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  • Foreign Policy Watch: The BCIM Corridor

    A new push in the Bay of Bengal 

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Why in the news?

    India hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi, creating an informal forum to enhance regional cooperation in security, connectivity, trade, and investment in the Bay of Bengal

    About BIMSTEC: 

    • BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a regional organization established in June 1997.
    • seven countries: India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
    • It aims to foster multifaceted cooperation across various sectors, including security, connectivity, trade, and investment, particularly in the Bay of Bengal region.

    Importance of Strengthening Eastern Ties

    • Regional Stability and Security: The growing presence of China in the Bay of Bengal is perceived as a potential threat to regional stability. By strengthening ties with countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, India aims to reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.
    • Economic Development: Enhanced relations with eastern neighbors facilitate India’s access to essential maritime routes, particularly for its landlocked northeastern states.
    • Indo-Pacific Strategy: Improved relations with Myanmar and Thailand are integral to India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy. These countries are key members of ASEAN, which India considers central to its vision for the region.
    • Strengthening ties can enhance India’s influence and presence in the Indo-Pacific, aligning with its “Act East Policy” and “Neighbourhood First” approach.

    Major Components of the Retreat

    The 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was structured into two main segments:

    • Assessment of Regional Cooperation: The first part focused on evaluating the current state of cooperation within BIMSTEC, building on outcomes from the previous retreat.
    • Member states discussed various initiatives, including the establishment of Centers of Excellence in areas like Agriculture and Maritime Transport, and emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in trade and entrepreneurship.
    • Expectations for the Upcoming Summit: The second segment involved discussions on each country’s expectations for the upcoming summit.
    • Key proposals included mapping mineral resources, promoting the Blue Economy, enhancing tourism and cultural exchanges.  

    Bilateral merits

    • India-Myanmar Concerns: Mr. Jaishankar addressed issues with Myanmar regarding the flow of displaced persons, narcotics, and arms across the border, and urged the return of unlawfully detained Indian nationals.
    • India-Bangladesh Cooperation: In his meeting with the Bangladesh Foreign Minister, Mr. Jaishankar was requested to ensure the smooth supply of daily essentials and send a technical team for the Teesta project, signifying efforts towards resolving long-pending concerns.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Security Collaboration:  Need to prioritize discussions on security cooperation among BIMSTEC members, particularly in countering transnational crimes such as narcotics and arms trafficking.
    • Develop Connectivity Projects: Indian government should expedite the implementation of connectivity projects, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway, to facilitate trade and movement. This will not only enhance economic ties but also improve regional stability.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? Waht are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (2022)

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  • Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

    How oil spills impact the environment?  

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

    Why in the news?

    Typhoon Gaemi caused widespread damage in Taiwan, the Philippines, and southeastern China, leading to the sinking of the oil tanker MT Terra Nova in Manila Bay.

    MT Terra Nova Incident

    • The MT Terra Nova, an oil tanker, capsized in Manila Bay due to severe weather conditions caused by Typhoon Gaemi. It was en route to Iloilo, Philippines, when it sank, resulting in one crew member’s death and the rescue of 16 others.
    • The sinking of the MT Terra Nova has raised alarms about a potential oil spill that could become the largest in Philippine history, threatening marine life and coastal ecosystems. The spill has already spread several kilometers, prompting urgent containment efforts.
    • The Philippines’ Coast Guard and other agencies are deploying containment booms and skimmers to mitigate the environmental damage. Booms are used to slow the spread of oil, while skimmers are boats that remove oil from the water surface.

    How Oil Spills impact the environment? 

    • Immediate Effects on Marine Life: Oil spills disrupt photosynthesis in marine plants and phytoplankton, which are crucial for oxygen production. The toxic exposure from oil can harm fish and other marine animals, particularly those near the surface.
    • Impact on Birds: Oil can coat the feathers of birds, compromising their insulation and leading to hypothermia and drowning.
    • Long-term Ecological Damage: Oil spills can result in bioaccumulation of toxic substances in the food chain, affecting higher-level predators, including humans.
    • Threat to Coastal Ecosystems: Coastal habitats like mangroves, coral reefs, and marshlands are especially vulnerable, as oil can suffocate these environments and kill vital plants and animals. Recovery from spills can take decades, with some species facing extinction.
    • Economic Impact: Communities that rely on fishing and tourism suffer economically due to oil spills, as cleanup efforts are costly and lengthy, diverting resources from other critical areas.

    Major Oil Spills from the Past

    • Exxon Valdez Spill (1989): One of the worst oil spills, it released approximately 11 million gallons of crude oil into Prince William Sound, killing an estimated 250,000 seabirds, 2,800 sea otters, and numerous other marine animals.  
    • Deepwater Horizon Disaster (2010): This incident saw an estimated 210 million gallons of oil spill into the Gulf of Mexico over 87 days.  

    Conclusion: Need to implement advanced containment measures and cleanup technologies to effectively manage oil spills. This includes deploying more sophisticated skimmers and absorbent materials, as well as utilizing drones and remote sensing to monitor the spread of oil and assess environmental damage.

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  • Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

    With uncertainty across the Atlantic, Europe worries about its own security    

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

    Why in the news?

    When Donald Trump suggested during the 2016 presidential campaign that he might not honor the U.S. commitment to defend NATO allies if attacked, it alarmed the trans-Atlantic alliance.

    NATO country member’s flags flutter at the bloc’s headquarters in Brussels

    • NATO’s Structure and Membership: NATO, established in 1949, comprises 31 member countries, including the United States, Canada, and various European nations. The alliance was formed to ensure collective defence against potential threats, particularly from the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
      • The flags of these member countries flutter at NATO’s headquarters in Brussels, symbolising unity and cooperation.
    • Evolving Role of European Nations: In light of recent geopolitical challenges, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, European leaders recognize the need to take on greater responsibility for their own defense.
      • This shift is partly a response to the U.S. focus on other global threats, such as China, and the changing dynamics within NATO

    Security issues with European Countries and US support:

    • European Acknowledgement: European leaders recognize the need to evolve NATO to meet 21st-century challenges and are prepared to take on more responsibility for their defense.
    • US Military Support: Mr Trump’s presidency highlighted that US military support is not guaranteed, prompting Europe to reconsider its security strategies.
    • Threats from Russia and China: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the US’s focus on China’s expansion in the Asia-Pacific, as well as Iran and North Korea, underscore the need for Europe to enhance its own security measures.
    • NATO’s Evolution: European nations must increase their defense spending and capabilities, including troop numbers, equipment upgrades, and countering technological threats.

    A wake-up call for all:

    • Trump’s “America First” Rhetoric:  Trump’s suggestion that the US might not honour its NATO commitments triggered the alarm and a reevaluation of NATO’s future.
    • Increased European Defense Spending: European NATO members have significantly increased their defense spending commitments, with 23 out of 31 non-US members meeting or exceeding the 2% GDP target, up from just three members ten years ago.
    • EU Defense Industry Boost: The EU is planning to enhance its defense industry, with calls for more independence in airspace defence and relocating production to Europe, especially in response to the threat posed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

    Conclusion: European NATO members should continue to enhance their defense spending, focusing on upgrading military equipment, increasing troop numbers, and improving technological capabilities to counter both conventional and emerging threats such as cyber warfare and foreign interference.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The new tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (UPSC IAS/2021)

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  • Judicial Appointments Conundrum Post-NJAC Verdict

    High Court Judges’ Appointment under process: Centre

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Executive & Judiciary

    Why in the News?

    The Union government has said that 219 proposals for the appointment of High Court judges by the Collegium are in various stages of processing.

    What is Collegium System?

    • The collegium system is the method used for the appointment and transfer of judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts of India.
    •  It is the Indian Supreme Court’s invention.
    • The term ‘Collegium’ does not find mention in the Constitution.
    • Constitutional Provisions:
      • Article 124: The President appoints the Chief Justice and other judges of the Supreme Court after consultations with judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts as deemed necessary.
      • Article 217: The President appoints High Court judges after consultations with the Chief Justice of India, the Governor of the state, and the Chief Justice of the High Court concerned

    Composition:

    1. Supreme Court Collegium:
      • A five-member body.
      • Headed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
      • Includes the four other senior most judges of the Supreme Court at that time.
    2. High Court Collegium:
      • Led by the Chief Justice of the respective High Court.
      • Includes the two senior most judges of that High Court.
      • Recommendations for appointments by a High Court collegium are sent to the government only after approval by the CJI and the Supreme Court collegium.

    Evolution: Three Judges Cases

    • First Judges Case (1981) ruled that the “consultation” with the CJI in the matter of appointments must be full and effective.
      • The Supreme Court, in a majority decision, held that the opinion of the Chief Justice of India is not binding on the executive in the matter of appointments and transfers of judges. The court ruled that the executive has primacy in judicial appointments.
    • Second Judges Case (1993) introduced the Collegium system, holding that “consultation” really meant “concurrence”.
      • The Supreme Court, by a majority of 7:2, overruled the First Judges Case and held that the CJI’s opinion regarding judicial appointments and transfers should be given primacy.
      • The court established that the CJI should consult with the two senior-most judges of the Supreme Court before making recommendations for appointments and transfers, thereby creating a collegium system.
    • Third Judges Case (1998): On a Presidential Reference for its opinion, the Supreme Court, in the Third Judges Case (1998) expanded the Collegium to a five-member body, comprising the CJI and four of his senior-most colleagues.

    The procedure followed by the Collegium:

    Appointment of CJI

    • The President of India appoints the CJI and the other SC judges.
    • As far as the CJI is concerned, the outgoing CJI recommends his successor.
    • In practice, it has been strictly by seniority ever since the supersession controversy of the 1970s.
    • The Union Law Minister forwards the recommendation to the PM who, in turn, advises the President.

    Other SC Judges:

    • For other judges of the top court, the proposal is initiated by the CJI.
    • The CJI consults the rest of the Collegium members, as well as the senior-most judge of the court hailing from the High Court to which the recommended person belongs.
    • The consultees must record their opinions in writing and it should form part of the file.
    • The Collegium sends the recommendation to the Law Minister, who forwards it to the Prime Minister to advise the President.

    For High Courts:

    • The CJs of High Courts are appointed as per the policy of having Chief Justices from outside the respective States. The Collegium takes the call on the elevation.
    • High Court judges are recommended by a Collegium comprising the CJI and two senior-most judges.
    • The proposal, however, is initiated by the Chief Justice of the High Court concerned in consultation with two senior-most colleagues.
    • The recommendation is sent to the Chief Minister, who advises the Governor to send the proposal to the Union Law Minister.

    Qualifications for Appointment as a Supreme Court Judge:

    According to Article 124(3) of the Constitution, a person can be appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court if he or she:

    • Is a citizen of India.
    • Has served as a judge of a High Court for at least five years or in two such courts in succession.
    • Alternatively, has been an advocate of a High Court for at least ten years or in two or more such courts in succession.
    • Is a distinguished jurist in the opinion of the President.

    Qualifications for Appointment as a High Court Judge:

    • The person must have held a judicial office for at least 10 years in India, or
    • Must have been a practising advocate in a High Court for at least 10 years.
    • The person must be enrolled under the Bar Council of India.

    PYQ:

    [2012] What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?

    1. While appointing the Supreme Court Judges, the President of India has to consult the Chief Justice of India.
    2. The Supreme Court Judges can be removed by the Chief Justice of India only.
    3. The salaries of the Judges are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India to which the legislature does not have to vote.
    4. All appointments of officers and staffs of the Supreme Court of India are made by the Government only after consulting the Chief Justice of India.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 3 and 4 only

    (c) 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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  • Paris Olympics: All You Need to Know

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    The Paris Olympics has began and will run from July 26 to August 11, 2024.

    Some lesser known facts about Olympics:

    • The Olympic Games originated in ancient Greece in 776 BC in Olympia.
    • Held every 4 years, they featured athletic competitions among representatives of various city-states.
    • The modern Olympics were revived by Baron Pierre de Coubertin of France.
    • The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens, Greece, in 1896.
    • The Olympic Rings represent the union of the 5 inhabited continents (Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania).
    • The Winter Olympics were introduced in 1924 in Chamonix, France and it features sports practiced on snow and ice, like skiing, ice skating, and ice hockey.
    • The Olympic Torch Relay was introduced in the 1936 Berlin Games.
    • The number of participating countries has grown from 14 in the 1896 Games to over 200 in recent editions.
    • Women were first allowed to compete in the 1900 Paris Olympics.
    • The Paralympics, for athletes with disabilities, were first held in Rome in 1960.

    About Paris Olympics

    • The Paris Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, will be held in Paris, France.
    • This event, commonly referred to as the 2024 Summer Olympics, is an international multi-sport competition featuring athletes from around the world.
    • Sports include: Athletics, Aquatics, Archery, Badminton, Basketball, Boxing, Canoeing, Cycling, Equestrian, Fencing, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Handball, Hockey, Judo, Modern Pentathlon, Rowing, Rugby Sevens, Sailing, Shooting, Skateboarding, Sport Climbing, Surfing, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball, Weightlifting, and Wrestling.

    India’s Participation: 

    India is set to participate in various sports at the Paris Olympics 2024, with several medal prospects across disciplines.

    Athletes and Key Events
    Athletics
    • Neeraj Chopra (Javelin Throw): Defending Olympic gold medallist, aiming for another podium finish.
    • Key Events: Track and field events with several athletes competing in sprints, long jump, and discus throw.
    Badminton
    • PV Sindhu (Singles): Two-time Olympic medallist, aiming for her third medal.
    • Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty (Doubles): Top doubles pair, strong medal contenders.
    • Ashwini Ponnappa/Satwiksairaj Rankireddy: Promising mixed doubles pair with several international wins.
    Boxing
    • Mary Kom (Flyweight): Veteran boxer and former Olympic medallist.
    • Amit Panghal (Flyweight): Strong contender in the men’s category.
    • Lovlina Borgohain (Welterweight): Bronze medallist from Tokyo, aiming for a higher podium finish.
    Shooting
    • Manu Bhaker (10m Air Pistol, 25m Pistol): Young and promising shooter with several international accolades.
    • Saurabh Chaudhary (10m Air Pistol): Consistent performer and medal hopeful.
    Wrestling
    • Vinesh Phogat (50kg): Experienced wrestler and strong medal prospect.
    • Antim Panghal (53kg): Young talent with significant potential.
    Weightlifting Mirabai Chanu (49kg): Silver medallist from Tokyo, aiming for gold in Paris.
    Hockey
    • Men’s Team: After winning bronze in Tokyo, the team aims for gold.
    • Women’s Team: Strong contenders with improving performance over recent years.
    Table Tennis
    • Manika Batra: Leading Indian player with potential for a breakthrough performance.
    • Sharath Kamal: Veteran player with considerable international experience.
    Archery
    • Deepika Kumari: Leading female archer with multiple international medals.
    • Atanu Das: Strong contender in men’s archery events.
    Gymnastics Dipa Karmakar: Known for her Produnova vault, aiming for a comeback and podium finish.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000 :​

    1. American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.​

    2. The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far.​

    3. Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others.​

    Which of the above statements are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Assam’s Charaideo Moidam included in UNESCO World Heritage List

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    The Charaideo Moidams, a unique 700-year-old mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty from Assam, has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

    About Charaideo Moidams

    • The Charaideo moidams represents the late medieval (13th-19th century CE) mound burial tradition of the Tai Ahom community in Assam.
      • Charaideo, more than 400 km east of Guwahati, was the first capital of the Ahom dynasty founded by Chao Lung Sukaphaa in 1253.
    • The Ahoms preferred to place the deceased family members at Charaideo where the first king Sukapha was laid to rest.
    • The historical chronicles inform that wives, attendants, pet animals and huge quantity of valuables were buried with the departed kings.
    • After 18th century, the Ahom rulers adopted the Hindu method of cremation and began entombing the cremated bones and ashes in a Maidam at Charaideo.
    • Out of 386 Maidams explored so far, 90 royal burials at Charaideo are the best preserved, representative of and the most complete examples of mound burial tradition of the Ahoms.

    Architecture details:

    • Architecturally it comprises a massive underground vault with one or more chambers having domical superstructure.
    • It is covered by a heap of earthen mound and externally it appears a hemispherical mound.
    • At the top of the mound, a small open pavilion chow-chali is provided.
    • An octagonal dwarf wall encloses whole maidam.

    Significance of this addition:

    • Moidams has become the 43rd property from India to be included in the UNESCO List.
    • India now stands at the 6th position globally for the most number of World Heritage Properties.
    • The Moidams are the first site from the North East to be recognized as a World Heritage Site in the cultural category.
    • Assam has 2 other World Heritage Sites in the natural category: Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, both upgraded to tiger reserves.

    Who were the Ahoms?

    • The Ahom, also known as the Tai-Ahom, are an ethnic group from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in India.
    • This ethnic group is made up of interbred descendants of the Tai people, who first came to Assam’s Brahmaputra valley in 1228, and indigenous people who later joined them.
    • The current Ahom people and culture are a mix of the ancient Tai people and culture, as well as indigenous Tibeto-Burman people and cultures that they assimilated in Assam.
    • Sukaphaa, the Tai group’s leader, and his 9000 supporters founded the Ahom empire (1228–1826 CE), which ruled over part of modern-day Assam’s Brahmaputra Valley until 1826.
    • It retained sovereignty for 600 years until annexed by British India in 1826 (Treaty of Yandaboo).
    • Lachit Borphukan (1622-1672) is the most celebrated ruler of Ahom Dynasty.

    Back2Basics: UNESCO World Heritage Sites 

    Aspect

    Details
    Definition Sites of outstanding cultural or natural value to humanity, are protected under the UNESCO Convention of 1972.
    Classification
    1. Cultural Heritage Sites: Historic buildings, archaeological sites, monumental sculptures/paintings.
    2. Natural Heritage Sites: Unique geologic processes, rare phenomena, habitats for endangered species.
    3. Mixed Heritage Sites: Both natural and cultural significance.
    Benefits
    • Raises awareness for conservation
    • Provides technical assistance and training
    • Encourages local participation
    • Boosts tourism
    • Offers financial aid and expert advice for preservation
    Criteria for Declaration Cultural Criteria:

    • Human creative genius
    • Interchange of human values
    • Testimony to cultural tradition
    • Significant stage in human history
    • Traditional human settlement
    • Associated with significant events/traditions

    Natural Criteria:

    • Natural beauty and aesthetic importance
    • Earth’s history and geological processes
    • Ecological and biological processes
    • Biodiversity and conservation

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of Waghora river.

    (b) Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of Chambal river.

    (c) Pandu-lena Cave Shrines lie in the gorge of Narmada river.

    (d) Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of Godavari river.

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  • Coal and Mining Sector

    States have the unlimited right to tax mineral-rich lands    

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

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court delivered a significant 8:1 judgment affirming that State Legislatures have the power to tax mining lands and quarries, independent of the Parliament’s Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 (MMDR Act).

    About the verdict given by SC      

    • Judgment Overview: The majority opinion, authored by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, stated that states derive their taxing authority from Article 246 and Entry 49 of the State List, which pertains to taxation on lands and buildings.
    • Distinction Between Tax and Royalty: The Court clarified that royalty paid for mining leases is not considered a tax. 
      • Royalty is viewed as a contractual obligation between the mining lessee and the lessor, thus not subject to the same regulatory framework as taxes.
    • Parliamentary Limitations: The judgment emphasised that the MMDR Act cannot impose limitations on state taxation powers regarding mines and quarries. The Court rejected the argument that Entry 50 of the State List allowed Parliament to impose restrictions on state taxes related to mineral rights.
    • Dissenting Opinion: Justice B.V. Nagarathna provided a dissenting opinion, cautioning that allowing states to tax under Entry 49 could lead to double taxation and undermine the specific provisions of Entry 50.

    About the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957

    • The MMDR Act was enacted to regulate the mining sector in India, ensuring the development and conservation of minerals while balancing the interests of the state and the public.
    • The Act provides a comprehensive framework for the licensing and regulation of mines, including provisions for the fixation of royalties on mineral extraction.
    • The Act has been a point of contention regarding the extent of state powers to impose taxes on mineral rights, with arguments that it limits state legislative competence in this area.
    • The Supreme Court’s recent ruling clarifies that the MMDR Act does not restrict state powers to tax mineral rights, thus resolving conflicts arising from previous interpretations of the Act.

    On the division of the power

    • Constitutional Framework: The Constitution of India delineates the distribution of powers between the Centre and the States through the Seventh Schedule, which includes the State List and the Union List.
    • Entry 49 and Entry 50: Entry 49 allows states to levy taxes on lands and buildings, while Entry 50 pertains specifically to taxes on mineral rights, subject to limitations imposed by Parliament.
    • Judicial Clarity: The Supreme Court’s judgment clarifies that states can exercise their taxing powers under both Entries 49 and 50 without interference from the MMDR Act, reinforcing the states’ authority over local resources.

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s ruling affirms that states can tax mining lands independently of the MMDR Act, highlighting their authority under Article 246 and Entry 49, despite dissenting concerns about double taxation.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that priniciple is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian Constitution leans in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that militates against the concept of strong federalism. 15M

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  • Coal and Mining Sector

    India’s illegal coal mining problem      

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

    Why in the News?

    On July 13, three workers died of asphyxiation inside an illegal coal mine in Gujarat’s Surendranagar district.

    How Prevalent is Illegal Coal Mining in India?

    • Illegal coal mining has led to multiple fatalities, including recent incidents in Gujarat, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, highlighting its prevalence and dangers.
    • There are 10 workers who have died in illegal mining incidents in Gujarat alone this year, showcasing the ongoing risks associated with this activity.
    • Illegal mining is often conducted in abandoned mines or shallow coal seams, particularly in remote areas, where monitoring and enforcement of regulations are weak.

    What are the Legal Frameworks Governing Coal Mining in India?

    • Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973: This act nationalized coal mining in India, regulating who can mine coal and under what conditions.
    • Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act): This central legislation governs the mining sector, detailing processes for acquiring mining licenses and regulating mining activities. It empowers state governments to frame rules to prevent illegal mining.
      • While the MMDR Act provides a framework, the enforcement and regulation of illegal mining fall under state jurisdiction.

    Why is the Responsibility for Addressing Illegal Mining Placed on State Governments?

    • Law and Order Issue: Illegal mining is categorized as a law and order problem, which is a subject under the State List of the Constitution, making it the responsibility of state governments to address.
    • Limited Central Authority: The Union government often shifts the responsibility to state authorities, citing the decentralized nature of governance in matters of local enforcement and regulation.

    What Factors Contribute to the Persistence of Illegal Coal Mining?

    • High Demand for Coal: With coal accounting for 55% of India’s energy needs, the high demand often exceeds legal supply leading to illegal mining activities.
    • Poverty and Unemployment: Many coal-rich areas are home to impoverished populations who resort to illegal mining as a source of livelihood due to limited job opportunities.
    • Weak Regulatory Enforcement: Inadequate monitoring and enforcement of mining regulations in remote areas allow illegal mining operations to flourish.
    • Political Patronage: Allegations of political leaders’ involvement in illegal mining operations complicate efforts to curb these activities, as seen in various states.

    What Safety Risks Do Workers Face?

    • Lack of Safety Equipment: Workers often operate without helmets, masks, or other protective gear, significantly increasing their risk of injury or death.
    • Hazardous Working Conditions: Illegal mines are typically unregulated, lacking proper structural support, making them vulnerable to cave-ins, landslides, and explosions.
    • Toxic Gas Exposure: Miners are at risk of asphyxiation from inhaling toxic gases like carbon monoxide, as evidenced by recent fatalities in Gujarat.
      • Continuous exposure to coal dust and hazardous substances can lead to respiratory issues and chronic health conditions, further endangering workers’ health.

    Conclusion: Need to implement advanced surveillance technologies, such as drones and satellite imaging, to monitor and detect illegal mining activities in real-time. This can improve the efficiency of enforcement agencies in identifying and responding to illegal operations swiftly.

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  • Why is there a move to split the Bengaluru municipal corporation into smaller bodies with a 3-tier structure?   

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

    Why in the News?

    The Karnataka government has introduced a bill in the state assembly that aims to restructure the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) by dividing it into multiple smaller municipal corporations. This proposal is known as the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024.

    What is the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill?

    • The Bill aims to restructure the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) into smaller administrative units to improve governance in Bengaluru.
    • Drafted by the BBMP Restructuring Committee, the Bill has undergone multiple revisions since its inception in 2014, with the latest modifications presented in June 2024.
    • The Bill was tabled in the Karnataka Assembly on July 23, 2024, and is set for discussion among lawmakers, with a sub-committee likely to scrutinize it before further consideration.

    Key Highlights of the Draft Bill

    • City Corporations: The Bill proposes that the number of city corporations in the Greater Bengaluru Area shall not exceed ten, with indications that it may be split into five units based on specified criteria.
    • Governance Structure: A three-tier governance structure will be established, comprising the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) at the top, city corporations in the middle, and ward committees at the bottom.
    • Composition of GBA: The GBA will be headed by the Chief Minister and include 21 members, including key ministers and heads of various urban development organizations.
    • Criteria for Corporations: City corporations must have a population of at least 10 lakh, a density of over 5,000 people per sq km, and a minimum revenue generation of ₹300 crore annually.
    • Ward Distribution: Each city corporation will consist of between 50 to 200 wards, with the current BBMP having 198 wards.

    Present Criticism

    •  The BJP has criticized the Bill as “unscientific,” claiming it threatens the cultural identity of Bengaluru and could lead to administrative chaos.
      • BJP leaders have expressed fears that the proposed restructuring could diminish the prominence of the Kannada language in Bengaluru.
    • Critics point to the unsuccessful trifurcation of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi in 2012, which was reversed in 2022, as a cautionary tale against such restructuring efforts.
    • Concerns have been raised that the Bill may exacerbate economic disparities among the proposed city corporations, with wealthier areas receiving more resources while poorer areas remain underdeveloped.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Stakeholder Consultation: Before finalizing the Bill, the government should conduct extensive consultations with all stakeholders, including local residents, urban planners, civic organizations, and opposition parties. This will ensure that diverse perspectives are considered, addressing concerns about cultural identity, economic disparities, and administrative efficiency.
    • Clear Definition and Criteria: The Bill should include clear definitions of “local areas” and the criteria for determining the boundaries of the proposed city corporations.

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  • North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

    The panel will look into issues stalling Bill, NE tribal councils told    

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

    Why in the News?

    The Union government will set up a committee led by MoS Home Nityanand Rai to address concerns and expedite the 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which aims to empower tribal autonomous councils in northeastern states.

    What is the Controversy over the 125th Amendment Bill?

    •  The Constitution (125th Amendment) Bill, 2019 aims to grant more financial, executive, and administrative powers to tribal autonomous councils under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
    • The Bill has faced delays due to unresolved issues between the Union government and the tribal councils, prompting the formation of a committee to address these concerns.
    • Tribal leaders argue that the Bill is essential for streamlining administrative systems, ensuring proper resource flow, and enhancing the capacity of councils to implement policies beneficial to their communities.
    • The Bill has been pending since its introduction in the Rajya Sabha in February 2019 and has faced scrutiny from the Departmental-Related Standing Committee on Home Affairs, which flagged multiple issues.

    What are Tribal Autonomous Councils?

    • Tribal autonomous councils are local governance bodies established under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to provide autonomy and protect the rights of tribal populations in certain northeastern states of India.
    •   As of now, there are 10 autonomous councils across Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura, which have the authority to legislate on matters related to land, public health, and agriculture.
    • These councils are intended to empower tribal communities by allowing them to manage their resources and governance independently from state governments.

    About the North Eastern Council (NEC) and Its Structural Mandate

    • The North Eastern Council (NEC) was established in 1972 as a statutory body to promote the economic and social development of the northeastern states of India.
    • The NEC’s primary mandate includes coordinating the planning and implementation of development programs, facilitating inter-state cooperation, and addressing issues specific to the northeastern region.
    • The NEC comprises the Chief Ministers of the northeastern states, along with a nominated representative from the central government, ensuring representation from both state and central authorities.
    • The Council focuses on various sectors, including infrastructure development, education, health, and cultural preservation, aiming to enhance the overall development of the northeastern states.

    Conclusion: The Union government should initiate a transparent and inclusive consultation process involving all stakeholders, including tribal leaders, local communities, and state governments. This process should aim to address the concerns raised by tribal councils and ensure that their voices are heard in the legislative process.

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