Indiaâs fisheries sector, contributing to the livelihoods of over 3 crore fishers and producing a record 175 lakh tons of fish in 2022-23, is being strengthened through initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras.
About Matsya Seva Kendra (MSK)
MSKs are one-stop centers established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to support fishers and fish farmers.
They provide a wide range of technical, advisory, and capacity-building services aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector and ensuring sustainable practices.
Role of MSKs:
Offer water, soil, and microbial analysis to address disease management and improve aquaculture productivity.
Conduct capacity-building programs for fishers, focusing on sustainable practices and advanced aquaculture techniques.
Empower women and weaker sections with 60% financial assistance for setting up MSKs.
Mobilize start-ups, cooperatives, and fish farmer producer organizations to share best practices.
Promote regenerative and conservation practices to tackle challenges posed by climate change.
The scheme aims to bring about a Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of Indiaâs fisheries sector.
It was launched as part of the âAtma Nirbhar Bharatâ package with an investment of âš20,050 crore, the highest-ever allocation for the fisheries sector.
It is implemented across all States and Union Territories from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
It provides insurance coverage, financial assistance, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to fishers.
It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with two components:
Central Sector Scheme: Entirely funded by the Central Government.
Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Cost shared between the Centre and States/UTs.
How Do Sagar Mitras Support Fishers?
Sagar Mitras act as a vital link between the government and sea-borne fishers, facilitating access to information and resources in coastal regions.
Role of Sagar Mitras:
Collect data on marine catch, price trends, and market requirements.
Provide updates on local regulations, weather conditions, and potential fishing zones.
Educate fishers on hygienic fish handling, sustainable fishing techniques, and compliance with regulatory measures.
Act as a key contact during emergencies, offering information on natural calamities and safety protocols.
PYQ:
[2018] Defining the Blue Revolution, explain the problems and strategies of fisheries in India.Â
The Border Security Force (BSF) has rescued a Serval, the African wild cat (Leptailurus serval) from an alleged wildlife smuggling attempt along the India-Bangladesh border.
AboutAfrican Wild Cat (Leptailurus serval):
Details
About
Scientific Name: Leptailurus serval
Common Name: African Wild Cat, Serval
Family: Felidae
Physical Description: Medium-sized wild cat with a slim, long-legged body, tawny coat with black spots and stripes, and large rounded ears. Can leap 3 meters (10 feet) vertically.
Habitat and Features
Found across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Preferred Habitats: Savannahs, grasslands, and wetlands; avoids arid regions and dense forests.
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Uses acute hearing to hunt.
Behavior: Solitary, nocturnal or crepuscular, and communicates through vocalizations and scent-marking.
Reproduction: Breeds year-round, with 2â3 kittens per litter; gestation period is 74 days.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Listed as Least Concern.
CITES: Included in Appendix II to regulate trade.
Threats: Habitat loss, illegal hunting for fur, and conflicts with humans (e.g., poultry attacks).
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments.
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Q) On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on fourteen countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for occurrence of tsunamis and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events. (UPSC CSE 2017)
Mentorâs Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like â tsunamiâ in (2017) and âNDMAâ in (2014,2016, 2017, 2020).
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was a powerful reminder of nature’s force and human vulnerability. Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, was one of the hardest-hit areas, but the disaster also sparked important changes in disaster response and preparedness. Over the past 20 years, India has made significant progress in disaster management. However, challenges like urbanization, climate change, and more frequent extreme weather events continue to create new risks. Revisiting Nagapattinamâs experience provides valuable lessons for improving future disaster strategies and building stronger, more resilient communities.
Todayâs Editorial focuses on the disaster due to the tsunami. This content can be used for presenting the mains answer while talking about disaster management In India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The 20th anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami is a moment to assess progress and gaps in disaster strategies. Nagapattinamâs experience highlights the critical need for building and sustaining long-term resilience.
What factors contributed to Nagapattinamâs journey of resilience?
Immediate Response and Coordination: Following the tsunami, Nagapattinam benefited from well-coordinated rescue operations led by experienced officers and supported by local volunteers, military personnel, and various government departments.
This swift action was crucial in managing the chaos and addressing immediate needs such as medical aid and shelter.
Infrastructure Restoration: The restoration of essential infrastructure, including electricity, water supply, and road connectivity, was prioritized.
Over 13,000 temporary shelters were constructed to accommodate displaced families, which played a vital role in stabilizing the community.
Holistic Rehabilitation Efforts: The recovery strategy incorporated Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) measures that emphasized building resilient communities.
This included constructing over 55,000 multi-hazard-resistant homes and establishing disaster-ready healthcare facilities and educational institutions.
Community Involvement: The active participation of over 400 NGOs in providing essential services fostered community ownership of recovery efforts.
Local communities were empowered to engage in their recovery processes, enhancing resilience through collective action.
Policy and Institutional Reforms: The disaster catalyzed significant reforms in Indiaâs disaster management framework, including the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the enactment of the Disaster Management Act in 2005.
These reforms institutionalized disaster preparedness and response mechanisms at various levels of government.
How can the lessons learned from this experience be applied to other vulnerable regions?
Emphasizing Preparedness: The importance of establishing early warning systems and enhancing community preparedness can be applied to other vulnerable regions. This includes regular training exercises and community drills to ensure readiness for future disasters.
Integrating DRR into Development Plans: Other regions can learn from Nagapattinamâs integration of DRR measures into urban planning and infrastructure development, ensuring that resilience is built into the fabric of communities from the outset.
Community Engagement: Involving local populations in recovery efforts fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment, which is crucial for long-term resilience. Engaging communities in planning and implementation can lead to more effective disaster management strategies.
Comprehensive Insurance Mechanisms: Expanding risk insurance beyond crops to cover housing and other assets is vital for enhancing financial resilience against disasters. This approach can help mitigate economic losses in future events.
What are the ongoing challenges faced by Nagapattinam in its journey towards sustainable development?
Evolving Risks: Nagapattinam continues to face challenges from evolving risks associated with climate change, urbanization, and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. These factors necessitate ongoing innovation in disaster management strategies.
Sustaining Community Engagement: Maintaining active community participation in disaster preparedness initiatives remains a challenge as memories of past disasters fade. Continuous education and engagement are required to keep communities vigilant.
Resource Allocation: Ensuring efficient allocation of resources for ongoing recovery efforts is crucial but can be hampered by bureaucratic hurdles or misalignment with local needs. Institutional frameworks must be strengthened to facilitate better coordination between NGOs and government agencies.
Addressing Vulnerabilities: Disasters disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including women, children, and differently-abled individuals. Continued focus on inclusive policies that address these vulnerabilities is essential for building equitable resilience.
What are the NDMA guidelines to prevent this type of disaster?
⢠Early Warning Systems: Establishment of the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) for real-time monitoring and alerts using satellite data, sensors, and seismic readings. ⢠Community Awareness: Public awareness campaigns and regular drills to educate coastal populations on tsunami risks, evacuation routes, and safety measures. ⢠Preparedness Plans: Local disaster management plans with clear evacuation routes, shelters, and training for officials, responders, and volunteers. ⢠Coastal Zone Management: Risk-reducing coastal planning with tsunami-resistant structures and sustainable land use practices. ⢠Infrastructure Resilience: Strengthening infrastructure, including tsunami-resistant buildings and sea walls, and enhancing communication networks. ⢠Collaboration with Communities: Involving local communities in disaster preparedness, with the establishment of local disaster management committees. ⢠Research and Monitoring: Ongoing research into tsunami risks and hazards to improve warning systems and preparedness strategies.
Way forward:
Strengthening Resilience through Innovation and Inclusion: Develop adaptive disaster management strategies that incorporate advanced technologies like AI-driven risk assessments and community-based DRR measures.
Sustained Community Engagement and Education: Regularly conduct training, workshops, and awareness programs to keep communities prepared and involved. Leverage local knowledge and foster ownership in disaster preparedness to maintain long-term vigilance and resilience.
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, raises serious concerns. Instead of addressing the shortcomings of the Disaster Management Act (DMA), 2005, the Bill reduces opportunities for participation, accountability, and efficient governance.
What are the lapses in the recent bill?
Top-Down Terminology: The Bill employs terms like “monitor” and “guidelines,” which suggest a top-down approach, rather than fostering community engagement through terms like “supervision” and “direction.”
This undermines trust between authorities and local communities, which are crucial in disaster response.
Neglect of Local Roles: While the Bill defines critical concepts such as ‘hazard’, ‘resilience’, and ‘vulnerability’, it fails to recognise the essential roles of local communities, panchayats, and NGOs in disaster management.
Lack of Intersectional Consideration: The Bill does not address intersectional discrimination affecting vulnerable groups like women, disabled individuals, lower castes, and LGBTQIA communities. Ignoring these factors limits the Bill’s inclusivity and effectiveness.
Absence of Accountability Mechanisms: The omission of performance evaluations for district authorities raises concerns about accountability. Without mechanisms to assess preparedness and response effectiveness, there is a risk of shifting blame onto individual philanthropic efforts during disasters.
Exclusion of Law and Order Issues: By stating that ‘man-made causes’ do not include law and order matters, the Bill complicates the role of police in disaster management while still involving them in executive committees.
Removal of Relief Standards: Key provisions regarding minimum standards of relief for disaster victims have been omitted from the Bill. This includes special provisions for vulnerable populations such as widows and orphans, which diminishes the support system for those affected by disasters.
Centralisation of Power: The Bill centralises decision-making by transferring responsibilities from local executive committees to national authorities, potentially leading to inefficiencies and delays in disaster response.
Neglect of Animal Welfare: The Bill does not address the impact of disasters on animals or include provisions for their welfare, which is a significant oversight given the scale of animal casualties during disasters.
Urban Disaster Management Authority (UDMA): The rationale behind establishing a separate UDMA is unclear, raising questions about its effectiveness given existing municipal structures that may not adequately address urban flooding issues caused by poor planning.
What are the lessons learnt from a spectrum of areas?
Community Engagement: Successful disaster responses have historically relied on local knowledge and community action.
For example,inCyclone Aila (2009, Sundarbans): Local villagers and fisherfolk initiated rescue operations well before official disaster response teams could arrive, saving countless lives.
Intersectionality Matters: Acknowledging diverse vulnerabilities ensures that disaster management strategies are comprehensive and equitable.
For example, Kerala Floods (2018): Specific interventions for women and children in relief camps improved health and hygiene outcomes, showcasing the value of targeted measures.
Accountability is Crucial: Clear accountability mechanisms are necessary to ensure that authorities fulfil their responsibilities effectively.
For example, in Uttarakhand Flash Floods (2013): Lack of timely action by district authorities and poor preparedness exacerbated the disaster’s impact, underscoring the need for performance evaluations.
Can Regional collaboration work out?
Regional collaboration could significantly enhance disaster management efforts, particularly in South Asia where cross-border challenges are prevalent:
Shared Resources and Knowledge: Collaborative frameworks among countries like SAARC, BIMSTEC, and BRICS could facilitate resource sharing and knowledge exchange during disasters.
Joint Preparedness Plans: Developing regional action plans based on shared vulnerabilities can strengthen collective responses to disasters.
Addressing Zoonotic Diseases: Given the increasing threat of zoonotic diseases, a coordinated regional approach could improve public health responses during disasters.
What is the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction?
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) is a comprehensive international agreement aimed at reducing disaster risks and enhancing resilience globally.
It was adopted by UN member states during the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai, Japan, from March 14 to 18, 2015.
India is a signatory to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).
Way forward:Â
Strengthen Community Participation and Inclusivity: Amend the Bill to explicitly involve local communities, panchayats, and NGOs in disaster management.
Promote Accountability and Regional Cooperation: Introduce performance evaluations for district authorities to ensure preparedness and effective disaster responses.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing âSendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030)â. How is this framework different from âHyogo Framework for Action, 2005â? (UPSC IAS/2018)
Recently, China and the United States agreed to renew the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement for an additional five years.
What new measures were added to the Agreement in 2024?Â
Limited to basic research: The amended agreement explicitly limits cooperation to basic research and excludes any collaboration in critical and emerging technologies.
This change aims to mitigate fears that sensitive technologies could be exploited by China for military or competitive advantages.
Enhanced Provisions for Researcher Safety: The agreement introduces measures to enhance the safety and security of researchers, ensuring that both parties adhere to standards that protect their respective research environments.
Data Reciprocity and Transparency: New provisions have been established to ensure reciprocity and transparency in data sharing between the two countries, addressing previous concerns about intellectual property rights and data misuse.
Dispute Resolution Mechanism: A mechanism has been included to resolve disputes should either party fail to adhere to the agreed terms, providing a structured approach to handle potential conflicts arising from collaborative projects.
Termination Clause: The agreement includes a clause that allows for the cancellation of proposed projects in cases of “bad faith action,” further safeguarding against potential abuses of the cooperative framework.
What does this indicate about the evolving relationship between the U.S. and China?
The renewal and amendment of the STA reflect a complex relationship between the U.S. and China, characterized by both cooperation and competition:
Affirmation of Cooperation: The extension signals a commitment from both nations to maintain dialogue and collaboration in scientific fields, despite rising tensions in other areas such as trade and technology.
Strategic Guardrails: By implementing new restrictions and guardrails, the U.S. aims to protect its technological edge while still engaging with China in mutually beneficial research areas. This indicates a cautious approach to bilateral relations, balancing cooperation with national security concerns.
Political Dynamics: The incoming administration under Donald Trump is expected to endorse this continuation but may impose additional conditions, reflecting ongoing political scrutiny regarding China’s technological advancements.
How has the U.S. benefited from its collaboration with China under this Agreement?
Access to Chinese Research Ecosystem: The agreement has facilitated access for U.S. researchers to China’s burgeoning research environment, allowing for collaborative projects that leverage both countries’ strengths in various scientific fields.
Increased R&D Investment: The collaboration has contributed to significant increases in research and development investment from both sides, with Chinaâs R&D spending rising dramatically since the agreement’s inception in 1979.
Joint Research Opportunities: The STA has enabled joint research initiatives that have led to advancements in areas such as agriculture, health, environmental science, and more, benefiting both nations through shared knowledge and innovation.
Educational Exchanges: The agreement has promoted mobility for students and scientists between the two countries, fostering educational exchanges that enhance understanding and cooperation at multiple levels.
How will it impact India?Â
Increased Competition in R&D: The strengthened U.S.-China collaboration, even with restrictions, reinforces China’s position as a global leader in science and technology which intensifies competition for India to keep pace in R&D and innovation.
Geopolitical Leverage: India’s strategic partnerships with both the U.S. and other global powers may be recalibrated, as the U.S. balances its rivalry and cooperation with China, potentially affecting India’s diplomatic and technological engagements.
Opportunity for Strategic Collaboration: India’s robust bilateral S&T agreements and growing research ecosystem could make it an alternative partner for the U.S. and other nations looking to diversify collaborations away from China, boosting India’s global scientific standing.
Way forward:Â
Enhance R&D Capabilities: India should increase investments in research and development, particularly in emerging and critical technologies, to remain competitive globally and bridge the innovation gap with leading nations.
Strengthen Strategic Partnerships: India should leverage its scientific and technological collaborations with the U.S. and other like-minded countries to position itself as a reliable partner and alternative to China in the global research ecosystem.
Mains PYQ:
Q The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.â Explain. (UPSC IAS/2021)
Justice (Retd.) V Ramasubramanian has been appointed as the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Priyank Kanoongo (former NCPCR chief) and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) have been appointed as NHRC Members.
About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
OverviewÂ
A Statutory Body formed under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.
Composition and Membership
Chairperson: Must be a former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice; appointed by the President.
Members:
Four full-time members:
1 ex-SC Judge (Chairperson),
1 ex-SC Judge,
1 ex-Chief Justice of a High Court,
1 with knowledge/experience in human rights.
At least one woman among the members.
Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions (e.g., SC/ST, Women, Minorities, etc.) + Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment Process:
The President appoints based on a recommendation committee (PM, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of Opposition, etc.).
Judicial appointments: Consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
Removal: By an order of the President, after consultation with the Supreme Court.
Terms of Office:
3-year term or until the age of 70.
Eligible for reappointment, but not for other government jobs.
Salaries: Determined by the Central Government.
Reporting: Submits reports to the Centre and concerned states; these are tabled before legislatures with an action-taken report.
Limitations:
No inquiry after one year from the alleged violation.
Functions are recommendatory; no direct power to punish or award relief.
Limited role in armed forces cases.
Powers and Functions
Functions:
Inquire into alleged human rights violations.
Recommend interim relief to victims or families.
Intervene in court proceedings on human rights matters.
Review constitutional/legal safeguards for human rights.
Study international human rights instruments.
Promote human rights literacy.
Support NGOs in human rights work.
Powers:
Can regulate its own procedure.
Has all powers of a civil court, with judicial character.
PYQ:
[2020] Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)?
Preamble
Directive Principles of State Policy
Fundamental Duties
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2021] Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analysing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.
Over 58 lakh property cards will be issued to owners in approximately 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs through a virtual event addressed by PM Modi under the SVAMITVA Scheme.
AboutSVAMITVA Scheme:
Details
About
Full Form: Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.
Launched on 24th April 2020 (National Panchayati Raj Day) by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
Objective: Provide an integrated property validation solution for rural India, issuing Record of Rights to households in inhabited rural areas (village abadi areas).
Central Sector Scheme: Fully funded by the Central Government, implemented in collaboration with States/UTs and the Survey of India.
Primary Goals:
1. Demarcation of inhabited areas using drone technology.
2. Creation of property cards (Record of Rights).
3. Formalizing ownership to reduce disputes and enable financial asset use.
Structural Mandate
Implementing Agencies:
Ministry of Panchayati Raj at the national level.
State Revenue Department/Land Records Department at the state level.
Survey of India (as the technology partner).
Coverage:
The scheme is being implemented in phases from 2020-2024.
Initially covered 6.62 lakh villages in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka, including a few border villages of Punjab and Rajasthan.
West Bengal, Bihar, Nagaland, and Meghalaya have not joined the scheme yet.
Nomenclature:Title Deed in Haryana, Rural Property Ownership Records (RPOR) in Karnataka, Adhikar Abhilekh in Madhya Pradesh, Sannad in Maharashtra, Svamitva Abhilekh in Uttarakhand, and Gharauni in Uttar Pradesh.
Key Features and Significance
Use of Drone Survey Technology: Drones capture high-resolution images for accurate mapping of village abadi lands.
Issuance of Property Cards: Known by various names (e.g., âGharauniâ in UP). Serves as legal proof of ownership.
Phased Implementation (2020â2024): Began in select states (UP, Haryana, Maharashtra, MP, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, plus border villages in Punjab/Rajasthan), expanding nationwide.
Continuous Operating Reference System (CORS): Network stations for precise drone-based surveys in pilot-phase states.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Ministry of Panchayati Raj, State Revenue/Land Records Depts, Survey of India, etc.
Progress Made So Far
Drone Surveys & Mapping: 92% of targeted drone mapping completed across 3.17 lakh villages; full targets likely by 2026.
Issuance of Property Cards: Over 2.19 crore property cards finalized; latest distribution covered 58 lakh cards in 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs.
Phased Rollout: Successful pilots led to larger-scale implementation.
Collaborative Efforts: Coordination among Panchayati Raj Ministry, Survey of India, and state-level agencies; financial support from the Centre.
Recognition of Success: Regarded as a landmark initiative for minimizing litigation, enhancing rural governance, and clarifying property rights.
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a)Â The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.
(b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.
(c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.
(d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.
PM Modi laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa River Linking National Project, the first project under the National Perspective Plan (NPP) for interlinking rivers, conceptualized in 1980. The project would submerge over 10 per cent of the core area of the Panna Tiger Reserve.
About the Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP):
About
Objective: Transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, both tributaries of the Yamuna.
Ken-Betwa Canal: Envisages a 221 km canal (including a 2-km tunnel) for water diversion.
Submergence area: Jhansi, Banda, Lalitpur and Mahoba districts of UP and Tikamgarh, Panna and Chhatarpur districts of MP.
Itâs the first interlinking project under the National Perspective Plan (1980).
Targeted completion within 8 years, as per the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Key Components
It will irrigate 10.62 lakh ha (8.11 lakh ha in MP and 2.51 lakh ha in UP) and provide drinking water to ~62 lakh people.
Power Generation: Aims for 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
Phases:
Phase-I: Construction of Daudhan Dam, related tunnels, canal, and powerhouses.
Phase-II: Building of Lower Orr Dam, Bina Complex Project, and Kotha Barrage.
Daudhan Dam:
Foundation stone laid in December 2024 by PM Narendra Modi.
2,031 m in length and 77 m in height, submerging ~9,000 ha across 10 villages.
Construction contract awarded to NCC Ltd.
Geographical Features of Ken and Betwa River
Ken River: Rises near Ahirgawan in Madhya Pradesh, flows through Bundelkhand, joins the Yamuna near Chilla village in UP.
Betwa River: Originates in the Vindhya Range (near Hoshangabad, MP), also flows through Bundelkhand, and meets the Yamuna at Hamirpur (UP).
Both rivers traverse hilly and plateau regions of Bundelkhand, often facing drought-like conditions.
Both are highly seasonal; flows depend largely on monsoon rainfall.
Significance
Water Scarcity Mitigation: Aims to alleviate drought-like conditions in Bundelkhand by ensuring year-round irrigation.
Enhanced Agriculture: 10.62 lakh ha of farmland to benefit, improving crop yields and farm income.
Drinking Water Supply: Targets ~62 lakh people in MP and UP, improving public health.
Energy Generation: A total of 130 MW (103 MW hydropower + 27 MW solar), boosting renewable energy capacity in rural areas.
Bundelkhand Development: Expected to spur socio-economic growth, reduce rural distress and migration, and aid industrial expansion.
Template for Future Projects: As the first interlinking project under the National Perspective Plan, its success could pave the way for additional river-linking schemes nationwide.
PYQ:
[2020] The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is moving toward large-scale use of Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) for National Highway projects.
AIMC will provide real-time data at each stage of road construction, which will be sent directly to stakeholders, including MoRTH.
About Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) System
Details
What is it?
A technology-driven approach for road and infrastructure projects, employing advanced machinery (GPS, sensors, real-time data tools) to automate and monitor construction tasks.
Integrates machine automation, real-time data reporting, and precision engineering to enhance quality and speed of highway construction.
In India, explored by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) to reduce project delays and ensure consistent construction quality.
Features of the System
GPS-Aided Equipment: Motor graders, intelligent compactors, and stringless pavers use GPS/digital designs for precise alignment and compaction.
Automated Surveys: Drones or sensor-fitted machinery capture topographical data, enabling continuous verification of design parameters.
Real-Time Documentation: Every stage (embankment, subgrade, sub-base, paving) is monitored and instantly shared with stakeholders.
Integrated Software Platforms: Centralized software creates a digital twin of the site for analytics and alerts.
Adaptive Workflows: Machines can operate 24/7, guided by digital models and real-time data.
Q) The caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.â Comment. (UPSC CSE 2018)
Mentorâs Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the âRight to Equalityâ (2021) and âMulti-cultural Indian Societyâ (2020).
Oxfam India Report (2022) indicates that 97% of surveyed Dalits reported experiencing discrimination in their workplaces, with 32.5% facing denied promotions and 19.4% being purposefully transferred due to caste-related biases.
Todayâs editorial critically examines the pervasive belief in meritocracy within the Indian IT industry and its implications for caste-based inequalities. This content can be used to present âCaste-based discrimination at workplacesâ and âKey highlights of NSSO Reportsâ in your mains answers.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent NSSO Report conducts extensive household surveys across India, highlighting the significant caste-based disparities in the IT sector.
What is Meritocracy?
⢠Meritocracy is the belief that individuals should succeed based on their abilities and efforts rather than their social background. In theory, it promotes equality by providing everyone with an equal chance to succeed. ⢠However, this ideal is increasingly being challenged as a myth that fails to account for systemic inequalities, particularly in the context of caste in India.
What does the NSSO data say about Caste Disparities in the IT Sector? The study draws from two NSSO survey rounds: the 78th (2020-21) and the 68th (2011-12): ⢠Caste-Based Employment Disparities: Analysis of NSSO data reveals significant caste-based disparities in employment probabilities and wage earnings within the IT sector, challenging the notion of inclusivity in this industry. ⢠Employment Probabilities: Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) have only a 10% probability of being employed in the IT sector, compared to 27% for upper castes. This disparity persists even after controlling for educational attainment and other factors.From 2011-12 to 2020-21, the probability gap widened, with lower caste groups experiencing an increase in their disadvantage from an 11% deficit to a 17% deficit despite overall growth in IT employment. ⢠Wage Disparities: SC and Other Backward Classes (OBC) workers face wage differentials of 24.9% and 22.5%, respectively, compared to their upper caste counterparts, even when accounting for education and employment type. ⢠Labour Market Segmentation: The findings align with labour market segmentation theory, indicating that lower castes are relegated to lower segments of the job market with limited opportunities for upward mobility. This reflects ongoing social barriers that hinder marginalized groups from fully participating in the growing IT sector. ⢠Need for Addressing Inequalities: The study highlights that as the IT sector expands, it fails to recognize or mitigate social barriers that exclude marginalized communities, necessitating targeted reforms to promote inclusivity and equity.
How do caste-based disparities affect opportunities for individuals in the IT sector?
Structural Inequalities: Despite the IT sector’s rapid growth and opportunities, caste-based disparities remain deeply entrenched. Individuals from marginalized communities often face barriers that prevent them from accessing the same opportunities as their upper-caste counterparts.
Hiring Practices: Many tech companies claim to hire based on merit; however, hiring practices often reflect existing societal biases. The recruitment process can inadvertently favor candidates from privileged backgrounds who have better access to resources such as quality education and networking opportunities.
Representation Issues: While there are initiatives aimed at increasing diversity, the representation of lower-caste individuals in senior positions remains disproportionately low. This lack of representation perpetuates a cycle where decision-making power is concentrated among a homogenous group.
Is meritocracy a genuine principle for individuals in the Indian IT sector?
False Narratives: The belief in meritocracy creates a false narrative that ignores the socio-economic contexts from which individuals emerge. It allows those in privileged positions to believe their success is solely due to their abilities, dismissing the advantages they may have had over others.
Impact on Policy and Reform: This myth hinders meaningful policy reform aimed at addressing these disparities. When meritocracy is upheld as a guiding principle, it becomes challenging to advocate for affirmative action or other measures designed to level the playing field.
What reforms are necessary to address these disparities?
Policy Reforms: Implementing policies that actively promote diversity and inclusion, ensuring equitable access to opportunities.
Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about the impact of caste on career advancement and the need for structural changes within organizations.
Support Systems: Establishing mentorship and support systems for individuals from marginalized communities to help them navigate barriers in their professional journeys.
