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  • India Employment Landscape: Insights from the ILO-IHD Report 2024

    Why in the news?

    According to the India Employment Report 2024 released by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Institute of Human Development (IHD), India’s youth account for almost 83% of the unemployed workforce.

    About the International Labour Organization (ILO)

     

    • The ILO is a UN agency whose mandate is to advance social and economic justice through setting international labour standards.
    • Founded in 1919 under the League of Nations (under Treaty of Versailles) it is the first and oldest specialised agency of the UN.
    • India was one of the founding members of the ILO, joining the organization in 1919.
    • The ILO has 187 member states: 186 out of 193 UN member states plus the Cook Islands.
    • Its international labour standards are broadly aimed at ensuring accessible, productive, and sustainable work worldwide in conditions of freedom, equity, security and dignity.
    • The Governing body is the apex executive body of the ILO which decides policies, programmes, agenda, budget and elects the Director-General.
    • It meets 3 times a year, in March, June and November.
    • ILO has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969.

     

    Major Conventions of the ILO:

    • Forced Labour Convention (No. 29)
    • Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (No.105)
    • Equal Remuneration Convention (No.100)
    • Discrimination (Employment Occupation) Convention (No.111)
    • Minimum Age Convention (No.138)
    • Worst forms of Child Labour Convention (No.182)
    • Freedom of Association and Protection of Right to Organised Convention (No.87)
    • Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention (No.98)

     

    Highlights of the India Employment Report 2024:

    1. Labour Market Dynamics
    • Long-Term Deterioration: The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and the Unemployment Rate (UR) showed a long-term deterioration between 2000 and 2018, but witnessed an improvement after 2019.
    • Education Impact: The share of youngsters with secondary or higher education in the total unemployed youth has almost doubled from 35.2% in 2000 to 65.7% in 2022, indicating a significant shift in educational qualifications among job seekers.
    1. Challenges and Insecurities
    • Informal Workforce: Almost 90% of workers remain engaged in informal work, while the share of regular work declined after 2018, leading to widespread livelihood insecurities.
    • Contractualisation: There has been a rise in contractualisation, with only a small percentage of regular workers covered by long-term contracts, exacerbating job insecurities.
    1. Skills Gap and Gender Disparities
    • Skills Deficiency: Despite being a demographic dividend, the report notes a skills gap among India’s young workforce, with a significant percentage unable to perform basic digital tasks or mathematical operations.
    • Gender Gap: India faces substantial gender disparities in the labour market, with low rates of female labour force participation and high levels of unemployment among highly educated young women.

     

    PYQ:

    2018: International Labour Organization’s Conventions 138 and 182 are related to:

    1. Child labour
    2. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
    3. Regulation of food prices and food security
    4. Gender parity in the workplace

  • Monuments of National Importance (MNI) and their Listing/De-Listing

    Why in the news?

    • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments” from its list of Monuments of National Importance (MNI), citing a lack of national significance.
    • ASI currently has 3,693 monuments under its purview, which will fall to 3,675 once the current delisting exercise is completed in the next few weeks.

    What are Monuments of National Importance (MNI)?

    • MNI in India are legally protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958.
    • This act empowers the Centre to declare certain monuments as MNIs through official notifications published in the Gazette of India.
    • It mandates the protection, preservation, and maintenance of MNIs to ensure their integrity and authenticity for future generations.
    • The Act empowers the central government to appoint authorities, such as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), to oversee the protection and management of MNIs.

    Key Features of MNI Protection

    • Prohibited Activities: The Act prohibits certain activities within the precincts of MNIs, such as construction, excavation, and removal of artifacts, without prior permission from the relevant authorities.
    • Designated Zones: Within a 100-meter radius of the monument, construction activities are prohibited to prevent encroachment and damage. An additional 200-meter radius (100 + 200 meters) constitutes a regulated area where construction is subject to specific regulations to maintain the monument’s integrity and surroundings.
    • Maintenance of Records: The Act requires the maintenance of records and registers documenting the history, conservation, and management of MNIs.

    Understanding Monument Delisting

    • Once delisted, monuments are no longer subject to ASI conservation efforts, allowing for regular construction activities in the vicinity.
    • Section 35 of the AMASR Act allows for the delisting of monuments deemed to have lost national importance.
    • The delisting process involves official notifications, with a two-month public feedback period to address objections or suggestions.

     

    PYQ:

    2015: With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

    1. Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
    2. Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
    3. Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram
    4. Varaha Image at Udayagiri

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments”. This essentially implies:

    1. The site will no longer be conserved, protected, and maintained by the ASI.
    2. Activities related to construction and urbanisation in the area can be carried out in a regular manner.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • China to develop strategic Hambantota Seaport

    Why in the News?

    Sri Lanka’s PM said that China has pledged to develop the island nation’s strategic Hambantota Seaport and the capital’s airport after talks with his counterpart in Beijing.

    About Hambantota Seaport

    • The Hambantota Seaport, also known as the Magampura Mahinda Rajapaksa Port, is a deep-sea port.
    • It is situated on the southern coast of Sri Lanka and lies strategically along major international shipping routes, particularly connecting Asia with Africa and Europe.
    • The construction of the Hambantota Seaport began in 2007 and was completed in multiple phases in November 2010.
    • Sri Lanka in a controversial move signed an agreement in 2017 wherein a Chinese state-owned enterprise, acquired a 70% stake in the port on a 99-year lease.

    How does this port benefit China?

    • The port is anticipated to assume a crucial role within China’s Belt and Road initiative (BRI), aiming to connect ports and roadways spanning from China to Europe.
    • BRI’s foundation lies in a network of harbors worldwide, positioning China to challenge the United States as the foremost maritime superpower.
    • The port forms part of China’s ‘string of pearls’ strategy, potentially encircling India and accommodating its military vessels.

     

    PYQ:

    2022: Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news?

    1. It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea.
    2. China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea.
    3. A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities.
    4. Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Which of the following statements regarding important seaports in Asia are correct?

    1. Port of Singapore is the world’s busiest transshipment port and a major hub for global shipping.
    2. Port of Shanghai, located in China, is the busiest container port in the world.
    3. Port of Colombo in Sri Lanka serves as a major transshipment hub in the Indian Ocean region.
    4. Port of Yokohama, situated in Japan, is the largest port in terms of cargo tonnage handled annually.

    Select the correct option:

    1. 1 and 2 only
    2. 2 and 3 only
    3. 1, 2, and 3 only
    4. All of the above

  • The democratic political process is broken

    Why in the news? 

    Due to the loss of credibility, many institutional news media struggle to establish a factual foundation or maintain control over diverse social narratives, affecting society, media principles, and the Political milieu in India.

    The Present Scenario of Discourse in News Media:

    • Institutional Crises: Loss of credibility in institutional news media leads to a lack of establishment of factual baseline and narrative control. Without credibility, news media struggles to maintain authority and trust, hindering its role in shaping public discourse.
    • Impact on Public Discourse: The rise of social media has decentralized content creation and dissemination. Virality, rather than substance, becomes the primary measure of content value. Prioritization of engagement over quality and veracity distorts public discourse.
    • Hyper-partisanship in Media: Loss of credibility in mainstream media contributes to hyper-partisanship. News and content are utilized as tools to promote factional interests rather than fostering dialogue and deliberation. Lack of interest in genuine discourse further exacerbates divisions within society.
    • Fragmentation of Attention: The proliferation of media channels leads to the fragmentation of collective attention. A constant stream of transient content makes issues appear less significant. Gaining visibility and capturing attention becomes paramount, overshadowing the importance of substantive dialogue.
    • Individual Battles and Tribal Affiliation: Public discourse becomes a battleground for individual interests seeking attention and reinforcing tribal affiliations. Lack of genuine dialogue hampers the evolution of consensus, further polarizing society.

    Present Scenario of Discourse in Civil Society:

    • Increase in Dependency: Liberal civil society increasingly directs its efforts towards engaging with the state and its institutions. Dependency on the state for functioning compromises civil society’s autonomy and independence.
    • Legitimacy Issues: Civil society’s legitimacy is now derived more from normative purity than representativeness. This shift undermines civil society’s ability to truly represent diverse viewpoints and reconcile conflicting interests.
    • Undermining Societal issues: Civil society becomes more inclined towards single-issue campaigns rather than engaging in broader negotiation and consensus-building. This narrow focus limits its effectiveness in addressing complex societal issues.
    • Bypassing Political Processes: Civil society groups tend to bypass political processes and opt for institutional interventions, such as judicial or bureaucratic avenues, to advance their agendas. This strategy may sideline democratic processes and undermine the role of elected representatives in decision-making.

    The Present Scenario of Discourse in Political Parties:

    • Internal Focus of Political Parties: Political parties often prioritize internal issues over broader deliberations and policy formulation. This internal focus detracts from the party’s ability to engage in constructive dialogue and address pressing societal issues.
    • Unable to play a role: Elected representatives are expected to translate constituency issues into a policy agenda. However, within the party setup, they often lack the power and inclination to do so effectively.
    • Uncertain Electoral Payoff: Elected representatives may prioritize direct interventions for constituent services over influencing the policy agenda due to uncertain electoral benefits.
    • Complex Electoral Dynamics: Elections involve a mix of constituency, state, and national issues, making it challenging for representatives to effectively represent their constituents’ interests. Candidates often rely heavily on party symbols for electoral success, diminishing the significance of individual policy agendas.
    • Power Dynamics within Parties: Decision-makers for party tickets hold significant power within political parties, influencing candidate selection and party direction. Limited institutional positions of power lead to internal power struggles and sycophancy among aspirants.

    Way Forward:

    • Rebuilding Credibility: Implement measures to enhance transparency and accountability within news organizations. Encourage fact-checking and adherence to journalistic standards. Promote diversity of perspectives in news reporting to rebuild trust with diverse audiences.
    • Regulation for Social Media Platforms: Implement regulations to combat misinformation and promote responsible content sharing. Foster partnerships between social media companies and fact-checking organizations to verify information.
    • Promote Digital Literacy: Invest in education and public awareness campaigns to enhance media literacy among citizens. Equip individuals with critical thinking skills to discern credible sources from misinformation. Foster a culture of skepticism and verification when consuming news and information online.
    • Encouraging Civil Society Engagement: Provide support for civil society initiatives that promote inclusivity and dialogue among diverse stakeholders. Enhance funding and resources for civil society organizations to reduce dependency on the state and encourage autonomy.
    • Facilitate Political Dialogue and Reform: Encourage political parties to prioritize policy formulation and public deliberation over internal politics. Reform electoral systems to reduce the influence of party symbols and empower individual candidates with policy agendas.

    Conclusion: The broken democratic process is exacerbated by media credibility loss, civil society’s state dependency, and internal party issues. Rebuilding media trust, regulating social media, promoting dialogue, and empowering civil society is crucial for restoration.

    Mains PYQ-

    Q- How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years? ( UPSC IAS/2017 ) 

    Q- Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.(UPSC IAS/2021)

  • It is time for Comprehensive Reforms to Municipal Elections 

    Why in the news?

    Recently, the SC’s judgment on the Chandigarh Mayoral election gives us a good occasion to think more broadly about elections in municipalities.

    Context:

    • Elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies are exemplary democratic processes known for their punctuality, well-organized procedures, and seamless transitions of power.
    • However, when it comes to elections for grassroots governments like panchayats and municipalities, the scenario is entirely different.

    Reports from Janaagraha’s Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems 2023:

    • According to the study, over 1,400 municipalities in India did not have elected councils in place as of September 2021. This indicates a significant and widespread issue across the country.
    • Delayed elections can have serious implications for local governance and democracy. It can lead to a lack of representation for citizens, hindering their ability to participate in decision-making processes that directly affect their communities.
    • Timely elections are crucial for ensuring effective and accountable municipal governance.

    Judicial stand: 

    The delay in holding municipal elections is stated to violate the Constitution of India.  As highlighted in the ‘Suresh Mahajan’ judgment by the Supreme Court of India, the constitution unequivocally states that elections to municipalities should not be delayed under any circumstances, emphasizing the obligation of state governments and State Election Commissions to ensure the timely election of local bodies.

    CAG’s performance audit report on unelected Urban Local government councils:

    • On delayed Elections: The CAG audit reports of 17 states highlight that over 1,500 municipalities did not have elected councils in place during the audit period of 2015-2021. This indicates a widespread problem across states in conducting timely municipal elections as mandated by the 74th CAA.
    • On Council Formation: Even in cases where elections were held, there were delays in constituting councils and electing mayors, deputy mayors, and standing committees. In Karnataka, there was a significant delay of 12-24 months in forming elected councils across 11 city corporations.
    • On Long Delays in Council Formation: In Karnataka, reports indicate a 26-month delay in forming councils and electing chairpersons and standing committees for the first 2.5-year term, following the announcement of election results in September 2018.
      • Moreover, after the expiry of the first term in May 2023, some urban local governments did not hold elections for chairpersons and standing committees for more than eight months.
    • On Regional Disparities: The report highlights regional differences in the extent of delays, with Chandigarh experiencing a relatively shorter delay of 12 days compared to other regions.
    • On Data Accessibility Issues: The report mentions difficulties in accessing summary data on the making of councils and the election of mayors, deputy mayors, and standing committees, indicating potential challenges in transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

     

    What are the challenges to Municipal elections?

    • Enforcement for Timely Elections: The first challenge identified is the need for determined enforcement to ensure timely elections for urban local governments. Article 243U of the 74th Constitution Amendment Act specifies that the duration of urban local governments is five years, and elections should be completed before the expiry of this duration.
    • Non-Compliance by State Governments: Despite the Supreme Court’s clear stance regarding timely elections, state governments are non-compliant.
    • Discretion of Government Officials: One aspect of the challenge involves the discretion of government officials in scheduling elections on time. There is a concern that officials may have the discretion to delay elections, which could undermine the democratic process.
    • Possibility of Undue Influence: There is a concern about the possibility of state governments exerting undue influence on officials to delay elections for various reasons, which could compromise the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.
    • Issue with Manual Ballot Paper-Based Process: The use of a manual ballot paper-based process for elections is also mentioned as a challenge. Such a process may be prone to errors and manipulation, highlighting the need for modernization and digitization of the electoral process.
    • Issues with Short Terms: The terms being less than five years exacerbate the challenge of conducting frequent elections. This is particularly relevant as 17% of cities in India, including five of the eight largest ones, have mayoral terms of less than five years.

    Suggestive measures:

    • Empowering SECs: To deal with the challenges effectively, SECs need to play a more significant role in overseeing the electoral process. Articles 243K and 243ZA of the Constitution mandate that SECs have the superintendence, direction, and control over the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections to panchayats and urban local governments.
    • Empowerment for Ward Delimitation: Only 11 out of 35 states and union territories have empowered SECs to conduct ward delimitation. Ward delimitation is crucial for ensuring fair and equitable representation in municipal elections. SECs should be granted greater authority, including the power to conduct ward delimitation
    • SECc Vs. ECI: The courts have emphasized that SECs enjoy the same status as the Election Commission of India in the domain of elections to panchayats and urban local governments under Part IX and Part IXA of the Constitution. This underscores the significance of SECs and their authority in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections at the local level.
    • Role in Electoral Oversight: SECs should actively oversee the electoral process, including the preparation of electoral rolls, conduct of elections, and enforcement of election laws. This proactive role is essential for maintaining the integrity and credibility of municipal elections.

    Conclusion: Comprehensive reforms are needed for Municipal Elections in India, addressing delays, enforcing constitutional mandates, empowering State Election Commissions, and modernizing electoral processes to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability.

  • Can AI help in Navigating Mental Health?

    Context

    • We live in a world where therapy is a text away. Natural language processing (NLP), a branch of Artificial Intelligence (AI), enables computers to understand and interpret human language that mirrors human comprehension.
    • In mental healthcare, we are already seeing a rapid evolution of use cases for AI with affordable access to therapy and better support for clinicians.

    Natural Language Processing (NLP)

    • Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a field of artificial intelligence (AI) and computational linguistics that focuses on the interaction between computers and humans through natural language.
    • The goal of NLP is to enable computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language in a way that is both meaningful and useful.

    How does it help patients?

    • Privacy and Anonymity: These platforms offer privacy and anonymity, which can encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment or stigma.
    • Support and Validation: Chatbots can support users by helping them reframe negative thoughts, validate their emotions, and provide personalized care tailored to their needs.
    • Accessibility: Especially when human support is unavailable or inaccessible, these virtual assistants offer immediate support, potentially bridging the gap between patients and mental health services.
    • Improved Health Outcomes: Studies suggest that digital therapy tools can be as effective as in-person care in improving patient health outcomes, indicating that chatbots can contribute positively to mental health treatment.
    • Continuity of Care: By offering continuous support and resources, these tools help patients maintain a holistic approach to their mental health treatment, potentially reducing instances of relapse.
    • Resource Pointers: Chatbots can direct users to resources for coping with various mental health challenges, such as distress, grief, and anxiety, thereby empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward their well-being.
    • Scalability and Cost-effectiveness: Being scalable and cost-effective, chatbots can reach a wide audience at any time, making mental health support more accessible to those who may not have access to traditional in-person services.
    • Integration into Health Programs: By integrating chatbots into existing health programs, organizations can extend mental health support beyond traditional avenues, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

    How does it help clinicians?

    • Comprehensive Patient History: AI tools can analyze vast datasets, including clinical notes, patient conversations, neuroimages, and genetic information, to provide clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s history. This saves time during sessions and ensures that clinicians have access to all relevant information.
    • Predictive Capabilities: Recent advancements in NLP programs enable the forecasting of responses to antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs by analyzing various data sources such as brain electrical activity, neuroimages, and clinical surveys. This predictive capability helps clinicians make more informed treatment decisions, reducing the risk of ineffective interventions.
    • Streamlined Treatment Decisions: By providing insights into potential treatment outcomes, AI tools streamline treatment decisions, allowing clinicians to tailor interventions more effectively to each patient’s needs.
    • E-triaging Systems: Some chatbots are creating e-triaging systems that can significantly reduce wait times for patients and free up valuable clinical person-hours. These systems prioritize patients based on urgency, ensuring that those in need of immediate care receive prompt attention.
    • Specialized Care for Severe Mental Illnesses: With improving bandwidth and the assistance of AI tools, mental health providers can devote a higher proportion of time to severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, where specialized care is crucial. This ensures that patients with complex needs receive the attention and support they require.

    What’s next?

    • Diverse Population-wide Datasets: Companies need to refine their applications by utilizing more diverse population-wide datasets to minimize biases. This ensures that the technology is effective and equitable for all users, regardless of demographic background or characteristics.
    • Incorporating Comprehensive Health Indicators: AI programs can incorporate a wider set of health indicators to provide a more comprehensive patient care experience. This includes integrating data from various sources such as wearable devices, lifestyle factors, and social determinants of health.
    • Guided by Conceptual Frameworks: It’s essential for the development and refinement of these applications to be guided by conceptual frameworks aimed at improving health outcomes. These frameworks can help ensure that the technology is aligned with the goals of promoting mental well-being and providing effective care.
    • Rigorous Testing and Evaluation: Continuous testing and evaluation are crucial to the success of these programs. Companies must rigorously test their applications to ensure effectiveness, safety, and adherence to global compliance standards.
    • Prioritizing User Safety and Well-being: Governments and institutions need to prioritize user safety and well-being by enforcing adherence to global compliance standards. This includes regulations related to data privacy, security, and ethical use of AI in healthcare.
    • Updating Laws and Regulations: As AI applications in mental health continue to evolve, it’s essential to update governing laws and regulations to keep pace with technological advancements and protect the interests of users.
    • Demanding Better Standards of Care: Stakeholders, including patients, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups, should advocate for better standards of care in mental health. This includes advocating for the integration of AI-powered tools into healthcare systems in ways that prioritize patient well-being and improve health outcomes.

    Conclusion

    AI, particularly NLP, aids mental health by providing privacy, personalized support, and streamlined care for patients. Enhanced by diverse datasets and adherence to safety standards, it empowers clinicians to deliver effective, data-driven treatment.

     

    PYQ Mains

    Q- Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)

    Q-Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance? (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • The need to curb Black Carbon Emissions | Explained

    Why in the News? 

    According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India had installed a renewable energy capacity of over 180 GW by 2023 and is expected to meet its target of 500 GW by 2030.

    Context

    At the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow in November 2021, India pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, positioning itself as a frontrunner in the race to carbon neutrality.

    Why is black carbon relevant?

    • Cause of global warming : lack carbon is the dark, sooty material emitted alongside other pollutants when biomass and fossil fuels are not fully combusted. It contributes to global warming
    • Poses severe risks: Studies have found a direct link between exposure to black carbon and a higher risk of heart disease, birth complications, and premature death. Most black carbon emissions in India arise from burning biomass, such as cow dung or straw, in traditional cookstoves.

    Status of Black Carbon

    • According to a 2016 study, the residential sector contributes 47% of India’s total black carbon emissions. Industries contribute a further 22%, diesel vehicles 17%, open burning 12%, and other sources 2%.
    • Decarbonisation efforts in the industry and transport sectors in the past decade have yielded reductions in black carbon emissions, but the residential sector remains a challenge.

    Has PMUY helped?

    • Objective of PMUY: The primary objective of PMUY, launched by the Government of India in May 2016, is to provide free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections to households below the poverty line. This aims to offer a cleaner cooking fuel alternative to traditional biomass fuels, particularly in rural and poor households, thereby reducing their dependence on such polluting fuels.
    • Infrastructure Establishment: PMUY has established necessary infrastructure to support LPG connections, including provision of free gas stoves, deposits for LPG cylinders, and a distribution network. This infrastructure is crucial for enabling the adoption of clean cooking practices.
    • Role in Reducing Black Carbon Emissions: By providing cleaner LPG alternatives to traditional biomass fuels, PMUY has played a vital role in reducing black carbon emissions. This initiative contributes to mitigating environmental pollution and improving air quality, particularly in households previously reliant on polluting cooking fuels.

    Challenges and Shortcomings:

    Despite its objectives and infrastructure, challenges persist in fully transitioning beneficiaries to LPG usage.

    • High gap between LPG connections and actual adoption:  In 2022-2023, a significant portion of PMUY beneficiaries, representing 25%, continued to rely entirely on traditional biomass fuels for cooking. This indicates a gap between the provision of LPG connections and actual adoption of clean cooking practices.
    • Low Refill Rates and Energy Consumption: RTI data revealed that a substantial number of PMUY beneficiaries availed either zero or only one LPG refill, indicating low usage of LPG cylinders. Additionally, the average PMUY beneficiary household consumes significantly fewer LPG cylinders per year compared to non-PMUY households. This suggests that traditional fuels still meet a significant portion of energy needs in PMUY beneficiary households.
    • Health Impacts: The continued reliance on traditional fuels has detrimental health effects, particularly on women and children who are disproportionately affected by indoor air pollution. This leads to various health issues and premature deaths, highlighting the urgent need for increased adoption of clean cooking practices.
    • Affordability: Despite subsidies and recent increases(subsidy to ₹300 from ₹200. ), the cost of LPG cylinders remains high for many PMUY beneficiaries. This affordability challenge discourages households from consistently purchasing and using LPG cylinders, especially when traditional biomass alternatives are perceived as “free.”
    • Temporary Subsidies: While the government has announced temporary price reductions to address affordability concerns, the sustainability of such subsidies remains uncertain. Temporary measures may not provide long-term solutions to ensure consistent access to clean cooking fuel for beneficiaries.
    • Low Refill Rates: Low refill rates persist among PMUY beneficiaries, indicating a gap between initial LPG connections provided and sustained usage. This issue stems from both affordability concerns and challenges in availability and distribution of LPG cylinders.
    • Last-Mile Connectivity: Remote rural areas face challenges in accessing LPG due to inadequate last-mile connectivity in the distribution network. This results in continued reliance on traditional biomass fuels, perpetuating indoor air pollution and health risks.
    • Alternative Fuel Solutions: Local production of coal-bed methane (CBM) gas presents a potential solution to address the lack of last-mile connectivity and provide cleaner cooking fuel alternatives. Composting biomass to produce CBM gas could offer a sustainable and accessible solution at the village level, reducing dependence on traditional biomass fuels.
    • Investment and Infrastructure: Implementing alternative fuel solutions such as CBM gas production requires investment and infrastructure development. Panchayats and local authorities may need support and resources to establish and maintain CBM gas production facilities effectively.
    • Rural Empowerment: Empowering local communities, such as Panchayats, to take initiatives in clean cooking fuel production and distribution can promote self-sufficiency and sustainability while addressing rural energy needs.

    To resolve the challenges associated with the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) and ensure effective adoption of clean cooking practices, several measures can be implemented:

    • Awareness and Education Campaigns: Launch comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate PMUY beneficiaries about the health and environmental benefits of using LPG over traditional biomass fuels. Emphasize the importance of consistent LPG usage and the risks associated with indoor air pollution.
    • Subsidy Reforms: Implement sustainable subsidy structures that ensure long-term affordability of LPG cylinders for PMUY beneficiaries. Explore innovative subsidy mechanisms, such as targeted subsidies based on income levels or usage patterns, to address affordability concerns effectively.
    • Incentives for Refills: Introduce incentives or rewards for PMUY beneficiaries who consistently use and refill their LPG cylinders. This could include discounts on future refills or loyalty programs to encourage regular usage and reduce the gap between LPG connections and actual adoption.
    • Improved Distribution Networks: Invest in improving last-mile connectivity and distribution networks in remote rural areas to ensure seamless access to LPG cylinders for all PMUY beneficiaries. This could involve expanding the reach of LPG distribution centers and leveraging technology for efficient logistics management.
    • Promotion of Alternative Fuel Solutions: Encourage the adoption of alternative fuel solutions such as Bio gas production through community-based initiatives. Provide support and incentives for the establishment of Bio gas production facilities at the village level, empowering local communities to produce and access clean cooking fuel.
    • Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster partnerships between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and non-profit organizations to address the multifaceted challenges associated with clean cooking fuel adoption. Collaborative efforts can leverage expertise, resources, and networks to achieve sustainable solutions.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress of PMUY implementation and measure the impact of interventions. Regular assessment of refill rates, usage patterns, and health outcomes can inform evidence-based policy decisions and program adjustments.

    Conclusion

    To curb black carbon emissions, India must address gaps in LPG adoption by PMUY beneficiaries through subsidy reforms, awareness campaigns, improved distribution networks, and promotion of alternative fuel solutions, fostering partnerships for sustainable impact.

    Mains PYQ

    Q-Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022) 

    Q- Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.(UPSC IAS/2014)

     

  • [27 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A cry for help, a call for reflection and action

    [27 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A cry for help, a call for reflection and action

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2022) 

    Q) Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance? (UPSC IAS/2016) 

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: NA;

    Mains: Governance; Education;

    Mentor comments: In contemporary Indian society, there is a noticeable shift in family structures with a weakening of crucial connections between children and their families. This in turn impacts a child’s ability to engage with their society and environment. The unyielding quest for scholastic distinction often overshadows the social facets of a student’s existence, driving them to sacrifice interpersonal bonds and pursuits that are essential for a well-rounded persona. It is disconcerting to find young students voicing their inner turmoil on social media, signaling distress which ultimately increases suicidal cases as highlighted by the NCRB Report.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The unyielding quest presents the issue with educational systems often cause many an Indian student to go into a spiral, with tragic outcomes.

    • The transformation of socio-economic dynamics is not only instilling a sense of despondency among youth but is also becoming a cause for stress in their academic endeavors.
    What does the Recent Report say?

    In 2022, according to data in the “Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India 2022” report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), over 13,044 Indian students ended their lives — 7.6% of the total suicide fatalities in that year. 
    In 2023, there were reports of youngsters preparing for various competitive exams in Kota ending their lives.
    Based on police records, 15 students faded away in 2022; 18 in 2019, and 20 in 2018. 

    Coaching Industry and Governance in Kota:

    • Every year, over 2,00,000 aspirants from every corner of India flock to Kota in pursuit of ‘academic excellence’, to prepare rigorously for ‘coveted’ entrance examinations such as the JEE and the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).
    • The number of suicides (students) rose from 10,335 in 2019, to 12,526 in 2020, to 13,089 in 2021. As in NCRB data (2018), nearly 95,000 students faded away between 2007-18.

    Preventive Measures Taken by Local Institutes and Governance:

    • By Local Institutes in Kota:
      • Hostels have been equipped with ‘anti-suicide features’ that include devices fixed to ceiling fans to prevent children from harming themselves and iron grills across balconies and passageways. 
      • In the push towards professional development, there is specialized training in mess administration, psychological support, behavioral counseling, and an emphasis on overall student welfare. 
    • By Local Government in Kota:
      • The local government has stopped all routine testing in coaching institutes for over two months as a temporary measure. 
      • The Kota police have pushed hostel wardens to become more proactive by endorsing campaigns such as “Knock on the Door.” At the same time, kitchen workers and meal service providers have been encouraged to alert authorities immediately if they notice students missing their meals or leaving their food untouched.

    Challenges wrt. present Educational purveyors and Social Facets in India:

    • Intense Competitions: India with an increase in Population, lacks the generation of suitable job opportunities, moreover, a limited number of seats in government institutions, and the high fees charges in private institutions have all created a climate where there is intense competition. 
    • Social and Family Expectations: The relentless strain of competition plays on the young student, which is made worse by the pressures imposed on the child by parents without understanding their child’s wishes. Many face harsh criticism for failing to ‘meet expectations’. 
    • Lack of Government Interventions: According to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) report (2019-20), only 21.4% of colleges are under governmental administration, with 78.6% under private entities (as reported by the Union Education Ministry). 
    • Poverty Issue: A study in 2008 in The Lancet revealed that nearly 61% of global suicide fatalities were concentrated in Asia. Numerous families in India, face financial constraints that prevent them from providing their children with supplementary educational resources such as coaching and tuition. 
    • Lack of support from faculties: There are numerous instances of faculty members in institutions often chastising students for their subpar academic performance when they should be offering encouragement and assistance instead.

    Way Forward:

    • Building a welfare environment: Creating an atmosphere of empathy and acceptance is crucial to cancel out any potential negative consequences for our younger generation.
    • Discovering the unyielding quest: The unsolvable puzzle for scholastic distinction often overshadows the social facets of a student’s existence, driving them to sacrifice interpersonal bonds and pursuits that are essential for a well-rounded persona. This needs to be worked upon.
    • Investing in Social Infrastructure: Moreover, pupils from socioeconomically underserved communities are confronted with the stark actualities of endemic discrimination, thereby intensifying their hardships. So, there is an urgent need for our social infrastructure to grow more supportive and accommodative and support these young lives.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-cry-for-help-a-call-for-reflection-and-action/article67995431.ece

  • Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024

    What is the news?

    • The Union Environment Ministry has notified a set of rules called the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024.
    • Elephants, classified as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972 enjoy special protection, but certain provisions allow for their translocation under specific circumstances.

    Existing Regulations on Elephant Transfer

    • Legal Framework: The Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972 prohibits the capture or trade of elephants, whether wild or captive, without appropriate authorization.
    • Special Provisions: While strict regulations govern elephant transfer, exceptions exist for educational, scientific, or religious purposes, subject to approval from wildlife authorities.
    • Amendment: The Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2022 expanded the scope of elephant transfers, raising concerns among activists about potential exploitation and illegal trafficking.

    Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024: Key Highlights

    1. Circumstances for the Transfer of Captive Elephants:

    Transfer may be warranted under the following circumstances:

    • Incapability of the owner: When the owner is incapable of adequately ensuring the elephant’s welfare.
    • Superior Care: If it is determined that the elephant will receive superior care in the new environment compared to its current situation.
    • Improvised maintenance: The Chief Wildlife Warden may find it necessary to transfer the elephant for its improved maintenance based on the specific circumstances of the case.
    1. Transfer Within the State:
    • Veterinarian Check: Prior to any transfer within the state, a veterinarian must confirm the elephant’s health status.
    • New habitat verification: The suitability of both the current and prospective habitats must be assessed by the Deputy Conservator of Forests.
    • Chief Wildlife Warden’s Role: He/She holds the authority to approve or reject the transfer based on these evaluations.
    1. Transfer Outside the State:

    Similar conditions apply for transferring elephants beyond state boundaries in addition to-

    • Genetic Profile Registration: Additionally, the elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) before the transfer.
    1. Requirements for Elephant Transfer:
    • Accompanying the Master: The elephant must be accompanied by a mahout and an elephant assistant. Adequate provisions for feeding and watering must be arranged during transport.
    • Fitness Certificate: A health certificate issued by a veterinary practitioner confirming fitness for transport is obligatory.
    • Quarantine Mandate: Transport should commence after the completion of any required quarantine period for contagious diseases.
    • Refreshment: Tranquillisers or sedatives: This may be administered to manage nervous or temperamental elephants as prescribed by the veterinary practitioner.

     

    PYQ:

    2020: With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:

    1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
    2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
    3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
    4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 and 2 only
    2. 2 and 4 only
    3. 3 only
    4. 1, 3 and 4 only

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024 recently notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India (MoEFCC), consider the following statements:

    1. For transferring outside of a state, an elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Environment Ministry before the transfer.
    2. The authority to approve or reject the transfer vests with the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • 900-year-old Chalukyan Inscription discovered  

    What is the news?

    A 900-year-old Kannada inscription from the Kalyana Chalukya dynasty has been discovered in a state of neglect at Gangapuram, a temple town in Jadcherla mandal, Mahabubnagar, Telangana.

    • The inscription dates back to June 8, 1134 CE (Friday) and was issued by the Customs Officers of Tailapa-III, son of Kalyana Chalukya Emperor ‘Bhulokamalla’ Someswara-III.
    • It records the remission of toll taxes for the perpetual lamp and incense of God Somanatha.

    Who were the Chalukyas?

    Origin and Expansion:

    • The Chalukyas emerged as a prominent dynasty in the 6th century CE, with their capital at Badami in present-day Karnataka.
    • Pulakeshin I, the founder of the dynasty, ascended to the throne around 543 CE and expanded the empire by defeating the Kadambas, Mauryas, and other neighboring kingdoms.
    • Pulakeshin II, one of the most illustrious rulers of the Chalukyan Empire, ascended the throne in 610 CE and significantly expanded its territory through military conquests and diplomatic alliances.
    • The empire reached its zenith under Pulakeshin II, extending its influence over large parts of Southern and Central India, including present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.

    Dynastic Divisions:

    • The Chalukyan Empire witnessed the emergence of multiple dynastic branches, including the Badami Chalukyas, Western Chalukyas (also known as the Later Chalukyas), and Eastern Chalukyas (also known as the Chalukyas of Vengi).
    1. Badami Chalukyas ruled from their capital at Badami and were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and literature.
    2. Western Chalukyas, based in Kalyani (present-day Basavakalyan), continued the legacy of their predecessors and established their dominance over parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra.
    3. Eastern Chalukyas, based in Vengi (present-day Andhra Pradesh), carved out their own kingdom and played a crucial role in the political dynamics of South India.

    Religion and Faith:

    • The Chalukyas were patrons of art, literature, and architecture, fostering a rich cultural environment within their empire.
    • They promoted Hinduism as the dominant religion and contributed to the construction of numerous temples dedicated to Hindu deities, including the famous Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal.
    • The Chalukyas also patronized Jainism and Buddhism, leading to the construction of Jain caves and monasteries in regions under their control.

    Decline and Legacy:

    • The Chalukyan Empire faced internal conflicts, dynastic rivalries, and external invasions, leading to its gradual decline from the 12th century onwards.
    • The defeat of Vikramaditya VI by the Cholas in the 12th century marked the end of the Western Chalukya dynasty, while the Eastern Chalukyas continued to rule in Vengi until the 13th century.

    Administration:

    • The empire was divided into administrative units known as ‘Rashtras or Mandalas’, each governed by a local administrative officer known as a ‘Mandaleshwara’.
    • At the higher levels of administration, provincial governors known as ‘Rashtrakutas’ were appointed to oversee multiple mandalas and report directly to the king.
    • Revenue administration played a crucial role in sustaining the empire, with land revenue being the primary source of income. The empire maintained a sophisticated system of land measurement and taxation to ensure a steady flow of revenue.

    Arts and Culture:

    • Sculpture flourished under the patronage of the Chalukya rulers, with exquisite examples of stone carvings adorning temple complexes and royal monuments.
    • The famous Nataraja sculpture at Pattadakal, depicting Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance pose, is a masterpiece of Chalukyan art.
    • Pampa, a court poet of the Chalukyas, composed the epic poem “Vikramarjuna Vijaya” (also known as “Pampa Bharata” or “Pampa Ramayana”) in Kannada, narrating the story of the Mahabharata from the perspective of Arjuna.
    • The Chalukyan era witnessed the development of classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, as evidenced by sculptures found in temples such as the Mallikarjuna Temple at Pattadakal.
    • Ranna, a prominent Kannada poet of the Chalukyan period, composed the “Ajita Tirthankara Purana,” an epic poem celebrating the lives of the Jain Tirthankaras.

    Architecture:

    • Chalukyan temples are architectural marvels, characterized by their distinctive Dravidian and Nagara styles collectively called the ‘Gadag Style’ .
    • The Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal, built by the Chalukyan king Vikramaditya II in the 8th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate carvings and towering gopurams (entrance gateways).
    • Similarly, the Durga Temple at Aihole, dating back to the 7th century, showcases exemplary Chalukyan architecture with its ornate pillars and sculpted panels depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes.

     

    PYQ:

    2019: Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

    1. Chalukya
    2. Chandela
    3. Rashtrakuta
    4. Vijayanagara

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The ‘Gadag Style’ of Temple Architecture is associated with which of the following dynasties?

    1. Chalukya
    2. Kakatiya
    3. Rashtrakuta
    4. Kadamba