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  • Tax Reforms

    Vivad se Vishwas II Scheme launched

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    vivaad se vishwas

    Central Idea

    • The Centre has launched the Vivad se Vishwas II scheme, a one-time settlement scheme, to effectively resolve pending contractual disputes with vendors or suppliers to the government and its undertakings.

    Vivad se Vishwas II Scheme

    • The scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2023-24.
    • It aims to settle government and government undertakings’ contractual disputes wherein arbitral awards are challenged in courts.
    • The Vivad Se Vishwas I scheme was announced under Union Budget 2020 to reduce ongoing legal disputes under direct taxation.
    • Around 150,000 cases were resolved with the recovery of about 54 per cent of the amount under litigation.
    • The scheme was started in March 2020, and closed on March 31, 2021.

    Key details about the Scheme

    • Deadline and Guidelines: The scheme sets an October 31 deadline for firms to submit their claims for consideration. The Department of Expenditure had earlier issued guidelines for its operation in late May.
    • Eligibility: The scheme applies to domestic contractual disputes where one of the parties is either the Government of India or an organization working under its control.
    • Cut-off Dates: To be considered for settlement, an arbitral award must have been secured by the aggrieved party by January 31, 2023, while the cut-off date for court orders is set at April 30.
    • Graded Settlement Terms: The scheme offers graded settlement terms based on the pendency level of the disputes. For cases involving court awards, the settlement amount offered to the contractor can be up to 85% of the net amount awarded or upheld by the court. For arbitral awards, the threshold is “up to” 65% of the net amount.
    • Processing and Registration: Eligible claims shall be processed only through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), which has developed a dedicated web-page for implementing this scheme. For Ministry of Railways’ contractors, claims can be registered on the Indian Railways E-Procurement System.

     

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  • Coal and Mining Sector

    Law passed allowing Auction, Mining of Lithium Reserves

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Central Idea

    • The Union Cabinet approved amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act to allow commercial mining of lithium and five more minerals.
    • This move is aimed at increasing the exploration and mining of these valuable resources from newly discovered mines by opening them to private sector participation.

    Mining of Critical Minerals

    • Minerals Removed from Atomic Minerals List: The law removes lithium, beryllium, titanium, niobium, tantalum and zirconium from the list of atomic minerals, which previously restricted their exploration and mining to state-run companies only.
    • Private Sector Participation: With the removal of these minerals from the atomic minerals list, private companies can now participate in the exploration and mining processes.

    Why such move?

    • New Lithium Reserves in J&K: Earlier this year, lithium reserves were discovered in the federally administered region of Jammu and Kashmir. The government plans to find more reserves later this year.
    • Expected Increase in Exploration and Mining: The government expects a significant increase in the exploration and mining activities of these minerals across the country due to private sector involvement.

    Significance of Private Sector Involvement

    • Force Multiplier: The involvement of private companies is seen as a “force multiplier” as it is expected to boost the production of these critical minerals, meeting the growing demands of the country.
    • Increased Production Capacity: The participation of private players is likely to lead to increased production capacity, enabling India to meet the rising demand for electric vehicle batteries and other industrial applications.

    Need for Vigorous Exploration and Production

    • Meeting Growing Demands: India’s increasing focus on electric vehicles and other technological advancements necessitates a robust supply of critical minerals. Vigorous exploration and production are crucial to fulfill the country’s requirements.

    Conclusion

    • The passage of the law by India’s Parliament marks a significant step towards increasing the exploration and mining of critical minerals, including lithium, for electric vehicle batteries and other industrial applications.
    • By allowing private sector participation, the government aims to bolster the production capacity and meet the growing demands of the country, ensuring a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

    Also read:

    Discovery of Lithium Deposits in J&K

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  • J&K – The issues around the state

    Post-1957, President retains power to scrap Article 370: Supreme Court

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

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court deliberated on the President’s power to declare Article 370 of the Constitution, which granted special status to J&K, inoperative after the dissolution of the State’s Constituent Assembly in 1957.
    • The court questioned whether the Constituent Assembly’s dissolution nullifies the substantive part of Clause 3 in Article 370.
    • Senior counsel argued that Article 370 cannot be revoked after the Constituent Assembly’s dissolution, but the court questioned the extent of the President’s powers.

    Also read:

    [Burning Issue] Reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir

    Historical Context of Article 370

    • The Constituent Assembly of J&K was a temporary body convened for drafting the State’s Constitution, becoming functus officio after its completion.
    • Article 370 was considered “temporary” because it allowed the people of J&K to determine their Constitution and the jurisdiction of Union of India.
    • The collaborative relationship between the Union and J&K, with constant dialogue and parliamentary laws applying to J&K through Constitution Orders, was disrupted by the abrogation of special constitutional status in 2019.

    Contentions raised against A370 Revocation

    • Constituent Assembly’s Role: The provision requiring the J&K Constituent Assembly’s recommendation for abrogation has no application, given its specific purpose was to draft the State’s Constitution.
    • Impact on Democracy: The argument raised concerns about silencing the people’s will in J&K, where representative democracy had been absent for five years. The State’s unique relationship with India was emphasized.
    • Parliament’s Authority: The counsel questioned Parliament’s authority to declare itself the legislature of J&K and abrogate Article 370, asserting that Parliament could not act outside the Constitution.
    • Temporary Provision: It was clarified that Article 370 was mentioned as a “temporary” provision because it allowed the people of J&K to determine their future through their Constituent Assembly.

    Conclusion

    • The Supreme Court’s examination of the President’s power over Article 370 after the Constituent Assembly’s dissolution raises significant questions about the unique constitutional structure and the collaboration between the Union and J&K.
    • The verdict will determine whether Article 370 remains operative and its implications on the historical relationship between the State and the Union.

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  • Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

    Room Temperature Superconductivity

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

    superconductivity

    Central Idea

    • Recently, two South Korean researchers sparked excitement in the physics community by claiming to have achieved Superconductivity at room temperature.
    • They claim to have developed a lead-based compound exhibiting superconducting properties at normal room temperature and pressure (NTP) conditions.

    NTP (Normal Temperature and Pressure):

    Normal Temperature: Defined as 20 degrees Celsius (20°C) or 293.15 Kelvin (K).

    Normal Pressure: Defined as 1 atmosphere (atm) or 101.325 kilopascals (kPa), which is the same pressure as STP.

    NTP is another standard set of conditions used for specific applications, but it is less commonly used than STP.

    STP (Standard Temperature and Pressure):

    Standard Temperature: Defined as 0 degrees Celsius (0°C) or 273.15 Kelvin (K). At this temperature, the average kinetic energy of gas molecules is minimal.

    Standard Pressure: Defined as 1 atmosphere (atm) or 101.325 kilopascals (kPa). This is the average atmospheric pressure at sea level.

    STP is often used to express gas properties and perform calculations under uniform conditions to allow for meaningful comparisons between different gases or processes.

    What is Superconductivity?

    • Zero Resistance: Superconductivity occurs when a material offers almost zero resistance to the flow of electric current, enabling energy-efficient electrical appliances and lossless power transmission.
    • Magnetic Behavior: Superconductors also display fascinating behavior under magnetic fields, enabling technologies like MRI machines and superfast Maglev trains.

    Exploring the Material LK-99

    • Apatite Structure: The Korean group utilized copper-substituted lead apatite, a phosphate mineral with unique tetrahedral motifs, to create LK-99.
    • Superconducting Behavior: LK-99 displayed essential superconducting properties, with almost zero resistance to current flow and sudden emergence of resistance above a critical current threshold.
    • Magnetic Resilience: LK-99 retained superconductivity even under the presence of a magnetic field until reaching a critical threshold.

    Current Superconductors and Their Limitations

    • Earlier Discoveries: In the 1980s, scientists found copper oxide materials exhibiting superconductivity above -240°C. Subsequent research yielded limited success in achieving higher temperatures.
    • Extreme Conditions: Existing superconductors operate at extremely low temperatures, often below -250°C, close to absolute zero (-273°C).
    • Critical Temperatures: Materials like Mercury, Lead, and Aluminum, Tin, and Niobium exhibit superconductivity at critical temperatures just above absolute zero.
    • High-Temperature Superconductors: Some materials, labelled ‘high-temperature’ superconductors, display superconducting properties below -150°C.

    Scientific Community’s Response

    • Cautious Optimism: The scientific community responded cautiously to the claims of LK-99’s room-temperature superconductivity, given previous controversies and unverified claims.
    • Technical Errors: Some data in the research papers raised questions and were deemed “sloppy” or “fishy” by independent scientists.
    • Replication Efforts: Numerous research groups worldwide are attempting to reproduce the results to validate the claim.
    • Mixed Perspectives: The authors’ unwavering confidence in their work contrasts with certain aspects of the research that appear hurried or contentious.

    Conclusion

    • The search for room-temperature superconductors represents a holy grail in science, promising immense rewards and recognition.
    • Although the recent claim by South Korean researchers has captured attention, it awaits rigorous validation.

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  • Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

    Saudi Arabia to mediate Russia-Ukraine Conflict

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

    russia

    Central Idea

    • Saudi Arabia is taking a significant step towards mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict by hosting peace talks on August 5 and 6 in Jeddah.
    • The talks come amidst ongoing hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides unwilling to compromise on their respective visions for peace.

    Upcoming Peace Talks in Jeddah

    • Participants: The UK, EU, India, South Africa, Poland, and the US National Security Advisor have confirmed their attendance. Russia, having rejected Ukraine’s peace plan, has not been invited.
    • Goal: Ukraine aims to garner support for its 10-point peace plan and promote the restoration of lasting and just peace. The talks are seen as a constructive way to involve non-aligned countries and promote third-party mediation beyond the West.

    Current status of the war

    • Military Standoff: Ukraine is determined to fight back, supported by military aid from Europe and the US.
    • Unlikely Peace Talks: The United Nations Secretary-General expressed doubts about the possibility of peace negotiations at this stage, given both sides’ conviction of their ability to win on the battlefield.
    • Divergent Views: While both Russia and Ukraine express openness to talks, they vehemently disagree on the terms of peace. Ukraine insists on the withdrawal of Russian troops and the restoration of its territorial integrity, while Russia seeks recognition of redrawn borders, including annexed territories.

    Previous (Failed) Negotiations

    • Early Talks: In the initial stages of the conflict, talks for temporary ceasefires and humanitarian corridors took place.
    • War atrocities: However, direct peace negotiations have not occurred since May last year due to mounting evidence of war atrocities and attacks on civilians.

    China’s Peace Plan and African Efforts

    • China’s 12-Point Plan: Released in February, China’s plan called for the ceasing of hostilities, support for territorial integrity, and the abandonment of a cold war mentality. It was seen as skewed in favor of Russia and a diplomatic attempt by China to engage in the peace process.
    • African Proposal: Seven African countries led by South Africa proposed a 10-point plan for recognizing sovereignty, prisoner release, foodgrain exports, de-escalation, and prompt peace negotiations. The plan aimed to address the conflict’s impact on African nations’ food security.

    Status of the War

    • Kerch Bridge Incident: A terrorist attack on the Kerch Bridge led to Russia terminating the Black Sea Grain Initiative, further impacting grain shipments from Ukraine.
    • Ukraine’s Counter-Offensive: Ukraine continues its counter-offensive efforts, achieving advances in some regions but facing challenges in others.
    • US-Supplied Cluster Bombs: Ukraine’s use of US-supplied cluster bombs has been confirmed, effective against Russian defensive positions.
    • NATO Entry Denied: Ukraine’s last-ditch effort to secure an invitation for NATO membership was not successful.
    • Ukraine attacks Moscow: At least 3 different Ukrainian-made drones have been used in attacks inside Russia, including Moscow.

    Nature of the Conflict

    • Territorial Disputes: The conflict centers around territorial disputes and geopolitical interests, leading to extensive missile attacks and drone strikes.
    • Cold War Wounds: Historical contestations and ideological clashes contribute to the Ukraine crisis.
    • NATO Expansion: Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership and Russian interests in the Black Sea are key factors in the conflict.

    India’s Position in the Conflict

    • Exercising strategic autonomy: India practices strategic autonomy, maintaining a nuanced neutrality between the US-led West and Russia.
    • Favor for Russia: India abstains from supporting the US-led Western coalition, focusing on economic relationships with both parties.
    • Symbolic Criticisms: India emphasizes the importance of respecting territorial integrity while calling for an immediate end to violence and diplomatic solutions.
    • Condemnation: PM Modi openly appealed to Mr. Putin for peace, highlighting the pursuit of diplomatic solutions.

    Challenges to Ending the War

    • Proxy War: External players, including the US and NATO, complicate the conflict with their strategic interests.
    • Sovereignty Disputes: Unresolved territorial disputes fuel ongoing hostilities.
    • Ideological Divide: Clashes between Ukraine’s European aspirations and Russia’s sphere of influence add to tensions.
    • Military Support: Foreign military assistance to both parties sustains the conflict.
    • Economic Interests: Energy resources and Europe’s dependence on Russian gas play a role.
    • Lack of Trust: A deep lack of trust hinders lasting agreements.

    Conclusion

    • The Russia-Ukraine conflict remains a challenging and complex issue with no easy resolution in sight.
    • The upcoming peace talks in Jeddah represent a step towards international mediation, involving influential players from various regions.

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  • National Youth Policy—Will it help India reap the promised demographic dividend?

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 1: Population & Associated Issues

    What’s the news?

    • India, with 66 percent of its population below the age of 35, possesses the world’s largest youth population. The National Youth Policy (NYP) aims to provide a comprehensive framework and vision for the development and empowerment of young people, recognizing them as a critical national demographic.

    Central idea

    • As other countries grapple with ageing populations, India’s future growth trajectory depends on how it nurtures and invests in its youth. To address this, the Government of India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports drafted the NYP 2021, envisioning a 10-year vision for youth development by 2030.

    Historical evolution of the National Youth Policy

    1. NYP 1988: The first NYP was drafted in 1988, aimed at addressing youth development issues, but specific details were not provided.
    2. NYP 2003: The NYP was updated in 2003, emphasizing patriotism, morality-oriented values, and gender justice. However, it lacked specific action plans.
    3. NYP 2014: The policy was revised in 2014 with a more focused approach, defining the youth age group as 15-29. It identified objectives and priority action areas but faced criticism for lack of detailed plans.
    4. NYP 2021: The most recent version, drafted in 2021, takes a holistic approach and aligns with the UN SDGs. It covers diverse aspects, but challenges in implementation were noted.

    Significance of the NYP

    • Youth Empowerment: The NYP recognizes the youth as a critical demographic and aims to empower them to actively participate in shaping the nation’s future. By focusing on their development, the policy harnesses the potential of the youth as a dynamic and vibrant force.
    • Vision for Future Growth: Each iteration of the NYP builds upon the previous one, adapting to changing times and needs. The policy’s forward-looking approach helps India prepare its youth for the future, enabling them to contribute to the nation’s growth and development.
    • Alignment with Global Goals: The NYP 2021 aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting India’s commitment to international development agendas.
    • Holistic Development: The NYP 2021 takes a holistic approach, covering various aspects of youth development, such as education, health, skill development, and social welfare. This comprehensive approach ensures that the youth receive well-rounded support and opportunities
    • Fostering Inclusivity: The policy recognizes the diverse backgrounds and challenges faced by the youth, including socially and economically disadvantaged sections. By focusing on inclusivity, the NYP strives to provide equal opportunities for all young individuals.
    • Policy Evolution: With each iteration, the NYP evolves to address emerging issues and incorporate feedback from previous policies. This continuous improvement ensures that the government’s youth-related initiatives remain relevant and effective.
    • Social Cohesion: By promoting values of unity, integrity, and respect for diverse faiths and cultures, the NYP fosters social cohesion among the youth. This contributes to a harmonious and cohesive society

    Challenges to NYP 2021

    • Reintegration of NEET Youth: The policy rightly focuses on reintegrating NEET youth (not in education, employment, or training). However, it lacks specific timelines or schemes to generate equal job opportunities, especially considering India’s high unemployment rate.
    • Disparity in Access to Opportunities: The assumption of equal access to education, skilling, and employment for all youth overlooks the significant diversity within India’s young population. Many socially and economically disadvantaged youth face enormous challenges in accessing sustainable livelihoods.
    • Structural Barriers in Education: While the policy addresses symptoms like dropouts, it fails to address inherent structural barriers within the education system, such as economic migration, discrimination, and early marriages.
    • Complex Implementation: The policy assumes an ideal scenario with seamless coordination between various ministries, government departments, and non-state stakeholders. However, implementing such a wide-ranging policy will require overcoming significant challenges.

    Way Forward

    • Clear Implementation Roadmap: Develop a detailed and transparent implementation plan with specific timelines and responsibilities assigned to various stakeholders. This plan should address the key objectives and action areas of NYP 2021, ensuring effective execution.
    • Reintegrating NEET Youth: Focus on generating equal job opportunities for NEET youth by collaborating with the private sector and creating employment avenues through government programs.
    • Inclusivity and Access: Design targeted interventions to address the challenges faced by socially and economically disadvantaged youth. Ensure equitable access to education, skilling, and employment opportunities, empowering all sections of the youth population.
    • Tackling Structural Barriers: Implement measures to address underlying issues in the education system that contribute to dropouts. Invest in infrastructure and resources to provide quality education and support students from vulnerable backgrounds.
    • Digital Connectivity and Education: Bridge the digital divide by improving internet access and technology infrastructure, especially in rural and remote areas. Leverage technology for innovative educational delivery to reach youth unable to attend traditional schooling.
    • Strengthen Coordination: Establish robust coordination mechanisms among various ministries, government departments, and non-state stakeholders. Collaborate with NGOs, youth organizations, and the private sector to enhance the impact of NYP 2021.
    • Financial Allocation: Ensure adequate and sustainable funding for youth-centric programs and initiatives. Explore innovative financing models and partnerships to secure necessary resources for effective implementation.

    Conclusion

    • NYP 2021 presents a promising vision for empowering India’s youth and propelling the nation’s growth in the 21st century. Overlooking the existing challenges could hinder the policy’s potential impact on India’s Amrit Peedhi (youth) during the Amrit Kaal (critical era). To ensure a bright future for the nation, India must prioritize the effective execution of NYP 2021 and invest in the holistic development of its youth population.

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  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    IoT & SMART technology threats from China: Pathways for India’s military

    op-ed snap | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life,Social Media Networks & Internal Security

    What’s the news?

    • Chinese software technologies and applications that were once widespread are now facing bans and restrictions worldwide due to data leaks, vulnerabilities, and national security risks.

    Central Idea

    • While many countries have taken action against Chinese applications, there still exists a concerning lack of clarity on the security risks posed by SMART products with Chinese data sensors, components, and modules. In the context of India’s military establishment, these risks can have significant ramifications.

    What is SMART technology?

    • SMART technology is a term used to describe devices and systems that have advanced capabilities, connectivity, and the ability to gather and analyze data to make intelligent decisions or respond to user commands.
    • SMART technology is an integral part of the broader concept of the Internet of Things (IoT), where everyday objects and devices are connected to the internet and can communicate with each other and with users.
    • SMART technology enhances convenience, efficiency, and automation in various aspects of daily life.

    Common examples of SMART technology

    • SMART Home Devices: Devices like SMART thermostats, SMART lighting systems, SMART speakers (e.g., Amazon Echo, Google Home), and SMART security cameras that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone or voice commands.
    • SMART Wearables: Fitness trackers, SMART watches, and other wearable devices that monitor health metrics and activities and sync the data with smartphones or computers.
    • SMART Appliances: SMART refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens that can be controlled and monitored through apps on smartphones.
    • SMART Cars: Automobiles equipped with advanced sensors and connectivity that can provide real-time navigation, diagnostics, and safety features.

    Growing Adoption of SMART Technology

    • Increasing Popularity: SMART technology is gaining popularity in various residential and office spaces in India.
    • Diverse SMART Products: SMART CCTVs, air conditioners, refrigerators, coffee machines, printers, bulbs, and more are among the diverse SMART products being adopted.
    • Remote Operation: These SMART devices offer remote operation and adaptability to user preferences.
    • IoT Sector Growth: The IoT sector in India is projected to reach a turnover of US$1.1 billion by 2023, with significant growth observed in the market for IoT products (264 percent increase in Q2 2022).

    Security Concerns with SMART Technology

    • Ambiguity in Bans: Despite bans on Chinese applications and technology in various countries (UK, US, New Zealand, India), concerns persist regarding SMART products with Chinese data sensors, components, and modules.
    • Dependency on Chinese Components: Even SMART products manufactured in the West rely on China for critical data sensors, modules, and transmitters.
    • Backend Dependency: Chinese servers often handle data storage and software upgrades for SMART products, creating potential security vulnerabilities.
    • Data Transmission Risks: SMART devices could be susceptible to data transmission back to China through embedded backdoors and listening channels.
    • UK Report Findings: A report in the UK raised alarms about the potential use of Chinese SMART components to track officials, stifle industrial activity, and harvest sensitive military information.

    Addressing Security Concerns in India’s Military Establishments

    • Formalizing Security Plans: India’s military needs to formalize strategies to address security concerns related to SMART technologies.
    • Categorizing Vulnerable Devices: Analyzing and categorizing SMART products used in non-technical, non-operational military spaces for potential bans on devices relaying information to China.
    • Thorough Vetting for New Implementations: Any new software or technologies implemented in military areas must undergo strict vetting for links with China, irrespective of their origin.
    • Coherent and Institutionalized Approach: Adopting a coherent and institutionalized approach will enable proactive prevention of data leaks and breaches through SMART technologies and IoT with Chinese linkages, ensuring the safeguarding of sensitive military information.

    Conclusion

    • India’s military must adopt a coherent and institutionalized approach to prevent data leaks and breaches. Ignoring this reality could leave the country’s military vulnerable to significant security threats. By addressing the risks and establishing robust security measures, India can safeguard its national security and protect sensitive military information from falling into the wrong hands.

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Person in news: Anna Bhau Sathe

    Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

    anna bhau sathe

    Central Idea

    • Telangana CM has expressed a desire to see social reformer, writer, and folk poet Anna Bhau Sathe honoured with the prestigious Bharat Ratna award.

    Who was Anna Bhau Sathe?

    • Anna Bhau Sathe, born Tukaram Bhaurao Sathe on August 1, 1920, in Maharashtra’s Wategaon village, emerged as a prominent figure in the field of literature, poetry, and social activism.
    • His journey from humble beginnings in a Dalit family to becoming a prolific writer and folk poet is a testament to his indomitable spirit and commitment to social reform.

    Early Life and Struggles

    • Mumbai Sojourn: In 1930, Sathe’s family moved to Mumbai, where he worked as a porter, hawker, and cotton mill helper, enduring the hardships of working-class life.
    • Labour Activism: His participation in the 1934 workers’ strike, led by the Lal Bawta Mill Workers Union, marked the beginning of his engagement in labor and social issues.
    • Learning to Read and Write: Denied schooling due to his Dalit identity, Sathe joined labor study circles where he learned to read and write.

    Evolution as a Writer

    • Early Poetry: His first poem, focusing on the menace of mosquitoes in the labour camp, laid the foundation for his future creative endeavours.
    • Cultural Group: Sathe formed the Dalit Yuvak Sangh, a cultural group that composed poems reflecting workers’ protests and agitations.
    • Influence of Progressive Writers: The Progressive Writers Association’s national formation, with writers like Premchand and Faiz Ahmad Faiz, exposed him to translated Russian works, inspiring him to write plays, stories, and novels.

    Wide-ranging Impact of His Work

    • Spreading Awareness: Together with his group, Sathe travelled across Mumbai, raising awareness about workers’ rights and social issues.
    • Prolific Output: Over 49 years, he authored 32 novels, 13 collections of short stories, four plays, a travelogue, and 11 ballads (povadas).
    • Cinematic and International Recognition: Several of his works were adapted into films, and some were translated into other languages, including Russian. His “Bangalchi Hak” was presented at London’s Royal Theatre.
    • Depiction of Social Realities: Sathe’s literature delved into the caste and class realities of Indian society during his time.

    Left-leaning Ideology and Russian Connection

    • Influence of Marxism: While influenced by Marxism, he also depicted the harsh realities of the caste system in his work.
    • The Lal Bawta Kala Pathak: In 1943, Sathe founded this group, which toured Maharashtra, performing programs on caste atrocities, class conflict, and workers’ rights.
    • Dedication to Dr. Ambedkar: His most famous novel, “Fakira,” was dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, reflecting his commitment to the Dalit cause.

    Russian Inspiration

    • Maxim Gorky’s Influence: Often referred to as the “Maxim Gorky of Maharashtra,” Sathe drew inspiration from Gorky’s work “The Mother” and the Russian Revolution, evident in his writings.
    • Visit to Russia: In 1961, Sathe travelled to Russia with a group of other Indians, fostering his connection with Russian culture.

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  • Tobacco: The Silent Killer

    WHO Report on Tobacco Control

    | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Central Idea

    • The WHO has released a report on the progress made in global tobacco control in the last 15 years.
    • The report highlights the impact of the MPOWER measures, introduced by WHO, to combat tobacco use and protect public health.

    What are MPOWER measures by WHO?

    • The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a set of global health targets known as “MPOWER measures” to address the global tobacco epidemic.
    • These measures are evidence-based strategies aimed at reducing tobacco use and its associated health risks.
    • The MPOWER measures were developed to assist countries in implementing effective tobacco control policies and interventions.
    • The term “MPOWER” is an acronym, with each letter representing a specific area of focus:
    1. M – Monitor tobacco use and prevention policies
    2. P – Protect people from tobacco smoke
    3. O– Offer help to quit tobacco use
    4. W – Warn about the dangers of tobacco
    5. E – Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship
    6. R – Raise taxes on tobacco products

    Key Findings of the Report

    • Reduction in Smoking: Globally, there are 300 million fewer smokers today, with smoking prevalence declining from 22.8% in 2007 to 17% in 2021. In a city-specific example, hundreds of enforcement drives and awareness campaigns resulted in a 27% reduction in smoking in public places.
    • Impact of MPOWER Measures: The MPOWER measures have positively impacted tobacco control efforts worldwide. 71% of the global population, or 5.6 billion people, are protected by at least one MPOWER measure, up from 5% in 2008. The number of countries implementing at least one measure has increased from 44 to 151.
    • Global Challenges: Despite progress, 44 countries still do not implement any MPOWER measure, and there are shortcomings in enforcing smoke-free policies in healthcare facilities and restaurants.
    • Focus on Second-Hand Smoke: The report emphasizes the importance of curbing second-hand smoke, which causes significant health risks, including 1.3 million tobacco-related deaths among non-smokers annually. India is among the countries making efforts to control this aspect.

    India’s Achievements and Areas for Improvement

    • Health Warning Labels: India ranks among the top 10 countries for having health warning labels on cigarette packs, with 85% of packs carrying warnings on both sides.
    • Ban on E-cigarettes: India has implemented a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes, which WHO recognizes as an essential step in curbing the tobacco epidemic.
    • Smoking Bans: India has banned smoking in healthcare facilities and educational institutions, although there is scope for improvement in terms of enforcement.
    • Warnings on OTT Platforms: India is taking significant steps to implement warnings on over-the-top (OTT) platform content showing tobacco use, making it the first country to do so. This move is crucial, given the increased subscriptions to OTT platforms during the pandemic.

    Expert Perspectives

    • Experts suggest the need for further amendments to India’s comprehensive tobacco control laws, with specific attention to banning the loose sale of cigarettes.
    • Implementing warnings on OTT platforms is seen as a necessary measure to reach a broader audience, especially young viewers.

    Conclusion

    • The WHO report highlights the global progress in reducing smoking prevalence and implementing tobacco control measures.
    • While India has made significant strides in certain aspects of tobacco control, there are areas that require continued attention and action.

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  • GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags

    In news: New GI Tags Awards

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Central Idea

    • The Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai recently granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag to many distinctive products from across India.

    GI Tags for Rajasthani Crafts

    • Udaipur Koftgari Metal Craft: This traditional craft involves ornamenting weapons with intricate designs, gold and silver wire embedding, and polishing. The process results in exquisite and finely crafted metalware.
    • Bikaner Kashidakari Craft: Traditional craftspeople from the Meghwal community in Bikaner and nearby districts create this craft on cotton, silk, or velvet. The intricate fine stitches and mirror-work are mainly used for marriage-related objects and are believed to ward off the ‘evil eye.’
    • Jodhpur Bandhej Craft: Known for its vibrant and colorful appeal, Bandhej is an ancient Rajasthani art of tying and dyeing textiles. The fabrics, including muslin, silk, and voile, are tied with cotton thread before dyeing.
    • Bikaner Usta Kala Craft: Also known as gold nakashi or gold manauti work, this craft is characterized by the use of untreated raw camel hide. The skilled Dapgar community of leather craftspeople meticulously processes and molds the leather to create durable and golden-hued products.

    Other GI Tagged Products

    • Jalesar Dhatu Shilp (Uttar Pradesh): This craft from Jalesar in Uttar Pradesh’s Etah district involves making decorative metal craft and brassware, including ghungrus (anklets) and ghantis (bells). The Thatheras community, residing in the Hathuras locality, is responsible for creating these beautiful metal products.
    • Goa Mankurad Mango (Goa): Also known as malcorada, cardozo mankurad, corado, and Goa mankur, this variety of mango was granted a GI tag. The All Goa Mango Growers Association filed the application for this mango, which holds historical significance with its Portuguese-inspired name.
    • Goan Bebinca (Goa): Known as the ‘queen of Goan desserts,’ Bebinca is a traditional Indo-Portuguese pudding. The All Goa Bakers and Confectioners Association filed the application for the GI tag.
    • Kanniyakumari Matti banana (TN): It is a banana variety grown in the Kanniyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its unique sweet taste and small size. It is cultivated in the southernmost part of India, and its retail market value has increased. The variety is in high demand, especially in the Thiruvananthapuram region of Kerala, where it is exported to Gulf countries. The banana is used in the making of “panchamirtham.”

    Back2Basics: Geographical Indication (GI)

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

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