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  • States have the unlimited right to tax mineral-rich lands    

    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

  • India’s illegal coal mining problem      

    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.

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

    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.

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

    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.

  • NASA’s Cassini-Huygens Mission

    Why in the News?

    • US space agency NASA’s Cassini-Huygens spacecraft launched in October 1997.
      • Using Cassini’s radar data, scientists from Cornell University have discovered new information about the liquid ocean on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.

    Observations made about Titan

    • Titan is composed of hydrocarbons – organic chemicals consisting of carbon and hydrogen.
    • The astronomers have reportedly located calm seas of methane with a slow tidal current.

    About Cassini-Huygens Mission

    • The Cassini-Huygens mission was a collaborative project between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to explore Saturn and its moons.
    • The spacecraft was named after astronomers Giovanni Cassini and Christian Huygens.
    • The mission consisted of the Cassini orbiter and the Huygens probe.
    • It was launched on October 15, 1997.
    • It ended its mission on September 15, 2017 by plunging into Saturn’s atmosphere.

    Key Achievements:

    • Saturn Exploration:
      • Detailed study of Saturn’s atmosphere, rings, and magnetosphere.
      • Discovered new rings and observed the complex structure of the existing ones.
    • Moons of Saturn:
      • Titan Exploration: Huygens probe successfully landed on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, on January 14, 2005, providing the first direct exploration of Titan’s surface and atmosphere.
      • Enceladus Discoveries: Found water-ice plumes erupting from Enceladus, indicating a subsurface ocean that could potentially harbor life.
    • Other Moons: Provided detailed images and data on other moons like Lapetus, Rhea, Dione, and Tethys.
    • Technological Milestones:
      • Demonstrated the success of long-duration missions in deep space.
      • Advanced the understanding of spacecraft navigation and operation in complex planetary environments.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?

    Spacecraft Purpose
    1. Cassini-Huygens Orbiting the Venus and transmitting data to the Earth
    2. Messenger Mapping and investigating the Mercury
    3. Voyager 1 and 2 Exploring the outer solar system

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

  • What is the Hema Commission Report?

    Why in the News?

    • A single bench of the Kerala High Court has stayed the release of the Justice Hema Commission report.
      • The report investigated women’s working conditions in the Malayalam film industry.

    About the Assault that Exposed the Deep Gender Divide      

    • On February 17, 2017, a leading Malayalam film actress was abducted and sexually assaulted in her car while traveling from Thrissur to Kochi.
    • The incident caused shock and outrage across Kerala as disturbing details emerged, including a video purportedly intended for blackmail.
    • Six of the ten accused were arrested quickly, and popular actor Dileep was named an accused and remanded to judicial custody in July. He is currently out on bail, with the trial ongoing since 2020.

    Formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC)

    • The incident highlighted the discriminatory treatment faced by women in the film industry.
    • The Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) was formed in response, submitting a petition to the Chief Minister demanding an inquiry into gender issues in the industry.

    The Hema Commission

    • In July 2017, five months after the incident, the state government formed a 3-member committee headed by retired Kerala High Court judge, Justice K Hema.
    • The committee’s objective was to investigate issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry.
    • In December 2019, a 300-page report was submitted to the CM Pinarayi Vijayan, including documents, audio, and video evidence.

    Findings and Recommendations

    • The commission consulted multiple women professionals in the industry, recording detailed accounts of sexual harassment, wages earned, and possible blacklisting.
    • The report highlighted the existence of a casting couch, and the presence of alcohol and drugs on film sets.
    • The commission recommended forming a tribunal to investigate these allegations.
    • Other recommendations included making job contracts mandatory, ensuring wage parity across genders for the same job, banning drugs and liquor on shooting locations, and ensuring safe working conditions for women.

    PYQ:

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

    [2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.

  • Niger struggles with Security, Economic Crises

    Why in the News?

    • The China-backed Niger-Benin Export Pipeline that would make Niger an oil-exporting country is being threatened by an internal security crisis and a diplomatic dispute with neighboring Benin.
      • These issues arose after last year’s coup that toppled Niger’s democratic government.

    About Niger

    • Niger, located in West Africa, is a landlocked country known for its vast desert landscapes and significant cultural heritage.
    • The northern region of Niger is dominated by the Sahara Desert, comprising more than half of the country.
    • The central part of Niger is characterized by the Sahel, a semi-arid transition zone between the Sahara
    • The Aïr Mountains, located in the northern central part are a significant mountain range with the highest peak, Mont Idoukal-n-Taghès (2,022 m).
    • The Niger River is the country’s primary water source.
    • Lake Chad is a significant body of water shared with Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon. Its size keep on fluctuating.

    About Niger Benin Export Pipeline

    • The 1,930-kilometer pipeline runs from Niger’s Chinese-built Agadem oil field to the port of Cotonou in Benin.
    • It was designed to help Niger achieve an almost 5x increase in oil production through a $400 million deal with China’s state-run national petroleum company.
    • The pipeline faces significant challenges, including a recent diplomatic disagreement with Benin.
    • These issues threaten to strain Niger’s economy, heavily reliant on external support now withheld after a coup.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which of the following has/have shrunk immensely/dried up in the recent past due to human activities?

    1. Aral Sea
    2. Black Sea
    3. Lake Baikal

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1 and 3

  • Parliamentary Democracy: A Comparison between Nepal and India

    Why in the News?

    • On July 14, K. P. Sharma Oli was sworn in as Nepal’s Prime Minister for the fourth time, leading a new coalition government.
      • Since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, Nepal has had 14 governments despite a new constitution in 2015 promising progress.

    Evolution of Nepal’s Constitution

    • 1948: The Government of Nepal Act was the first attempt at creating a constitution.
    • 1951: The Interim Government of Nepal Act aimed to establish democracy but was replaced in 1959.
    • 1959: Introduced a multi-party system, but the Panchayat Constitution of 1962 established a party-less system under King Mahendra.
    • 1990: A constitutional monarchy restored the multi-party system.
    • 2007: An Interim Constitution was adopted after continued political upheavals.
    • 2015: The current constitution established Nepal as a federal democratic republic.

    Comparing the Indian Constitution and Nepal’s Constitution:

    India Nepal
    Historical Background Adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950.

    Framed by the Constituent Assembly elected in 1946.

    		 Current constitution promulgated on September 20, 2015.

    Many attempts since 1948, 1951, 1959, 1962, 1990, and 2007.
    Form of Government Quasi-federal nature of the Indian constitution is described as a “Union of States” in Article 1. Other factors also talk about the quasi-federal like Emergency power and independent judiciary. etc

    Parliamentary system with the President as the ceremonial head and the Prime Minister as the head of government.

    		 Federal democratic republic.

    Parliamentary system with the President as the ceremonial head and the Prime Minister as the executive head.
    Structure of Government Bicameral legislature: Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

    Three levels of government: central, state, and local.

    		 Bicameral legislature: House of Representatives and National Assembly.

    Three levels of government: federal, provincial, and local.
    Federal Structure More centralized federal structure. The central government has significant authority over states.

    Flexible to allow greater central control when necessary.

    		 More decentralized federal structure. Greater autonomy to provinces.

    Includes seven provinces, each with its own government and legislature.
    Elections and Representation First-past-the-post (FPTP) system for Lok Sabha elections. Representation through single-member constituencies and multi-party systems. Mixed electoral system with both FPTP and proportional representation (PR). Ensures broader representation but leads to the proliferation of smaller parties.
    Judiciary The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial authority.

    Ensures protection of fundamental rights and upholds the rule of law.

    		 The Supreme Court of Nepal is the highest judicial body.

    Interprets the Constitution and protects citizens’ rights. Aims to uphold the rule of law and safeguard fundamental rights.
    Fundamental Rights and Duties Comprehensive list of Fundamental Rights in Part III, including equality, freedom, religion, and constitutional remedies. Fundamental Duties in Part IV-A. Extensive fundamental rights, covering civil, political, and socio-economic rights. Emphasizes affirmative action for marginalized groups.
    Secularism and Religion A secular state with no official religion which mentioned in the Preamble of the Constitution. The secular state was declared in the 2015 Constitution.

    Protects religious freedom and promotes harmony among religious communities.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty.

    [2022] Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected.

    [2021] Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.

    [2021] Analyse the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.

    [2020] The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices.

    [2019] What can France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism?

    [2018] India and the USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based.
  • [25th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: An outlining of urban transformation strategies

    [25th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: An outlining of urban transformation strategies

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:

    Q1 What are ‘Smart Cities’? examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ‘Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission. (UPSC IAS/2016) 

    Q2 The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.  (UPSC IAS/2016) 


    Prelims: 
    Q With reference to ‘Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD)’, consider the following statements (2017)
    1. The first APMCHUD was held in India in 2006 on the theme ‘Emerging Urban Forms — Policy Responses and Governance Structure’. 
    2. India hosts all the Annual Ministerial Conferences in partnership with ADB, APEC and ASEAN. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 
    (a) 1 only 
    (b) 2 only 
    (c) Both 1 and 2 
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Initiative related to Housing in India;

    Mains: Issues related to Urbanisation;

    Mentor comments:  Urban planning in India focuses on managing rapid urbanization, which has seen the urban population grow from 62.4 million in 1951 to 377.1 million in 2011, projected to reach 590 million by 2030. Key challenges include inadequate infrastructure, housing shortages, and solid waste management. The government is promoting initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Smart Cities Mission to enhance urban livability and sustainability, emphasizing public participation and financial investment in urban infrastructure.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the News? 

    The new government’s first Budget has acknowledged cities as key growth hubs and provided numerous opportunities and options for their planned development and expansion.

    Initiative related to Housing in Budget (2024-2025)

    • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban): Launched in 2015, the scheme has successfully provided 85 lakh housing units for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Middle Income Groups (MIG) with an investment of approximately ₹8 lakh crore.
      • The Budget allocates ₹30,171 crore for the current year to support the construction of housing units and provide interest subsidies to facilitate affordable loans for beneficiaries.
    • New Rental Housing for Industrial Workers: The Budget introduces plans for new rental housing with dormitory-type accommodations for industrial workers, developed through public-private partnerships (PPP) with financial support under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme.
    • Core Infrastructure Development: The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) is allocated ₹8,000 crore to enhance essential urban infrastructure, including water supply, sanitation, roads, and sewerage systems.
    • Investment in Urban Infrastructure: A significant investment of ₹11.11 lakh crore is earmarked for capital expenditure in infrastructure, which includes provisions for urban development.
    • Smart Cities Mission: The Budget provides ₹2,400 crore for the Smart Cities Mission, which has seen a reduction in funding compared to previous years, focusing on completing existing commitments.
    Issues related to housing in India:

    • Housing Shortage: India faces a significant housing deficit, with approximately 19 million households lacking decent housing in urban areas, contributing to a slum population of 65.5 million living in 13.7 million slum households in major cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
    • Affordable Housing Crisis: The gap between housing demand and supply has led to the proliferation of slums. The 2011 Census indicates that 4.5 lakh homeless families and a total of 17.73 lakh individuals are living without any roof over their heads.
    • Urbanization Pressure: Rapid urbanization is putting immense pressure on urban resources. The urban population in India is projected to nearly double between 2018 and 2050, intensifying the existing housing crisis and straining infrastructure.
    • Environmental Degradation: Unplanned urban expansion and inadequate housing development contribute to environmental issues, such as urban heat islands, pollution, and inadequate drainage systems, leading to crises like the Chennai floods in 2015.

    Budget on Urban Planning:

    • The Budget has declared a focus on the planned development of cities, recognizing the importance of strategic urban planning.
      • Municipalities will receive the normal ‘Finance Commission Grant’ of ₹25,653 crore to support their development initiatives.
    • On Transit-Oriented Development: The development of mass rapid transit systems in cities will enable transit-oriented development, allowing for denser development around transit hubs without overburdening roads.
      • The Budget has announced an enhanced focus on economic and transit planning, emphasizing the orderly development of peri-urban areas through town planning schemes.
    • On Electric Bus Systems: The Budget proposes encouraging the adoption of electric bus systems in cities, providing ₹1,300 crore in support.

    Budget on Solid Waste Management:

    • Government Initiatives: The Budget has announced a special thrust to introduce bankable projects for solid waste management in collaboration with state governments and financial institutions. This indicates a commitment to improving waste management systems.
    • Viability Gap Funding (VGF): States and municipalities can utilize the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to support SWM projects, making it financially feasible for local governments to implement effective waste management solutions.
    Successful Models: Cities like Indore in Madhya Pradesh have demonstrated successful models of solid waste management, showcasing that SWM can be a financially viable proposition. Indore has been recognized for its effective waste segregation and processing systems.
    • Street Vendors and Urban Planning: The Street Vendors Act, 2014, aims to regulate street vending and protect the rights of vendors, which can contribute to organized waste management in urban areas. The Budget proposes the development of 100 weekly ‘haats’ or street food hubs, which can be integrated into broader waste management strategies.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Housing Policies: Develop integrated housing policies that address the entire housing continuum, from emergency shelters to affordable housing, to bridge the gap between demand and supply.
    • Sustainable Urban Development: Implement sustainable urban development practices, focusing on environmentally friendly infrastructure, green spaces, and resilient housing to mitigate environmental degradation.

  • Why SC couldn’t agree on the environmental release of GM mustard? 

    Why in the news?

    A two-judge Bench of the Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on Tuesday, July 23, regarding the “environmental release” of Genetically Modified (GM) mustard.

    About GM Mustard Crop 

    • Development and Approval Process: On September 15, 2015, the Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP) at Delhi University sought approval from the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) for the environmental release of GM mustard DMH-11.
    • Biosafety Dossier: The CGMCP submitted a biosafety dossier to the GEAC, which created a sub-committee to examine its contents. After revisions, the sub-committee submitted its report, inviting comments in September 2016.
    • GEAC Recommendations: On May 11, 2017, the GEAC recommended the environmental release of GM mustard, allowing field tests to assess the crop’s effects. However, the Ministry of Environment sent the proposal back for re-examination in March 2018 after receiving several representations.
    • Deferred Tests: The GEAC directed the CGMCP to examine the effects of GM mustard on honey bees and soil microbial diversity, but these tests were deferred through 2020-21.
      • The GEAC-appointed expert committee found that honeybees do not discriminate between other GM crops such as genetically engineered canola.

    What is the case before the Supreme Court?

    • Background of the Case: The case arose from challenges by environmentalist Aruna Rodrigues and the organization Gene Campaign against the GEAC’s approval for the environmental release of GM mustard, arguing that the decision violated the precautionary principle and lacked proper scientific scrutiny.
    • Split Verdict: The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict regarding the approval for the environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard, specifically the hybrid DMH-11. Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Sanjay Karol had differing opinions on the legality of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee’s (GEAC) decision-making process.
    • Justice Nagarathna’s Opinion: Justice Nagarathna held that the GEAC’s approval was flawed and did not follow the necessary procedures, particularly failing to conduct promised field tests. She emphasized that the approval violated public trust and the precautionary principle, which is essential for protecting the environment and public health.
    • Justice Karol’s Opinion: In contrast, Justice Karol argued that the GEAC’s decision was valid and aligned with the development of scientific temper. He stated that field trials are necessary to assess the environmental safety of GM mustard and that the decision-making process was independent and reasoned.
    • Unanimous Directives: Despite the split decision, both judges agreed on the need for the Union government to formulate a national policy regarding GM crops. This policy should involve consultations with various stakeholders, including experts, farmers, and state governments.
    • Case referred to larger bench: The case will be referred to a larger bench for further adjudication due to the differing opinions. The Supreme Court directed that the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) should conduct a national consultation within four months to develop this policy.
    • Concerns Raised: Justice Nagarathna pointed out that the GEAC did not consider the long-term effects of GM mustard on health and the environment, while Justice Karol noted the importance of conducting field trials under strict safeguards to monitor the crop’s impact.

    Conclusion: The Union government should formulate a detailed and inclusive national policy on genetically modified crops. This policy should be based on extensive consultations with experts, farmer representatives, state governments, and other stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach that considers scientific, environmental, and public health perspectives.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification? (2021)