Plan to universalize and comprehensively strengthen these systems to effectively respond to public health emergencies.
Comprehensive Health System Approach:
Grasp the need to transition from vertical disease control programs to a comprehensive health system approach.
Consider integrating front-line workers across various disease management programs to create a versatile cadre of public health professionals.
Address Workforce Shortage:
Understand the challenge of an inadequately trained health workforce in public health and related areas.
Address this shortage by creating multipurpose front-line public health cadres accountable to both communities and the health system.
Climate Change Preparedness:
Recognize the increasing frequency and intensity of climate change-led events.
Incorporate climate change awareness into planning and management to build resilience and preparedness.
Conclusion
As India faces heightened climate-induced health risks, it’s imperative to prioritize the strengthening of urban health systems. The convergence of vulnerability insights, disease management challenges, and the COVID-19 experience highlights the need for integrated, resilient health systems. By adapting to changing public health needs, India can better prepare for the growing threats posed by climate-induced events.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jan Vishwas Bill
Mains level: Jan Vishwas Bill, 2023 , Amendments, concerns and , significance,
What’s the news?
The corridors of India’s Parliament recently witnessed the passage of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023.
Central idea
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, spearheaded by the Minister of Commerce and Industry, is a transformative piece of legislation aimed at ushering in a new era of ease in daily life and business operations. The Bill proposes sweeping amendments to decriminalize 183 provisions within 42 Central Acts overseen by 19 Ministries and Departments.
What is the Jan Vishwas Bill about?
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, is designed with the dual objective of further enhancing the ease of living and the ease of doing business within the country.
The primary focus of the bill is to amend and update various provisions present in 42 Central Acts that fall under the purview of 19 Ministries and Departments.
The amendments proposed by the Jan Vishwas Bill encompass diverse sectors such as agriculture, the environment, media and publication, health, and more.
Key Features
Amendment of Multiple Provisions: The bill targets the amendment of 183 provisions within 42 Central Acts administered by 19 Ministries/Departments, spanning sectors like agriculture, environment, media, publication, and healthcare.
Conversion of Fines to Penalties: A significant shift is the transformation of fines into penalties, simplifying the process of imposing punishments for offenses and minimizing the need for court intervention.
Removal of Imprisonment as Punishment: The bill proposes the removal of imprisonment as a punitive measure for certain offenses, with an emphasis on using penalties as a more efficient means of addressing non-compliance.
Focus on Healthcare: Notable amendments are proposed for acts such as the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Pharmacy Act, 1948. These changes have sparked debates among healthcare activists, pharmacy experts, and patient-welfare groups.
Pros of the Amendments
Efficient Punishments: The conversion of fines into penalties can expedite the process of administering punishments for offenses, potentially leading to a quicker resolution of cases.
Business-Friendly Environment: The removal of imprisonment as a punishment for certain offenses can create a more favorable atmosphere for businesses, reducing concerns about severe penalties.
Ease of Doing Business: By simplifying regulations, businesses can operate more smoothly, attracting investments and fostering economic growth.
Balanced Approach: The bill aims to maintain a balance between public health and business growth, ensuring regulatory effectiveness while facilitating business operations.
Cons of the Amendments
Public Health Concerns: Critics argue that reduced penalties for Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) drugs and pharmacy license violations could compromise patient safety by lowering the consequences for non-compliance.
Quality Control: Diminished penalties might lead to lax quality control in sectors like healthcare and food safety, potentially impacting consumer well-being.
Deterrence Impact: Reduced penalties and the elimination of imprisonment might weaken the deterrent effect on potential violators, potentially leading to increased non-compliance.
Industry Accountability: Critics contend that the amendments could lower industry accountability by providing lenient regulatory measures, potentially affecting public health and safety.
The Government’s Argument in Favor of the Jan Vishwas Bill
India’s Global Role: Emphasizing India’s position as the pharmacy of the world, the government asserts that the amendments are essential to align regulations with this significant global role.
Balancing Health and Business: The government contends that while ensuring the availability of high-quality medicines, it’s equally important to provide reasonable benefits to businesses, striking a balance between these objectives.
Ease of Doing Business: The government highlights the necessity of creating a business-friendly environment to attract investments and promote economic growth. Streamlining regulations through the amendments aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Efficiency and Growth: By converting fines into penalties, the government argues that the process of imposing punishments for offenses becomes more efficient, aligning with the goal of ease of living and doing business.
Global Alignment: The government stresses the importance of adapting regulations to evolving global standards. The amendments are positioned as a way to modernize and simplify regulations, aligning India’s practices with international norms.
Business and Economic Development: The amendments are framed as essential for supporting business growth, which contributes to overall economic development and increased job opportunities.
Conclusion
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, emerges as a multidimensional legislative reform aiming to promote both the well-being of the public and the growth of businesses. The challenge lies in crafting regulations that not only facilitate industry growth but also uphold public health, safety, and societal responsibility, ultimately leading to a harmonious and prosperous nation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Havana Syndrome
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
Havana Syndrome, a mysterious set of mental health symptoms experienced by US intelligence and embassy officials in India, has caught the attention of authorities.
What is Havana Syndrome?
Cuban Incident: The term “Havana Syndrome” originated in Cuba in late 2016 when US officials at the newly opened US embassy in Havana reported symptoms like pressure in the brain, headaches, and disorientation. The cause of these symptoms initially sparked suspicions of a “sonic attack” orchestrated by Cuban intelligence.
Subsequent Reports: Following the Cuban incident, similar symptoms were reported by American officials stationed in China, Russia, Poland, Georgia, Taiwan, Colombia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Austria, and even in Washington DC, including near the White House.
Havana Syndrome in India
Sole Reported Case: As of July 2023, the 2021 incident involving a US intelligence officer in India is the only reported case of Havana Syndrome in the country.
Indian Security Establishment: Indian security officials have claimed that they are not aware of any agency possessing such microwave-based counter-espionage technology.
Geopolitical Considerations: Given India’s friendly relations with the US, officials find it unlikely that an Indian agency or foreign power would target US officials in this manner.
Possible Causes of Havana Syndrome
Microwave Exposure: Scientific research and medical examinations of the victims have suggested that high-powered microwaves may have damaged or interfered with the nervous system, leading to the reported symptoms.
Microwave Weapon: The syndrome was speculated to be caused by beams of high-powered microwaves sent through a specialized gadget known as a “microwave weapon.”
Counter-Intelligence Tactic: Both Russia and the US have experimented with using microwaves as a counter-intelligence tactic since the Cold War.
Debunking the Havana Syndrome Theory
Lack of Conclusive Evidence: Despite years of data collection and experiments, the US has not found conclusive evidence to support the existence of a “microwave weapon.”
Psychological Illness Amplified: Some medical experts argue that the syndrome could be a psychological illness amplified by fear of being targeted.
Impact on Relations: A report from several US security agencies in 2023 suggested that foreign adversaries were unlikely to be behind the “anomalous health incidents,” which may have impacted US-Cuba relations.
Conclusion
The enigmatic Havana Syndrome continues to baffle experts and policymakers worldwide, with no definitive evidence of its origins and causes.
As India examines the issue in response to the recent petition, the global mystery surrounding Havana Syndrome remains an ongoing concern for intelligence communities and governments alike.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: LK-99 Superconductors
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Researchers in South Korea have recently unveiled a potential room-temperature superconductor named LK-99, a discovery that could revolutionize industrial and medical applications due to its ability to conduct heavy currents with zero resistance.
This article delves into the key characteristics that define a superconductor and the significance of LK-99’s potential discovery.
Understanding Superconductors
A superconductor is a material that, under specific conditions, displays four distinct changes indicating its transition to the superconducting state.
(1) Electronic Effect:
A genuine superconductor demonstrates zero resistance when conducting electric current.
Verifying this property requires advanced equipment and testing on a sufficiently large sample.
(2) Magnetic Effect:
Different types of superconductors exhibit unique responses to magnetic fields.
A type I superconductor expels a magnetic field below a critical value, creating the Meissner Effect.
A type II superconductor, undergoing a mixed superconducting and non-superconducting phase, prevents magnetic fields from penetrating its bulk, known as flux pinning.
(3) Thermodynamic Effect:
The electronic-specific heat, representing the heat required to raise electron temperature by 1 degree Celsius, changes significantly during the superconducting transition.
As the material shifts to its superconducting state, the electronic-specific heat decreases.
Upon re-warming the material to the critical temperature, the specific heat reverts to its non-superconducting value.
(4) Spectroscopic Effect:
A distinctive feature of superconductors is the presence of energy level gaps that restrict electrons from certain energy states.
Mapping energy levels in a superconductor reveals these gaps, serving as an indicator of its superconducting nature.
Conventional vs. Unconventional Superconductors:
Conventional Superconductors: These materials adhere to the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer theory of superconductivity. They display predictable behaviors explained by established scientific principles.
Unconventional Superconductors: In contrast, unconventional superconductors exhibit superconductivity that defies current theoretical explanations. Their unique properties challenge researchers to unravel the mysterious origins of their superconducting abilities.
About Material LK-99
Apatite Structure: The Korean group utilized copper-substituted lead apatite, a phosphate mineral with unique tetrahedral motifs, to create LK-99.
Superconducting Behavior: LK-99 displayed essential superconducting properties, with almost zero resistance to current flow and sudden emergence of resistance above a critical current threshold.
Magnetic Resilience: LK-99 retained superconductivity even under the presence of a magnetic field until reaching a critical threshold.
Implications of the LK-99 Discovery
The potential room-temperature superconductor LK-99 carries the promise of transforming various industries and medical applications.
However, thorough validation by independent researchers is necessary to establish its authenticity and potential impact.
If confirmed, LK-99 could reshape the way we harness and utilize electrical currents in a multitude of fields.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 8th Schedule Languages
Mains level: National Language Debate
Central Idea
The Supreme Court rejected a plea to transfer a motor accident case from the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Farrukhabad, UP, to the MACT in Darjeeling, West Bengal.
The court emphasized that language should not be a barrier, and witnesses should communicate in Hindi, the national language, during proceedings
Why discuss this?
The Supreme Court’s assertion that Hindi is the national language sparked debates, given India’s linguistic diversity.
While no language is officially designated as the “national language,” Hindi holds a significant position as the official language of the Union.
Official Languages and the Constitution
Article 343: The Constitution designates Hindi in the Devanagari script as the official language of the Union, with English used for official purposes during the initial 15 years after the Constitution’s commencement in 1950.
Article 351: The Constitution directs the Union to promote the spread of Hindi while respecting the forms and expressions of other languages listed in the Eighth Schedule.
Eighth Schedule and Linguistic Diversity
Eighth Schedule: The Constitution’s Eighth Schedule lists 22 languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu, as recognized languages. The Schedule has expanded over time to accommodate languages like Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, and Santhali.
Demands for Inclusion: Various languages such as Bhojpuri, Garhwali (Pahari), and Rajasthani are vying for inclusion in the Eighth Schedule. The MHA acknowledges the dynamic nature of language evolution but faces challenges in establishing criteria for inclusion.
Official Languages Act, 1963: Despite Hindi being an official language, the Act ensures the continuation of English for official purposes even beyond the initial 15-year period.
Status of English in Judiciary
Apex Courts: The use of English is mandated in proceedings of the Supreme Court and High Courts, ensuring uniformity in legal communication. The Rajasthan High Court introduced Hindi for court proceedings, citing Article 348 (2) and the Official Languages Act.
Subordinate Courts and Regional Languages:
Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC): The State Government has the authority to determine the language of subordinate courts within the state.
Code of Civil Procedure (CPC): While the language of subordinate courts is initially maintained, the State Government can declare a language and character for applications and proceedings.
Way Forward
Balancing Diversity and Accessibility: The debate on regional languages in courts underscores the need to make legal proceedings accessible to all citizens, considering linguistic diversity.
Gradual Transition: While the use of regional languages in courts is a growing conversation, any transition must be gradual and carefully implemented to ensure clarity and consistency.
Socio-Linguistic Dynamics: Encouraging the use of local languages in legal proceedings aligns with PM’s vision to facilitate understanding of the judicial process among citizens.
Bills/Act/Laws | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mines and Minerals Bill 2023
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
India’s Parliament recently passed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023.
This bill aims to encourage private sector participation in mineral exploration and mining, thus addressing import dependencies and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Provisions of the Mines and Minerals Bill 2023
Expanding Exploration Rights: The Bill allows private sector engagement in the exploration of critical and strategic minerals previously reserved for government entities.
Exploration Licenses (EL): The Bill introduces a new type of license, EL, for private exploration activities. Exploration licenses will be granted through competitive bidding and will be issued for specified critical, strategic, and deep-seated minerals.
Revenue Model: ELs aim to generate revenue through a share of the premium paid by the miner after successfully auctioning a mined deposit.
Critical Minerals and their Importance
Critical minerals are elements that are crucial to modern-day technologies and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
Recent categorization: Minerals such as antimony, cobalt, gallium, graphite, lithium, nickel, niobium, and strontium are among the 22 assessed to be critical for India.
Global Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: The global supply chains for various commodities, including critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements, have been shown to be susceptible to shocks, leading to shortages and rising prices.
Impact on Various Sectors: Critical minerals are essential for manufacturing, infrastructure development, and clean energy transitions. They are crucial for electric vehicle batteries, semiconductors, wind turbines, and other technological advancements.
Import Dependency and Vulnerabilities
Import Dependency: India heavily relies on imports for critical and deep-seated minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements.
Supply Chain Disruption: The concentration of extraction and processing in a few geographical locations, like China’s dominance in cobalt and rare earth elements, can lead to supply chain vulnerabilities.
Projected Demand: A World Bank study anticipates a nearly 500% increase in demand for critical metals like lithium and cobalt by 2050.
Global Initiatives for Supply Chain Resilience
Mineral Security Partnership (MSP): Major economies like the U.S., UK, Japan, and the EU have established the MSP to ensure supply chain resilience for critical minerals. India joined this partnership to secure access to these resources.
Strategic Lists: Countries are compiling lists of critical minerals based on their economic needs and supply risks, aligning with their industrial strategies. This aims to secure stable access to these resources.
Private Sector Participation
Exploration and Mining: Mineral exploration is a multi-stage process, from reconnaissance to detailed exploration, before actual mining. India’s exploration efforts have been led by government agencies with limited private-sector involvement.
Resource Potential: India’s geological setting holds potential for mineral resources similar to mining-rich regions. However, only a fraction of its obvious geological potential has been explored.
Challenges and Concerns
Incentives and Risks: Private sector involvement in exploration requires substantial investments and carries inherent risks, making it necessary to create favourable conditions and incentives.
Revenue Generation Delays: Private explorers’ primary revenue source is a share of auction premiums, contingent on successful mine auctioning, which can take considerable time due to government clearances.
Auction Process Challenges: Auctioning ELs before exploration begins raises uncertainty regarding future revenue and value estimation.
Supreme Court Ruling: The Supreme Court’s 2012 ruling emphasized the significance of secure utilization of explored resources, which the new policy does not guarantee.
Conclusion
The recent legislation signals India’s commitment to attracting private sector investment in mineral exploration.
However, challenges such as revenue uncertainty, the auction method’s suitability, and the need for efficient mechanisms to incentivize private participation need careful consideration.
Balancing the interests of the private sector, resource availability, and the nation’s strategic goals will be pivotal for the successful implementation of these policy amendments.
| 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: Delhi Services Bill
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
The Rajya Sabha passed the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 four days after the Lok Sabha cleared the Bill.
It will promulgate into law once signed by the President of India.
Delhi Services Bill, 2023: A Backgrounder
In May 2023, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Delhi government, granting it control over most services in the capital city, except for public order, land, and police cases.
However, the Centre introduced an ordinance on May 19 to override the top court’s order, giving more authority to the Lieutenant Governor (LG) in matters of appointments and transfers of bureaucrats.
Key Features of the Bill
National Capital Civil Services Authority: The bill establishes the National Capital Civil Services Authority to make recommendations to the LG on certain service-related matters, including transfers, vigilance, and disciplinary proceedings.
Powers of the LG: The bill expands the discretionary role of the LG, allowing him to override the recommendations of the Authority and act on his sole discretion in certain matters.
Disposal of Matters by Ministers: The bill allows Delhi government ministers to issue standing orders for matter disposal, subject to consultation with the concerned Department Secretary. However, certain sensitive matters must be submitted to the LG for his opinion before issuing any order.
Duties of Secretaries: Department Secretaries must bring certain matters to the notice of the LG, Chief Minister, and Chief Secretary, particularly those that may lead to controversy with other state governments, courts, or the central government.
Important changes related to Services
Removal of Clause 3A: The bill eliminates a provision from the ordinance that prevented the Delhi Assembly from creating laws related to ‘State Public Services and State Public Service Commission.’ This gives the assembly the authority to make regulations concerning services.
No Annual Report needed by NCCSA: The National Capital Civil Service Authority (NCCSA) will no longer be required to submit an annual report to Parliament and the Delhi Assembly, removing the obligation to present the report before these legislative bodies.
Modification in Appointment Cycle: The bill dilutes provisions related to the appointment of chairpersons and members of various authorities, boards, commissions, and statutory bodies in Delhi. It removes the requirement for “orders/directions of ministers” in matters that need to be sent to the central government before the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister.
Appointment of Delhi LG Powers: The bill empowers the Lieutenant Governor to select members of the Delhi government’s Boards and Commissions from a list of names suggested by the NCCSA, including recommendations from the Delhi Chief Minister. These Boards and Commissions are established by regulations passed by the Delhi Assembly.
Constitutional Debate
Violation of Triple Chain of Accountability: Critics argue that the bill may violate the principle of parliamentary democracy by potentially giving the central government powers over services in Delhi, thereby breaking the triple chain of accountability between civil servants, ministers, and the electorate.
LG’s Discretionary Powers: The bill expands the LG’s discretionary powers, allowing him to override the decisions of the Council of Ministers, which could potentially impede the functioning of the democratically elected government.
Unclear Terms: Certain terms in the bill, such as “sole discretion” of the LG and criteria for matters brought to his notice, are considered vague and could lead to ambiguity in implementation.
Opposition’s Concerns: Opposition leaders have voiced strong opposition to the bill, claiming that it undermines democratic heritage, the spirit of federalism, and the powers of an elected government.
Government’s Defense
The Centre has defended the bill, asserting that India has a quasi-federal structure where the Centre holds primacy.
The bill aims to balance the interests of Delhi and the nation.
Conclusion
The Delhi Services Bill, 2023, has become a focal point of contention between the Delhi government and the central government.
While proponents argue that it brings clarity to the distribution of powers, opponents claim that it may infringe upon the principles of parliamentary democracy and the constitutional separation of powers.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the bill’s implementation will unfold and its impact on governance in the national capital.
Back2Basics: Key Legislations and Judgements on Delhi
Year
Development
1956
Delhi is classified as a Union Territory under the States Reorganization Act.
1991-92
69th Constitutional Amendment (Article 239AA) passed, making Delhi a UT with legislature.
Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) Act, 1991 is passed.
70th Constitutional Amendment exempts certain laws from being considered constitutional amendments.
2015
Ministry of Home Affairs takes control over services from Delhi legislature, empowering the LG.
2016
Delhi High Court rules that services lie outside the Delhi legislative assembly’s purview.
2018
Supreme Court rules that the LG must act on “aid and advice” of the Delhi council of ministers.
2019
Supreme Court delivers a split verdict on the issue of services.
2021
Union government amends the GNCTD Act, expanding the LG’s powers in certain matters.
2023
Supreme Court rules that Delhi government has control over services.
Central government promulgates an Ordinance to exclude “services” from Delhi legislature’s purview.
GNCTD (Amendment) Bill, 2023 passed by the Parliament awaiting Presidents Assent.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka
What’s the news?
Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe made an official visit to India last month. It was his first trip to India since taking over as president of the Indian Ocean Island state. Wickremesinghe came to power amid social and political upheaval as Sri Lanka went through its worst economic crisis last year.
Central idea
The recent visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to New Delhi has brought about a series of significant bilateral agreements that hold the potential to fortify the Sri Lankan economy against the unprecedented economic shocks experienced last year. This visit has laid the foundation for numerous projects aimed at promoting connectivity and catalyzing prosperity under the umbrella of the India-Sri Lanka Partnership Vision.
Significance of the Visit for Sri Lanka
Economic Recovery: The bilateral agreements inked during the visit focus on reinforcing Sri Lanka’s economy after the severe economic challenges of the past year. These agreements promise sector-specific solutions in energy, fuel, and forex management, which are crucial for stabilizing and revitalizing the economy.
Connectivity and Prosperity: The joint statement, titled ‘Promoting Connectivity, Catalyzing Prosperity,’ encapsulates the essence of the agreements. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity through projects like the land bridge, maritime connections, and air travel. These endeavors are expected to promote regional trade and economic growth.
Energy Security: Agreements related to petroleum infrastructure, power grids, and hydrocarbon exploration are poised to address Sri Lanka’s energy security concerns. By ensuring a stable energy supply, these initiatives can safeguard against future economic shocks stemming from energy vulnerabilities.
Tourism and People-to-People Contacts: The commitment to bolster bilateral tourism and encourage people-to-people interactions between the two nations has the potential to foster cultural exchange, boost economic activity, and strengthen ties between citizens.
Ethnic Reconciliation: Acknowledging the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka and the commitment to implementing the 13th Amendment and holding Provincial Council Elections reflect India’s support for Sri Lanka’s pursuit of a peaceful and inclusive resolution to its internal challenges.
Significance of the Visit for India
For India, President Wickremesinghe’s visit holds strategic importance, aligning with its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and broader regional objectives:
Economic Partnerships: The agreements signed during the visit open doors for Indian investments and economic engagement in Sri Lanka. These partnerships contribute to India’s economic growth and influence in the region.
Enhanced Connectivity: The connectivity initiatives outlined in the joint statement align with India’s efforts to strengthen regional connectivity, expand trade networks, and promote economic integration in the Indian Ocean region.
Energy Cooperation: Collaborative energy projects, such as petroleum pipelines and power grid interconnections, enable India to play a role in ensuring Sri Lanka’s energy security. This cooperation fosters goodwill and strengthens diplomatic ties.
Regional Balance: The visit allows India to counterbalance other regional players and maintain its strategic influence in the Indian Ocean. Strengthening ties with Sri Lanka is crucial for regional stability and security.
Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: The commitment to promoting bilateral tourism and facilitating people-to-people contacts enhances India’s cultural diplomacy and strengthens the bond between the two countries.
Geostrategic Significance: Strengthening ties with Sri Lanka serves India’s interests in maintaining a strong presence in the Indian Ocean and countering China’s growing influence in the region.
Outcomes of the visit
Economic Agreements and Initiatives:
Bilateral agreements were signed to fortify Sri Lanka’s economy against economic shocks. These agreements encompass various sectors, including energy, fuel, and forex management.
Cooperation in economic development projects in the Trincomalee District was emphasized, aiming to elevate Trincomalee as a hub for industry and economic activities.
Energy and Infrastructure Development:
Feasibility studies for a petroleum pipeline from southern India to Sri Lanka were agreed upon, focusing on ensuring a reliable supply of energy resources.
Collaboration on high-capacity power grid interconnection for bidirectional electricity trade between Sri Lanka and BBIN countries was highlighted to cut electricity costs and enhance forex earnings.
Acceleration of the Indian public sector NTPC’s Sampur solar power project and LNG infrastructure projects were addressed to contribute to energy sufficiency.
Connectivity and Trade:
Initiatives to promote maritime connectivity included the Kankesanthurai-Nagapattinam ferry service and the resumption of ferry services between Rameswaram and Talaimannar.
Expansion of air connectivity, including resuming flights between Jaffna and Chennai and exploring connectivity to other destinations, was discussed to enhance people-to-people ties and boost trade.
Investment Facilitation and Currency Settlements:
Plans to facilitate Indian investments in the divestment of state-owned enterprises and economic zones were discussed to enhance trade and economic growth.
The designation of the Indian rupee as the currency for trade settlements between the two countries was emphasized to strengthen commercial linkage and reduce dependency on the US dollar.
Ethnic Reconciliation and Political Engagement:
Discussions on the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka led to expressions of support for the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections, promoting equality and peace for the Tamil community.
Geostrategic Implications:
The visit reaffirmed India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and strategic engagement with Sri Lanka, strengthening India’s influence in the region and supporting regional stability.
Collaboration with the Private Sector:
President Wickremesinghe explored collaborative projects with Indian industrialist Gautam Adani, focusing on initiatives like the development of Colombo Port West Container Terminal and renewable energy projects.
Addressing Sensitive Issues
Fishermen’s Dispute:
The longstanding issue of fishermen from both India and Sri Lanka straying into each other’s territorial waters for fishing has led to conflicts and arrests.
This issue has historical and economic dimensions, as the livelihoods of many fishermen are at stake.
Resolving this dispute requires delicate negotiations and mutual understanding.
Ethnic Issue:
This refers to the complex and often sensitive matter of the relationship between the majority Sinhalese community and the minority Tamil community in Sri Lanka.
The decades-long ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, particularly the civil war involving the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), has left deep scars.
The 13th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution, facilitated by India, aimed to provide devolution of power to provincial councils, particularly in Tamil-majority areas, as a means to address some of the ethnic tensions.
However, the complete resolution of the ethnic issue requires careful consideration of political, cultural, and historical factors.
Way forward
Enhanced Connectivity and Trade:
Prioritize and implement connectivity projects, such as the land bridge and maritime connectivity, to boost trade, tourism, and people-to-people interactions.
Strengthen air connectivity to facilitate easier travel and economic exchange.
Energy Security and Sustainability:
Expedite feasibility studies for the petroleum pipeline and power grid interconnection to ensure energy security and stability.
Collaborate on renewable energy projects to promote sustainability and reduce dependency on traditional energy sources.
Economic Cooperation and Investments:
Facilitate Indian investments in Sri Lanka’s divestment of state-owned enterprises and economic zones to drive economic growth and job creation.
Expand bilateral trade and encourage the use of designated currencies for trade settlements.
Cultural Exchanges and Youth Engagement:
Promote cultural exchanges and youth programs to deepen cultural understanding and foster lasting connections.
Create academic and research collaborations to share knowledge and expertise.
Sensitive Issue Resolution and Diplomatic Dialogue:
Continue diplomatic efforts to resolve sensitive issues, such as the fishermen’s dispute and the ethnic question.
Engage in inclusive dialogues and implement existing agreements for lasting solutions.
Conclusion
The New Delhi visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe marks a significant step toward bolstering bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka. The multifaceted agreements encompass connectivity, energy security, trade, and cultural exchange. As both countries work towards realizing their shared goals, these initiatives promise to strengthen regional prosperity and cooperation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Online gaming Industry and Cybersecurity threats
What’s the news?
The video gaming industry has come a long way from Pong in 1972 to the release of Hogwarts Legacy in 2023. The recent surge has been a result of COVID-19, when the market expanded by about 26 percent between 2019 and 2021. However, this popular form of recreation has also imperiled cybersecurity.
Central idea
The video gaming industry has experienced tremendous growth, transforming from a niche form of entertainment to a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon. With over US$227 billion in revenue in 2022 and an expected 3.32 billion gamers by 2024, the industry’s popularity is unprecedented. However, this remarkable expansion has also led to a surge in cyberattacks, imperiling cybersecurity.
A Surge in Cyberattacks
The gaming sector has become a prime target for cybercriminals, experiencing a staggering 167 percent increase in web application attacks in 2021 alone.
In 2022, the industry witnessed an unprecedented wave of Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, with gaming platforms accounting for approximately 37 percent of all such attacks.
These cyber threats have put gamers at risk, with account takeovers, cheating mods, credit card theft, and fraud becoming disturbingly common.
The Pentagon Leak Case
One of the most alarming cyber incidents occurred in April 2023, when a Discord server centered around the popular video game Minecraft, became the source of the worst Pentagon leak in years.
Classified documents, some marked top Secret, were exposed, containing sensitive information about the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, potential issues with Ukrainian ammunition supplies, and intelligence regarding the Russian military.
Shockingly, the documents also hinted at US surveillance of its allies, specifically Israel and South Korea.
The virtual economy of video games
The monetization of video games through in-game currencies and microtransactions has given rise to virtual economies.
While developers offer players the ability to purchase virtual items using real money, the practice has come under scrutiny due to its perceived predatory nature, particularly concerning minors.
Some countries have outright banned such practices, deeming them a form of online gambling. For example, Belgium banned the purchase of FIFA points, an in-game currency, in the famous football franchise FIFA.
In February 2023, Austria followed suit, declaring FIFA packs illegal gambling.
The current policy framework around online gaming
As of April 2023, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in India has implemented new rules to regulate the online gaming industry.
The current policy framework divides online games into two categories:
Online real money games: Games that involve real money and are registered with Self-Regulatory organizations (SROs). These games are subject to specific regulations and oversight.
Games that do not involve real money: Games that do not have any monetary transactions or betting and wagering involved.
The key provisions of the current policy framework
Ban on online games involving betting and wagering: The new rules explicitly ban online games that have elements of betting and wagering. This move aims to curb illegal gambling activities within the gaming space.
Obligations for online gaming intermediaries: The rules define the responsibilities and obligations of online gaming intermediaries. These intermediaries are required to follow certain norms, including Know Your Customer (KYC) norms, parental consent, and grievance redressal mechanisms. The objective is to enhance transparency and accountability in the sector.
Establishment of Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs): The policy requires the appointment of three SROs, consisting of industry representatives, educationists, and other experts. These SROs play a crucial role in determining which online games are permissible under the regulations.
Limitations of the current policy framework
Narrow focus: The rules primarily target online games that involve real money transactions and betting. They do not comprehensively address other potential threats like microtransactions, loot boxes, and money laundering using virtual currencies.
Loopholes: Many online games can bypass the regulations by offering rewards and prizes in virtual currency instead of real money. This allows certain gaming practices, resembling gambling, to continue unchecked.
Ignoring loot boxes: The rules do not specifically address the issue of loot boxes, which have been controversial and deemed potential forms of gambling in many countries.
Lack of collaboration: The current policy framework appears to be a unilateral effort by the Indian government without substantial consultation with relevant stakeholders, including industry experts and gamers.
Way Forward
Strengthen the Regulatory Framework: Expand and make the current policy framework more comprehensive, including microtransactions and loot boxes, to tackle potential gambling-related issues.
Collaborate with Industry Experts: Engage with gaming companies, cybersecurity experts, and gamers to gain insights into specific cybersecurity threats and devise effective regulations.
Raise Awareness among Gamers: Educate users about cybersecurity threats, secure practices, and reporting mechanisms for suspicious activities.
Invest in Robust cybersecurity. Prioritize cybersecurity by investing in encryption, secure authentication, and regular security audits.
Develop Reporting Mechanisms: Implement efficient reporting systems within gaming platforms to address cyber threats promptly.
International Cooperation: Collaborate globally to share intelligence and best practices in combating cybercrime.
Ethical Game Design: Encourage ethical practices that prioritize player well-being over excessive monetization.
Conclusion
Online gaming is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global entertainment and media industry and provides a powerful new platform to unite people from all around the world. Consequently, we need to ensure that the industry continues to grow in a safe and responsible manner, and that bad actors looking to tarnish the experience for others are dealt with accordingly.
| 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: OBCs, NCBC
Mains level: Sub-categorisation of OBCs
Hon’ble Justice Rohini
Central Idea
The Justice G. Rohini-headed Commission for the sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBC) caste groups on July 31 submitted its report on the issue to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
This is nearly 6 years after the Union government first assigned the task to it — a task that was initially meant to be finished in 12 weeks.
Who are the OBCs?
The Other Backward Classes (OBCs) are a group of socially and educationally disadvantaged castes in India.
They constitute a significant portion of the population and have been granted 27% reservation in jobs and education under the central government.
To ensure equitable distribution of benefits among all OBC communities, the idea of sub-categorization within the OBCs was proposed.
The Rohini Commission, established in 2017, was tasked with examining this issue.
Understanding Sub-Categorization
Concept: Sub-categorization aims to create sub-groups within the larger OBC community for the purpose of reservation, addressing the issue of some affluent communities securing a major share of the reservation benefits.
Legal Debate: The concept of sub-categorization has also been a subject of legal debate for other reservation categories, such as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs).
Establishment of Rohini Commission
Purpose: The Rohini Commission was constituted on October 2, 2017, to examine the extent of inequitable distribution of reservation benefits among different OBC castes or communities.
Terms of Reference: Its primary terms of reference included evaluating the need for sub-categorization, working out a scientific approach for it, and identifying any discrepancies or errors in the Central List of OBCs.
Timeline and Progress
Timeframe: Initially given 12 weeks to submit its report, the Commission has since been granted 10 extensions.
Draft Report: The Commission was ready with a draft report on sub-categorization.
Data Challenges: One of the challenges faced was the lack of data for the population of various OBC communities, making it difficult to compare their representation in jobs and admissions.
Multiple Extensions: The Commission’s report was submitted on the last day of its functioning after it had received up to 14 extensions from the government in the last six years.
Reason for Delays: At first, the government said that the COVID-19 pandemic had slowed down its working. However, after the second wave, the government has been saying that the Commission has been working on finalising its report.
Findings of the Commission
Categorisation of Caste Groups: According to sources, the Commission has suggested breaking the caste groups into broad categories, with the dominant castes (with the most access to benefits) getting the smallest share of the 27% reservation, and the historically crowded-out caste groups getting the largest share of the reservation pie.
Unequal Distribution: The Commission’s analysis of 1.3 lakh central jobs and OBC admissions to central higher education institutions over a few years revealed that 97% of all jobs and educational seats were concentrated among just 25% of sub-castes classified as OBCs.
Dominant Communities: A significant portion of these opportunities (95%) went to only 10 OBC communities.
Underrepresented Groups: Nearly 37% (983) of OBC communities had zero representation in jobs and educational institutions, while 994 OBC sub-castes had a total representation of only 2.68% in recruitment and admissions.
Implications and Future Steps
Census Enumeration: The Commission proposed an all-India survey to estimate the caste-wise population of OBCs, but the government has been silent on this while OBC groups demand the enumeration of OBCs in the Census.
Pending Decision: The report’s recommendations and findings will require careful deliberation by the government before any implementation.
Conclusion
Now that the Commission’s report is with the Social Justice Ministry, the government is expected to hold deliberations on the recommendations contained in it, before thinking about implementing any part of it.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Liability Convention
Mains level: Space Debris Issue
Central Idea
A couple of weeks ago, a large object discovered on the shores of Western Australia has been confirmed to be the debris of an ISRO rocket used for IRNSS constellation.
The incident raises concerns about space debris and its potential impact on Earth and its inhabitants.
Frequency and Risks of Space Junk
Common Occurrences: Incidents of space debris falling back to Earth are not uncommon. Most instances involve relatively small fragments that survive atmospheric friction, typically not making significant news.
Publicized Instances: However, there have been a few highly publicized falls, such as a 25-tonne Chinese rocket chunk falling into the Indian Ocean in May 2021 and the disintegration of the Skylab space station in 1979, with some fragments landing in Western Australia.
How did ISRO debris land in Australia?
Probable Re-entry and Ocean Drift: The debris likely remained unburnt while dropping back into the atmosphere during re-entry and eventually fell into the ocean. Ocean currents may have carried it towards the Australian shores.
Move for disposal: The Australian Space Agency is working with ISRO to determine the next steps, including considering obligations under the United Nations space treaties.
Potential Hazards and Impact
Threat to Life and Property: The threat to life and property from falling space junk cannot be ignored. Even objects falling into oceans can pose risks to marine life and contribute to pollution.
Recorded Incidents: So far, there are no recorded incidents of falling space objects causing significant damage on Earth. Instances of debris falling over land have generally occurred in uninhabited areas.
International Regulations and Liability
Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects: International regulations, such as this Convention, govern issues related to space debris falling back to Earth.
Absolute Liability: The launching country is “absolutely liable” to pay compensation for any damage caused by its space object on Earth or to a flight in the air.
Compensation Provision: In the current case, if the PSLV debris had caused any damage in Australia, India could have been liable to pay compensation, regardless of it falling into the ocean first.
Past Compensation: The Convention has resulted in compensation payment only once when Canada sought damages from the Soviet Union for a satellite with a radioactive substance falling into its uninhabited northern territory in 1978. The Soviet Union paid 3 million Canadian dollars as compensation.
Liability Convention, 1972
What is it? The Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects, often referred to as the Liability Convention, is indeed an important international treaty in the field of space law.
Primary Objective: The main purpose of the convention is to provide a legal framework for dealing with liability arising from damage caused by space objects on Earth’s surface or in outer space.
Adoption and Entry into Force: The Liability Convention was adopted on March 29, 1972, and it became effective on September 1, 1972. It is one of the 5 UN treaties that pertain to space law.
Liability of Launching States: The convention holds the launching state (internationally liable for any damage caused by its space objects on Earth’s surface or to aircraft in flight.
Applicability: The convention applies to both governmental and non-governmental entities involved in launching space objects.
Strict Liability: It establishes strict liability for the launching state, meaning that it is held responsible for damages caused by its space object regardless of fault or negligence.
Limitation of Liability: The liability of the launching state is subject to a limitation. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the cap was set at 60 million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), a monetary unit used by the International Monetary Fund.
Liability for Unauthorized Launches: Even if a space object is owned by a private entity or a state that did not authorize the launch, the launching state is still liable unless it can demonstrate that it was not at fault.
Scope of Application: It deals specifically with damage caused by space objects to the Earth’s surface and aircraft in flight. For damage to other space objects or personnel on space objects, liability is governed by the Outer Space Treaty of 1967.
ISRO’s Efforts to Mitigate Space Debris
Unique Scientific Experiment: ISRO successfully conducted a dedicated commercial mission, placing seven Singaporean satellites into intended orbits on board a PSLV rocket.
Orbit-lowering Experiment: During this mission, ISRO performed a unique experiment, lowering the fourth stage of the rocket into a 300 km high orbit after placing customer satellites at an altitude of 536 km to mitigate space debris concerns.
Reducing Debris Duration: Thanks to the orbit-lowering experiment, the duration of the stage in space has been significantly reduced to “two months.”
Objectives of the Experiment: The experiment aims to address space debris mitigation problems and preserve valuable orbits for future satellite deployments.
Conclusion
The incident of India’s space debris washing ashore in Australia highlights the importance of managing space debris to ensure the safety of Earth and its inhabitants.
ISRO’s efforts to mitigate space debris through conscious measures demonstrate responsible space exploration practices.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BharatNet Project
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Cabinet has given its approval for an outlay of ₹1.39 lakh crore for the BharatNet project, aimed at providing last-mile connectivity to around 6.4 lakh villages across India.
About BharatNet Project
Objectives: The project aims to connect 6.4 lakh villages, covering all gram panchayats in the country, with last-mile broadband connectivity through optical fiber.
Implementation: Bharat Broadband Network (BBNL), a special purpose vehicle under Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), is responsible for executing the project.
Tie-up with VLEs: BBNL will collaborate with village level entrepreneurs (VLEs) to provide connectivity, following a successful pilot project in four districts and later expanded to 60,000 villages.
Progress So Far: As of now, around 1.94 lakh villages have been connected, and the rest are expected to be covered in the next 2.5 years.
Services details
BharatNet is the world’s largest rural connectivity scheme with an Optical Fibre network.
Gram Panchayat: The scheme aimed to provide 100 Mbps broadband to 2.5 lakh gram panchayats.
Households: The main goal is affordable 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps broadband for all households, especially in rural areas.
Key Achievements of the Project
Broadband Connections: The pilot project involved 3,800 entrepreneurs providing 3.51 lakh broadband connections to villages.
Data Consumption: Households in connected villages recorded an average data consumption of 175 gigabytes per month.
Pricing and Speed: The project is based on a 50% revenue share between BBNL and VLEs, offering monthly broadband plans priced from ₹399 to ₹799 with a minimum speed of 30mbps.
Optical Fiber Laid: Currently, there are 37 lakh route kilometers (rkm) of optical fiber cable (OFC) laid in India, with BBNL contributing 7.7 lakh rkm OFC to the network.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Eagle Owl
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
The Indian eagle owl was recently classified species distinct from the Eurasian eagle owl.
Indian Eagle-Owl
The Indian eagle-owl or rock eagle-owl, is a large horned owl species native to hilly and rocky scrub forests in the Indian Subcontinent.
It is splashed with brown and grey, and has a white throat patch with black small stripes.
Conservation Status: Least Concerned (IUCN), Appendix II (CITES)
Key features
Distinct Species: Classified separately from the Eurasian eagle-owl, the Indian eagle-owl stands out with its imposing size, reaching up to two and a half feet in length and six feet in wingspan.
Nocturnal Secrets: Due to its nocturnal nature, limited knowledge is available about the bird, contributing to its aura of mystery.
Menacing Appearance: Prominent ear tufts resembling horns may have evolved to deter predators, giving the bird a threatening appearance.
Threats from Superstitions
In rural India, the bird is considered a bearer of ill omens, and its loud double-hoot calls are linked to superstitions.
Folklore suggests that when trapped and starved, the Indian eagle-owl could speak in a human voice, foretelling the future of its listeners.
Ecological significance
The Indian eagle owl’s diet of rodents, including rats and bandicoots, aligns well with open scrublands and agricultural regions, making it beneficial for farmers.
Owls nesting near agricultural lands have shown higher numbers of healthier owlets due to the abundance of rodents.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Clouded Leopard
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
International Clouded Leopard Day has been celebrated on 4th August since 2018.
Scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) have conducted a study on clouded leopards in Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve in western Assam.
About Clouded Leopard
The clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is a wild cat found in dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas to mainland Southeast Asia and South China.
It has large dusky-grey blotches and irregular spots and stripes on a dark grey or ochreous fur, resembling clouds, hence its name.
It is the first cat that genetically diverged from the common ancestor of the pantherine cats around 9.32 to 4.47 million years ago.
Currently, the clouded leopard is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
It is listed in CITES Appendix I, and protected in most of its range.
Habitat in India
It inhabits dense forests in states such as Sikkim, northern West Bengal, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Assam, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.
It is the State animal of Meghalaya (Note: Clouded Leopard National Park is located in Tripura).
Features of Clouded Leopards
The mainland clouded leopard is agile and strong, often compared to the Ice Age sabretooth due to its large canines.
It has rotating rear ankles that enable it to climb down headfirst from trees, distinguishing it from other felines.
The cat has cloud-like spots on its hide, making it easily identifiable.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Perucetus Colossus Whale
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
Scientists have unearthed fossils of an ancient giant whale species named Perucetus colossus in Peru.
With each vertebra weighing over 100 kgs and ribs measuring nearly 5 feet long, this colossal whale poses a potential contender for the title of the heaviest animal to have ever lived.
About Perucetus Colossus Whale
Discovery: Fossils of Perucetus colossus (lived approximately 39 million years ago) were found more than a decade ago in Peru’s Ica desert, a region known for its rich marine fossils.
Enormous Size: The whale’s estimated length was around 66 feet (20 meters), shorter than some blue whales that grow over 100 feet.
Unique Weight: The ancient giant’s dense and heavy bones contributed to its impressive estimated weight, making it a slow swimmer, most likely dwelling in shallow, coastal waters.
Feeding Habits: Without the discovery of the skull, scientists are uncertain about the whale’s diet, speculating it may have scavenged on the seafloor or consumed vast amounts of krill and other marine organisms.
Significance
Heaviest Known Animal: If confirmed, Perucetus colossus could surpass the blue whale’s title as the heaviest known animal, living or extinct.
Evolutionary Significance: The species highlights the capacity of evolution to generate organisms with characteristics beyond human imagination.
Paleontological Mystery: The absence of skull and tooth remains leaves the feeding behavior and ecological role of this ancient giant open to further investigation.
| 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: Minimum age for electors
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
A Parliamentary Standing Committee has recommended lowering the minimum age for contesting Lok Sabha and Assembly elections to 18 years, aligning it with the minimum age for voting in India.
The Committee believes that young individuals can be responsible political participants, supported by global practices and increasing political consciousness among youth.
Current Minimum Age Requirements
Lok Sabha and Assembly Polls: According to Article 84 of the Indian Constitution and Section 36 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, a person must be at least 25 years old to contest elections to the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assembly.
Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council: As per Article 80(4) of the Constitution and Section 43 of the RP Act, 1951, a person must be at least 30 years old to become a member of the Rajya Sabha or the State Legislative Council.
Parliamentary Committee’s View
Evidence from Global Practices: The Committee cited examples from countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, where young individuals have proven to be reliable and responsible political participants.
Youth Representation: It supported lowering the minimum age for candidacy, citing global practices and the increasing political consciousness among young people. It believes that young individuals are more than capable of running for office in the 21st century due to increased education, globalization, and digitalization.
Age Disparity: The Committee expressed concern over the significant age gap between MPs and India’s median age, highlighting the need for greater youth representation.
Diverse Viewpoints: The Committee contends that reducing the minimum age would bring fresh perspectives to policy debates and address the underrepresentation of young voices in the political arena.
Election Commission’s Perspective
Unrealistic Expectations: The EC disagrees with the proposal, stating that expecting 18-year-olds to possess the necessary experience and maturity for parliamentary responsibilities is unrealistic.
Current Age Requirements Appropriate: EC believes that the existing minimum age requirements for voting and contesting elections are appropriate.
Recommended Actions
Delimitation Process: The Committee recommends that the EC collaborates with the legislative department to examine the effects of the delimitation process, especially in challenging terrains. Treating all regions in India as identical may pose risks, and tailored measures should be taken to address this reality.
Common Electoral Rolls: The Committee highlights the benefits of Common Electoral Rolls for State and Lok Sabha polls, which can be created through the collaborative participation of officials serving in both the ECI and State ECs.
Conclusion
The debate on lowering the minimum age for contesting elections continues, with the Parliamentary Standing Committee favouring this move, considering global practices and youth representation.
Further discussions and careful consideration are needed to make an informed decision on this matter.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: FATF
Mains level: Terror financing and Money Laundering
Central Idea
Pakistan’s Senate has approved a bill to establish a central authority to combat money laundering and terror financing by bringing all institutions related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) under one command.
What is FATF?
The FATF is an intergovernmental organization established in 1989 to combat money laundering and financial crimes.
Pakistan’s efforts to address money laundering and terror financing led to its inclusion in the FATF grey list in 2018.
However, through comprehensive reforms and strategic measures, Pakistan successfully managed to exit the grey list.
The country’s progress in enhancing laws related to money laundering and terrorism financing played a crucial role in achieving this milestone.
Role of FATF
Global Financial Crimes Combat: FATF develops policies to combat money laundering and terrorist financing in response to the rise of the global economy and international trade.
Regulatory Recommendations: The organization makes recommendations to combat financial crime, reviews members’ policies and procedures, and promotes the acceptance of anti-money laundering regulations worldwide.
Continuous Updates: To stay ahead of evolving financial crime techniques, FATF updates its recommendations regularly.
Key initiatives: Grey and Black Lists
Grey List: Countries considered safe havens for supporting terror funding and money laundering are placed in the FATF grey list. Inclusion in this list serves as a warning for potential entry into the more severe blacklist.
Black List (Call for Action): The “Non-Cooperative Countries or Territories” (NCCTs) list, commonly known as the black list, identifies countries that are non-compliant with FATF’s recommendations.
Impact of Being on FATF Grey List
Economic Sanctions and Reduced Trade: Countries on the grey list may face economic sanctions and reduced international trade opportunities.
Difficulty in Obtaining Loans: Access to loans from international financial institutions like IMF, World Bank, and ADB may be limited.
International Boycott: The country may face international boycotts affecting its global reputation.
What has Pakistan initiated now?
Establishing the Authority: The bill seeks to create a National Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism Authority, which will be led by a chairman appointed by the Prime Minister.
Coordination and Cooperation: The authority will act as a focal point for the FATF and related organizations.
Unified Response: The proposed authority will function as a focal institution, enabling Pakistan to provide a unified response to money laundering and terror financing.
Institutionalization of Entities: The bill seeks to institutionalize different entities, leading to improved efficiency and coordination in dealing with financial threats.
Challenges Addressed
3 Arenas of Difficulty: The bill addresses difficulties related to anti-money laundering, countering the financing of terrorism, and targeted financial sanctions faced by Pakistan when on the FATF grey list.
Global Financial System Threats: Money laundering and terror financing were identified as severe threats to the global financial system when Pakistan was placed on the FATF grey list in 2018.
FATF Review and India’s Position
Multifaceted Review: The FATF review assesses 40 parameters related to law, justice, revenue, banking, and insurance, along with nine parameters related to terror financing.
Review Timeframe: The review began early this year and is expected to conclude by the end of 2024, with India being a rare country to have postponed its review due to COVID-19.
Conclusion
The FATF plays a crucial role in combating financial crimes, including money laundering and terror financing.
By taking significant steps to address deficiencies, Pakistan can manage to sustain its goal of exiting the grey list.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AI applications
Mains level: Applications of AI, Carbon Footprint of AI, It's role in climate change
What’s the news?
The field of artificial intelligence (AI) is experiencing unprecedented growth, largely driven by the excitement surrounding innovative tools like ChatGPT. AI systems are already a big part of our lives, helping governments, industries, and regular people be more efficient and make data-driven decisions. But there are some significant downsides to this technology.
Central idea
As tech giants race to develop more sophisticated AI products, global investment in the AI market has surged to $142.3 billion and is projected to reach nearly $2 trillion by 2030. However, this boom in AI technology comes with a significant carbon footprint, which necessitates urgent action to mitigate its environmental impact.
Applications of AI
Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI-powered NLP technologies have revolutionized human-computer interactions. Virtual assistants, chatbots, language translation, sentiment analysis, and content curation are some of the areas where NLP plays a vital role.
Image and Video Analysis: AI’s capabilities in analyzing images and videos have led to breakthroughs in facial recognition, object detection, autonomous vehicles, and medical imaging.
Recommendation Systems: AI-driven recommendation engines cater to personalized experiences in e-commerce, streaming services, and social media, providing users with tailored product and content suggestions.
Predictive Analytics: AI excels at predictive analytics, enabling businesses to make informed decisions by analyzing historical data to forecast future trends in finance, supply chain management, risk assessment, and weather predictions.
Healthcare and Medicine: AI’s potential in healthcare is immense. From medical diagnostics to drug discovery, patient monitoring, and personalized treatment plans, AI is driving significant advancements in the medical field.
Finance and Trading: AI-driven algorithms are employed in algorithmic trading, fraud detection, credit risk assessment, and financial market analysis, optimizing financial processes.
Autonomous Systems: AI powers autonomous vehicles, drones, and robots for various tasks, transforming transportation, delivery, surveillance, and exploration.
Industrial Automation: AI-driven automation optimizes manufacturing and industrial processes, monitors equipment health, and enhances operational efficiency.
Personalization and Customer Service: AI enables personalized customer experiences, with tailored recommendations, customer support chatbots, and virtual assistants that enhance customer satisfaction.
Environmental Monitoring: AI contributes to environmental monitoring and analysis, including air quality assessment, climate pattern observation, and wildlife conservation efforts.
Education and E-Learning: AI applications facilitate adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and educational content curation, enhancing personalized learning experiences.
Social Media and Content Moderation: AI plays a role in content moderation on social media platforms, identifying and addressing inappropriate content and detecting fake accounts or malicious activities.
Legal and Compliance: AI assists legal professionals with contract analysis, legal research, and compliance monitoring, streamlining legal work.
Public Safety and Security: AI finds use in surveillance systems, predictive policing, and emergency response systems, bolstering public safety efforts.
The Carbon Footprint of AI
Data Processing and Training: The training phase of AI models requires processing massive amounts of data, often in data centers. This data crunching demands substantial computing power and is energy-intensive, contributing to AI’s carbon footprint.
Global AI Market Value: The global AI market is currently valued at $142.3 billion (€129.6 billion), and it is expected to grow to nearly $2 trillion by 2030.
Carbon Footprint of Data Centers: The entire data center infrastructure and data submission networks account for 2–4% of global CO2 emissions. While this includes various data center operations, AI plays a significant role in contributing to these emissions.
Carbon Emissions from AI Training: In a 2019 study, researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, found that training a common large AI model can emit up to 284,000 kilograms (626,000 pounds) of carbon dioxide equivalent. This is nearly five times the emissions of a car over its lifetime, including the manufacturing process.
AI Application Phase Emissions: The application phase of AI, where the model is used in real-world scenarios, can potentially account for up to 90% of the emissions in the life cycle of an AI.
Addressing AI’s carbon footprint
Energy-Efficient Algorithms: Developing and optimizing energy-efficient AI algorithms and training techniques can help reduce energy consumption during the training phase. By prioritizing efficiency in AI model architectures and algorithms, less computational power is required, leading to lower carbon emissions.
Renewable Energy Adoption: Encouraging data centers and AI infrastructure to transition to renewable energy sources can have a significant impact on AI’s carbon footprint. Utilizing solar, wind, or hydroelectric power to power data centers can help reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
Scaling Down AI Models: Instead of continuously pursuing larger AI models, companies can explore using smaller models and datasets. Smaller AI models require less computational power, leading to lower energy consumption during training and deployment.
Responsible AI Deployment: Prioritizing responsible and energy-efficient AI applications can minimize unnecessary AI usage and optimize AI systems for energy conservation.
Data Center Location Selection: Choosing data center locations in regions powered by renewable energy and with cooler climates can further reduce AI’s carbon footprint. Cooler climates reduce the need for extensive data center cooling, thereby decreasing energy consumption.
Collaboration and Regulation: Collaboration among tech companies, policymakers, and environmental organizations is crucial to establishing industry-wide standards and regulations that promote sustainable AI development. Policymakers can incentivize green practices and set emissions reduction targets for the AI sector.
Conclusion
To build a sustainable AI future, environmental considerations must be integrated into all stages of AI development, from design to deployment. The tech industry and governments must collaborate to strike a balance between technological advancement and ecological responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Need for Improved Standards, Significance, benefits and challenges and
What’s the news?
The Indian government recently directed all pharmaceutical companies in the country to implement the revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to bring their processes in line with global standards.
Central Idea
The improved standards aim to address critical issues, including alleged contamination incidents in India-manufactured products, deficiencies in quality control measures, and a of adherence to global guidelines. By ensuring adherence to the revised GMP, India aims to enhance the quality of medicines available in both domestic and global markets.
About Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
GMP is a set of guidelines and quality management principles that ensure pharmaceutical products, as well as other products in the food and healthcare industries, are consistently produced and controlled to meet quality standards appropriate for their intended use.
GMP covers all aspects of the manufacturing process, including the premises, equipment, personnel, materials, production, quality control, documentation, and storage of finished products.
The Need for Improved Standards
Alignment with Global Standards: Implementing the new GMP norms will align the Indian pharmaceutical industry with global standards, ensuring that the country’s products meet the expectations of international regulators and consumers.
Contamination Incidents: Numerous incidents of contamination in India-manufactured syrups, eye-drops, and eye ointments have been reported in other countries, leading to tragic consequences. These incidents have emphasized the need for stricter quality control measures.
Identified Deficiencies: A risk-based inspection of manufacturing units revealed several deficiencies, such as the lack of testing incoming raw materials, inadequate product quality review, absence of quality failure investigation, infrastructure issues, and the absence of qualified professionals.
Importance of Implementing Revised GMP
Standardized Processes: The improved standards will ensure that pharmaceutical companies follow standardized processes and quality control measures, thus enhancing the quality of medicines manufactured and sold both in India and globally.
Recommendations from Chitan Shivir: The implementation of the revised GMP was one of the suggested measures during a Chitan Shivir following the contamination incidents. The stakeholders also recommended the creation of a country-wide IT platform to promote uniformity in licensing and inspection processes across states.
Benefits of the Revised GMP Implementation
Boosting Regulatory Confidence: Uniform quality standards across the industry will instill confidence in regulators from other countries, potentially reducing the need for repeated inspections.
Improving Domestic Market Quality: The implementation of revised GMP will enhance the quality of medicines supplied within India, benefitting consumers and public health.
Major Changes in the Revised GMP Guidelines
Pharmaceutical Quality System: The new guidelines introduce a pharmaceutical quality system to ensure consistent product quality and a thorough investigation of deviations or defects.
Quality Risk Management: Companies will be required to conduct risk assessments and implement preventive actions to manage quality risks effectively.
Product Quality Review: Regular quality reviews of all products will be mandated to verify the consistency of quality and processes.
Validation of Equipment: Pharmaceutical companies will have to validate equipment to ensure the accuracy and reliability of production processes.
GMP-related Computerized Systems: The guidelines emphasize the use of computerized systems for GMP-related processes to prevent data tampering and unauthorized access.
Additional Product Requirements: The new schedule M lists requirements for biological products, agents with radioactive ingredients, plant-derived products, and investigational products for clinical trials.
Way forward
Urgent Implementation: Pharmaceutical companies must immediately initiate the implementation of the revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines. Larger companies have six months, and smaller companies have a year to comply.
Investment in Upgradation: Prioritize investments in facility upgradation, modern equipment, and IT systems to meet the new GMP standards.
Employee Training and Awareness: Conduct extensive training programs for all employees to educate them about the revised GMP guidelines and their importance.
Quality Control Enhancement: Strengthen quality control processes and invest in advanced testing equipment and laboratories to ensure product integrity and safety.
Effective Documentation Systems: Implement robust documentation systems to maintain comprehensive records of manufacturing processes, quality checks, and deviations.
Continuous Monitoring and Auditing: Regularly monitor manufacturing processes and conduct internal audits to assess GMP compliance.
Conclusion
The Indian government’s initiative to implement the revised GMP is a commendable step towards bringing the country’s pharmaceutical industry up to global standards. The successful implementation of these improved standards will undoubtedly elevate India’s status in the global pharmaceutical arena
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sugarcane industry
Mains level: Surplus Sugarcane production, factors behind and concerns
What’s the news?
India’s top sugarcane-growing states rely heavily on groundwater for irrigation, leading to concerns over groundwater depletion.
Central idea
India’s remarkable achievement of becoming the world’s top sugar producer in 2021-2022, surpassing Brazil, brings with it a significant challenge. The overcultivation of sugarcane has resulted in a sugar surplus and high exports, negatively impacting groundwater levels. To safeguard the agricultural sector and protect vital natural resources, addressing groundwater overuse in the sugar industry is of utmost importance.
Factors Behind the Excess Sugar Production
Government Policies and Subsidies: The Indian government’s policies and subsidies play a significant role in encouraging farmers to cultivate sugarcane. The fair and remunerative price (FRP) scheme ensures that sugar mills pay a minimum price to sugarcane farmers, guaranteeing them fair profits for their crop.
Domestic Demand: India’s position as the world’s largest consumer of sugar creates a substantial demand for sugar and its by-products. To meet this demand, farmers increase sugarcane cultivation, leading to excess sugar production.
Export Incentives: The surplus sugar production in India has led to higher exports, and the government offers export subsidies to boost overseas sales.
Impact of Excessive Sugarcane Cultivation on Groundwater
Water Depletion in Groundwater Reservoirs:
Excessive sugarcane cultivation contributes to the depletion of groundwater reserves.
In regions with inadequate rainfall, farmers heavily rely on groundwater from confined aquifers to sustain sugarcane crops.
This over-extraction of groundwater leads to a reduction in groundwater levels, depleting the available water resources.
Groundwater Stress and Drought Concerns:
The extensive use of groundwater for sugarcane cultivation puts immense stress on groundwater reservoirs. In regions already experiencing groundwater stress, the additional demand for water exacerbates the problem.
Moreover, sugarcane cultivation often occurs in areas prone to drought, and excessive water usage further exacerbates the vulnerability of these regions to water scarcity.
Environmental Impacts:
Groundwater depletion due to excessive sugarcane cultivation can have severe environmental consequences.
As groundwater levels decline, it affects the health of ecosystems dependent on groundwater sources, such as wetlands, rivers, and lakes. Reduced flow in rivers and streams can harm aquatic life and disrupt local ecosystems.
Impact on Farmers and Livelihoods: Groundwater depletion directly affects farmers who rely on it for irrigation. As water levels drop, farmers may face difficulties in accessing sufficient water for their crops, leading to reduced yields and economic losses. In areas where sugarcane is the dominant crop, groundwater depletion can impact the livelihoods of farming communities.
Long-Term Sustainability Concerns:
The continued excessive use of groundwater for sugarcane cultivation is not sustainable in the long run.
Depleting groundwater reserves can lead to permanent damage to aquifers and reduce the overall capacity to support agricultural activities in the future.
Solutions to address the problem of excessive sugar production
Crop Diversification: Encourage farmers to diversify their crops and reduce their heavy reliance on sugarcane cultivation. Introducing fair and comprehensive subsidy schemes for a variety of crops can help farmers diversify their cultivation, preventing monocultures and reducing the strain on groundwater resources.
Sustainable Sugarcane Cultivation Practices: Promote environmentally responsible sugarcane cultivation practices that prioritize groundwater conservation. Encouraging the use of drip irrigation, which reduces water consumption by up to 70% compared to flood irrigation, can be made mandatory in sugarcane-growing regions. The government can also offer subsidies to farmers for setting up drip irrigation systems.
Water-Saving and Management Systems: Invest in water-saving and management systems such as rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment, and canal irrigation networks. These initiatives can minimize stress on groundwater reservoirs as alternative water sources become available for irrigation.
Groundwater Research and Mapping: Invest in groundwater research and mapping to better understand groundwater availability and distribution. This data can help in devising effective strategies to manage groundwater resources more sustainably.
Review of Export Incentives: Review export incentives and subsidies to ensure they are not leading to excessive sugar production and environmental degradation. Striking a balance between domestic demand and exports will help manage sugar production more efficiently.
Public Awareness and Education: Create public awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the importance of sustainable water management and the impact of excessive sugarcane cultivation on groundwater. Providing training and guidance on adopting water-saving practices can facilitate better resource management.
Government Regulations and Policies: Implement regulations and policies to control groundwater extraction and prevent overexploitation. By enforcing responsible water use, the government can protect groundwater resources and ensure their sustainability.
Conclusion
Balancing sugar production with responsible water management practices is vital for the well-being of farmers, the preservation of natural resources, and the long-term stability of the agricultural sector. By implementing a multi-faceted approach that encourages crop diversification and sustainable cultivation practices, India can pave the way for a greener and more resilient future.
