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  • Railway Reforms

    Why Railways Amendment Bill 2024 was introduced?

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the News?

    Amid intense debates between the government and the opposition, the Lok Sabha passed the Railways (Amendment) Bill, in 2024.

    What were the significant key features of the bill?

    • Repeal of the Indian Railway Board Act, 1905: The Bill repeals the 1905 Act, which governed the establishment and powers of the Railway Board. Provisions from the 1905 Act are now incorporated into the Railways Act, of 1989, for a unified legal framework.
      • It combines the provisions of the 1905 Act and the 1989 Act, reducing legislative redundancy and simplifying governance.
    • Constitution of the Railway Board: It empowers the central government to determine:
      • The number of Railway Board members.
      • Qualifications, experience, and terms of service for the Chairman and members.
      • Method of appointment for these positions.
    • Streamlining Legal Provisions: It consolidates provisions for easier administration and reduces the need for cross-referencing between multiple laws.
      • It enables the central government to prescribe updated qualifications and service terms for Railway Board members, potentially improving leadership quality.
    • Administrative Integration: It maintains the Railway Board’s central authority while aiming for operational efficiency and uniformity in governance.
      • It aligns with recommendations for a modernized railway structure, paving the way for potential decentralization and private sector participation.
    • Development Goals: The Bill is in line with India’s broader infrastructure and economic development objectives, which depend heavily on an efficient railway system.

    Why did the Government Bring the Bill?

    • The government aims to repeal the Indian Railway Board Act of 1905 and integrate its provisions into the Railways Act of 1989, simplifying the legal framework governing Indian Railways and reducing reliance on multiple laws.
    • The government argues that this integration will enhance the efficiency and development of railways, allowing for better governance and decision-making within the Railway Board.
    • Since its inception, the Railway Board has operated under the 1905 Act. The new Bill seeks to modernize this structure by aligning it with contemporary governance practices.

    What did MPs Say About the Bill?

    • Support from Government MPs: The ruling party MPs praised the Bill as a significant step towards modernizing and strengthening Indian Railways, asserting that it would enhance the functions and independence of the Railway Board.
    • Concerns from Opposition MPs: Opposition members argued for an independent Railway Board free from government control and highlighted that the Bill does not address critical issues like:
      • Concerns About Privatization: The Opposition party is worried that the new Bill could lead to the privatization of Indian Railways, making it less accessible to poorer people.
      • Loss of Independence: Many Members of Parliament (MPs) are concerned that more government control over appointments to the Railway Board could reduce the independence of Indian Railways.
      • Restoration of Discounts: Several MPs are calling for the return of fare discounts for senior citizens, journalists, and economically weaker groups, which were stopped during the pandemic.
    • Calls for Inclusivity: Some MPs raised concerns about representation within the Railway Board, questioning whether marginalized groups would be adequately represented in appointments.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Railway Board Autonomy: Establish an independent regulatory framework to ensure the Railway Board operates with greater autonomy, focusing on safety, operational efficiency, and decentralization at zonal and divisional levels.
    • Inclusive Representation and Expertise: Mandate merit-based appointments to the Railway Board, ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups (SCs, STs, OBCs, and women) while emphasizing domain expertise for effective governance.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators. (UPSC IAS/2014)

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    Syrian Crisis and its implications for Iran and regional geopolitics

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

    Why in the News?

    The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria significantly challenges Iran’s regional influence, disrupting Tehran’s efforts to sustain its “Shiite crescent” strategy across the Middle East.

    The “Shiite crescent” strategy refers to Iran’s geopolitical ambition to establish a contiguous sphere of influence among Shia-majority regions, extending from Iran through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon, thereby enhancing its regional power.

    syria

    What are the Bilateral Ties between Iran and Syria?

    • Strategic Partnership: Since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979, Syria has been Iran’s key ally, facilitating Iranian influence throughout the Levant. This partnership allowed Iran to support Hezbollah in Lebanon and maintain a foothold against Sunni Arab states.
    • Corridor for Influence: Syria served as a vital corridor for Iranian resources and military support to its proxies, reinforcing Tehran’s “Shiite crescent” strategy aimed at linking Iran with its allies across the region.
    • Historical Context: The relationship strengthened under Bashar al-Assad, despite being challenged by regional Sunni powers. The Assad regime’s reliance on Iranian support became more pronounced during the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011.

    What are the challenges for Tehran?

    • Loss of Influence: The fall of Assad represents a major setback for Iran, as it loses a critical ally needed to sustain its influence in the region. This diminishes Tehran’s ability to project power through its network of proxies and disrupts its strategic depth in the Levant.
    • Operational Setbacks: Iran’s military presence in Syria had already been compromised by Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah leaders and other Iranian-affiliated groups. The loss of Assad exacerbates these challenges, leaving Tehran to reassess its military and diplomatic strategies.
    • Increased Regional Competition: With Assad gone, regional powers like Turkey and Gulf states are likely to vie for influence in Syria, further complicating Iran’s position and diminishing its regional leverage.

    What are the Geopolitical implications for the countries in the region?

    • Power Vacuum: The collapse of Assad creates a power vacuum in which regional players such as Turkey, Iran, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states will compete to fill, recalibrating their strategies to safeguard national interests.
    • Increased Tensions: Sunni Arab states may heighten efforts to counter Iranian influence, potentially leading to escalated sectarian tensions and a resurgence of militant groups like ISIS seeking to exploit the instability.
    • Israel’s Strategic Posture: Israel is expected to adopt a more aggressive stance against Iranian-affiliated groups in Syria and Lebanon, aiming to prevent any reconstitution of Iranian influence along its borders.
    • Western Involvement: The U.S. and European nations may intensify their involvement through diplomatic channels and interventions to curb Iranian expansion while preventing militant organizations from re-emerging in the region.

    What are the steps taken by Indian government?  

    • India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC): Launched during India’s G20 presidency, this corridor aims to enhance connectivity and trade between India, the Middle East, and Europe. It seeks to integrate various countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and European nations, facilitating faster movement of goods and improving maritime security.
    • Joint Action Plan with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): India and the GCC have adopted a Joint Action Plan for 2024-2028, which encompasses cooperation in various sectors such as health, trade, energy, agriculture, and transportation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Ties: Engage with key regional actors like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey to promote stability in Syria and counterbalance Iranian influence while safeguarding India’s energy and trade interests in the Middle East.
    • Counter-Terrorism Collaboration: Enhance intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism cooperation with allies to mitigate the risks of militant groups like ISIS exploiting the instability in Syria.
    • Support Reconstruction Efforts: Participate in Syria’s post-conflict reconstruction through investments in infrastructure, showcasing India’s soft power and gaining strategic goodwill in the region.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to its situation? (UPSC IAS/2018)

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    [pib] National Mental Health Programme (NMHP)

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 1: Population & Associated Issues

    Why in the News?

    The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at addressing the growing mental health challenges in the country.

    About National Mental Health Programme (NMHP):

    Details Initiated in 1982 and restructured in 2003, the NMHP aims to modernize mental health facilities and upgrade psychiatric wings in medical institutions.
    Features and Signficance The program has 3 components:
    1. Treatment of mentally ill
    2. Rehabilitation
    3. Prevention and promotion of positive mental health.
    Aims and Objectives 
    1. Prevention and treatment of mental and neurological disorders and their associated disabilities.
    2. Use of mental health technology to improve general health services.
    3. Application of mental health principles in total national development to improve quality of life.
    Structural Mandate The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), based on the Bellary Model, focuses on community mental health services at the primary healthcare level, spanning 716 districts.

    DMHP provides outpatient services, counselling, psycho-social interventions, and support for severe mental disorders.

    • Priority given to mental morbidity and treatment.
    • Primary healthcare services at village and sub-center levels.
    • Services at the Primary Health Center (PHC) and District Hospital levels.
    • Facilities at Mental Hospitals and Teaching Psychiatric Units.

     

    Back2Basics: The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017

    • It replaced the Mental Healthcare Act, 1987, which was criticized for failing to recognize the rights of mentally ill individuals.
    • It ensures the Right to Access to Healthcare and aims to ensure the rights and dignity of those with mental illness.
    • It decriminalized suicide, stating that attempts are presumed to be under severe stress and shall not be punished.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

    In news: Nicaragua

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

    In news: Nicaragua

    Why in the News?

    • Indian and Nicaragua has signed an umbrella agreement on Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
      • The agreement aims at socio-economic development by implementing QIPs in Nicaragua, which will directly benefit local communities.

    About Nicaragua: Quick Facts

    • Nicaragua is located in Central America, bordered by Honduras to the north, Costa Rica to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
    • The capital of Nicaragua is Managua; official language spoken in Nicaragua is Spanish; currency is the Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO).
    • Nicaragua operates as a unitary presidential republic.
    • The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, including coffee, bananas, and sugar, along with manufacturing and mining.

    Geographical Features:

    • Nicaragua’s topography is predominantly mountainous in the interior, with lowland plains along its Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
    • The country is home to over 20 volcanoes, with active ones such as Masaya and San Cristóbal.
    • The largest lake in Nicaragua is Lake Cocibolca, also known as Lake Nicaragua, which is one of the largest lakes in Latin America.
    • Nicaragua is also known for its significant rivers, including the San Juan River, which flows into the Caribbean Sea, and the Río Coco, the longest river in Central America.

    India- Nicaragua Relations:

    • Diplomatic relations were established in March 1983, and the Indian Embassy in Panama is concurrently accredited to Nicaragua.
    • Nicaragua’s embassy in India was closed in 1990, and currently, Nicaragua is represented in India through its Embassy in Tokyo.

    What are Quick Impact Projects (QIPs)?

    • QIPs are initiatives designed to deliver rapid and visible benefits to local communities, especially in areas with critical infrastructure and social development needs.
    • These projects are often implemented in a short time frame.
    • They are focused on addressing urgent and immediate issues that can have a significant positive impact on the community.
    • The term is commonly used by organizations like the UNHCR to describe such initiatives in crisis or displacement situations.
    • Examples of QIPs may include:
      • Building roads in remote areas to improve connectivity.
      • Establishing community centers that serve as hubs for local services.
      • Improving healthcare facilities with basic medical equipment and services.
      • Upgrading educational infrastructure by building schools or providing learning materials.

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    [pib] Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

    Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Why in the News?

    • In February 2018, the Centre had launched the initiative to establish 1,50,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), formerly known as Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), by December 2022.
      • As of 31st July 2024, 1,73,881 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been set up and are fully operational, exceeding the original target.

    About the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs):

    Details
    • Launched to provide comprehensive health services covering preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care for all age groups.
      • First AAM was launched in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on April 18th, 2018.
    • In FY 2018-19, over 17,000 AAMs were operationalized, surpassing the target of 15,000.
      • Currently, there are 1.6 lakh such centres across India.
    • National Health Policy of 2017 envisioned AAMs as the cornerstone of India’s health system.
      • In 2023, the Union Health Ministry renamed AB-HWCs as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
    Aims and Objectives
    • To provide universal, free-of-cost, and accessible primary healthcare services to both rural and urban populations.
    Features and Significance
    • Services provided include preventive, promotive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care.
    • AAMs offer a comprehensive 12-package set of services.
    • Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) are being transformed to offer broader healthcare services.
    Structural Mandate Implemented via 2 Components:

    1. Comprehensive Primary Health Care: The mission plans to establish 1,50,000 AAMs in rural and urban areas to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services.
    2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): The scheme provides a health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh per year to more than 10 crore vulnerable families for secondary and tertiary care.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:

    1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
    2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
    3. It has seamless portability across the country.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Steel Industry – Current challenges, National Steel Policy 2017, etc

    India launched the World’s first Green Steel Taxonomy

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Steel unveiled the world’s first Taxonomy of Green Steel, setting a benchmark for decarbonizing the steel industry.

    About the Green Steel Taxonomy:

    What is it?
    • A formal framework introduced by India to define and promote the production of steel with reduced carbon emissions.
    • It sets clear standards for what constitutes green steel, aiming to help the Indian steel sector transition to low-carbon production methods.
    • The taxonomy defines greenness percentages based on the steel plant’s carbon emission intensity.
    • Seeks to ensure that production aligns with India’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2070.
    Key Features
    • Emissions Threshold: Green Steel is defined based on emissions intensity, with steel plants needing to keep emissions below 2.2 tCO2 per tonne of finished steel (tfs) to be classified as green.
    • Star Rating System:
      1. Five-star: Emission intensity lower than 1.6 t-CO2e/tfs.
      2. Four-star: Emission intensity between 1.6 and 2.0 t-CO2e/tfs.
      3. Three-star: Emission intensity between 2.0 and 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs.
    • Steel exceeding 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs does not qualify as green steel.
    • Emissions Scope: Includes Scope 1, Scope 2, and limited Scope 3 emissions, covering production, agglomeration, beneficiation, and emissions from raw materials and intermediates.
    • Certification: NISST will oversee Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV), issuing greenness certificates and star ratings annually.
    • Review Period: The thresholds for green ratings will be reviewed every 3 years.
    Significance
    • Environmental Sustainability: Aims to reduce carbon footprint in line with national climate goals.
    • Market Creation: Promotes innovation in low-carbon steel products.
    • Global Competitiveness: Ensures Indian steel meets international sustainability standards.
    • Guidance for Industry: Encourages adoption of greener practices.
    Other Key Initiatives
    • National Mission on Green Steel (NMGS): Policy support, funding, and incentives for low-carbon technologies.
    • Electrification of Steelmaking: Use of electric arc furnaces (EAF) to reduce reliance on coal.
    • Hydrogen-based Steelmaking: Exploring hydrogen as a clean fuel.
    • Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Technologies to capture CO2 emissions.
    • Public Procurement Policies: Promotes green steel use in public infrastructure.
    • Research and Development: Investments in low-carbon technologies and materials.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Steel slag can be the material for which of the following

    1. Construction of base road

    2. Improvement of agricultural soil

    3. Production of cement

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3 only

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  • Air Pollution

    Beijing’s War Against Air Pollution

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

    Why in the News?

    In 2015, Beijing had an annual average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 144, comparable to Delhi’s current average of 155 in 2024. However, Beijing has since achieved a one-third reduction in its pollution levels, with the most notable decline occurring between 2013 and 2017.

    Why discuss Beijing in the context of Delhi?

    The comparison between Beijing and Delhi is significant due to their shared status as capitals of emerging economies facing severe air pollution challenges.  

    • Similar Pollution Levels: In 2015, Beijing had an average AQI of 144, comparable to Delhi’s current average of 155 for 2024. This similarity highlights the potential for improvement in Delhi, as Beijing has successfully reduced its pollution levels significantly since then.

    • Common Sources of Pollution: Both cities experience high pollution from similar sources, including vehicular emissions, coal combustion, and industrial activities. The regional contributions to air quality issues are also significant in both cases, particularly during winter months.
    • Need for Collective Action: Just as Beijing required a coordinated effort across its region to combat pollution, Delhi must engage neighboring areas in a collective strategy to effectively address its air quality crisis.

    What did Beijing do and how did it achieve it?

    • Phased and Strategic Planning: Implemented a 20-year anti-pollution programme in three phases (1998-2017) with local government autonomy and public participation to ensure gradual and sustainable progress.
      • 1998-2008: Initial groundwork.
      • 2009-2012: Strengthening regulations.
      • 2013-2017: Aggressive measures termed the “war against air pollution.
    • Energy Sector Transition: Shifted from coal to cleaner energy by renovating power plants, eliminating coal boilers, and replacing residential coal heating, reducing major emissions.
    • Transportation Reforms: Upgraded public transport infrastructure, introduced emission controls in vehicles, and phased out polluting vehicles with subsidies, reducing transportation-based pollutants.
    • Regional Collaboration and Investment: Partnered with five neighboring provinces for coordinated pollution control and increased financial investment sixfold to implement targeted measures effectively.

    • Financial Investment: A sixfold increase in investment over four years supported these initiatives, allowing for significant infrastructure improvements and regulatory enforcement.

    As a result of these efforts, major pollutants like sulfur dioxide and PM2.5 saw significant reductions (e.g., PM2.5 decreased by 59% between 2013-2017).

     

    What can Delhi learn from the Beijing experience?

    • Integrated Public Transport System: Establishing an efficient bus-metro system to reduce reliance on private vehicles is essential. Upgrading the bus fleet and enhancing last-mile connectivity can significantly improve public transport accessibility.
    • Energy Transition: Similar to Beijing’s shift away from coal, Delhi should diversify its energy sources by promoting renewable energy options like solar power while reducing dependence on coal-fired plants.
    • Regional Coordination: Pollution control efforts should extend beyond city limits to include neighboring regions, fostering collaboration similar to Beijing’s regional initiatives.
    • Public Advocacy for Clean Air: Encouraging citizen engagement in demanding accountability from the government can build political will for implementing necessary changes.
    • Political Will and Consistency: Addressing air pollution requires sustained political commitment and a long-term action plan rather than ad hoc measures that fail to tackle root causes.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Policy Implementation and Regional Collaboration: Formulate and enforce a comprehensive, long-term pollution control policy with coordinated efforts involving Delhi and its neighboring states to address regional pollution sources effectively.
    • Promote Sustainable Infrastructure and Public Engagement: Invest in renewable energy, green public transport, and urban planning while fostering public participation and advocacy for clean air to ensure accountability and sustained progress.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious probelm in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (UPSC IAS/2015)

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    What is Disease X and why should the world prepare for it?

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    The outbreak reported in the first week of December 2024 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has already claimed more than 400 lives and is yet to be classified, has sparked concerns that it might be an example of Disease X.

    What is Disease X?

    • Definition: Disease X is a hypothetical term coined by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2018 to represent an unknown pathogen that could potentially cause a global epidemic or pandemic.
    • Conceptual Origin: The term was created in the aftermath of the Ebola epidemic (2014-2016) to emphasise the need for preparedness against unpredictable infectious diseases.
    • Nature of Disease X: It serves as a placeholder for both “known unknowns” (threats we are aware of but do not fully understand) and “unknown unknowns” (threats we are not yet aware of). This acknowledges the likelihood of future pandemics without specifying their characteristics.
    • Potential Pathogens: Disease X could originate from a variety of sources, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, helminths, or prions. Historical data indicates that about 70% of emerging infectious diseases have zoonotic origins, meaning they are transmitted from animals to humans.
    • Emerging Disease Patterns: The emergence of new diseases is often linked to ecological disruptions caused by human activities such as deforestation and urbanisation, which increase contact between humans and wildlife.

    Why is it Important to Prepare for Disease X?

    • Global Health Security: Preparing for Disease X is essential for protecting public health globally. The emergence of new pathogens can lead to widespread illness and mortality, as demonstrated by COVID-19.
    • Unpredictable Nature of Outbreaks: The unpredictable emergence of infectious diseases necessitates robust surveillance and rapid response systems. Being prepared helps mitigate the impact of unforeseen threats.
    • Increasing Frequency of Outbreaks: The frequency of novel outbreaks has significantly increased since the mid-20th century due to environmental changes, urbanization, and human encroachment on wildlife habitats.
    • Economic Impact: Pandemics can have devastating economic consequences, disrupting trade, travel, and healthcare systems. Preparedness can help minimize these impacts.

    What should be done to prevent this? ( Way forward) 

    • Advances in Science and Technology: Investments in research, genomic sequencing, artificial intelligence, and public health infrastructure enhance our ability to detect and respond to emerging diseases quickly.
    • International Cooperation: Global collaboration is crucial for effective outbreak response. Initiatives like the WHO’s priority pathogen list and proposed Pandemic Treaty aim to foster a unified approach to health emergencies.
    • Equitable Access to Resources: Ensuring equitable access to diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines across all countries is vital for effective pandemic response, particularly in low- and middle-income nations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid the management of the pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Panchayati Raj Institutions: Issues and Challenges

    The missing spotlight on urban local government polls

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Panchayats & Local Bodies

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing debate on simultaneous elections, commonly referred to as One Nation One Election (ONOE), presents a valuable opportunity to highlight a fundamental aspect of local democracy: the need for elections to Urban Local Governments (ULGs).

    What is the Significance of Urban Local Government elections?

    • Decentralized Governance: ULGs are crucial for decentralized self-governance, which is fundamental to democratic functioning at the grassroots level.
    • Service Delivery: ULGs are responsible for delivering essential civic services such as water, sanitation, public health, and urban planning, which directly affect citizens’ quality of life.
    • Local Democracy: Regular elections to ULGs ensure democratic legitimacy, enabling citizens to participate in the governance process at the local level and hold local representatives accountable.
    • Economic and Social Impact: ULGs play a vital role in urban development, economic growth, and social well-being. As cities are responsible for a significant portion of the country’s GDP, well-governed local bodies contribute to national prosperity.

    Why is Voter Turnout in Urban Local Elections Typically Lower?

    • Lack of Awareness: Voter awareness regarding local elections is often lower than that for state or national elections, leading to reduced participation.
    • Perceived Impact: Many voters feel that the impact of urban local elections is less significant compared to state or national elections, resulting in voter apathy.
    • Political Disengagement: In many cases, urban residents may feel disconnected from local governance, especially when local issues are not perceived as urgent or when political campaigns do not adequately address them.
    • Timing and Scheduling Issues: Elections to ULGs may be held at different times or not synchronized with other elections, causing confusion and disengagement.
    • Voter Fatigue: Frequent elections at different levels may contribute to voter fatigue, lowering participation rates in local elections.

    What reforms are necessary to enhance the effectiveness of urban local governments?

    • Empower State Election Commissions (SECs): Strengthening SECs by granting them autonomy and resources for conducting timely and fair elections is essential. Currently, many SECs lack the authority to carry out ward delimitation effectively, which delays elections.
    • Regular Elections: Ensuring that ULGs hold regular elections every five years is crucial. The recent acceptance of recommendations by the High-Level Committee (HLC) for synchronizing local body elections with state and national polls is a positive step in this direction.
    • Decentralization of Powers: The 74th Constitutional Amendment aimed at decentralizing powers to ULGs; however, actual implementation has been inconsistent.
    • Public Participation: Encouraging greater public involvement in decision-making processes will enhance transparency and accountability within ULGs. This can be achieved through community engagement initiatives and participatory budgeting processes.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutional Capacity and Autonomy: Empower State Election Commissions (SECs) with the necessary authority and resources to ensure timely and independent elections.
    • Promote Public Engagement and Accountability: Encourage active public participation through initiatives like community engagement, participatory budgeting, and transparency in governance. This will improve the responsiveness of ULGs to citizen needs and foster stronger local democracy.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The strength and sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funds’to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlightthe critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

    Assessment of Water Resources of India, 2024 by CWC

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Distribution Of Key Natural Resources Across The World

    Why in the News?

    • The Central Water Commission (CWC) recently released its study titled ‘Assessment of Water Resources of India, 2024.
      • It estimated India’s average annual water availability from 1985 to 2023 at 2,115.95 billion cubic meters (BCM).

    Key Highlights of CWC’s ‘Assessment of Water Resources of India 2024’ Report:

    • Total Water Availability: India’s average annual water availability between 1985 and 2023 is estimated at 2,115.95 billion cubic meters (BCM).
    • Top 3 Basins in (annual water availability):
      • Brahmaputra Basin: 592.32 BCM
      • Ganga Basin: 581.75 BCM
      • Godavari Basin: 129.17 BCM
    • Bottom 3 Basins in (annual water availability):
      • Sabarmati Basin: 9.87 BCM
      • Pennar Basin: 10.42 BCM
      • Mahi Basin: 13.03 BCM
    • Comparison to Previous Assessment (2019):
      • The current figure of 2,115.95 BCM is higher than the 1,999.2 BCM estimated in 2019.
      • The increase is due to the inclusion of Bhutan’s contribution to the Brahmaputra basin and Nepal’s contribution to the Ganga basin.
    • Per Capita Water Availability:
      • Based on the 2019 study: 1,486 cubic meters for the year 2021.
      • For 2024, with the new data, the per capita availability is projected to be 1,513 cubic meters (based on a population of 1.398 billion).
      • Despite the increase, India remains under water stress (less than 1,700 cubic meters per capita).
    • Utilizable Water Resources:
      • The CWC estimates utilizable surface water at 690 BCM out of the total 1,999.2 BCM.
      • Smaller basins have a higher proportion of utilisable water compared to larger ones like the Brahmaputra sub-basin.

    About the Central Water Commission (CWC):

    • CWC was established in 1945 as the Central Waterways, Irrigation and Navigation Commission (CWINC) on the advice of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
    • Operates under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation.
    • A statutory advisory body for water resource development and management.
    • Headquarters: New Delhi.
    • Chairman serves as the Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government of India.
    • Responsibilities include:
      • Control, conservation, and utilization of water resources.
      • Maintaining the National Register of Large Dams (NRLD).
      • Conducting hydrological surveys.
      • Handles surface water, while the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) manages groundwater resources.
    • Wings:
      • Designs and Research (D&R) Wing.
      • River Management (RM) Wing.
      • Water Planning and Projects (WP&P) Wing.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following statements:

    1. 36% of India’s districts are classified as “overexploited” or “critical” by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA).

    2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act.

    3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1 and 3 only

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