Archives: News

Will Riyadh summit have an impact on Gaza war?

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

Why in the News?

Saudi Arabia recently hosted a summit of Arab and Islamic leaders, urging an immediate halt to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon while addressing the broader Palestine issue.

What were the key outcomes of the Riyadh summit on the Gaza conflict?

Condemnation of Israeli Actions: The leaders from Arab and Islamic countries condemned the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “shocking and horrific crimes,” including accusations of genocide and ethnic cleansing.
Call for Investigation: They demanded the establishment of an “independent, credible” international committee to investigate these alleged crimes committed by Israel.
Support for Palestinian Statehood: The summit urged for measures to end the Israeli occupation and called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the borders prior to June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital, aligning with the two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002.

How does the summit reflect changing dynamics in regional politics?

Shift from Normalization: The summit reflects a significant shift in regional politics where Arab nations, which had previously moved towards normalising relations with Israel (as seen in the Abraham Accords), are now re-emphasizing the importance of addressing the Palestinian issue as a prerequisite for peace.
Collective Arab Stance: The gathering showcased a united front among Arab leaders in response to Israel’s actions, indicating a collective anger and a strategic pivot back towards supporting Palestinian rights rather than sidelining them for diplomatic ties with Israel.
Impact on Saudi-Israel Relations: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s strong condemnation of Israel’s actions signals a deterioration in potential normalization talks with Israel, as any future agreements are now explicitly linked to resolving the Palestinian question.

What is the possibility of the Arab World Joining the war?

Unlikelihood of Military Action: Despite heightened tensions and strong rhetoric, it is highly unlikely that any Arab nation will engage militarily against Israel. Historical precedents show that while Arab states have condemned Israeli actions, they have refrained from direct military confrontation since 1973.
Focus on Diplomatic Solutions: The current sentiment among Arab nations leans towards seeking diplomatic resolutions rather than military involvement, especially given their previous moves towards normalizing relations with Israel.
Strategic Realignment: The recent developments suggest a subtle realignment in West Asia’s strategic landscape, where Arab states may prioritize internal stability and regional cooperation over direct military engagement, even as they express solidarity with Palestine.

What can India do to resolve the Gaza conflict?

Mediation and Dialogue Facilitation: India can leverage its strong relationships with both Arab countries and Israel to act as a neutral mediator, facilitating dialogue and promoting peaceful negotiations between the conflicting parties.
Support for International Initiatives: India can advocate for a renewed focus on the two-state solution within international forums like the UN, aligning with global efforts to establish a sustainable, independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Way forward:

Strengthen Diplomatic Efforts: Arab nations should focus on reinforcing diplomatic pressure on Israel and the international community to address the Palestinian issue, promoting dialogue and supporting peaceful resolutions.
Support Palestinian Unity: Arab countries should work towards fostering unity within Palestinian leadership to present a coherent political front and advance their cause for statehood in international forums.

Mains PYQ:

Q How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)

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

Growing epidemic

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

Why in the News?

Global diabetes cases surged from 200 million in 1990 to over 800 million in 2022, with adult prevalence doubling from 7% to 14%, according to The Lancet report.

What are the WHO’s targets for diabetes diagnosis and management by 2030?

The World Health Organization (WHO) aims for 80% of people with diabetes to be diagnosed.
The target is for 80% of diagnosed individuals to achieve good glycemic control, which is crucial for preventing complications associated with diabetes.

What is the current state of diabetes prevalence in India?

As of 2022, India has the highest number of people with diabetes globally, totalling 212 million, significantly up from around 200 million in 1990.
The prevalence of diabetes among adults in India rose from 7% in 1990 to 14% in 2022.
India also leads in the number of untreated diabetes cases, with 133 million individuals over the age of 30 remaining undiagnosed, compared to 78 million in China.
The increase is partly attributed to improved data collection methods that include individuals with elevated fasting plasma glucose and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), capturing a broader population affected by diabetes.

What strategies can India implement to achieve these targets?

Targeted Screening and Lifestyle Interventions: India can adopt Finland’s approach of identifying high-risk individuals through targeted screening and offering lifestyle interventions, including dietary changes and exercise, to prevent diabetes.
Enhance Public Awareness Campaigns: Community-based implementation and awareness programs align with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting healthy lifestyles, preventing diabetes, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all, especially vulnerable populations.
Improve Access to Healthcare Services: Ensure that diagnostic facilities for blood glucose testing are widely available and affordable. Strengthen primary healthcare services to facilitate easier access to diabetes care and management.

Steps taken by the government:

National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS): Launched to promote awareness, early diagnosis, and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including diabetes. This program aims to reduce risk factors through lifestyle modifications and improve access to healthcare services.
Collaboration with WHO and Other Organizations: India collaborates with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international bodies to align its diabetes management strategies with global best practices and targets, including those set for 2030.

Way forward:

Strengthen Preventive Healthcare: Focus on early detection through widespread screening, robust public awareness campaigns, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups, emphasizing healthy lifestyle promotion.
Enhance Integrated Care Systems: Scale up access to affordable diabetes care, strengthen primary healthcare services, and integrate technology for monitoring and management to achieve WHO’s glycemic control targets by 2030.

Mains PYQ:

Q Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments. (UPSC IAS/2017)

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Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

Operation Sagar Manthan

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Why in the News?

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has initiated Operation Sagar Manthan to dismantle the extensive drug empire of Haji Salim, also known as the “Lord of Drugs”.

About Operation Sagar Manthan

	Details
About the Operation	• An initiative by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to dismantle the drug trafficking network led by Haji Salim. • Launched under the direction of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. • A comprehensive crackdown on Salim’s syndicate linked to narco-terrorism.
Aims and Objectives	• Break supply lines, seize narcotics, and arrest operatives. • Disrupt funding for cross-border terrorism. • Strengthen surveillance in remote coastal areas used by the syndicate. • Counter aid from entities like Pakistan’s ISI and disrupt links with figures like Dawood Ibrahim.
Goals	• Reduce cartel influence in the Indian Ocean region. • Mitigate narco-terrorism to enhance regional security. • Improve maritime security to prevent future networks.

Why does the government crack down on drug trafficking?

Public Health Protection: Drug trafficking fuels addiction, mental health issues, and diseases, straining healthcare systems and undermining societal well-being.
National Security and Social Stability: It funds organized crime, terrorism, and violence, destabilizing communities, weakening governance, and hindering law and order.

PYQ:

[2023] Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in News: Western Honey Bees

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

Why in the News?

Western Honey Bees widely used for boosting pollination has led to unintended ecological consequences.
- Now they inadvertently carry and transmit Thai Sacbrood Virus to native bee colonies.

About Western Honey Bees

Scientific Name: Apis mellifera
Introduced globally for their pollination abilities and honey production. In India, they were introduced in 1983 to enhance honey yield.
Widely used in agriculture, particularly for pollination of crops like fruit trees, crops, and vegetables.

Thai Sacbrood Virus Outbreak

The Thai Sacbrood Virus (TSBV) outbreak in China and Vietnam has severely impacted honey bee populations.
- In 1991-1992, a Thai sacbrood virus outbreak devastated around 90% of Asiatic honey bee colonies in South India and re-emerged in 2021 in Telangana.
The virus primarily infects honey bee larvae, leading to their high mortality rates.
As a result, the affected regions experienced significant declines in bee colonies, which in turn affected pollination services and honey production.
The movement of bee colonies for commercial pollination and honey production has facilitated the spread of the virus.

About Indian Bees and Their Habitat

Indian bees are predominantly Apis cerana indica, a species of Asian honey bee.
They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, agricultural land, and urban environments.
- They thrive in areas with abundant flowers and nectar sources.
Indian bees are important for pollination, especially for local flora, and contribute to the ecosystem by supporting biodiversity and food production.
They face threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition from Western Honey Bees, which may outcompete them for food and nesting sites.

Significance of Honey Bee:

Pollination and Food Security: Honey bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops, contributing to the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, ensuring global food security and agricultural sustainability.
Biodiversity Conservation: By facilitating plant reproduction, honey bees support ecosystem health and biodiversity, maintaining the balance of natural habitats and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems.

PYQ:

[2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?

(a) Butterflies

(b) Dragonflies

(d) Wasps

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in News: Kaalinga

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

Why in the News?

The Western Ghats’ king cobra, commonly called ‘Kalinga Sarpa’, will soon be recognized in the scientific community as Ophiophagus kaalinga.

About Kaalinga (Ophiophagus kaalinga):

	Details
Geographical Location	• Native to the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India, and extends to adjacent regions within the Western Ghats. • Prefers dense tropical forests and hilly terrains.
Physical Features	• Can grow up to 10-12 feet. • Carnivorous, feeding on snakes, small mammals, and lizards. • Potent neurotoxic venom capable of killing several humans or an elephant in a single bite.
Uniqueness	• Known for territorial behaviour and intelligence. • Females build and fiercely guard nests (4 ft x 3 ft) with 23-43 eggs per clutch.
Conservation Status	• At risk due to habitat fragmentation, human-animal conflict, and the absence of specific anti-venom. IUCN Status: Vulnerable WPA, 1972: Schedule II (accorded protection but with lesser restrictions compared to Schedule I)

PYQ:

[2010] King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?

(a) It is a snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes
(b) It is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring
(c) It is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatched
(d) It is a large, cold-blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season

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Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.

[pib] Press Council of India

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

Why in the News?

National Press Day is celebrated annually on November 16 to honour the critical role of a free and responsible press in society.
- It marks the start of the Press Council of India in 1966, established as a moral watchdog to uphold press standards and protect it from undue influence or threats.

About the Press Council of India (PCI):

	Details
Historical Background	• Constituted on July 4, 1966, as an autonomous, statutory, and quasi-judicial body. • Established to act as a moral watchdog over the press to ensure it operates with ethics and independence. • First Press Commission of India (1954) recommended forming a council to uphold professional standards in journalism. • Initially governed by the Press Council Act of 1965, later replaced by the Press Council Act of 1978.
Composition of PCI	• Comprises 28 members and a Chairperson. • Chairperson appointed by a committee that includes the Chief Justice of India, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and a representative of the President. • Member Representation: – 13 working journalists representing different news organizations. – 6 members from editors and newspaper owners. – 5 members from Parliament (3 from Lok Sabha, 2 from Rajya Sabha). – 1 nominee each from the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Bar Council of India (BCI), and Sahitya Akademi. • Term: Each member serves a 3-year term and can be re-elected.
Powers and Functions of PCI	• Quasi-Judicial Authority: PCI has statutory powers to hold inquiries into complaints against the press or journalists for professional misconduct. • Inquiry Powers: PCI can summon witnesses and call for documents if necessary. • Disciplinary Action: PCI has the authority to censure or admonish newspapers, editors, or journalists for violating professional ethics. • Recommendations: Although PCI cannot enforce laws or impose penalties, it can recommend actions to the relevant authorities in case of serious violations.Functions: • Upholding Press Freedom: Ensures that the press in India is free from undue influence and performs its duties with responsibility. • Protecting Journalists: Investigates complaints of harassment or threats against journalists and defends their rights. • Policy Advisory Role: Advises the government on policy issues that affect press freedom and media laws. • Studies and Reports: Conducts studies on media issues, such as election reporting, defense coverage, and journalist safety, to provide guidelines on responsible reporting.

PYQ:

[2018] Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement?

(a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution.
(b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV.
(c) Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III.
(d) Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution.

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Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act

Centre reimposes AFSPA in 6 ‘volatile’ regions

Explained | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Why in the News?

Eighteen months after ethnic violence began in Manipur, the Central government has reinstated the Disturbed Areas status under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station jurisdictions, including the affected area of Jiribam.

Present map

What is the historical background?

The original ordinance (AFSPA) was a response to the challenges faced by the British during World War II, particularly by Indian Nationalists.
- After independence, Indian leaders retained and adapted this framework, facing their internal security challenges.
PM Jawaharlal Nehru decided to continue with the law due to escalating insurgencies in regions like Assam and Manipur.
- The Armed Forces (Assam and Manipur) Special Powers Ordinance was promulgated on May 22, 1958, and subsequently replaced by the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act on September 11, 1958.
Initially, AFSPA was applied to the Naga Hills and surrounding insurgent areas to empower armed forces to restore order in “disturbed areas”.
Over the years, AFSPA has been extended to various other states facing similar issues, including Manipur, Assam, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

What is the significance of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, of 1958?

Extraordinary Powers: AFSPA grants armed forces significant powers, including the authority to arrest without a warrant, search premises, and use lethal force if deemed necessary. These powers are intended to facilitate military operations in volatile regions.
Legal Immunity: The Act provides immunity from prosecution for armed forces personnel acting under its provisions unless sanctioned by the central government. This aspect has led to widespread criticism and allegations of human rights abuses.
Controversy and Criticism: AFSPA has been a subject of intense debate due to its implications for civil liberties. Critics argue that it leads to extrajudicial killings and other human rights violations. High-profile incidents have fueled calls for its repeal or reform, with activists like Irom Sharmila famously protesting against it for years.

Which are the States where AFSPA is presently in effect?

The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is currently in effect in several states across India, primarily in regions experiencing ongoing insurgency or civil unrest. These are Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland (eight districts), Arunachal Pradesh (three districts), and parts of Assam, Manipur (excluding the Imphal municipal area).

What is the present controversy around the provisions of AFSPA?

Human Rights Violations: AFSPA has been associated with numerous human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and enforced disappearances.
- Reports indicate that over 1,500 extrajudicial killings occurred in Manipur alone between 2000 and 2012, often involving security forces acting with impunity due to the protections afforded by the Act.
Impunity for Security Forces: This Act provides armed forces personnel with legal immunity for actions taken under its provisions, requiring prior approval from the central government for prosecution.
- This has led to a culture of impunity (exemption from punishment) where security personnel are rarely held accountable for their actions, exacerbating public distrust and resentment towards the military.
Excessive Use of Force: AFSPA grants security forces broad powers to use lethal force against individuals deemed to be acting against the law.
- Critics argue that this provision leads to excessive and disproportionate responses, often resulting in civilian casualties and further violence in already tense regions.
Lack of Accountability and Oversight: The absence of effective mechanisms for accountability regarding human rights violations under AFSPA has been a significant concern.
- Despite recommendations from various committees for reforms or repeal of the Act, the government has largely ignored these calls, perpetuating a cycle of abuse without adequate oversight.
Political and Social Backlash: The ongoing application of AFSPA has sparked significant protests and activism, particularly in northeastern states like Manipur and Nagaland.
- Activists, including prominent figures like Irom Sharmila, have campaigned for its repeal, arguing that it fosters alienation among local populations and undermines democratic values in India.

Way forward:

Balancing Security with Rights: Reform AFSPA to incorporate provisions ensuring accountability and oversight, such as independent inquiries into alleged violations and regular reviews of its application, while retaining necessary powers to address security challenges.
Strengthening Local Governance: Enhance the capacity of state police and local administrations through training and resources, enabling them to manage law and order effectively, thereby reducing reliance on AFSPA over time.

Mains PYQ:

Q Human rights activists constantly highlight the fact that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) is a draconian act leading to cases of human rights abuses by security forces. What sections of AFSPA are opposed by the activists? Critically evaluate the requirement regarding the view held by the Apex Court. (UPSC IAS/2015)

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India needs a globally recognized public policy school

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

Why in the News?

India, the world’s largest democracy, still doesn’t have a top-tier public educational policy institution like those in the United States and Europe.

What are the gaps between public policy education and job market demands?

Mismatch of Skills and Employability: According to the India Skills Report 2024, only 51.8% of fresh graduates meet industry employability standards, with the employability rate for individuals aged 22-25 at 58.6%.
- This indicates that many graduates, including those from public policy programs, lack the skills required by employers.
Limited Policy-Specific Job Opportunities: Despite approximately 130 institutions offering public policy courses in India, there are few dedicated policy-specific jobs available.
- Graduates often compete for roles in think tanks and NGOs, where job openings are limited, leading to intense competition and underemployment in their field.
High Unemployment Among Educated Youth: The India Employment Report 2024 shows that educated youth (with secondary or higher education) account for 65.7% of the total unemployed youth, a significant increase from 35.2% in 2000.
- The unemployment rate for graduates is reported at 29.1%, highlighting a disconnect between educational attainment and job availability.
Theoretical Focus Over Practical Experience: Many public policy programs primarily emphasize theoretical knowledge rather than practical skills.
- A report from the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy notes that these programs often lack hands-on training opportunities, limiting students’ ability to apply academic concepts to real-world situations.
Barriers to Government Employment: Access to government jobs remains limited compared to countries like the U.S., where structured recruitment routes exist for public policy graduates.
- In India, there are no dedicated pathways for these graduates to enter government service, restricting their career options and diminishing the effectiveness of public policy education.

How can India bridge the gap between public policy education and job market demands?

Curriculum Alignment: Public policy institutions must develop curricula that align closely with the needs of the job market, emphasizing practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. This includes training in data analysis, policy evaluation, and understanding local governance dynamics.
Internship and Field Experience: Integrating mandatory internships and fieldwork into public policy programs can provide students with real-world experience and enhance their employability.
Focus on Local Contexts: Training should include a focus on India’s unique political dynamics, informal power structures, and socio-economic challenges to prepare graduates for effective policy-making in the Indian context.
Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Encouraging a culture of lifelong learning among students will equip them to adapt to evolving job market demands. This could involve offering short courses or certifications in emerging areas of public policy.

What structural changes are necessary to improve Public Policy Education?

Decentralization of Power: Reforming the decision-making structure within public policy institutions to allow greater input from diverse stakeholders, including civil society and academia, can enhance the relevance and impact of policy education.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Incorporating interdisciplinary studies that combine economics, sociology, political science, and environmental studies can provide a holistic understanding of public policy issues.
Strengthening Research Capabilities: Investing in research facilities and encouraging academic contributions to policy debates can help bridge the gap between theory and practice, making institutions more influential in shaping policies.
Creating Non-Partisan Spaces: Establishing independent platforms for dialogue among various political factions can foster a more inclusive environment for policy discussions, reducing sycophancy and promoting evidence-based policymaking.
Partnerships with Global Institutions: Collaborating with established international public policy schools can enhance curriculum development and provide exposure to global best practices in governance and policy analysis.

How can India establish itself as a global leader?

Promoting Innovation in Policy Making: Encouraging innovative approaches to problem-solving within public policy education can position India as a leader in addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic inequality.
- The Indian government has to set a target to increase public investment in education to 6% of GDP, aligning with the recommendations of the Kothari Commission.
Investment in Human Capital: Prioritizing education and skill development across sectors will create a knowledgeable workforce capable of contributing to both national development and global governance.
- For example, schools like the Harvard Kennedy School in the U.S. and the London School of Economics train leaders who influence both National and Global politics.
Fostering Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): India can bridge the gap in public policy education by aligning curricula with job market needs, promoting internships, and fostering global partnerships. This aligns with SDG Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), ensuring skilled and employable graduates.

Mains PYQ:

Q National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

[pib] Centenary of Bose-Einstein Statistics

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

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Science and Technology has inaugurated the centenary celebrations of Bose-Einstein Statistics at the S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences.

Bose-Einstein Statistics

Bose-Einstein statistics describe how certain particles called bosons (like photons and helium-4 atoms) behave, especially at low temperatures.
This concept was developed by Satyendra Nath Bose and Albert Einstein.
It explains the behavior of bosons, which are particles that can exist in the same state as others.
Unlike other particles, bosons can “share” a quantum state, meaning multiple bosons can exist in the same place with the same energy.
It is used to understand particles that don’t follow the Pauli Exclusion Principle (which states that two fermions, like electrons, cannot occupy the same state).

Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC)

A BEC is a special state of matter formed when bosons are cooled down to almost absolute zero (-273°C). In this state, the particles behave as one single quantum entity.
Bosons, when cooled to near absolute zero, lose their individual properties and combine to form a single quantum state.
It was achieved in 1995 by Eric Cornell and Carl Wieman using rubidium atoms.
This discovery earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics.
BECs exhibit unique quantum behaviors like zero viscosity (flow without friction) and act as a “super atom” that is extremely sensitive to any outside influence.

Significance of Bose-Einstein Statistics

Bose-Einstein statistics are essential for understanding quantum mechanics, particularly the behavior of particles in quantum states.
These statistics led to the discovery of Bose-Einstein Condensates, which have unique properties not seen in normal states of matter.
BECs are useful in atomic clocks, superconductors, and quantum computing due to their sensitivity and unique quantum properties.
Bose’s work was crucial in explaining light’s particle nature (photons), which helped develop the concept of wave-particle duality in quantum theory.
Bose-Einstein statistics paved the way for studying low-temperature physics, allowing scientists to observe quantum effects in larger systems.
These statistics and the discovery of BECs continue to inspire new fields of research, including quantum fluids and quantum phase transitions.

PYQ:

[2018] Discuss the work of ‘Bose-Einstein Statistics’ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionised the field of Physics.

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Banking Sector Reforms

RBI released list of Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs)

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

Why in the News?

The RBI designated SBI, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank as Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) for 2024.

Current D-SIBs in India:

As of 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank are classified as D-SIBs.
SBI was classified as a D-SIB in 2015, ICICI Bank in 2016, and HDFC Bank in 2017.

What are Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs)?

D-SIBs are banks that are critical to the stability of a country’s financial system.
They are often termed “Too Big To Fail” (TBTF) because their failure could lead to significant disruptions in the economy.
The RBI identifies D-SIBs annually.
The framework for recognizing these banks was issued in July 2014.
The RBI has been publishing an annual list of D-SIBs since 2015.

D-SIBs are placed in different buckets based on systemic importance scores. Higher bucket rankings require greater capital requirements to absorb losses.

SBI is in Bucket 4.
HDFC Bank is in Bucket 3.
ICICI Bank is in Bucket 1.

D-SIBs must maintain additional Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital based on their bucket.

SBI: 0.80% of Risk Weighted Assets (RWAs).
HDFC Bank: 0.40%
ICICI Bank: 0.20%

Global Systemically Important Banks (G-SIBs):

On the global stage, G-SIBs are designated by the Financial Stability Board (FSB).
G-SIBs include large international banks such as JP Morgan Chase and HSBC.
Foreign banks in India that qualify as G-SIBs are required to hold additional CET1 capital in India, proportional to their global risk-weighted assets.

Benefits of D-SIB Classification

It ensures financial stability by requiring additional capital buffers for resilience during economic stress.
It increases public confidence through enhanced monitoring and regulation.
It receives improved supervisory attention, leading to better governance and controls.
It prepares D-SIBs for financial shocks with additional CET1 and stress-testing requirements.
It often benefits from higher credit ratings, lowering borrowing costs and improving access to capital.

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