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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Gender Gap Report 2024: Key Highlights

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2:

    Why in the news?

    India’s new cabinet has only 2 women ministers, down from 10 previously. The Global Gender Gap Report 2024 (by the World Economic Forum)  ranks India third-lowest in South Asia, highlighting significant gender disparity in leadership and representation.

    Comparison of Indian Ranking with Other Countries:

    • Global Gender Gap Report 2024: India ranked 129th out of 146 economies in the overall gender gap index. Ranked third-lowest among South Asian economies, behind Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan.

    Key points as Gender Gap Report 2024: 

    Economic Participation and Opportunity: 142nd, Health and Survival: 142nd, Educational Attainment: 112th, and Political Empowerment: Best rank (65th), but overall political representation remains low.

    • Political Empowerment: India performs relatively better on the head-of-state indicator (40.7%). However, women’s representation in ministerial positions (6.9%) and parliament (17.2%) is significantly lower. The region of South Asia shows high political disparity, with Nepal leading in ministerial representation (23.5%).
    • Educational Attainment: Despite high enrollment rates in primary, secondary, and tertiary education for women, the gap in literacy rate between men and women is significant (17.2 percentage points). India ranks 112th globally in this indicator.
    • Economic Participation: India has seen improvement in economic participation and opportunity, although it still ranks low (142nd). Challenges remain in bridging gender gaps in earned income, leadership roles, labour force participation, and technical professions.

    Major observations around the causes of the Gender Gap

    • Patriarchal Structures: Patriarchy influences decision-making processes and power dynamics, often marginalising women’s voices and restricting their participation in political, economic, and social spheres.
    • Gender Bias: Gender bias manifests in various forms, affecting women’s access to resources, healthcare, education, and career advancement opportunities compared to men.
    • Gender Pay Gap: Women in India typically earn less than men for similar work, reflecting systemic inequalities in pay and compensation.
    • Occupational Segregation: Women are often concentrated in lower-paying sectors and informal employment, facing barriers to accessing high-paying and leadership roles.
    • Political Underrepresentation: Low representation of women in decision-making bodies such as parliament and state assemblies hinders legislative reforms and policies that could promote gender equity and address systemic barriers.

    Way forward:

    • Gender Quotas: Implement and enforce quotas for women’s representation in parliament, state assemblies, and ministerial positions. This can be modelled after successful practices in other countries where gender quotas have significantly increased women’s political participation.
    • Equal Pay Initiatives: Enforce equal pay for equal work through rigorous monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. Encourage transparency in salary structures and promote awareness among employers and employees.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.(UPSC IAS/2021)

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Lal Crater on Mars

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Why in the News?

    Back2Basics: International Astronomical Union (IAU)

    • The IAU was founded on July 28, 1919, during the Constitutive Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium.
    • Its creation was prompted by the need for international collaboration in astronomy, especially after the devastation caused by World War I.
    • It aims to promote and safeguard astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
    • IAU is now headquartered in Paris, France.

    Major Activities and Initiatives

    • General Assembly: The IAU holds a general assembly every three years in varying parts of the world at which professional astronomers meet to discuss research, new cooperative ventures, and similar matters of professional interest.
    • Astronomical Nomenclature: IAU standardises the nomenclature of celestial bodies, features, and phenomena. It maintains several working groups dedicated to naming conventions for stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects.
    • Research and Collaboration: It promotes international cooperation in astronomical research and supports initiatives such as observational campaigns, data sharing, and joint projects.
    • Education and Outreach: It is actively involved in promoting astronomy education and public outreach efforts worldwide. It supports educational programs, workshops, and resources for students, teachers, and the general public.

    Membership

    1. IAU membership spans 92 countries. Out of those countries, 85 are National Members.
    2. India is represented by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
    3. Its members are professional astronomers from all over the world, at the D. level and beyond, who are active in professional research, education, and outreach in astronomy.

    Crater Names and Significance

    • Lal Crater: Named after Prof. Devendra Lal, former director of PRL, this 65 km wide crater is positioned at -20.98° and 209.34°.
    • Mursan Crater: Named after a town in Uttar Pradesh, India, this ~10 km wide crater is situated on the eastern side of the Lal crater’s rim.
    • Hilsa Crater: Named after a town in Bihar, India, this ~10 km wide crater is positioned on the western side of the Lal crater’s rim.

    Scientific Importance of Lal Crater

    • Lava Coverage: The entire Lal crater area, located in the Tharsis volcanic region on Mars, is covered with lava.
    • Evidence of Water: Geophysical evidence, including a 45-meter thick sedimentary deposit, suggests the presence of water in the subsurface of the Lal crater. This finding supports the theory that Mars once had water flowing on its surface.
    • Infilling Process: Mursan and Hilsa craters, positioned on either side of the Lal crater, offer insights into the infilling process of the Lal crater. Their presence indicates that infilling occurred episodically over time.

    India’s 2nd Quest for Mars

    • The ISRO is expected to launch Mangalyaan-2, or Mars Orbiter Mission 2 (MOM 2), in 2025.
    • The mission will last one year and is aimed at studying the Red Planet.
    • The successor to Mangalyaan-1, or Mars Orbiter Mission 1 (MOM 1), Mangalyaan-2 will consist of only one orbiter and will be launched atop a GSLV Mark III rocket from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

    Other missions to Mars

    • ExoMars rover (2022): European Space Agency’s mission to explore Mars.
    • Tianwen-1 (2021): China’s Mars Mission aims to explore and study the Martian surface.
    • UAE’s Hope Mars Mission (2021): UAE’s first interplanetary mission focused on studying the Martian atmosphere.
    • NASA’s Mars Insight (2018): A lander designed to study the interior of Mars.
    • NASA’s Curiosity (2012) and Perseverance (2020): Rovers exploring the Martian surface.
    • NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (2005), Mars Odyssey (2001), and MAVEN (2013): Orbiters studying Mars from space.
    • Mars 2 and Mars 3 (1971): Soviet Union’s missions to Mars, which included orbiter and lander components.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

    1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission.
    2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
    3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit Mars in its very first attempt.

    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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  • Air Pollution

    India is the World’s Second Largest emitter of Nitrous Oxide

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

    Why in the News?

    • India ranks as the world’s second-largest contributor (after China) to nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas (GHG), accounting for approximately 11% of global man-made emissions in 2020 as per data published in the journal Earth System Science Data.
      • The top five country emitters by volume of anthropogenic N2O emissions in 2020 were China (16.7%), India (10.9%), the United States (5.7%), Brazil (5.3%), and Russia (4.6%).

    About Nitrous Oxide

    • Nitrous oxide (N2O), a colourless and odourless gas, is a potent greenhouse gas, 300 times more powerful than CO2. Despite its small atmospheric fraction, it ranks third in concentration after CO2 and methane (CH4). It’s a crucial target for environmental research and efforts to mitigate climate change impacts.

    Sources of Emission:

    1. Natural Sources: N2O is naturally produced in processes such as microbial nitrogen cycling in soil and water bodies, volcanic activity, and biomass burning.
    2. Anthropogenic Activities: Human activities significantly contribute to N2O emissions, with the primary sources being:
    • Agricultural practices, including the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers and animal manure.
    • Industrial processes such as combustion of fossil fuels and wastewater treatment.
    • Combustion of biomass and waste.
    • Use of nitrous oxide in medical and dental procedures (as a sedative) and in food packaging.

    Impact on Climate Change:

    • Greenhouse Gas: N2O is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) much higher than that of carbon dioxide (CO2).
    • Ozone Depletion: In addition to its role in climate change, N2O also contributes to ozone depletion in the stratosphere, further exacerbating environmental concerns.

    Environmental and Health Effects:

    • Environmental Pollution: N2O emissions can lead to pollution of soil, water bodies, and air, affecting ecosystems and human health.
    • Health Risks: While N2O is relatively non-toxic at ambient levels, prolonged exposure or high concentrations can pose health risks, including respiratory issues and neurological effects.

    Global Nitrous Oxide Emissions

    • Atmospheric Concentration: The concentration of atmospheric N2O reached 336 parts per billion in 2022, about 25% above pre-industrial levels.
    • Next to Carbon Emissions: In comparison, the concentration of carbon dioxide was 417 parts per million in 2022.
    • Persistent Lifespan: Once emitted, N2O stays in the atmosphere for longer than the average human lifespan (117 years), making its climate and ozone impacts long-lived.
    • Contribution to Climate Change: These emissions are responsible for 6.4% of the effective radiative forcing of greenhouse gases and have added about 0.1°C to current global warming.
    • Impact of Nitrogen Fertilizers: N2O emissions from human activities have increased by 40% in the past four decades, with agricultural production using nitrogen fertilizers and animal manure contributing 74% of total anthropogenic N2O emissions in the last decade.

    Call for Action and Future Outlook

    • Scientists warn that anthropogenic N2O emissions must decline by at least 20% relative to 2019 levels by 2050 to align with net-zero emission pathways consistent with the Paris Agreement.
    • Nitrogen fertilizers, which are heavily subsidized in India, contribute significantly to N2O emissions. Urgent reforms are needed to promote alternative production systems and mitigate emissions.

    India’s Policy Initiatives to Curb Nitrogen Pollution

    • Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) (2010): This policy encourages the adoption of controlled-release fertilizers to enhance nutrient management efficiency.
    • Soil Health Cards (2015): Provided to farmers, these cards offer insights into soil nutrient levels and tailored fertilizer recommendations, promoting balanced nutrient application.
    • Bharat Stage (BS VI) Emission Standards (2016): These stringent regulations for vehicles and industries aim to reduce the emission of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, thereby mitigating air and water pollution.
    • Nano Urea (2021): Marketed by the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), Nano Urea is a patented fertilizer approved for commercial use, designed to curb excessive and indiscriminate conventional urea use while boosting crop yields.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Why does the Government of India promote the use of ‘Neem-coated Urea’ in agriculture?

    (a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms

    (b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil

    (c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into the atmosphere by crop fields

    (d) It is a combination of a weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    N332-GT5 and eOD-GT8: Advancements in HIV Vaccine Development

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

    Why in the News?

    Researchers at the Duke Human Vaccine Institute have successfully induced broadly neutralising antibodies (bNAbs) against HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) through vaccination for the first time.

    About HIV/AIDS:

    • Emergence: The first cases of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) were reported in the early 1980s, primarily among gay men in the United States.
    • Discovery of HIV: In 1983-1984, scientists identified HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) as the cause of AIDS.
    • Global Spread: HIV/AIDS quickly became a global pandemic, affecting millions of people worldwide.

    Causes:

    • HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids of an infected person, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
    • Common modes of HIV transmission include unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

    Symptoms:

    • Acute HIV Infection: Many people experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, within 2-4 weeks after infection.
    • Asymptomatic Stage: After the initial symptoms subside, HIV often enters a latent stage where individuals may not experience any symptoms for years.
    • Progression to AIDS: Without treatment, HIV gradually weakens the immune system, leading to the development of opportunistic infections and cancers. This advanced stage is known as AIDS and is characterized by severe immune deficiency.

    Vaccines Development:

    • Challenges: Developing an HIV vaccine has been challenging due to the virus’s ability to mutate rapidly and evade the immune system.
    • Vaccine Candidates: Numerous vaccine candidates have been tested over the years, but none have yet been successful in providing robust protection against HIV infection.
    • Hope for the Future: Despite setbacks, advances in vaccine development, such as the identification of promising candidates like N332-GT5 and eOD-GT8, offer hope for eventually achieving an effective HIV vaccine.

    How B cells and mRNA play distinct roles in the context of HIV infection?

    1.    B cells (B lymphocytes):

    • B cells are a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune response.
    • In HIV infection, B cells participate in the adaptive immune response by producing antibodies specific to HIV antigens.
    • These antibodies can neutralize HIV particles, tag infected cells for destruction by other immune cells, and contribute to the immune memory against HIV.

    2.    mRNA (messenger RNA):

    • mRNA is a molecule that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized.
    • In the context of HIV, mRNA is involved in the replication process of the virus.
    • HIV uses its RNA genome to produce viral mRNA, which directs the synthesis of viral proteins necessary for the assembly of new virus particles.
    • Understanding HIV mRNA is crucial for developing antiviral therapies that target viral replication, such as mRNA-based vaccines or mRNA inhibitors.

    N332-GT5 and eOD-GT8: The New Vaccines in Making

    • N332-GT5: This vaccine candidate targets a specific region on the surface of the HIV virus known as the N332 glycan site. By engaging B-cells that have the potential to produce bNAbs against this site, N332-GT5 aims to stimulate the immune system to generate a protective response against a wide range of HIV strains.
    • eOD-GT8: Similarly, eOD-GT8 is designed to target another region on the HIV virus, known as the eOD protein. By leveraging nanoparticles as carriers, eOD-GT8 aims to enhance the immune system’s ability to recognize and neutralize HIV, ultimately leading to the production of bNAbs.

    What are Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies (bNAbs)?

    • In the 1990s, scientists discovered that some HIV-infected individuals produced bNAbs, which neutralize many viral strains.
    • bNAbs target viral protein areas crucial for infectivity, making them less likely to change.
    • Despite their effectiveness, bNAbs take years to develop, by which time HIV has often evolved to escape them.

    Developing bNAb-Based Vaccines

    • The goal is to make the immune system produce bNAbs quickly in response to a vaccine.
    • Germline targeting involves three steps:
      1. Identify and engage B-cells capable of producing bNAbs.
      2. Use a booster to guide these cells to produce stronger bNAbs.
      3. Refine bNAbs to neutralize a wide range of HIV strains.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing?

    1. Chikungunya

    2. Hepatitis B

    3. HIV-AIDS

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 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

    UNESCO heritage site of Delos, Greece

    National Parks/WS | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    • Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated close to Mykonos, Greece, played a pivotal role as a sanctuary in the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations.
      • Scientists warn that Delos faces imminent destruction within the next 50 years due to rising sea levels caused by climate change.

    About Delos

    • Delos is a small island located in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago in Greece.
    • It is considered as the birthplace of Apollo, the god of light, arts, and healing, and his sister Artemis, the goddess of the hunt.
    • Its ancient ruins date back to the 3rd millennium BCE.
    • These ruins include temples, houses, sanctuaries, theatres, and other public buildings.
    • It served as a port and trading hub, connecting the civilizations of the eastern Mediterranean with those of the west.
    • Delos was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.
    • Ruins and Monuments: 
      • Some of the most notable ruins and monuments on Delos include the Terrace of the Lions, the Temple of Apollo, the House of the Dolphins, the Theater District, and the Sacred Lake.

    About UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS)

    Details
    Definition A WHS is a landmark or area with legal protection by an international convention administered by UNESCO.
    Criteria WHS are designated for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other forms of significance.
    World Heritage Convention
    • 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage established the framework for preserving the world’s outstanding heritage.
    • 191 State Parties, including India, have ratified the World Heritage Convention.
    Number of Sites There are currently 1,172 World Heritage Sites across 166 countries.
    Types of Sites
    • 913 cultural sites
    • 220 natural sites
    • 39 mixed properties
    World Heritage Committee Evaluate nominated sites and inscribe them on the World Heritage List.
    Preservation Member states commit to protecting their World Heritage Sites.
    World Heritage Fund The fund, supported by member contributions, provides assistance for preserving sites.
    Selection Criteria Sites must demonstrate Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) by meeting criteria defined in the Convention.
    Advisory Bodies International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) assess nominated sites.
    Criteria for Cultural Sites Six criteria for significance related to human creative genius, cultural interchange, unique testimony, outstanding examples of architecture, tradition, and events.
    Criteria for Natural Sites Four criteria for significance related to natural phenomena, Earth’s evolutionary history, ecological processes, and biological diversity.
    Legal Status Once inscribed, each site remains the property of the state it belongs to, with shared responsibility for its preservation and protection.
    Obligations Member states are obligated to integrate heritage protection into regional planning, report on-site conditions, and preserve sites for future generations.
    Enforcement The Committee may provide assistance, deploy experts, or delist sites in extreme cases of endangerment.

    Important Sites in India:

    • There are 42 World Heritage Sites in India.
    • Out of these, 34 are cultural, 7 are natural, and 1, Khangchendzonga National Park, is of mixed type.
    • India has the sixth-most sites worldwide.
    • The first sites to be listed were the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and Taj Mahal, all of which were inscribed in the 1983 session of the World Heritage Committee.
    • The most recent sites listed were Santiniketan and the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, in 2023.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic?

    (a) Khangchendzonga National Park

    (b) Nandadevi National Park

    (c) Neora Valley National Park

    (d) Namdapha National Park

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  • The social sciences, a shelter for the ‘excluded’ student

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Why in the news?

    Persistent exclusion results in some disciplines becoming a last resort for many students with social sciences increasingly becoming a significant reservoir of the excluded in India.

    Causes of Exclusion in Higher Education:

    • Excessive Competition: Premier institutions have stringent filtering mechanisms due to high demand, which results in significant exclusion of students.
    • Financial Factors: Private institutions often have high fees not regulated by statutory norms, and public institutions, facing reduced government funding, also increase fees, making education inaccessible for many.
    • Subject and Course Availability: There is a regional disparity in the availability of courses. Certain regions offer generic courses with outdated syllabi, limiting students’ choices and leading to exclusion.

    Surge of Empirical Orientation:

    • Employability Perception: Courses with empirical and practical applications, like economics, are perceived to offer better employment opportunities compared to more theoretical courses like anthropology or sociology.
    • Policy Intervention Skills: There is a growing expectation for social science students to develop problem-solving skills similar to those of engineering students, which narrows the focus within social sciences.
    • Private Universities: The emergence of private universities catering to the affluent has led to a demand for courses that are less popular in public institutions, creating a dichotomy in course preference and quality.

    Improving Quality of Higher Education:

    • Expand Quantity and Improve Quality: Increase the number of seats to accommodate excluded students and ensure concerted efforts towards enhancing the quality of education like entry based on competitive exams.
    • Enhance Teaching Quality: Prioritize the improvement of teaching methods and the content of courses to make education more relevant and effective for example reviewing and taking feedback on learning experiences from students.
    • Address Financial Exclusion: Implement measures to reduce financial barriers and prevent the widening of educational inequalities, ensuring that quality education is accessible to a broader demographic. For example, the Government can provide loans or scholarships.
    • Update Course Content: Regularly revise and update the syllabi to keep pace with societal changes and technological advancements, such as generative artificial intelligence.
    • Focus on Inclusivity: Ensure that policies and interventions in higher education focus on inclusivity, addressing the needs of diverse student populations and reducing regional disparities in course offerings.

    Steps taken by Government 

    • All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) Initiatives: The AICTE has undertaken various initiatives to enhance the quality of technical education, such as the establishment of Deen Dayal Upadhyay KAUSHAL Kendras and the introduction of B.Voc degree programs.
    • University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations: The UGC has notified regulations to improve the quality of higher education, including those related to recognition, accreditation, minimum qualifications for teachers, curbing ragging, and grievance redressal.
    • Scholarship and Fellowship Schemes: The UGC has launched various scholarship and fellowship schemes, such as the PG Doctoral Fellowship for SC/ST students, to promote inclusion and equity in higher education.

    Conclusion: Efforts to enhance higher education, including expanding access, improving quality, and addressing financial barriers, are crucial for fostering inclusivity and equipping students for India’s future.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2015)

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  • Police Reforms – SC directives, NPC, other committees reports

    Arrest, agencies, and criminal courts

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Civil Service

    Why in the news?

    In May 2024, the Supreme Court clearly stated its stance in two important rulings that affect the rights of individuals accused of crimes.

    About Supreme Court’s Decision on Detention:

    • Custody Not Necessary Before Charge Sheet: The Supreme Court ruled that the custody of an accused is not mandatory before filing a charge sheet in certain criminal cases.
    • Relief for Investigating Agencies: This decision, if adhered to by lower courts, could alleviate pressures on investigating agencies.

    Filing of Charge Sheet:Siddharth v. State of Uttar Pradesh and Another (2021)

    • Non-obligatory Arrest: Section 170 of the CrPC does not require investigating officers (IOs) to arrest every accused at the time of filing the charge sheet.
    • Acceptance of Charge Sheet: Courts cannot refuse to accept charge sheets solely because the accused is not in custody if the accused has been cooperating and is unlikely to abscond.
    • Practical Issues: Despite the ruling, IOs face challenges in filing charge sheets due to court practices and logistical constraints, such as the absence of all accused or arbitrary limits on the number of charge sheets accepted daily.

    Grounds of Arrest:

    1.  Pankaj Bansal v. Union of India and Others (2023):

    • Written Notification Required: Grounds of arrest must be provided in writing to the accused to comply with constitutional and statutory mandates, specifically under Section 19(1) of the PMLA.

    2. Prabir Purkayastha v. State (NCT of Delhi):

    • Application to UAPA: The requirement for written grounds of arrest under PMLA applies equally under UAPA.
    • Formal vs. Personal Grounds: Differentiates between formal reasons for arrest and personal grounds, necessitating detailed written reasons for arrest.

    3. Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC):

    • Section 50(1) Compliance: Requires that every police officer inform the arrested person of the full particulars of the offence and grounds of arrest.
    • Arrest Memo: While arrest memos detail charges and are signed by the IO and the accused, there is no legal requirement to provide a copy to the accused.
    • Recommendation for Amendment: To comply with constitutional rights, it is suggested to amend the law to provide a copy of the arrest memo to the accused, enhancing transparency and legal support.

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s decisions regarding the necessity of detention before charge sheet filing and the requirements for informing an accused of the grounds of arrest, highlight the implications for legal and procedural practices in India.

     

    Mains PYQ:

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

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  • Special Category Status and States

    Bihar’s call for Special Category Status | Explained

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

    Why in the News?

    Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has renewed the State’s persistent call for special category status from the Centre, which would boost the State’s share of tax revenues from the Central government.

    How does the ‘Special Category’ Status benefit the states like Bihar?

    • Increased Central Funds: States with special category status receive a higher share of central funds for government schemes, typically 90% from the Centre, compared to 60%-80% for other states.
    • Tax-Related Concessions: These states enjoy various tax concessions that can attract investments and boost economic development.
    • Financial Aid for Development: The additional funds can be used to address developmental gaps, improve infrastructure, and support welfare programs.

    Criteria for Special Category status:

    • Geographic Disadvantages: States with challenging terrains such as hilly or difficult terrain.
    • Low Population Density or High Tribal Population: States with a considerable proportion of tribal population or low population density.
    • Economic and Social Backwardness: States that are economically and socially disadvantaged.
    • Strategic Location: States that share international borders or have strategic significance.

    Why has Bihar’s demand been a long-standing issue?

    • Economic Backwardness: Bihar has one of the lowest per capita incomes in India and lags behind in several human development indicators.
    • Fiscal Challenges: The bifurcation of the state leading to the formation of Jharkhand, frequent natural disasters, and insufficient water resources for irrigation have adversely affected Bihar’s fiscal situation.
    • Political Reiteration: Successive Bihar governments have continuously demanded special status to help the state’s development.

    What are the political implications of granting ‘Special Status’ to Bihar?

    • Increased Bargaining Power: Granting special status could enhance Bihar’s political leverage with the central government, especially in coalition politics.
    • Precedent for Other States: Granting special status to Bihar could lead to similar demands from other states, potentially creating financial burdens for the Centre.
    • Electoral Promises and Alliances: Political parties may use the promise of special status as an electoral tool to gain or maintain power, as seen with the Congress party’s manifesto promise in 2024.
    • Centre-State Relations: The decision could impact the dynamics of center-state financial relations and influence the federal structure of revenue distribution in India.

    Conclusion: The Central government should establish a transparent and well-defined framework for granting special category status, taking into account various economic, geographic, and social parameters. This framework should be periodically reviewed to ensure it remains relevant and fair to all states.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India – EU

    Expert Explains: What European Parliament election results signify, with the rise of right-wing parties?

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

    Why in the News?

    The outcomes of the June 6-9 European Parliament elections, where approximately 51% of over 370 million eligible voters across 27 EU nations participated, indicated an increase in support for right-wing and far-right parties, resulting in losses for predominantly left-leaning and liberal parties.

    What is the European Parliament?

    • The European Parliament is one of the core institutions of the European Union (EU), where Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are directly elected by citizens of the 27 member states.
    • It provides democratic legitimacy to EU activities and consists of 720 seats allocated based on degressive proportionality, meaning smaller states elect more MEPs than their populations would warrant.

    Functions of the European Parliament:

    • The Parliament has three main functions: adopting and amending EU legislation along with the Council of the EU, supervising the functioning of other EU institutions (especially the European Commission), and sharing authority over the EU budget with the Council.
    • It also ratifies international agreements and plays a crucial role in shaping the EU’s direction on various issues such as climate change, migration, and international relations.

    Major Players in the New European Parliament:

    • MEPs are affiliated with Europe-wide political groups based on commonalities in ideology. Major groups include the European People’s Party (EPP), Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D), Renew Europe, Greens/European Free Alliance (Greens/EFA), European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), Identity and Democracy (ID), and the Left Group (GUE/NGL).
    • The EPP and S&D have traditionally been the two major groups, but the Parliament has become more fragmented over time, leading to issue-based coalitions.
    • In the latest elections, the EPP emerged as the largest group, but right-wing and far-right parties made significant gains.

    Impact on EU’s Position on Hot-Button Issues like Immigration:

    • The European Parliament reflects broader political trends across Europe, with right-wing parties gaining traction from issues such as increased immigration, national identity, and scepticism towards certain EU policies.
    • This shift towards the Right has pressured many centre-right parties to adopt harder positions on immigration, likely leading to increased support for tighter border controls and stricter immigration and asylum rules.

    Impacts of election result:

    • The election results may influence the EU’s direction on key issues like climate change, migration, and international relations.
    • The rise of right-wing and far-right parties could lead to shifts in policy priorities and a more conservative stance on certain issues.
    • In national politics, the results may impact the stability of governments and the position of leaders like Emmanuel Macron, who called for snap polls in response to his party’s poor performance in the European elections.

    Conclusion: The European Parliament election results signal a rise in right-wing parties, impacting EU policies on immigration and other key issues. National politics may also face repercussions, affecting leadership stability.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected.(UPSC IAS/2022)

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    What are the functions of Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State?

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

    Why in the News?

    • President Droupadi Murmu administered oaths to the Central Council of Ministers (CoM) of the new NDA government, comprising a larger team compared to the previous term.
      • The Council includes 30 cabinet ministers, five Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 36 Ministers of State, with the Prime Minister leading the team.

    About Central Council of Ministers

    • The Central CoM is a crucial part of India’s governance system.
    • Members: It consists of the Prime Minister (Head), Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, and Deputy Ministers.
    • History:
      • Portfolio System: The system of the CoM finds its roots in the Indian Councils Act of 1861, introduced by Lord Canning going parallel with the British Parliamentary System.

    Constitutional Provisions

    Articles 74 to 78 in Part V of the Indian Constitution broadly deal with the Central Council of Ministers.

    Union Executive: The Union Executive encompasses the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Union Council of Ministers, and Attorney General of India, collectively responsible for the country’s administration.

    Role of the Prime Minister

    • The Prime Minister is the head of the Central Council of Ministers, exercising executive authority and decision-making powers on key policy issues and unallocated portfolios.
    • Responsibilities: Prime Minister Modi oversees critical ministries such as Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy, and Department of Space, while also leading government bodies like the Cabinet Secretariat and NITI Aayog.

    Functions and Duties of CoM

    1. Policy Formulation and Implementation:

    • Formulating Policies: The Council of Ministers, particularly the Cabinet, is tasked with formulating policies crucial for the nation’s development and welfare.
    • Policy Coordination: It ensures coordination among various government departments and agencies for effective policy implementation.

    2. Executive Functions:

    • Real Executive Authority: The Council of Ministers acts as the real executive authority, exercising executive powers on behalf of the President.
    • Administration: It oversees the day-to-day administration of the country, ensuring the smooth functioning of government affairs.
    • Emergency Powers: During emergencies, the Council of Ministers advises the President on the exercise of emergency powers and crisis management.

    3. Legislative Functions:

    • Bills and Legislation: Ministers actively participate in the legislative process by introducing bills, piloting them through Parliament, and ensuring their passage.
    • Policy Advocacy: They advocate for government policies and bills in Parliament, engaging in debates and discussions to garner support.
    • Budgetary Process: The Council of Ministers prepares and presents the annual budget, guiding fiscal policies and financial allocations.

    4. Financial Management:

    • Budget Preparation: It plays a significant role in preparing the national budget, and outlining revenue and expenditure plans for the fiscal year.
    • Financial Administration: The Council oversees financial administration, ensuring compliance with budgetary provisions and efficient resource utilization.
    • Taxation and Fiscal Policy: Ministers propose taxation measures and formulate fiscal policies to promote economic growth and stability.

    Who are the Cabinet Ministers?

    • The Cabinet Ministers are senior members of the Central Council of Ministers who head key government departments or ministries.
    • Typically, Cabinet Ministers are appointed by the Prime Minister and are part of the Cabinet, which is the core decision-making body in the government.
    • Each Cabinet Minister typically manages a specific portfolio aligned with the government’s priorities and responsibilities.
      • Examples: Minister of Finance, Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Defence, Minister of External Affairs, Minister of Health, Minister of Education, and others.
    • The term ‘Cabinet’ was inserted in Art. 352 of the Constitution by the 44th Amendment Act 1978.
    • It did not find a place in the original text of the Constitution.

    Difference between Ministers of State (Independent Charge) and Ministers of State:

    Ministers of State (Independent Charge) Ministers of State
    Authority Have independent portfolios Assist Cabinet Ministers
    Reporting Structure Directly report to PM/President Report to and assist Cabinet Ministers
    Accountability Fully responsible for their departments Assist Cabinet Ministers in tasks
    Protocol Status Equivalent to Cabinet Ministers in status Lower protocol status
    Attendance in Cabinet Meetings May attend if their portfolios are discussed Not regular attendees

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Council of Ministers in the Centre shall be collectively responsible to the Parliament.
    2. The Union Ministers shall hold the office at the pleasure of the President of India.
    3. The Prime Minister shall communicate to the President about the proposals for legislation.

    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

    [2007] Assertion (A): The Council of Ministers in the Union of India is collectively responsible both to the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

    Reason (R): The Members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are eligible to be the Ministers of the Union Government.

    Choose the correct Code:

    (a) Both A are R are true and R is the correct explanation of A

    (b) Both A and R are true but R is not a correct explanation of A

    (c) A is true but R is false

    (d) A is false but R is true

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