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[14th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The problematic globalisation of medical education

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

PYQ Relevance:

Q) Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC CSE 2015)

Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Public health system (2015), and the Health for All’ in India (2018).

Medical education is changing in unusual ways. There is a shortage of doctors, yet governments and medical professionals limit access to medical studies. As a result, more students from different countries travel abroad to study medicine. In the past, medical education was international, but now each country controls it while it still becomes more global. This trend is important because of healthcare needs. The exact number of students studying medicine abroad is unknown, but it is estimated to be over 200,000, often in low-quality institutions. Before the Russian invasion, Ukraine had 24,000 foreign medical students, mostly from India.

Today’s editorial talks about issues in the Medical sector. This content would help in GS Papers 1, 2 and 3 to substantiate your answer.

Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

Studying medicine abroad is common, but it is largely unnoticed and lacks proper regulation.

How does the globalization of medical education impact the quality and accessibility of healthcare?

Increased Access to Medical Education but Quality Concerns Persist: India has only 1 medical seat for every 22 applicants, with 2.3 million students appearing for NEET annually.
- As a result, over 20,000 Indian students go abroad for medical studies each year. While foreign education provides an alternative, some countries have lax regulatory frameworks, leading to concerns over clinical training standards.
Low Licensing Exam Pass Rates for Foreign Medical Graduates: India’s Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate has historically been below 20%.
- In 2022, only 10,500 out of 41,349 candidates (25.4%) cleared the exam. Many foreign-trained doctors struggle to meet national standards, delaying their entry into the healthcare system.
Disproportionate Dependence on Foreign-trained Doctors in Some Countries: In the US, 25% of physicians are international medical graduates (IMGs), while in the UK, 37% of doctors in the NHS come from abroad.
- While globalization helps address doctor shortages in developed countries, it exacerbates the “brain drain” in source countries like India, Nigeria, and Pakistan.
Growth of For-profit Medical Schools with Limited Oversight: The Caribbean region alone has over 50 private medical schools, many catering exclusively to international students from the US and Canada.
- These institutions charge high tuition fees but often lack sufficient clinical training infrastructure, raising concerns about graduate competence.
Shortage of Trained Doctors in Source Countries: The WHO estimates a global shortfall of 10 million healthcare workers by 2030, with Africa facing a deficit of 6 million doctors and nurses.
- Many doctors trained abroad do not return home, worsening healthcare shortages in low-income countries while benefiting high-income nations.

What are the consequences of medical degrees that are obtained abroad, especially from countries with lower academic standards?

High Failure Rates in Licensing Exams: Foreign-trained doctors often struggle to meet national medical standards, leading to low pass rates in licensing exams.
- Example: In India, the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate has historically been below 20%. In 2022, only 10,500 out of 41,349 candidates (25.4%) cleared the exam, delaying their entry into the healthcare system.
Limited Clinical Exposure and Skill Gaps: Some foreign medical colleges lack proper clinical training, affecting students’ hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients.
- Example: Several Caribbean medical schools, catering to US and Canadian students, have faced criticism for their limited hospital affiliations, forcing students to complete clinical rotations in different countries.
Difficulty in Securing Residency and Employment: Graduates from lesser-known foreign institutions often struggle to secure postgraduate training and jobs in competitive healthcare markets.
- Example: In the United States, international medical graduates (IMGs) face higher rejection rates for medical residencies, with only about 60% of non-US IMGs matching into residency programs in 2023, compared to 93% of US medical graduates.

Is the global mobility of medical education sustainable, and how does it affect local health systems?

Brain Drain Weakens Healthcare in Source Countries: Many doctors trained abroad do not return, leading to a shortage of medical professionals in their home countries.
- Example: Nigeria loses over 2,000 doctors annually to migration, worsening its doctor-to-patient ratio, which stands at 1:5,000, far below the WHO-recommended 1:1,000.
Unequal Distribution of Healthcare Professionals: High-income countries attract foreign-trained doctors, leaving rural and underserved regions in low- and middle-income nations critically short-staffed.
- Example: In India, only 20% of doctors serve in rural areas, even though 65% of the population resides there, leading to severe healthcare disparities.
Reliance on Foreign-trained Doctors in Host Countries: Developed nations depend on foreign medical graduates to fill workforce gaps, making their healthcare systems vulnerable to changing immigration policies.
- Example: The UK’s NHS workforce includes 37% foreign-trained doctors, with a significant number from India and Pakistan.

Way forward:

Strengthening Domestic Medical Education Infrastructure: Increase the number of medical seats and improve the quality of training in home countries to reduce dependence on foreign institutions. Example: India has added over 100 new medical colleges since 2019 to expand access to medical education.
Stricter Accreditation and Recognition of Foreign Medical Degrees: Establish global accreditation standards and bilateral agreements to ensure only high-quality foreign medical degrees are recognized. Example: The National Exit Test (NExT) in India will standardize assessment for both domestic and foreign medical graduates.

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Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.

‘India’s Got Latent’ Row

Explained | Ethics | Mains Paper 4: Ethics

Why in the News?

The Maharashtra cyber police have denied YouTuber Samay Raina’s request for more time to join the investigation into a case against him, podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, and others. The case was filed over an “obscene joke” made by Allahbadia on Raina’s show, India’s Got Latent.

What is an “obscene joke”?

An “obscene joke” is a joke that contains sexually explicit, vulgar, or offensive content that may be considered inappropriate, indecent, or immoral by societal standards.

What are the Ethical Issues Surrounding Obscenity?

Freedom of Expression vs. Public Morality: Content creators often push boundaries in comedy, art, and media, but their work may conflict with societal norms and moral values. Example: A stand-up comedian making jokes about religious figures or sexual themes faces backlash from communities who find it offensive.
Cultural Sensitivities and Perception: What is considered obscene varies across cultures, making content regulation complex. Example: Nudity in Western films may be viewed as artistic, whereas in India, it often faces censorship under decency laws.
Impact on Vulnerable Audiences: Children and adolescents may be influenced by explicit content, shaping their attitudes toward relationships, gender roles, and social behaviour.Example: Music videos with sexually suggestive lyrics and visuals can promote unrealistic or unhealthy perceptions of relationships.
Exploitation and Objectification: Media and advertisements sometimes use sexually provocative imagery, reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes.Example: Advertisements that use hypersexualized images of women to sell products contribute to the objectification of women.
Accountability of Content Creators and Platforms: Digital platforms and influencers have a responsibility to regulate content while ensuring free speech is not misused. Example: A YouTube influencer posting explicit prank videos that go viral raises concerns about platform moderation and ethical responsibility.

What are the legal provisions related to Obscenity?

Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860
- - Section 292: Prohibits the sale, distribution, and public exhibition of obscene materials, including books, paintings, and electronic content.
  - Section 293: Increases punishment for selling obscene materials to minors.
  - Section 294: Penalizes obscene acts and songs in public places.
Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000
- Section 67: Prohibits the publication, transmission, and distribution of obscene electronic content, including on social media and online platforms.
- Section 67A: Imposes stricter penalties for publishing sexually explicit material in electronic form.
Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986: Restricts the depiction of women in an indecent or derogatory manner in advertisements, publications, and other media.

What can be the Key Recommendations for Obscenity?

Clear Legal Definitions and Guidelines: Laws should define “obscenity” more precisely to avoid subjective interpretations and misuse. Example: Updating Section 292 of the IPC to distinguish between artistic expression and truly obscene content.
Stronger Content Moderation on Digital Platforms: Social media and streaming services should implement stricter policies to regulate obscene content. Example: YouTube and Instagram enforce AI-based content moderation to flag and remove explicit material.
Public Awareness and Media Literacy: Educating audiences, especially minors, about responsible content consumption and the impact of obscene materials. Example: Schools include media literacy programs to help students critically analyze digital content.
Balanced Regulation Without Censorship: Authorities should ensure that restrictions on obscenity do not infringe on creative freedom and free speech. Example: Allowing adult-rated films and stand-up comedy with proper disclaimers instead of outright bans.
Stronger Accountability for Content Creators and Influencers: Creators should adhere to ethical guidelines and be held accountable for promoting obscene or harmful content. Example: Social media influencers issue public apologies and remove controversial videos after backlash.

Way forward:

Strengthening Regulatory Mechanisms: Implement a balanced framework that ensures accountability without suppressing creative freedom. Example: Establishing independent review bodies to assess content complaints objectively.
Promoting Ethical Digital Responsibility: Encourage responsible content creation and consumption through self-regulation and industry guidelines.Example: Platforms introducing stricter age-restriction features and user awareness campaigns.

Mains PYQ:

Q State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance. (150 words) (UPSC IAS/2016)

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Delhi Full Statehood Issue

A constant legal tussle over the state’s “unique constitutional status”

Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Why in the News?

Over the past decade, the Aam Aadmi Party’s government in Delhi has been in a constant legal battle with the Centre over the city’s special constitutional status and how it should be governed.

What is the Constitutional status of Delhi?

Union Territory with Special Status – Delhi is a Union Territory (UT) but has a legislative assembly and council of ministers, unlike most other UTs. It is governed under Article 239 and Article 239AA of the Indian Constitution.
Limited Legislative Powers – The Delhi Legislative Assembly can make laws on subjects in the State List and Concurrent List, except for police, public order, and land, which remain under the control of the Central Government (Article 239AA(3)(a)).
- Three Power Centers – Governance in Delhi is divided among:
- Chief Minister and Council of Ministers (elected government)
- Lieutenant Governor (L-G) (appointed by the President)
- Union Home Ministry (exercises control over law, order, and services).
L-G’s Role and Discretionary Powers – While the L-G is bound by the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, they can refer matters to the President in case of disagreements, giving the Centre overriding authority (Article 239AA(4)).
Sui Generis (Unique) Model – The Supreme Court has ruled that Delhi’s governance model is neither like a full-fledged state nor like a regular Union Territory, making it a special case within India’s federal structure.

How does Delhi differ from other Union Territories and States?

Feature	Delhi (NCT)	Full-Fledged State	Other Union Territories (UTs)
Legislative Assembly	Yes (since 1991)	Yes	No (except J&K, Puducherry)
Elected Government	Yes	Yes	No (except J&K, Puducherry)
Control Over Public Order	No	Yes	No
Control Over Land	No	Yes	No
Lieutenant Governor (L-G)	Yes, has special powers	No (Governor acts as ceremonial head)	Yes (UTs are directly administered by L-G/Administrator)
Power Over Services (Bureaucracy)	Limited (Disputed between Delhi Govt. & Centre)	Yes (State Govt. controls)	No (Centre controls)
Special Constitutional Provisions	Yes (Article 239AA)	No (Governed under normal state rules)	No (UTs are governed under Article 239)

What are the legal battles between Delhi and the central Government?

Control Over Bureaucracy (Services Department Dispute): The Centre transferred control of Delhi’s bureaucracy (services) to the Lieutenant Governor (L-G) through a 2015 notification. The Supreme Court (2023) ruled in favor of the Delhi government, giving it power over services except police, land, and public order. However, the Centre later amended the GNCTD Act (2023) to override this decision, restoring L-G’s power over services.
- Example: The Delhi government’s attempt to appoint bureaucrats without L-G’s approval was blocked.
Lieutenant Governor’s Special Powers (Interpretation of Article 239AA): The Centre argued that the L-G has overriding authority over all governance matters, while the Delhi government maintained that L-G must act on the aid and advice of the elected government. In 2018, the Supreme Court ruled that the L-G must follow the advice of the Delhi government, except in matters explicitly under the Centre’s control.
- Example: The L-G blocked multiple decisions of the Delhi Cabinet, including the ‘Doorstep Ration Delivery’ scheme, citing procedural issues.
Control Over Law and Order (Police and Land Disputes): Delhi’s elected government has no control over law and order (including Delhi Police and land administration), leading to governance challenges. The Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld Centre’s control over these subjects as per Article 239AA.
- Example: The Delhi government sought control over Delhi Police after riots in 2020, but the Centre refused, citing law and order as a central subject.

What are the implications due to Governance Crisis and Political Fallout?

Administrative Paralysis and Policy Delays: Frequent clashes between the Delhi government and the L-G have stalled decision-making, leading to delays in key projects and governance paralysis.
- Example: The Mohalla Clinics initiative for public healthcare faced repeated delays due to bureaucratic approvals and interference by the L-G’s office.
Reduced Accountability and Bureaucratic Resistance: With dual control over administration, bureaucrats often face conflicting orders from the elected government and the Centre, leading to inefficiency.
- Example: The Delhi Jal Board’s water supply projects were disrupted as officers refused to follow the Delhi government’s directives, citing L-G’s authority.
Political Tensions and Electoral Ramifications: The governance crisis has deepened political rivalries, with the Delhi government accusing the Centre of undermining democracy, while the Centre claims Delhi needs central oversight due to its national capital status.
- Example: The arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case led to political instability and weakened AAP’s governance.

What could happen after the election result in future?

Stronger Central Control and Policy Alignment: With the BJP in power in both the Centre and Delhi, governance could become more streamlined as there would be no friction over administrative control.
- Example: The L-G’s role in decision-making would likely diminish in practice, as seen in BJP-ruled Puducherry, where Centre-state coordination improved after a BJP-backed government took over.
Reversal of AAP’s Key Policies: The BJP might roll back or modify key AAP policies, such as free electricity, water subsidies, and education reforms, aligning governance with its national agenda.
- Example: Similar to how the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh altered welfare schemes after replacing the Congress government, a BJP-led Delhi might review or discontinue AAP’s flagship initiatives.

Way forward:

Clearer Division of Powers – Amendments to Article 239AA or a judicial clarification can establish a more balanced framework, ensuring smooth governance without frequent conflicts between the Centre and the Delhi government.
Strengthening Cooperative Federalism – A structured dialogue mechanism between the Centre, L-G, and the elected government can improve coordination.

Mains PYQ:

Q Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal politics? (UPSC IAS/2016)

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ISRO Missions and Discoveries

PARAS-2 Spectrograph

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

Why in the News?

Scientists at PRL, Ahmedabad, discovered the exoplanet TOI-6038A b, a dense sub-Saturn-sized planet with a mass of 78.5 Earth masses and a radius of 6.41 Earth radii, using the PARAS-2 spectrograph at Mount Abu Observatory.

About TOI-6038A b

TOI-6038A b is a dense sub-Saturn-sized planet with a mass of 78.5 Earth masses and a radius of 6.41 Earth radii, orbiting a bright, metal-rich F-type star every 5.83 days in a circular orbit.
This is the 2nd exoplanet discovery using the PARAS-2 spectrograph.
It is also the 5th exoplanet detection combining efforts of PARAS-1 and PARAS-2, showcasing India’s growing expertise in astronomical instrumentation.

About PARAS-2 Spectrograph:

PARAS-2 (PRL Advanced Radial-velocity All-sky Search-2) is a state-of-the-art high-resolution spectrograph designed for exoplanet detection.
The development of PARAS-2 began in mid-2018 and was successfully installed at the telescope site in mid-2022.
It is the highest-resolution stabilized radial velocity (RV) spectrograph in Asia, operating at a precision level of 30 cm/s.
It is installed at PRL’s 2.5-meter telescope at the Mount Abu Observatory, benefiting from high-altitude, clear sky conditions.
Key Features of PARAS-2:

- Operates in the 380-690 nm waveband, making it suitable for studying a wide range of celestial objects.
- Resolution of ~107,000, the highest in Asia, enabling ultra-precise exoplanetary studies.
- Ultra-stable temperature and pressure environment: Maintained at 24 ± 0.001 °C and 0.005 ± 0.0005 mbar, ensuring minimal instrumental drift.
- Uses a Uranium Argon Hollow Cathode Lamp (UAr HCL) for calibration, achieving a velocity precision of better than 2 m/s.
- Advanced optical fiber system for capturing stellar light and spectral calibration data simultaneously.
It uses the radial velocity method, which detects tiny wobbles in a star’s motion caused by the gravitational pull of an orbiting planet.
These wobbles cause shifts in the star’s light spectrum, allowing scientists to determine a planet’s presence, mass, and orbital period.
It can detect minute stellar movements, making it ideal for finding low-mass exoplanets like super-Earths.

PYQ:

[2015] The term ‘Goldilocks Zone’ is often seen in the news in the context of:

(a) the limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth
(b) regions inside the Earth where shale gas is available
(c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
(d) search for meteorites containing precious metals

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Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

New Fishing Grounds discovered in Arabian Sea

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: E-Technology In The Aid Of Farmers

Why in the News?

A deep-sea fishing expedition conducted by the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) has uncovered several highly productive and previously unexplored fishing grounds in the Arabian Sea.

Key Findings of the Deep-Sea Survey:

Fishing was conducted at depths between 300-540 meters using deep-sea trawlers.
The survey was funded under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
It mapped potential deep-sea fishing zones 100-120 nautical miles off India’s western coast, stretching from Kollam in Kerala to Goa.

About Fishery Survey of India (FSI)

FSI was established in 1983, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
It conducts fisheries research, resource surveys, and sustainable fishing assessments.
It operates annual Fishery Resource Surveys to guide:
- Traditional fishermen
- Small and medium boat operators
- Deep-sea longlining tuna fleet
History of FSI:
- Originated from the “Deep Sea Fishing Station” project (1946).
- Renamed “Exploratory Fisheries Project” (1974) and later “Fishery Survey of India” (1983).
- In 2005, Marine Engineering Division was integrated into FSI.
- In 2017, PM Narendra Modi launched the Deep-Sea Fishing Project to promote sustainable fishing practices.

Capabilities of FSI:

- Operates 11 ocean survey vessels across six major Indian ports.
- Employs 752 personnel, conducting deep-sea research and data collection.

India’s Marine Fishing Industry

India ranks second in global fish production after China.
Contributes 9.58 million tonnes of total fish production, with:
- 70% from the west coast
- 30% from the east coast
Major fish-producing states: Andhra Pradesh (20%), West Bengal (15%), Gujarat (8%), Kerala (7%), Maharashtra (6%), Tamil Nadu (6%).
Exports and Global Trade:
- India exports 1.05 million tonnes of marine fish, generating ₹334.4 billion ($5.57 billion) in revenue.
- Major export markets: USA (26%), ASEAN nations (26%), EU (20%), Japan (9%), Middle East (6%), China (4%).

PYQ:

[2018] Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India.

[2022] What is Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?

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The Crisis In The Middle East

In news: Arab League

IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the News?

The Arab League has strongly rejected US President Donald Trump’s proposal for Gaza relocation, calling it unacceptable.

arab league

About the Arab League

The Arab League was founded on March 22, 1945, in Cairo, Egypt.
Its founding members included Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Syria.
The primary goals of the Arab League include:
- Promoting economic, cultural, political, and military cooperation among Arab states.
- Safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of its members.
- Addressing regional conflicts through diplomatic engagement and coordination.
The League operates on consensus-based decision-making, meaning all member states must agree on major resolutions.
It holds regular summits and meetings where Arab leaders discuss and formulate policies.
Specialized councils and committees focus on key areas like economic affairs, defense, social welfare, and education.

Organisation Structure:

- Today, it has 22 member states and several observer nations.
- Members: Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Kuwait, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Somalia, Sudan, UAE, and Yemen.
- Observer Nations: Several non-Arab nations, including Brazil, Eritrea, India, and Venezuela, hold observer status but do not have voting rights.

Key Achievements of the Arab League:

Arab Peace Initiative (2002): Proposed a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Military Coordination: Facilitated joint military efforts in various regional conflicts.
Economic Integration: Established the Arab Free Trade Area to promote intra-regional trade.
Cultural and Educational Exchange Programs: Strengthened cooperation in education, research, and cultural preservation.

PYQ:

[2023] Consider the following statements :

Statement-I: Israel has established diplomatic relations with some Arab States.
Statement-II: The ‘Arab Peace Initiative’ mediated by Saudi Arabia was signed by Israel and Arab League.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

India Mapping | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the News?

The Karnataka government’s move to build a tribal village in Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary’s buffer zone has sparked debates on environmental conservation, tribal rights, and human-wildlife conflict.

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

About Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Brahmagiri WLS is located in Kodagu District, Karnataka, within the Western Ghats.
It serves as a crucial ecological corridor, facilitating wildlife movement between Nagarhole National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Geographical Location and Features

- It is situated approximately 250 km from Bengaluru and derives its name from the Brahmagiri Peak, the highest point in the region.
- The sanctuary was declared a protected area on June 5, 1974, to conserve its unique flora and fauna.
- The terrain consists of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, grasslands, and shola forests, which provide a habitat for various species.

Flora:

- Bamboo species are widely spread across the region, providing food for herbivores like elephants and deer.
- The diverse vegetation supports a wide range of faunal species by offering food, shelter, and nesting sites.

Fauna:

- Carnivores: Tigers, jungle cats, leopard cats, wild dogs, and sloth bears.
- Herbivores: Indian elephants, gaurs, sambars, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, and wild pigs.
- Primates: Lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, slender loris, bonnet macaques, and common langurs.
- Small Mammals & Rodents: Malabar giant squirrels, giant flying squirrels, Nilgiri martens, common otters, brown mongooses, civets, porcupines, and pangolins.
- Reptiles: King cobras, Indian cobras, pythons, Malabar pit vipers.
- Birds: Emerald doves, square-tailed bulbuls, and Malabar trogons.

PYQ:

[2020] Which one of the following protected areas is well-known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous?

(a) Kanha National Park

(b) Manas National Park

(d) Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary

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Nuclear Energy

[13th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Nuclear energy — dangerous concessions on liability

op-ed snap | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

PYQ Relevance:

Q) Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of a fast breeder reactor programme in India? (UPSC CSE 2017)

Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on nuclear science and technology (2017), and atomic energy (2013).

In the Union Budget speech on February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to amend the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act. This move is likely to be welcomed by the U.S., where past governments have opposed India’s law because it holds nuclear manufacturers partly responsible for accidents. However, in India, removing supplier liability could be a major concern, as it might weaken nuclear safety measures.

Today’s editorial talks about the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act. This content will help in GS papers 2 and 3 in mains answer writing.

Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

The mention of plans to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act in the Union Budget is a serious issue that needs attention.

What is the Atomic Energy Act?

The Atomic Energy Act, 1962 is an Indian law that regulates the development, production, and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes while ensuring national security. It gives the government exclusive control over nuclear materials, plants, and research and allows the establishment of nuclear power projects. The Act also covers radiation safety, uranium mining, reactor operations, and waste disposal to prevent misuse and ensure public safety.

What is the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act?

The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010 is an Indian law that defines liability in case of a nuclear accident. It ensures compensation for victims while holding nuclear plant operators accountable.

Key Features:

Operator Liability: The primary financial responsibility for any nuclear accident rests with the plant operator (NPCIL in India), not the supplier.
Right of Recourse: Unlike many other countries, India allows operators to seek compensation from suppliers if defective equipment or services cause an accident (Section 17).
Liability Cap: Operator liability is capped at ₹1,500 crore (~$180 million), with the government covering additional costs if needed.
Exclusion from Global Regimes: India has not joined international nuclear liability agreements like the Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), meaning financial responsibility remains domestic.

What are the safety and liability concerns related to nuclear energy?

Risk of Catastrophic Accidents: Nuclear plant failures can lead to massive radiation leaks, environmental destruction, and long-term health impacts.Example: The Fukushima Daiichi disaster (2011, Japan) resulted from a tsunami, causing multiple reactor meltdowns and widespread radioactive contamination.
Design Flaws and Negligence: Suppliers may overlook or downplay safety risks in reactor designs, leading to vulnerabilities. Example: The Three Mile Island accident (1979, USA) occurred due to a known reactor design flaw that the supplier failed to address.
Limited Liability for Suppliers: In many countries, nuclear suppliers are indemnified, placing financial liability entirely on plant operators and governments.Example: General Electric (GE), which designed the Fukushima reactors, faced no financial consequences due to Japan’s liability laws.
Insufficient Compensation for Victims: Liability caps limit compensation for victims, despite the high costs of nuclear disasters. Example: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act caps liability at ₹1,500 crore, whereas Fukushima’s cleanup costs are estimated at ₹20-46 lakh crore.
Radioactive Waste and Long-Term Risks: Safe disposal of nuclear waste remains a major challenge, with risks of leaks and contamination lasting thousands of years.Example: The Chernobyl disaster (1986, USSR) left a radioactive exclusion zone that remains uninhabitable nearly 40 years later.

How does India’s approach to nuclear liability differ from global standards?

Operator Liability with Limited Supplier Responsibility: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010, places primary liability on the operator (NPCIL), but allows it to seek compensation from suppliers in case of defective equipment or services (Right of Recourse, Section 17).
- Global Standard: Most countries fully indemnify suppliers, meaning they bear no financial responsibility after supplying reactors.
- Example: In Japan, General Electric (GE) faced no liability for the Fukushima disaster (2011), while in India, foreign suppliers fear financial risks if an accident occurs.
Liability Cap vs. Unlimited Liability in Some Countries: India caps operator liability at ₹1,500 crore (~$180 million), with additional compensation coming from the government if needed.
- Global Standard: Some countries, like Germany, impose unlimited liability on operators to ensure full compensation. The U.S. Price-Anderson Act establishes a large industry-backed fund for damages beyond a certain limit.
- Example: After the Chernobyl disaster (1986, USSR), the Soviet government bore the entire cost (~$235 billion), whereas an Indian accident beyond ₹1,500 crore would shift the financial burden to taxpayers.
India is Not Part of Global Nuclear Liability Regimes: India has not signed the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC), which standardizes liability norms and creates an international compensation pool.
- Global Standard: Most nuclear-powered nations, including the U.S. and Japan, are CSC members, ensuring global financial support for nuclear accidents.
- Example: If a nuclear accident occurs in France, CSC members contribute to compensation, but in India, all financial burdens remain domestic.

What are the reasons behind the government’s plan to amend the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act?

Attracting Foreign Investment and Suppliers – The existing CLND Act allows India’s nuclear operator (NPCIL) to seek compensation from foreign suppliers in case of faulty equipment, discouraging companies from supplying reactors. Amendments could limit supplier liability, making India a more attractive market for nuclear investments from countries like the U.S., France, and Russia.
Expanding Nuclear Energy Capacity – India aims to increase its nuclear power generation to meet rising energy demands and climate goals. Simplifying liability laws could accelerate agreements with international partners and facilitate the construction of new nuclear plants under deals such as the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement.

What are the other implications of increasing nuclear energy reliance?

High Economic Costs and Project Delays: Nuclear power plants require massive upfront investments, long construction periods, and frequent cost overruns.
- Example: The AP1000 reactors in Georgia, USA, were initially estimated at $14 billion but were completed at $36.8 billion—a 250% cost overrun. Similarly, India’s Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant faced significant delays and cost escalations.
Nuclear Waste Management and Environmental Risks: Nuclear energy produces radioactive waste that remains hazardous for thousands of years, requiring secure disposal and long-term monitoring.
- Example: The Fukushima disaster (2011) led to the release of radioactive material, contaminating land and water, with cleanup costs estimated between ¥35-80 trillion (~₹20-46 lakh crore). India lacks permanent storage facilities for high-level nuclear waste.
Geopolitical and Security Concerns: Expanding nuclear energy means higher dependence on foreign suppliers, leading to strategic vulnerabilities and potential external influence.
- Example: India’s civil nuclear deal with the U.S. (2008) opened doors for technology transfer, but suppliers now demand liability protection before delivering reactors, creating diplomatic pressure.

Way forward:

Strengthen Liability and Safety Frameworks: The government should Amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act to ensure fair risk-sharing between operators and suppliers.
- Need to invest in advanced reactor safety technologies (e.g., Small Modular Reactors – SMRs) and strengthen independent regulatory oversight.
Develop Robust Waste Management and Indigenous Capabilities: The government should establish permanent disposal sites for high-level nuclear waste with stringent monitoring.
- Need to enhance domestic nuclear technology (e.g., Thorium-based reactors) to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and improve energy security.

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Electoral Reforms In India

Should convicted persons contest elections?

Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Representation Of People’s Act

Why in the News?

The Supreme Court is reviewing petitions by Ashwin Upadhyay and others, asking for a lifetime ban on convicted people from contesting elections.

What does the RPA, 1951 stipulate with respect to electoral candidates convicted of criminal offences?

Section 8(3): Disqualifies a person convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to at least two years of imprisonment. The disqualification extends for six years after their release.
Section 8(1): Provides for automatic disqualification for convictions under specific laws (e.g., IPC for heinous crimes like rape, Prevention of Corruption Act, UAPA) regardless of sentence length, plus six years after release.
Section 8(4) (Struck Down in 2013): Previously allowed sitting legislators to continue in office despite conviction if they appealed—declared unconstitutional in Lily Thomas (2013).
Section 11: Empowers the Election Commission (EC) to remove or reduce the period of disqualification. Used controversially in 2019 to allow Prem Singh Tamang to contest elections.

What are the various judgments of the SC which favour the decriminalisation of politics?

Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) case (2002): Mandated the disclosure of criminal records by all candidates.
CEC vs. Jan Chaukidar case (2013): Upheld that individuals in jail cease to be ‘electors’ and are therefore not qualified to contest elections. However, this was overturned by a parliamentary amendment in 2013, allowing under-trial prisoners to contest elections.
Lily Thomas (2013): Struck down Section 8(4) of the RP Act, 1951, thereby disqualifying sitting legislators immediately upon conviction.

What is the case for a lifetime ban on convicted individuals standing for office?

Upholding Integrity & Public Trust: Lawmakers must adhere to the highest ethical standards as they create and enforce laws.
- Example: The Lily Thomas (2013) judgment disqualified convicted legislators immediately, reinforcing the need for clean governance.
Parity with Government Jobs: A convicted person is ineligible for even a junior government job, yet they can contest elections after six years.Example: A person convicted under the Prevention of Corruption Act cannot work in government but can become an MP/MLA.
Curbing Criminalisation of Politics: 46% of MPs in 2024 have criminal cases, and 31% face serious charges like rape, murder, and kidnapping. Example: Mohammad Shahabuddin, a former MP from Bihar, had multiple murder cases but was elected to office multiple times.
Judicial & Expert Recommendations: The Supreme Court, Law Commission (1999, 2014), and Election Commission have all recommended stricter disqualification norms. Example: The Law Commission recommended barring individuals from contesting elections once charges are framed for serious offences.
Strengthening Democracy & Rule of Law: A lifetime ban for heinous crimes and corruption would prevent criminals from misusing political power.Example: Lalu Prasad Yadav was convicted in the fodder scam but continued to influence politics despite being disqualified.

Should convicted persons be allowed to contest elections?

Arguments in Favour:

Rehabilitation & Second Chance: A convict who has served their sentence should not be permanently barred from participating in democracy. Example: Nelson Mandela was convicted and imprisoned for 27 years but later became South Africa’s President, leading the country to democracy.
Potential for Political Misuse: Opponents may misuse legal provisions by filing false cases to prevent strong candidates from contesting elections. Example: Political leaders in India, like Arvind Kejriwal, have faced multiple cases, some of which were later dismissed as politically motivated.
Disproportionate Punishment: Not all convictions involve moral turpitude or crimes against society. A blanket ban would be excessive in certain cases. Example: A person convicted for protesting against an unjust law (civil disobedience) should not be equated with someone convicted of corruption or murder.

Arguments Against:

Ensuring Clean Politics: Public representatives should maintain high ethical standards, and allowing convicts to contest elections erodes trust in governance. Example: Mohammad Shahabuddin, a convicted criminal, was elected multiple times despite serious charges, highlighting flaws in the system.
Parity with Government Jobs: If convicted individuals are ineligible for government employment, they should also be barred from lawmaking positions. Example: A person convicted under the Prevention of Corruption Act cannot hold a bureaucratic post but can become an MP or MLA, which is inconsistent.
Threat to Democratic Institutions: Criminally convicted politicians can misuse their power to influence investigations, intimidate witnesses, and weaken democratic institutions. Example: Politicians with serious criminal cases often manipulate legal loopholes and delay proceedings to continue contesting elections.

Way forward:

Stricter Disqualification Norms: Implement a lifetime ban on candidates convicted of heinous crimes (murder, rape, corruption) while allowing judicial review for politically motivated cases. Strengthen laws to bar individuals from contesting elections once charges are framed for serious offences, as recommended by the Law Commission.
Electoral & Judicial Reforms: Fast-track trials of politicians facing criminal cases through special courts, ensuring timely justice. Strengthen the Election Commission’s authority to scrutinize candidates and enforce stricter disclosure norms on criminal records.

Mains PYQ:

Q There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act”. Comment. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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Should convicted persons be allowed to contest elections?

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