💥UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (May Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Archives: News

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

    Bihar Caste Survey: Key Highlights

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

    bihar

    Central Idea

    • The Bihar government recently released the results of its caste survey, shedding light on the state’s demographic composition and caste dynamics.
    • This survey, the first of its kind since 1931, carries significant implications for politics, reservations, and electoral strategies in Bihar.

    Bihar Caste Survey

    • Caste Demographics: The survey reveals the following caste composition in Bihar:
      1. Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) – 36.01%.
      2. Other Backward Classes (OBCs) – 27.12%.
      3. Scheduled Castes (SCs) – 19.65%.
      4. Scheduled Tribes (STs) – 1.68% (most STs are part of Jharkhand since 2000).
      5. “Unreserved” (Forward Castes) – 15.52%.
    • Population Increase: Bihar’s population, according to the survey, is 13,07,25,310, compared to 10.41 crores recorded in the 2011 census. Hindus make up 81.99%, while Muslims constitute 17.72%. Other religious denominations have minuscule populations.

    Survey Process

    • Political Consensus: The decision to conduct the caste survey was made following an all-party meeting in June 2022, with a budget allocation of Rs 500 crore from the contingency fund.
    • Survey Phases: The survey occurred in two phases:
      1. The first phase involved counting households in January.
      2. The second phase, starting in April, aimed to collect caste, religion, economic, and family data.
    • Legal Challenge: The Patna High Court initially halted the survey, but it later resumed after the state clarified it was a “survey” and ensured data privacy.

    Significance

    • Changing Political Landscape: The politics of identity tied to reservations and backward caste assertion has evolved. The BJP’s appeal to OBCs has transformed the political landscape.
    • Opportunities for Backward Classes: Survey results may provide an opening for parties like JD(U) and RJD to mobilize backward classes. The Opposition alliance could use this data to push for a nationwide caste census.
    • Increased Quotas: The survey could fuel demands for expanding OBC quotas beyond 27% and creating sub-quotas for EBCs. The recommendations of the Justice Rohini Commission are expected to influence this debate.
    • Reservation Ceiling Debate: The data may reignite discussions on the 50% reservation ceiling imposed by the Supreme Court in 1992, a contentious issue in various states.

    Electoral Impact

    • Vote Bank Dynamics: EBCs, OBCs, and SCs, constituting over 82% of Bihar’s population, will be a crucial vote bank in upcoming elections.
    • Leadership Dynamics: Leaders like Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar have historically represented OBCs, EBCs, and Dalits. The BJP’s electoral strategy in Bihar will likely emphasize the Prime Minister’s OBC background.
    • Electoral Battles: Political parties will fiercely compete for the support of these influential caste groups, making Bihar a battleground state with complex caste dynamics.

    Why discuss this?

    • Caste Data in Census: Since India’s independence in 1947, every census until 2011 has published data on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Caste data was available in censuses before 1931.
    • 1941 Exception: In 1941, caste-based data was collected but not published due to World War II, as per M.W.M. Yeats, the Census Commissioner at that time.

    Demand for a Caste Census

    • Recurring Demand: The demand for a caste census surfaces before almost every census, primarily driven by groups belonging to Other Backward Classes (OBC) and other deprived sections, while it faces opposition from upper-caste sections.
    • Contemporary Demand: In recent times, opposition parties, especially during Census 2021 delays, have vociferously called for a caste census, focusing on “social justice” as a common rallying point.
    • Political Support: Many politicians have advocated for the release of data from the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011. They also called for a caste census and the removal of the 50% cap on SC/ST/OBC reservations.

    Centre’s Stand

    • Government Policy: The Indian government has consistently decided not to enumerate caste-wise populations, except for SCs and STs, as a matter of policy.
    • Policy Shift: However, in August 2018, following a meeting chaired by then-Home Minister, it was stated that data on OBCs would be collected during Census 2021.
    • RTI Response: When questioned about the meeting’s minutes, the Office of Registrar General of India (ORGI) claimed they did not maintain records of deliberations on this matter before the Ministry of Home Affairs’ announcement.

    Conclusion

    • A caste-based census is against the idea of a casteless society envisaged by leaders like Babasaheb Ambedkar in the Constitution and will weaken ongoing efforts to create social harmony.
    • While proponents argue for better representation and targeted policies, opponents emphasize the importance of moving towards a casteless society.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Nobel and other Prizes

    Medicine Nobel Prize 2023 for mRNA Vaccine Discovery

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

    nobel

    Central Idea

    • Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman, the 2023 medicine Nobel laureates, have earned acclaim for their groundbreaking contributions to the field of mRNA technology.
    • Their work has transformed our understanding of mRNA’s interaction with the immune system, leading to the rapid development of vaccines, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    What is mRNA?

    • Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a single-stranded RNA (Ribo Nucleic Acid) molecule that is complementary to one of the DNA strands of a gene.
    • The mRNA is an RNA version of the gene that leaves the cell nucleus and moves to the cytoplasm where proteins are made.
    • During protein synthesis, an organelle called a ribosome moves along the mRNA, reads its base sequence, and uses the genetic code to translate each three-base triplet, or codon, into its corresponding amino acid.

    What are mRNA vaccines?

    • Such vaccines make use of the messenger RNA molecules that tell the body’s cells what proteins to build.
    • The mRNA, in this case, is coded to tell the cells to recreate the spike protein of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19.
    • It is the spike protein — which appears as spikes on the surface of the coronavirus — that initiates the process of infection; it allows the virus to penetrate cells, after which it goes on to replicate.
    • A coronavirus vaccine based on mRNA, once injected into the body, will instruct the body’s cells to create copies of the spike protein.
    • In turn, this is expected to prompt the immune cells to create antibodies to fight it.
    • These antibodies will remain in the blood and fight the real virus if and when it infects the human body.

    What are other types of vaccines?

    (1) Vector vaccine:

    • In this type of vaccine, genetic material from the COVID-19 virus is placed in a modified version of a different virus (viral vector).
    • When the viral vector gets into your cells, it delivers genetic material from the COVID-19 virus that gives your cells instructions to make copies of the S protein.
    • Once your cells display the S proteins on their surfaces, your immune system responds by creating antibodies and defensive white blood cells.
    • If you later become infected with the COVID-19 virus, the antibodies will fight the virus.

    (2) Protein subunit vaccine:

    • Subunit vaccines include only the parts of a virus that best stimulate your immune system.
    • This type of COVID-19 vaccine contains harmless S proteins.
    • Once your immune system recognizes the S proteins, it creates antibodies and defensive white blood cells.
    • If you later become infected with the COVID-19 virus, the antibodies will fight the virus.

    Back2Basics: Ribo Nucleic Acid (RNA)

    • RNA is an important biological macromolecule that is present in all biological cells.
    • It is principally involved in the synthesis of proteins, carrying the messenger instructions from DNA, which itself contains the genetic instructions required for the development and maintenance of life.
    • In some viruses, RNA, rather than DNA, carries genetic information.
    • The type of RNA dictates the function that this molecule will have within the cell.
    • Aside from the coding region of messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules that will be translated into proteins, other cellular RNA elements are involved in different processes.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

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

    Takeaways from Bihar caste survey

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    caste

    What’s the news?

    • The Bihar caste survey was released by the state government on October 2.

    Central idea

    • The recent release of the Bihar caste survey results has unveiled a complex tapestry of demographics in the state, bringing to the forefront the intricate interplay of caste politics. With EBCs and OBCs cumulatively constituting more than 63% of the population, the dynamics of political representation and reservation are poised for transformation.

    What is a caste-based survey?

    • A caste-based survey is a comprehensive data collection initiative launched by the Bihar state government in India.
    • The primary objective is to gain a deeper understanding of the living conditions and economic status of different communities, especially those that have historically faced marginalization and socio-economic disadvantage.

    Key Findings of the Survey

    • Demographic Breakdown:
    • The survey reveals a diverse demographic landscape in Bihar.
    • The EBCs, comprising 36.01% of the population, emerge as the largest social group,
    • Followed by OBCs at 27.12% and
    • Scheduled Castes (SCs) at 19.65%.
    • Scheduled Tribes (STs) account for a mere 1.68%, primarily due to the bifurcation of Jharkhand in 2000.
    • The unreserved category constitutes 15.52% of the population.
    • Religious Composition:
    • Bihar’s population, according to the survey, stands at 13,07,25,310, compared to the 10.41 crore recorded in the 2011 census.
    • Hindus make up 81.99% of the population, while Muslims account for 17.72%. Other religious denominations have minuscule populations.

    Survey Execution

    • The survey was undertaken following unanimous agreement among political parties in Bihar.
    • It was conducted in two phases.
    1. The first phase involved a household count from January 7 to 21.
    2. The second phase, initiated on April 15, aimed to collect data on castes, religions, economic backgrounds, and family size.
    • The survey faced legal challenges initially but was allowed to proceed after being labeled a survey rather than a census.

    Significance of Survey Findings

    • Changing Political Landscape: The survey highlights the evolving political landscape, where identity politics based on reservation and backward caste assertion is losing its grip. This shift has been influenced by the BJP’s outreach to OBCs through Hindutva and welfare measures.
    • Opportunity for Opposition: The survey results could provide an opportunity for the JD(U)-RJD alliance and other opposition parties to mobilize backward classes, potentially pressuring the BJP to conduct a nationwide caste census.
    • Demand for Quotas: The survey data may fuel demands to increase the OBC quota beyond 27% and introduce a quota within a quota for EBCs, especially in light of the Justice Rohini Commission’s pending recommendations.
    • Reservation Ceiling Debate: The survey’s findings could reignite the long-standing debate over the 50% reservation ceiling imposed by the Supreme Court, which has hindered states from expanding reservations.

    Impact on Upcoming Elections

    • The caste survey findings are likely to have a significant impact on the upcoming Lok Sabha and Bihar Assembly elections.
    • With EBCs, OBCs, and SCs representing over 82% of Bihar’s population, these groups will be key electoral battlegrounds.
    • Leaders like Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar are still seen as primary representatives of these communities, while the BJP faces the challenge of navigating Bihar’s complex caste dynamics.

    Rationale Behind a Caste Census

    • Incomplete Data: The standard Census focuses solely on SC and ST data, leaving a substantial void in comprehending the socio-economic aspects of OBCs and their subdivisions.
    • Targeted Policies: A lack of comprehensive data obstructs the creation of effective policies tailored to the distinct requirements of different caste groups.
    • Equitable Development: The caste census has the potential to reveal disparities within various castes, enabling customized development strategies for historically marginalized communities.
    • Historical and Contemporary Insights: With deep historical roots, the caste system’s evolution can be better understood through a comprehensive census that captures both historical and contemporary dynamics.
    • Constitutional Clarification: Legal scrutiny over caste surveys provides clarity on the authority to conduct such initiatives, delineating roles between state and central governments.
    • Evidence-Based Decision-Making: In a data-centric era, decisions grounded in concrete socio-economic data hold greater potential for equitable and effective governance.

    Conclusion

    • The Bihar caste survey has unveiled a complex web of caste demographics that will shape the state’s political landscape. It has the potential to rekindle debates on reservation policies, mobilize backward classes, and influence electoral outcomes. As Bihar prepares for crucial elections, the survey’s impact on political strategies and alliances remains to be seen.

    Also read:

    The Caste Census and Mandal Politics: Analysis

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • FDI in Indian economy

    India’s rise is the big story. So where’s the FDI?

    op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    What’s the news?

    • The Indian economy grew at 7.8 percent in the first quarter of the ongoing financial year. There is a decline in FDI.

    Central idea

    • Projections by experts, including the RBI and the IMF, indicate a prospective annual growth rate of 6–6.5 percent, reaffirming India’s status as a global growth powerhouse. However, beneath this optimistic narrative lies a concerning trend: foreign direct investment (FDI) in India has been steadily declining.

    India’s growth prospects

    • India is likely to grow at around 6–6.5 percent over the full year.
    • Medium-term assessments, such as those by the IMF, peg growth at roughly 6 percent between 2023 and 2028.
    • This momentum positions India as a formidable player in global growth, potentially rivaling China.
    • Multinationals are increasingly eyeing India as an alternative investment destination, capitalizing on shifting geopolitical dynamics.

    Declining trend in FDI in India

    • FDI Decline: FDI inflows into India have been declining. In the fiscal year 2022–23, FDI stood at $71.3 billion, which marked a 16 percent decrease compared to the previous fiscal year (2021–22). This trend of decline continued in the first four months of the current fiscal year, with a 26 percent drop in FDI inflows compared to the same period the previous year.
    • Equity Flows: A substantial portion of the decline has been in fresh equity flows. Equity flows decreased from approximately $59.6 billion in 2021–22 to around $47.6 billion in 2022–23. In the first four months of the current year, equity flows further plummeted to $13.9 billion, down from $22 billion the previous year.
    • Policy Uncertainty: One possible explanation for the decline in FDI is the presence of policy uncertainty in India. An uncertain business environment, an uneven playing field, and the fear of arbitrary changes to rules and regulations may be acting as deterrents to foreign investors.
    • Trade Agreements: India’s absence from major trading blocks, such as the RCEP agreement, and the lack of trade agreements with entities like the European Union can disadvantage India in the global manufacturing ecosystem. Comprehensive trade agreements with lower tariffs and other benefits can incentivize foreign investment.
    • Comparative Analysis: Despite rising interest rates in developed economies, countries like Vietnam and Indonesia have managed to maintain or increase their FDI inflows.

    Key sectors affected by the decline in FDI

    • Automobile Industry: The decline in FDI has had an impact on the automobile industry in India. This sector plays a crucial role in the country’s manufacturing landscape and contributes significantly to both economic growth and employment.
    • Construction (Infrastructure Activities): Infrastructure development is essential for India’s economic growth. The decline in FDI may slow down construction and infrastructure activities, potentially affecting the country’s development.
    • Metallurgical Industries: Metallurgical industries, which include sectors like steel production, are also mentioned in the article as being affected by the decline in FDI. These industries are vital for various manufacturing processes and contribute to both domestic consumption and exports.

    Areas that India might need to address to reverse this trend

    • FDI Decline in Multiple Sectors: The decline in FDI is not limited to a specific sector but has affected various industries, including technology, the automobile industry, construction, and metallurgical industries. This broad-based decline underscores the need for comprehensive solutions.
    • Navigating Policy Uncertainty: To attract foreign investors, India needs to provide a stable and predictable business environment, reduce regulatory uncertainty, and ensure a level playing field.
    • Global Investment Landscape: India’s FDI decline is notable when compared to countries like Vietnam and Indonesia, which have managed to maintain stable FDI inflows. This highlights the need for India to remain competitive in the global investment landscape.
    • The Trade Agreement Imperative: The absence of India from major trading blocks, such as the RCEP agreement, could be a factor contributing to the FDI decline. India may benefit from pursuing trade agreements that lower trade barriers and enhance market access.

    Conclusion

    • The decline in FDI flows to India raises pertinent questions about the country’s attractiveness as an investment destination. While India’s growth story appears promising, investors seek stability, policy clarity, and access to global trade networks. Addressing these concerns and leveraging India’s potential as a China plus one option requires a comprehensive strategy to reinvigorate FDI inflows and capitalize on its growth prospects.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • BRICS Summits

    Building BRICS for the future

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    What’s the news?

    • The recent BRICS summit held in South Africa introduced six new members to the grouping, drawing mixed reactions regarding its productivity.

    “If things go right, in less than 40 years, the BRICS economies together could be larger than the G6 in U.S. dollar terms.” Goldman Sachs in 2003”

    Central idea

    • The recent BRICS summit held in South Africa may not have yielded immediate tangible results, but it’s essential to view BRICS through its evolving dynamics rather than a single meeting’s outcomes.

    Background: Economic Compulsion

    • BRICS, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, emerged primarily out of economic compulsion.
    • Unlike military alliances or security coalitions, BRICS focuses on economic cooperation and mutual benefit.
    • With a combined GDP representing 36% of the global GDP and a population projected to reach 47% of the world’s total by 2050, BRICS possesses immense long-term potential.
    • Furthermore, expanding its membership could challenge the dominance of the G7 countries.

    The significance of BRICS as an economic powerhouse

    • Economic Size: The BRICS, composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, collectively represent 36% of the global GDP. This substantial economic size gives the group considerable influence in global economic matters.
    • Population: BRICS countries house nearly half of the world’s population, and this demographic advantage provides a significant consumer market and labor force, contributing to their economic significance.
    • Rapid Growth: Two BRICS members, China and India, are among the fastest-growing economies globally. They are expected to rank among the world’s top three economies by 2030, further enhancing the economic clout of the BRICS.
    • Investment Opportunities: BRICS nations are seen as attractive investment destinations, with governments encouraging both domestic and foreign investments. The growth prospects in these countries make them appealing to investors.
    • Infrastructure Development: BRICS countries are investing heavily in infrastructure development, including transportation, energy, and technology projects. These investments create opportunities for businesses and stimulate economic growth.
    • Collective Economic Initiatives: BRICS nations have established institutions like the New Development Bank (NDB) and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA), aimed at enhancing financial cooperation and stability within the group.

    China and India’s Role

    • Two BRICS members, China and India, collectively account for one-third of the world’s population. Both nations are rapidly growing economies, poised to become top-three global economies by 2030.
    • Despite occasional political tensions, their economic cooperation continues to flourish. Trade between India and China is evidence that economic interests often outweigh political differences, emphasizing the pivotal role of economics in international relations.

    BRICS as an alternative to an increasingly polarized world

    • Global polarization:
    • Global polarization has led to concerns about the U.S.’s aggressive stance toward China. Many countries seek alternatives, including China.
    • Within the BRICS, China is a member but not the dominant player, providing a counterbalance with democratic countries like India, South Africa, and Brazil.
    • In an increasingly interconnected world, countries are looking for alternatives to mitigate their dependence on a single superpower.
    • Dollar Dominance and Digital Currencies:
    • The U.S. dollar has long been the dominant global currency, but the rise of digital platforms presents a shift toward digital currencies. India and China are leading in this transition, advocating for increased trade and investment in their own currencies.
    • Through BRICS, they can collectively promote their currencies as alternatives to the dollar, further converging their interests.
    • Diversified opportunities:
    • The search for alternatives extends beyond BRICS to movements like the Non-Aligned Movement, which offers a new approach to global challenges.
    • As BRICS expands, it will create numerous trade, business, and investment protocols, akin to other free trade arrangements and economic blocs, providing diversified opportunities for member nations.

    Africa: The Continent of the Future

    • Africa is poised for significant economic growth in the 21st century.
    • The negative image of Europe, marked by interventions and migrant treatment, has driven Africans to explore China’s development more closely.
    • African countries aspire to have the freedom to choose their investment and trade partners, and BRICS, especially India, seeks to strengthen its ties with the African Union, recognizing the continent’s potential.

    Conclusion

    • BRICS may not always make headlines, but each summit contributes to building a foundation for future networks and collaborations. As Goldman Sachs foresaw in 2003, “If things go right, in less than 40 years, the BRICS economies together could be larger than the G6 in U.S. dollar terms.” The future of BRICS lies in its ability to harness its economic might for the benefit of its members and the world.

    Also read:

    The implications of the expansion of BRICS

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • MGNREGA Scheme

    Challenges with MGNREGA’s Social Audit Mechanism

    Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Central Idea

    What is MGNREGS?

    Enacted Under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act of 2005
    Objective To guarantee the ‘Right to Work’ by providing employment opportunities for unskilled workers in rural areas.
    Origin Proposed in 1991 by V. Narasimha Rao and later enacted in 2005.
    Duration of Employment At least 100 days of employment is guaranteed to willing unskilled workers.
    Enforceable Commitment The scheme ensures an enforceable commitment on the implementing machinery, which is the State Governments, providing bargaining power to the laborers.
    Unemployment Allowance If employment is not provided within 15 days of receiving a job application from a prospective household, an unemployment allowance is paid to the job seekers.
    Eligibility Criteria Any Indian citizen above the age of 18 years residing in rural India can apply for the MGNREGS scheme. Applicants should be willing to engage in unskilled work.
    Geographical Proximity Employment is to be provided within 5 km of an applicant’s residence.
    Minimum Wages Minimum wages are to be paid for the work done under MGNREGS.
    Legal Entitlement Employment under MGNREGS is considered a legal entitlement.

    Issue of Inadequate Fund Recovery

    • Current Recovery Rates: Statistics from the Union Rural Development Ministry for the ongoing financial year indicate that less than 14% of the amount flagged by auditors has been successfully recovered.
    • Past Years’ Performance: The recovery figures for previous financial years paint a similarly bleak picture, with poor outcomes:
      1. 2022-23: ₹86.2 crore was identified as recoverable, but only ₹18 crore (20.8%) was retrieved.
      2. 2021-22: ₹171 crore misappropriation was flagged, but only ₹26 crore (15%) was recovered.
    • Social Audit Unit Independence: Section 17 of the MGNREGA Act mandates gram sabhas to monitor work execution, with independent social audit units in each state responsible for uncovering malpractice. However, their scope is limited to flagging issues, leaving recovery actions to state governments.

    Fund-Starved Audit Units

    • Seminar Insights: A recent Ministry seminar revealed a concerning scenario of underfunded social audit units lacking adequate training and personnel. These units play a crucial role in identifying cases of malpractice.
    • Funding Delay Issues: While the Union government funds these audit units to maintain their independence from state authorities, units in some states, such as Karnataka and Bihar, have faced funding delays for nearly two years.

    Poor Monitoring and Recovery

    • Consistent State Trends: Over the past three years, certain states consistently report “zero number of cases” and “zero recoveries,” casting doubt on the effectiveness of monitoring efforts.
    • Examples of Poor Recovery: States like Telangana have active social audit units flagging numerous cases, yet the recovery rates remain dismal. For instance, in the ongoing financial year, auditors identified ₹6.6 crore for recovery, but only ₹2,087 has been recuperated so far.
    • Vigilance and Pressure: While the Centre’s vigilance and pressure on states to recover misappropriated funds are appreciated, there are concerns regarding states that identify multiple cases but struggle with recovery. Furthermore, states reporting no cases indicate a lack of effective monitoring.

    Conclusion

    • Challenging Recovery Landscape: The MGNREGA scheme’s social audit units serve as a crucial mechanism to combat corruption, but the inadequate recovery of embezzled funds threatens their credibility.
    • Need for Adequate Resources: To make the audit process effective, it is imperative to ensure that social audit units are adequately funded, trained, and staffed.
    • Balancing Act: Balancing scrutiny with recovery actions is vital to enhance the transparency and integrity of the MGNREGA scheme, which plays a pivotal role in rural employment and development.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Karman Line: The Boundary of Space

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

    karman-line

    Central Idea

    • Boundaries serve a crucial purpose in scientific understanding by providing clarity and distinction to elements that might otherwise merge.
    • One such significant boundary is the Karman Line, which plays a pivotal role in delineating Earth’s atmosphere from outer space.

    What is Karman Line?

    • The Karman Line is an abstract boundary positioned at an altitude of 100 kilometers above sea level.
    • Its primary function is to establish the separation between Earth’s atmosphere and the vast expanse of space.
    • Although not universally accepted by all scientists and space explorers, the majority of countries and space organizations acknowledge this demarcation.
    • It was formally established in 1960s by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), a body responsible for record-keeping.
    • Crossing the Karman Line designates an individual as an astronaut.

    Challenges to the Karman Line’s Significance

    • Nature rarely conforms to human-made boundaries.
    • Physically crossing the Karman Line does not result in substantial changes.
    • In the immediate vicinity, there is minimal difference in air pressure or composition.
    • Earth’s gravitational force remains influential, and the atmosphere persists beyond this line.

    Why is the Karman Line relevant?

    • Airspace Regulation: The Karman Line primarily serves as a regulator of airspace. It represents an approximate altitude beyond which conventional aircraft cannot operate effectively. Aircraft venturing beyond this threshold require propulsion systems to counteract Earth’s gravitational pull.
    • Legal Reference: Additionally, the Karman Line acts as a legal benchmark that distinguishes airspace, which nations can claim ownership of, from the realm of outer space. Outer space is governed similarly to international waters, emphasizing the importance of this boundary in legal and governance contexts.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Indian Army Updates

    Project Udbhav: Rediscovering India’s Strategic Heritage for Modern Defense

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    udbhav

    Central Idea

    • The Indian Army has launched Project Udbhav, an initiative aimed at rediscovering the profound heritage of statecraft and strategic thinking from ancient Indian texts.

    Project Udbhav

    • Project Udbhav is conducted in collaboration by Indian Army and the United Service Institution of India, a defense think-tank.
    • The primary goal is to comprehend the depths of indigenous military systems, their evolution, enduring strategies, and the strategic thought processes that have shaped the Indian subcontinent for millennia.
    • It delves into India’s rich historical narratives in the domains of statecraft and strategic thinking.
    • It encompasses indigenous military systems, historical texts, regional texts, kingdoms, thematic studies, and Kautilya Studies.

    Why such move?

    • The initiative underscores the Indian Army’s recognition of India’s ancient wisdom in statecraft, strategy, diplomacy, and warfare.
    • It seeks to establish a connection between historical wisdom and contemporary needs.

    Scholarly Outcomes and Ongoing Research

    • A study to compile Indian stratagems based on ancient texts has been ongoing since 2021.
    • A book listing 75 aphorisms selected from ancient texts has already been published under the initiative.
    • The first scholarly outcome is the 2022 publication titled “Paramparik Bhartiya Darshan…Ranniti aur Netriyta ke Shashwat Niyam,” which is meant to be read by all ranks of the Indian Army.
    • A recent panel discussion included a dialogue on the study of ancient texts ranging from the 4th century BCE to the 8th century CE, with a specific focus on Kautilya, Kamandaka, and the Kural.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • RBI Notifications

    Story of Mahatma Gandhi’s Portrait on Indian Banknotes

    Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

    gandhi

    Central Idea

    • Mahatma Gandhi seems a natural choice for the face of Indian currency as the Father of the Nation.
    • This wasn’t until 1996 that his image became a permanent fixture on legal banknotes issued by the RBI, the nation’s central bank and regulatory authority for the Indian banking system.
    Gandhi
    1946 photograph featuring Gandhi Ji with Frederick William Pethick-Lawrence

    Gandhi’s Portrait on Indian Currency

    • Photographic Source: The portrait of Gandhi on Indian banknotes is not a caricature but a cut-out from a 1946 photograph featuring him alongside British politician Lord Frederick William Pethick-Lawrence.
    • Expression Matters: This particular photograph was chosen for its ideal depiction of Gandhi’s smiling visage, and the portrait is a mirrored image of the cut-out.
    • Unknown Photographers: Interestingly, the identities of the photographer of this image and the person who selected it remain unknown.

    Currency Design Process

    • RBI’s Responsibility: The RBI’s Department of Currency Management is tasked with designing rupee notes, subject to approval from the central bank and the Union government.
    • Regulatory Framework: Section 25 of the RBI Act, 1934, mandates that the design, form, and material of banknotes must be approved by the central government after considering the central board’s recommendations.

    Gandhi’s Debut on Indian Currency

    • 1969 Commemoration: Gandhi made his first appearance on Indian currency in 1969 through a special series issued to commemorate his 100th birth anniversary. These notes, featuring Gandhi alongside the Sevagram Ashram, bore the signature of RBI governor LK Jha.
    • 1987 Inclusion: In October 1987, a series of Rs 500 currency notes featuring Gandhi was introduced.

    The Transition to Independent India’s Banknotes

    • Post-Independence Currency: Initially, after India gained independence in August 1947, the RBI continued to issue notes from the colonial era that depicted King George VI.
    • Symbol Selection: The government of India introduced new 1-rupee notes in 1949, replacing King George with a representation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath.
    • Design Continuity: The subsequent release of banknotes in 1950, in denominations of Rs 2, 5, 10, and 100, featured the Lion Capital watermark, maintaining continuity with earlier designs.

    Gandhi’s Permanence on Banknotes

    • Security Concerns in the 1990s: By the 1990s, the RBI recognized the need for enhanced security features on currency notes due to advancements in reprographic techniques. A human face was deemed less susceptible to forgery than inanimate objects.
    • Gandhi’s Enduring Appeal: Mahatma Gandhi’s national significance made him the ideal choice. In 1996, the RBI introduced a new ‘Mahatma Gandhi Series’ of banknotes, replacing the previous Ashoka Pillar notes and incorporating advanced security features.
    • Continuity in 2016: The ‘Mahatma Gandhi New Series’ of banknotes, introduced in 2016, continued to feature Gandhi’s portrait, with the addition of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan logo and enhanced security elements.

    Other Suggestions for Currency Faces

    • Varied Proposals: Over the years, there have been calls to feature different personalities on banknotes apart from Gandhi.
    • Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi: In October 2022, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to the Prime Minister and the Union government to include images of Lord Ganesha and goddess Lakshmi on currency notes.
    • Previous Proposals: Suggestions in the past included Noble Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and former President APJ Abdul Kalam. However, the RBI and Indian authorities have consistently upheld Gandhi’s representation, considering him the most fitting embodiment of India’s ethos.

    Conclusion

    • Gandhi’s Enduring Legacy: Mahatma Gandhi’s presence on Indian currency notes stands as a testament to his indelible impact on the nation’s history and values.
    • Challenges to Change: While various proposals have emerged over the years, the symbolism and significance of Gandhi on banknotes remain unwavering, reflective of his towering stature in India’s collective consciousness.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Aadhaar Card Issues

    Concerns of using Aadhaar in Welfare Schemes

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

    Aadhaar

    Central Idea

    • Moody’s Investor Service released a report titled ‘Decentralised Finance and Digital Assets,’ advocating for decentralized digital identity systems over centralised biometric systems like India’s Aadhaar.
    • The report raises concerns about security and privacy vulnerabilities associated with Aadhaar (being managed by Govt of India) and questions its effectiveness.

    India’s Response to Moody’s Report

    • In response to Moody’s report, the Indian government strongly defended Aadhaar, asserting that it is “the most trusted digital ID in the world.”
    • The government highlighted Aadhaar’s integration with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) database, emphasizing that workers can receive payments without biometric authentication.

    Aadhaar: Rationale and Objectives

    • Unique Identification: Aadhaar is a unique identification number provided to all Indian residents by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It collects demographic details, biometric fingerprints, and iris scans during enrolment, aiming to create a unique identity for residents.
    • Fighting Corruption: Aadhaar’s primary objectives include curbing corruption in accessing welfare programs by eliminating “ghost” and “fake” individuals who fraudulently claim benefits.

    Aadhaar’s Role in Welfare Programs

    • Ration Distribution: Aadhaar is used to authenticate individuals accessing rations under the Public Distribution System, ensuring that beneficiaries receive their entitled portions.
    • Government-to-Citizen Transfers: The government employs Aadhaar for various cash transfer programs, claiming substantial savings by eliminating fraudulent beneficiaries.

    Aadhaar in Cash Withdrawals

    • Authentication Process: To enable payments through Aadhaar for MGNREGA, three steps are involved: linking Aadhaar to job cards, linking Aadhaar to bank accounts, and linking Aadhaar correctly with the National Payments Corporation of India for payment processing.
    • AePS Platform: Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) allows individuals to withdraw money from Aadhaar-linked bank accounts using biometric authentication.

    Concerns Surrounding Aadhaar

    • Quantity Fraud: Critics argue that Aadhaar fails to address issues like quantity fraud, where beneficiaries receive less than their entitled share. This type of corruption remains prevalent, with Aadhaar unable to detect or prevent it.
    • Authentication Challenges: Rural areas face authentication challenges due to unreliable internet, fading fingerprints, and inadequate phone connectivity for OTPs. Vulnerable groups, such as older women and people with disabilities, face exclusion.
    • Lack of Data Transparency: Information regarding authentication attempts and failures is not publicly available, hindering transparency.
    • Payment Failures: Errors at any stage of Aadhaar-based payments can lead to payment failures. Mismatches in data between job cards and Aadhaar databases can result in authentication failures.
    • Misdirection of Payments: Misdirected payments through Aadhaar are difficult to detect and resolve, creating issues when Aadhaar numbers are linked to the wrong bank accounts.
    • Financial Exclusion: Critics argue that Aadhaar-based authentication requirements can lead to financial exclusion for certain groups.

    Security Concerns

    • AePS Accountability: Banking correspondents using AePS operate without accountability frameworks, leading to potential misuse and unauthorized access to bank accounts.
    • Multiple Authentications: Some banking correspondents ask individuals to authenticate multiple times, providing them access to individuals’ bank accounts without consent.
    • Fraud and Scams: Several reports highlight instances of money withdrawal and enrollment in government programs without individuals’ knowledge through AePS.

    Current Impasse

    • Resistance to Mandatory Aadhaar: The government’s efforts to make Aadhaar-based payments mandatory in MGNREGA have faced resistance from workers and field officials.
    • Deletion of Job Cards: Reports indicate that the job cards of active rural workers have been deleted on grounds of being “ghosts,” raising concerns about data accuracy.
    • Apprehensions: Critics express apprehensions based on their experience with Aadhaar in welfare programs, emphasizing the need for pilots and evidence-based decision-making.

    Conclusion

    • The debate between centralized biometric systems like Aadhaar and decentralized digital identity solutions remains ongoing, with concerns regarding security, inclusivity, and transparency at the forefront of discussions.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

Join the Community

Join us across Social Media platforms.