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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    [pib] Conservation and Maintenance Work of Protected Monuments

    29 November 2024 | Prelims Only | History
    Mains Paper 1: GS1-01.Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

    Why in the News?

    Conservation and maintenance work are being carried out at following places in Karnataka by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):

    Key Facts
    Hoyasaleshwara Temple

    		 • Located in Halebidu, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 12th century during the Hoysala dynasty under King Vishnuvardhana.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Famous for its detailed sculptures, depicting mythological stories, deities, and animals.
    • Hoysala style architecture with a star-shaped platform and intricate stone carvings.
    • Temple is a masterpiece of the Hoysala architectural style, with complex stonework and frieze detailing.
    • UNESCO tentative list for World Heritage status.
    Amrutheshwara Temple

    		 • Located in Amruthapura, Karnataka, near Tarikere.
    • Built in the 14th century by King Harihara II of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Architectural style reflects Vijayanagara influence with a prominent pillared hall.
    • Famous for its stone carvings, particularly those on the Shiva Linga.
    • Notable for its tank and the beautiful courtyard surrounding the temple.
    • Temple follows the tradition of Chola and Hoysala architecture, with distinct Vijayanagara elements.
    Gol Gumbaz

    		 • Located in Vijayapura, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 17th century by Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah of the Bijapur Sultanate as his tomb.
    • Second-largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
    • Acoustic marvel: The dome has a whispering gallery, where sounds can be heard clearly from great distances.
    • The central dome spans 44 meters in diameter and is flanked by four towers.
    • The structure is made of lime mortar and stone.
    • Reflects Deccan Sultanate architectural brilliance, combining Persian, Ottoman, and Indian elements.
    Gomatesvara Temple

    		 • Located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
    • Features the 57-feet monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomatesvara), carved from a single block of granite in 981 AD.
    • The statue is the largest monolithic statue in India.
    • A major pilgrimage site for Jains; it commemorates the spiritual enlightenment of Bahubali.
    • The temple complex includes tall steps leading up to the statue, with pilgrims performing a ritual of climbing the steps.
    • Maha Mastakabhisheka: Every 12 years, the statue is anointed with milk, water, and saffron in a grand ritual.
    • The temple and statue are considered an architectural marvel in Jain art and sculpture.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

    (a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar

    (b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli

    (c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram

    (d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri

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  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    [pib] Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF)

    29 November 2024 | PIB | Governance
    Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the News?

    The Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) has been established to support the development of urban infrastructure in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

    About Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF):

    Details
    What is it? • Established (budget speech for Financial Year 2023-24) to utilize priority sector lending shortfall for financing urban infrastructure projects.
    • Managed by the National Housing Bank (NHB).
    • Initial Corpus: ₹10,000 crore.
    • Modeled after the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), which supports rural infrastructure projects.
    • Focus on developing Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India.

    • Tier-2 Cities: Cities with populations between 50,000 and 1 lakh.
    • Tier-3 Cities: Cities with populations below 50,000.
    Aims and Objectives • Support Urban Infrastructure: Provides funding for essential urban services such as water supply, sanitation, sewerage, and waste management.
    • Sewerage, water supply, sanitation, drains, and solid waste management.
    • Prioritizes projects with significant improvements in urban services.
    • Funds are allocated to Municipal Corporations and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for infrastructure development.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation • Coverage: Supports 459 Tier-2 cities and 580 Tier-3 cities in India.
    • Loan Terms: Loans offered at Bank Rate minus 1.5% interest rate.
    • Repayment Terms: Loan repayable in five equal annual instalments over seven years.
    • Moratorium Period: Two years before repayment starts.
    • Quarterly Interest Payments: Regular payments required during the loan period.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
    2. It has a corpus of Rs 4,00,000 crore at present.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    [pib] Salient Features of AMRUT 2.0

    29 November 2024 | PIB | Governance
    Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Why in the News?

    The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 is a scheme launched on October 1, 2021 continues to make strides towards transforming Indian cities into self-reliant and water-secure urban areas.

    Back2Basics: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)

    • It is a flagship urban development scheme launched in June 2015.
    • The mission is being operated as a Central Sponsored Scheme.
    • Aim: To provide basic urban infrastructure to improve the quality of life in cities and towns.
    • Objectives:  
      • Ensure that every household has access to a tap with an assured water supply and a sewerage connection.
      • Increase the green areas in the cities.
      • Reduce pollution by promoting public transport and constructing facilities for non-motorized transport.
    • Funding: It is divided among States/UTs in an equitable formula in which 50:50 weightage.
    • It covers 500 cities including all cities and towns with a population of over 1 lakh with notified Municipalities.

    About AMRUT 2.0:

    Details • Launched on 1st October 2021 as the continuation of AMRUT 1.0.
    • Aims to enhance urban infrastructure in 500 cities by focusing on water supply, wastewater management, and rejuvenation of water bodies.
    • The mission runs for five years (FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26).
    Salient Features and Mission • Universal Coverage: Ensures coverage of water supply and sewerage in 500 cities and 4,900 statutory towns.
    • Circular Economy: Focuses on water recycling, reuse of treated sewage, and water conservation.
    • Technology Integration: Adopts global technologies for better water management.
    • Pey Jal Survekshan: Survey to assess water distribution, wastewater reuse, and promote healthy competition among cities.
    Its Implementation and Further Roadmap • Project Approval: 8,998 projects approved with an estimated cost of ₹1,89,458.55 crore.
    • Funds Distribution: Funds released by MoHUA to States/UTs and then to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
    • State Water Action Plan (SWAP): States/UTs must complete their SWAP and get approval within two years of the mission’s launch.
    • Future Plans: Focus on sustainable water management and extension of AMRUT 1.0 benefits to more towns.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, a Metropolitan Planning Committee

    1. is constituted under the provisions of the Constitution of India.

    2. prepares the draft development plans for metropolitan area.

    3. has the sole responsibility for implementing Government sponsored schemes in the metropolitan area.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Intellectual Property Rights in India

    The Copyright Act, 1957

    29 November 2024 | PIB | Governance
    Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing copyright dispute between actors Dhanush and Nayanthara highlights the complexities of copyright law and its potential misuse in the film industry.

    What is the dispute?

    • The case revolves around South Indian actor Dhanush suing actress Nayanthara for using excerpts from their 2015 film in a biopic without his consent.
    • Nayanthara claims she had sought permission earlier, but Dhanush’s company, which produced the film, did not respond, leading to the lawsuit over copyright infringement.

    About The Copyright Act, 1957:

    Details
    What is it? • Enacted in 1957 to protect creators’ rights over original works.
    • Objective: To encourage creativity while balancing public access.
    • Grants exclusive rights to authors and creators for reproduction, distribution, and public performance of their works.
    • The Act has been amended to address digital content and technological advancements.
    Features and Provisions of the Act • Scope: Covers literary, musical, artistic works, cinematograph films, sound recordings, and more.
    • Duration: Copyright lasts life of author + 60 years for literary, musical, and dramatic works, and 60 years for films/sound recordings.
    • Exclusive Rights: Right to reproduce, distribute, perform, and adapt works.
    • Moral Rights: Includes right to attribution and integrity of the work.
    What does Section 52 say? • Section 52 lists exceptions allowing use of copyrighted works without permission in specific situations.
    • Fair Use: For criticism, review, news reporting, teaching, research, and private use.
    • Includes exceptions for libraries, archives, and government use.
    • Important for education and public access—enables non-commercial use of works.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms—Copyrights, Patents and Trade Secrets.

    [2017] With reference to the ‘National Intellectual Property Rights Policy’, consider the following statements:

    1. It reiterates India’s commitment to the Doha Development Agenda and the TRIPS Agreement.
    2. Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion is the nodal agency for regulating intellectual property rights in India.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

    The right to work deleted

    28 November 2024 | Explained | Indian Society
    Mains Paper 1: Social Empowerment

    Why in the News?

    The implementation guidelines for MGNREGA are outlined in Master Circulars issued by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) annually or biennially.

    Mahatma Gandhi NREGA provides a number of legal entitlements to the job seekers through a series of provisions in the Act. While the Act makes provision for at least 100 days work per rural household in a year, it is the strong legal framework of rights and entitlements that come together to make the hundred days of work per year possible.

    • Every household residing in any rural area is entitled to a Job Card which contains the names and photographs of all adult members of the household so that they can demand and receive work.
      • According to the Master Circular for 2021-22, job cards can only be deleted under specific circumstances: 
        • when a household has permanently migrated
        • if the job card is identified as a duplicate,
        • if it was issued using forged documents.
    • According to Chapter 4 (​​Schedule II) of the annual circular, “Every adult member of a registered household whose name appears in the job card shall be entitled to apply for unskilled manual work.
    • The Ministry mandates the provision of an additional 50 days of wage employment (beyond the stipulated 100 days) to every Scheduled Tribe Household in a forest area,  under the FRA Act, 2006.
    • State Governments are mandated to put in place multiple mechanisms by which rural households can submit applications for demand for work at the Gram Panchayat (GP), Block and District levels.

    What were the reasons behind the decision to delete references to the ‘Right to work’ in recent legislation or policy?

    • Administrative Efficiency: Governments may argue that streamlining policies and removing cumbersome regulations can enhance efficiency in employment programs.
    • Aadhaar-Based Payment Systems (ABPS): The push for ABPS has led to increased deletions of job cards, as officials focus on compliance metrics rather than ensuring workers’ rights are upheld.
    • Political and Economic Pressures: There may be external pressures to reduce welfare spending or adjust labour policies in response to economic conditions, leading to a perception that the ‘right to work’ is less critical.

    What does the term ‘right to work’ entail, and why is it significant in the context of labor laws?

    • The ‘right to work’ is a fundamental principle in labour laws that guarantees individuals the opportunity to engage in employment and earn a livelihood.
    • In the context of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), specifically provides rural households with a legal entitlement to at least 100 days of wage employment per year.
    • This right is significant because it aims to alleviate poverty, promote social justice, and ensure economic security for rural populations. The act also mandates due process in the deletion of workers from job cards, emphasising the importance of transparency and accountability in employment practices.

    How might the deletion of the ‘right to work’ impact workers, unions, and the broader labour market?

    • Workers’ Rights: It undermines the legal protections afforded to workers, making it easier for authorities to arbitrarily delete job cards without proper verification or due process.
    • Unions and Collective Bargaining: Unions may find it challenging to advocate for workers’ rights when legal entitlements are diminished, weakening their bargaining power.
    • Labour Market Dynamics: A reduction in guaranteed employment can lead to increased unemployment and underemployment, exacerbating poverty and economic inequality among rural populations.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Oversight and Accountability: Implement independent audits, regular reviews, and grievance redress mechanisms to ensure adherence to due process in job card deletions, with active involvement of Gram Sabhas and worker representatives.
    • Enhance Worker Protections: Reinforce legal safeguards for the ‘right to work’ by improving transparency in employment programs, ensuring compliance with MGNREGA mandates, and addressing systemic issues like ABPS-linked exclusions through inclusive digital solutions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-United States

    Trump to impose ‘additional’ tariff on China

    28 November 2024 | Explained | International Relations
    Mains Paper 2: GS2-19.Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

    Why in the News?

    President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to impose tariffs on the United States’ three largest trading partners—Canada, Mexico, and China—once he assumes office.

    What specific tariffs is Trump proposing on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico?

    • 25% Tariff on Imports: President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on imported goods from the United States’ three largest trading partners: Canada, Mexico, and China.
    • Additional 10% Tariff on China: He also proposed an additional 10% tariff specifically targeting imports from China, citing the country’s failure to address the flow of fentanyl into the United States.

    What are the underlying reasons for these tariff increases?

    • Trade Imbalance: The tariffs aim to address perceived trade imbalances and protect American manufacturing jobs.
    • Fentanyl Crisis: The additional tariff on China is a direct response to the ongoing opioid crisis in the U.S., particularly related to fentanyl trafficking. Trump emphasized China’s lack of action in curbing the drug’s flow into the U.S. as a justification for the tariffs.
    • Political Strategy: The tariffs may also serve as a political manoeuvre to reinforce Trump’s stance on trade issues and drug-related policies as he prepares to take office.

    What potential economic impacts could arise in the Asian region (esp India) from these tariffs?

    • Increased Costs for Importers: Indian companies that rely on imports from these countries may face higher costs due to increased tariffs, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.
    • Supply Chain Disruptions: The tariffs could disrupt existing supply chains, particularly in industries that rely on components from Canada, Mexico, and China, affecting production schedules and costs.
    • Investment Shifts: Businesses might reconsider their investment strategies in light of new tariffs, potentially leading to a shift in manufacturing bases or sourcing strategies away from affected countries.
    • Opportunities for Indian Manufacturers: Conversely, Indian manufacturers might find opportunities to fill gaps left by increased tariffs on imports, potentially boosting local production and employment.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Trade and Strategic Engagement with the U.S.: India should proactively address trade imbalances by diversifying imports from the U.S., aligning with American regulatory standards, and offering enhanced market access in key sectors like technology and defence.
    • Position as a Reliable Alternative to China: Leverage initiatives like Make in India to attract U.S. investments, promote joint ventures, and emphasize India’s strategic importance as a trusted partner in global supply chains.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of ‘Trade War’, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (UPSC IAS/2018)

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  • Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.

    How ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ were inserted in the Preamble, why SC ruled they will stay?

    28 November 2024 | Explained | Polity
    Mains Paper 2: GS2-01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution

    Why in the News?

    Nearly 75 years after the adoption of the Constitution of India, the Supreme Court reaffirmed (on 25th Nov’ 24) the inclusion of the terms ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ in the Preamble of the Constitution.

    What historical context led to the insertion of the terms ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ in the Preamble?

    • The Objectives Resolution, introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946, laid foundational principles for the Constitution, emphasizing independence, equality, and minority rights, which set the stage for later amendments.
    • Initial discussions around socialism and secularism occurred during the drafting of the Constitution, with early proposals to include these concepts being rejected. The debates highlighted differing views on the role of socialism and secularism in India’s governance.
    • The terms ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ were inserted into the Preamble during the Emergency (1975-1977) under the 42nd Amendment, a time characterized by significant political unrest and government overreach.

    What was the SC’s reasoning for upholding these terms in the Preamble?

    • Evolution of Meaning: The Supreme Court noted in 1973 () that the meanings of ‘socialism’ and ‘secularism’ have evolved over time within the Indian context.
      • The court recognized that these terms now reflect principles of economic justice and religious neutrality rather than strict ideological definitions.
    • Interpretation of Secularism: The court emphasized that India’s interpretation of secularism is unique, where the state neither endorses nor discriminates against any religion. This interpretation aligns with the Preamble’s ideals of fraternity and equality.
    • Socialism as Economic Justice: The court defined socialism as ensuring economic and social justice, asserting that it does not impede private enterprise but rather supports state intervention to uplift marginalized communities.

    How do ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ reflect India’s Constitutional values and principles?

    • Commitment to Justice: The inclusion of ‘socialist’ reflects a commitment to social and economic justice, aiming to reduce inequalities in society.
    • Religious Neutrality: By incorporating ‘secular’, the Constitution underscores India’s commitment to religious pluralism and the protection of individual rights regardless of faith.
    • Basic Structure Doctrine: The Supreme Court’s decision reinforces the idea that these terms are integral to the basic structure of the Constitution, which cannot be altered or removed without undermining India’s democratic framework.

    What are the steps taken by the Government to implement the Socialist and Secular principles of the Preamble?

    • Promoting Social Justice (Socialist): Welfare schemes like MNREGA, Ayushman Bharat, and PDS reduce poverty and ensure equitable access, while progressive taxation and affirmative action address economic disparities.
    • Ensuring Religious Neutrality (Secular): Laws protecting religious freedom, minority rights (Articles 25–30), and institutions like the National Commission for Minorities promote interfaith harmony and safeguard pluralism.
    • Strengthening Democracy and Equality: Free and fair elections by the Election Commission and rights-based laws like the RTE Act and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act ensure equality, fraternity, and justice for all.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Constitutional Values: Enhance awareness of constitutional principles through education and public campaigns, ensuring adherence to secularism, socialism, and democratic ideals in policymaking.
    • Inclusive Governance: Implement targeted programs to address socio-economic inequalities, promote interfaith dialogue, and uphold democratic rights, fostering harmony and justice in a diverse society.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the preamble. Are they defendable in the present circumstances stances?. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    What is the UNSC Resolution 1701?

    28 November 2024 | IOCR | International Relations
    Mains Paper 2: GS2-20.Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

    Why in the News?

    Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire after 13 months of rising conflict, though it is linked to the UN Resolution 1701, which has not been fully implemented.

    About UNSC Resolution 1701:

    Details
    What is it?
    • Passed on August 11, 2006, following the 34-day war between Israel and Hezbollah.
    • Aimed to end hostilities, ensure the security of Israel and Lebanon, and establish long-term peace along the Israel-Lebanon border.
    • Also designed to prevent Hezbollah from using southern Lebanon as a base for military operations against Israel.
    Key Provisions and Objectives
    • Cessation of Hostilities: Aimed at halting the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.
    • Disarmament of Armed Groups: Called for the disarmament of Hezbollah and all other armed groups in Lebanon, leaving only the Lebanese state with weapons authority.
    • Israeli Withdrawal: Mandated Israel’s full withdrawal from southern Lebanon, which had been occupied since the 1982 Lebanon War.
    • Lebanese Forces Deployment: Directed the Lebanese government to deploy its army in southern Lebanon to ensure peace and prevent Hezbollah’s rearmament.
    • UNIFIL Deployment: Increased deployment of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to monitor the border and ensure compliance.
    • Arms Embargo: Imposed restrictions to prevent the transfer of weapons to Hezbollah.
    • Implementation of Taif Accords (1989): The resolution emphasizes the full implementation of this accord, which is critical for the disarmament of non-state actors in Lebanon and the consolidation of Lebanese state authority across the country.
    Implementation and Violations
    • Partial Implementation: While Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon, Hezbollah retained its weapons and continued its terror operations.
    • Lebanese Army Deployment: The Lebanese army was deployed in southern Lebanon but struggled to assert full control, as Hezbollah’s influence remained strong in the region.
    • UNIFIL’s Role: UNIFIL, while active, faced challenges in fully enforcing the provisions of the resolution due to Hezbollah’s continued presence and the complexities of local politics.
    • Violations: Despite the resolution’s provisions, violations have included Hezbollah’s stockpiling of weapons and cross-border skirmishes, as well as the failure to fully disarm all armed groups, undermining the resolution’s goals.
    • Taif Accords Violation: This has hindered the establishment of complete state sovereignty in Lebanon.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss.

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  • Banking Sector Reforms

    [pib] India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)

    28 November 2024 | PIB | Economics
    Mains Paper 3: GS3-02.Inclusive growth and issues therein

    Why in the News?

    The Minister of State for Communications has provided crucial information about the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB).

    About India Post Payments Bank (IPPB):

    Details
    What is it? Division of India Post under the Ministry of Communications, launched in 2018.

    Operates as payments bank.
    Vision and Principles • Objective: Promote financial inclusion by providing accessible and affordable financial services.
    • Customer-Centric: Focuses on delivering secure and affordable banking to rural and underserved areas.
    Empowerment Initiatives by IPPB • Financial Inclusion: Offers savings accounts, current accounts, money transfers, bill payments, and insurance.
    • Aadhaar-Linked Services: Implements Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) for easy and secure transactions.
    • Doorstep Banking: Provides banking services through 3 lakh postmen and Grameen Dak Sewaks.
    • Rapid Expansion: Reached 4 crore customers by December 2020 and crossed 8 crore customers by January 2022, with over 9 crore customers as of March 2024.

     

    Back2Basics: Payments Bank

    • A payments bank operates like a regular bank but without credit risk.
    • It was set up based on the recommendations of the Nachiket Mor Committee.
    • Objective: To promote financial inclusion, especially in unbanked areas, serving migrant workers, low-income households, and small entrepreneurs.
    • Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act, 2013, and licensed under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
    • Governed by the Banking Regulation Act, RBI Act, 1934, and the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
    • Services Offered:
        • Minimum paid-up equity capital is Rs. 100 crores.
        • Can accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000 in savings and current accounts.
        • 75% of deposits must be invested in government securities (SLR), with the remaining 25% placed as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
        • Offers remittance services, mobile payments, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
        • Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for credit and other services.
    • Limitations:
      • Cannot issue loans or credit cards.
      • Cannot accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
      • Cannot set up subsidiaries for non-banking financial activities.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following links all the ATMs in India?

    (a) Indian banks’ Association

    (b) National Securities Depository Limited

    (c) National Payments Corporation of India

    (d) Reserve Bank of India

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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    [pib] Indian Chemical Council wins 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award

    28 November 2024 | Prelims Only | Economics
    Mains Paper 3: GS3-12.Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) was honored with the prestigious Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), The Hague Award during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties.

    Significance of the OPCW-The Hague Award

    • Purpose: The award recognizes contributions to advancing the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), focusing on chemical safety, disarmament, and global security.
      • This year, the award was given to the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the first chemical industry body to receive it, for its role in promoting chemical safety and CWC compliance.
    • Global Impact: The award emphasizes ICC’s work in collaboration with international bodies and advocacy for sustainable practices in chemical security.
    • Legacy: The OPCW, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, continues to honor impactful organizations and individuals contributing to the global disarmament agenda.

     

    What is the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)?

    Details
    What is it? • CWC bans the development, use, and stockpiling of chemical weapons and mandates their destruction.
    • Genesis: Negotiations began in 1980.
    • Established: Opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997.
    • More comprehensive than the 1925 Geneva Protocol, which only banned the use of chemical weapons.
    Structure and Functions • Conference of States Parties (CSP): The main decision-making body, meeting annually.
    • Executive Council: 41-member body overseeing CWC implementation.
    • Technical Secretariat: Provides support for verification and compliance.
    • Verification: Inspects facilities and ensures compliance with the treaty.
    Membership criteria and members • Open to all nations: Any state can join if it meets requirements.
    • 193 States-Parties: Includes most nations.
    • Non-Signatories: Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have neither signed nor ratified the CWC.
    Functioning Arm • Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) implements the CWC, headquartered in The Hague.
    • Role: Oversees the destruction of chemical weapons and ensures treaty compliance.
    • Inspection: Conducts inspections of chemical facilities worldwide.
    • Awards: The OPCW won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in chemical weapons elimination.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:

    1. It is an organization of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
    2. It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
    3. It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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