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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    Govt doubles outlay on PLI for IT hardware

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    Central Idea

    PLI Scheme for IT Hardware

    • The PLI scheme for IT hardware was initially introduced in March 2021.
    • It provides incentives of over 4% for incremental investment in domestic manufacturing for eligible companies, such as Dell and Flextronics.
    • The scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing, increase exports, and make India a prominent player in the IT hardware sector.
    • The scheme will have a tenure of six years, providing a long-term incentive for eligible companies to invest in domestic IT hardware manufacturing.

    Growth in indigenous IT hardware

    • The government highlighted the growth of electronics manufacturing in India.
    • There is a 17% compound annual growth rate over the past 8 years and a production benchmark of $105 billion, including $11 billion in mobile phone exports.

    New changes introduced

    • The budgetary outlay for the PLI scheme for IT hardware manufacturing has been set at ₹17,000 crore.
    • The incentive rate has been increased to 5%, offering a higher benefit to companies investing in domestic manufacturing.
    • An additional optional incentive has been introduced for using domestically produced components, although the specific rates of these incentives are not specified.
    • If the optional incentives are utilized as intended, the total incentive under the scheme could amount to 8-9%.

    Achievements in Telecom hardware manufacturing

    • Telecom hardware manufacturing has surpassed the projected ₹900 crore and reached ₹1,600 crore.
    • Some Indian companies have become significant exporters of complex radio equipment worldwide.

     

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  • Family Institution: Revitalizing for a Stronger and Healthier Society

    op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    Central Idea

    • The deteriorating state of families, marked by an increase in violence, suicides among youths, and a rise in children turning to crime, reflects the enfeeblement of the traditional family system. Studies worldwide emphasize the primacy of families in society. Addressing this crisis requires attitudinal and behavioral reforms, driven by society rather than the government.

    Definition of Family

    • Family is defined as a social unit consisting of individuals who are connected by blood relations, marriage, or adoption.
    • It is a fundamental institution in society where people share emotional bonds, live together, and collaborate in various aspects of life.
    • The composition and structure of families can vary across cultures and may include parents, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives who share mutual responsibilities and connections.

    Role of The Family as a Foundational Institution of the society

    • Consolidation of Interpersonal Relations: The family unit is where interpersonal relationships naturally evolve and thrive. Living under one roof allows family members to share thought processes, participate in collective actions, and develop emotional bonds. These interactions foster a sense of belonging, support, and connection among family members.
    • Socialization and Education: Families are responsible for the socialization and education of children. Through nurturing and guidance, families shape the character, behavior, and values of individuals, preparing them for their roles in society.
    • Emotional Support and Stability: Families offer emotional support and serve as a source of stability in individuals’ lives. They provide a nurturing environment where love, care, and emotional well-being are nurtured.
    • Transmission of Cultural and Traditional Values: Families play a vital role in preserving and transmitting cultural and traditional values from one generation to the next. Through storytelling, rituals, customs, and celebrations, families ensure the continuity of cultural heritage and identity.
    • Economic Cooperation and Division of Labor: Families often engage in economic cooperation and division of labor, with different members contributing to the family’s economic well-being.
    • Social Support Network: Families serve as a primary social support network for individuals. Family members provide emotional, financial, and practical support during times of need, illness, or crisis.
    • Intergenerational Relationships and Caregiving: Families facilitate intergenerational relationships, creating bonds between different age groups.  Families also provide care for aging or dependent family members, ensuring their well-being and dignity.

    Challenges faced by family system in the context of a globalized world

    • Changing Social Conditions: Globalization brings about significant changes in social conditions, including urbanization, mobility, and increased connectivity.  Nuclear families are becoming more common, leading to decreased intergenerational living arrangements and reduced support systems within extended families.
    • Individualism and Fragmentation:  As people pursue their own goals and aspirations, there may be a decline in collective decision-making, shared responsibilities, and mutual support. This can weaken the bond and cohesiveness within the family unit.
    • Communication and Dialogue: Globalization has introduced new modes of communication and technology that can both connect and isolate individuals. While technological advancements have made communication easier, it can also lead to superficial and transactional interactions within families. Meaningful dialogue and deep connections between family members may suffer as a result.
    • Cultural Influences: Exposure to different cultures and values through globalization can challenge traditional family norms and practices. Western influences, in particular, can impact the traditional roles and expectations within families, leading to conflicts and tensions between generations and genders.
    • Work-Life Balance: Globalization has led to changes in work patterns and increased demands in the professional sphere. Balancing work and family responsibilities becomes more challenging, affecting the overall well-being of family members.
    • Migration and Transnational Families: Globalization has facilitated increased migration and the formation of transnational families. While migration can provide economic opportunities, it can also create challenges related to separation, long-distance relationships, cultural adjustments.
    • Consumerism and Materialism: The consumerist culture promoted by globalization places a greater emphasis on material possessions and individual desires. This can lead to conflicts within families regarding priorities, values, and the definition of success. Materialistic pursuits may overshadow the importance of emotional connections and shared experiences within the family.

    Factors behind the rise of Individualism

    • Economic Prosperity: Economic growth and increased prosperity have provided individuals with greater opportunities for personal advancement and self-fulfillment. As people become more financially independent, they are able to focus on their individual goals, desires, and aspirations.
    • Urbanization and Mobility: The process of urbanization and increased mobility has led to a shift from close-knit rural communities to more diverse and fragmented urban settings. In urban areas, individuals have greater anonymity and independence, which can foster a sense of individualism.
    • Technological Advancements: The rapid advancement of technology, particularly in the areas of communication and information, has given individuals more autonomy and freedom to pursue their own interests. The internet and social media platforms, in particular, have provided platforms for self-expression and individual identity formation.
    • Emphasis on Personal Rights and Autonomy: There has been a growing emphasis on individual rights and personal autonomy in modern societies. Movements advocating for civil rights, gender equality, and personal freedoms have contributed to the promotion of individualism as a core value.
    • Cultural and Ideological Shifts: Changing cultural norms and values, influenced by globalization and exposure to diverse cultures, have contributed to the rise of individualism. The ideals of personal freedom, self-expression, and individual choice are often celebrated in media, popular culture, and social discourses.
    • Decline of Traditional Institutions: Traditional institutions, such as extended families, religious institutions, and community structures, have weakened in many societies. This decline has led to a greater focus on the individual as the primary unit of social organization, as opposed to collective identities and obligations.
    • Influence of Western Culture: The spread of Western values and ideologies, particularly through globalization and media influence, has played a significant role in promoting individualism. Western societies have historically placed a strong emphasis on individual rights, personal achievements, and self-reliance, influencing cultural attitudes towards individualism in other parts of the world.

    Way ahead: Reforms for Strengthening the Family Institution

    1. Promoting Dialogue and Communication:
    • Encourage open and candid conversations within families, fostering an environment of trust and understanding.
    • Promote regular family meetings to discuss important issues and strengthen interpersonal relationships.
    • Educate individuals on effective communication skills, including active listening and empathetic responses.
    1. Balancing Individualism and Collectivism:
    • Emphasize the value of shared experiences, mutual support, and cooperation within families.
    • Encourage the practice of sharing responsibilities, decision-making, and resources among family members.
    • Promote activities that foster a sense of collectivism, such as family outings, collaborative projects, and joint celebrations.
    1. Restoring Transparency and Trust:
    • Foster an atmosphere of honesty, transparency, and mutual respect within families.
    • Encourage family members to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly.
    • Establish mechanisms for conflict resolution and mediation to address issues and rebuild trust when conflicts arise.
    1. Cultivating Togetherness and Mentorship:
    • Create opportunities for family members to spend quality time together, engaging in shared hobbies, interests, or recreational activities.
    • Encourage mentoring relationships within families, where older members guide and support younger ones in their personal and professional development.
    • Promote intergenerational learning and knowledge exchange, preserving family values and traditions.
    1. Recognizing and Empowering Mothers:
    • Acknowledge and appreciate the vital role of mothers in nurturing and building strong families.
    • Provide support systems and resources to empower women in their roles as mothers and family leaders.
    • Promote gender equality within families, ensuring equal opportunities, security, and respect for all members.
    1. Strengthening Support Systems:
    • Develop and strengthen support networks, such as family counseling services, helplines, and community programs, to address family-related issues and provide guidance.
    • Enhance public awareness campaigns on the importance of family well-being and the need for nurturing healthy family relationships.
    • Collaborate with educational institutions, religious organizations, and community groups to promote family-oriented initiatives and activities

    Conclusion

    • The International Day of Families serves as a reminder of the alarming state of families today, characterized by violence, suicides, and societal disruptions. Recognizing the primacy of families, it is imperative to address the enfeeblement of the traditional family system through attitudinal and behavioral reforms. The collective effort of individuals, communities, and policymakers is crucial in preserving the family institution as a fundamental unit of societal well-being.

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    Child Marriage And The Role of Education: Analysis

     

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  • Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

    A Social Security Board for Gig Workers: Rajasthan’s Pioneering Step

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

    Gig Workers

    Central Idea

    • The Chief Minister of Rajasthan recently announced the establishment of India’s first welfare fund, the Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers Social Security and Welfare Fund. This landmark move comes as a significant regulatory step to address the vulnerabilities faced by gig and platform workers since the passage of the Code on Social Security in 2020.

    All you need to know about Platform-Based Gig Workers Social Security and Welfare Fund

    • Social security and welfare benefits to gig workers: It is the country’s first welfare fund specifically designed to address the social security needs of gig and platform workers established by the government of Rajasthan. The fund aims to provide social security benefits and welfare measures to gig workers who operate in the platform economy.
    • Set up in accordance with the Code on Social Security 2020: Code on Social Security recognizes the vulnerabilities faced by gig and platform workers and emphasizes the need for social security measures to protect their rights and well-being. The creation of the welfare fund aligns with the code’s objective of extending social security coverage to workers in the informal sector.
    • Operates as a tripartite institution: The Platform-Based Gig Workers Social Security and Welfare Fund operates as a tripartite institution, comprising representatives from the bureaucracy, employers or clients, and workers’ unions or associations. This structure enables the fund to effectively address the concerns and interests of all stakeholders involved.
    • Funding through revenue-sharing model: The Code on Social Security mandates that platform companies contribute 1%-2% of their revenue towards the fund, ensuring that the financial responsibility is shared between the platforms and the government.

    Who are known as Gig Workers?

    • Gig workers are individuals who engage in temporary, flexible, and on-demand work arrangements, often facilitated through digital platforms or apps.
    • They are part of the gig economy, which is characterized by short-term and project-based work engagements rather than traditional long-term employment contracts.
    • Gig workers encompass a wide range of occupations and industries. They may include freelance writers, drivers for ride-hailing services, delivery personnel, online marketplace sellers, virtual assistants, graphic designers, and many others.
    • These workers typically operate as independent contractors, offering their services or completing tasks on a project-by-project basis.

    Potential challenges in program implementation

    • Lack of Clarity in Definitions: The classification and definition of gig workers can vary, making it challenging to accurately identify and include all eligible individuals in the programs. Determining the scope and coverage of the programs can be complex, especially considering the diverse nature of gig work.
    • Funding Constraints: Allocating sufficient funds for the implementation of social security programs for gig workers can be a significant challenge. Adequate resources need to be allocated to ensure the sustainability of the programs and the provision of comprehensive benefits. Identifying the appropriate funding mechanisms, such as revenue-sharing models or contributions from platforms, can be complex and require careful consideration.
    • Limited Awareness and Outreach: Many gig workers may be unaware of their rights or the existence of social security programs available to them. Effective outreach and awareness campaigns are crucial to ensure that gig workers understand the benefits and are encouraged to participate. Language barriers, digital literacy issues, and the dispersed nature of gig workers can further complicate outreach efforts.
    • Adapting to Technological Platforms: Implementing social security programs within the digital platforms that facilitate gig work can pose technical challenges. Integration with existing platform systems, ensuring secure data management, and addressing potential privacy concerns require careful planning and coordination between government agencies and platform operators.
    • Addressing Cross-Jurisdictional Issues: Gig workers often operate across multiple jurisdictions, which can create complexities in program implementation. Coordination among different states or countries may be required to ensure seamless coverage and avoid gaps or duplications in benefits.
    • Establishing Fair Evaluation Criteria: Determining eligibility criteria and evaluating gig workers’ contributions or income can be challenging. Traditional methods of assessing employment status or income may not align with the dynamic and variable nature of gig work. Developing fair and transparent evaluation mechanisms is crucial to ensure that deserving gig workers receive the appropriate benefits.
    • Balancing Flexibility and Protection: Gig work is characterized by its flexibility, allowing workers to choose when and how much they work. Designing social security programs that provide necessary protections while still accommodating the flexible nature of gig work can be a delicate balance. Ensuring that gig workers can access benefits without compromising their work arrangements is essential.

    Measures to overcome operational challenges

    • Comprehensive Outreach and Awareness Campaigns: Launch targeted and extensive awareness campaigns to inform gig workers about the available social security programs, their benefits, and the application process. Utilize multiple communication channels, including online platforms, mobile apps, social media, and community networks, to reach a wide range of gig workers.
    • Simplified Registration and Enrollment Processes: Streamline the registration and enrollment processes to make them user-friendly and accessible to gig workers. Utilize digital platforms and mobile applications to enable easy and convenient enrollment, reducing paperwork and administrative burdens.
    • Partnerships with Platforms: Collaborate with platform operators to facilitate program implementation. Platforms can play a crucial role in sharing information, reaching out to gig workers, and integrating social security features directly into their platforms. Establish clear guidelines and expectations for platform operators to ensure compliance and seamless integration of social security measures.
    • Tailored Benefit Packages: Design benefit packages that cater to the specific needs of gig workers. Consider their income volatility, irregular work schedules, and diverse occupational risks when determining the types of benefits to offer. Flexibility and customization in benefit packages can help address the unique challenges faced by gig workers.
    • Digital Solutions and Technology Integration: Leverage digital solutions and emerging technologies to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and improve service delivery. Utilize digital platforms for benefits management, payment systems, and claims processing to ensure a seamless and user-friendly experience for gig workers.
    • Collaborative Governance: Establish tripartite partnerships involving government authorities, gig worker representatives, and platform operators to foster effective governance and decision-making. This collaborative approach ensures that the perspectives and interests of all stakeholders are taken into account and promotes transparency and accountability.
    • Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess the effectiveness and impact of social security programs for gig workers. Regularly collect feedback from gig workers, platform operators, and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to the programs.
    • International Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Engage in international collaboration and knowledge sharing to learn from best practices and experiences of other countries implementing social security measures for gig workers. Exchange ideas, strategies, and lessons learned to enhance program implementation and overcome operational challenges.

    Facts for prelims

    New classification by NITI Aayog: Platform vs. Non-platform Workers

    • The NITI Aayog report broadly classifies gig workers into platform and non-platform-based workers.
    • The consequent platformisation of work has given rise to a new classification of labour — platform labour — falling outside of the purview of the traditional dichotomy of formal and informal labour.
    • While platform workers are those whose work is based on online software applications or digital platforms.
    • Non-platform gig workers are generally casual wage workers and own-account workers in the conventional sectors, working part-time or full time.

     Conclusion

    • The establishment of the Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Board represents a significant victory for platform workers and unions who have long advocated for their rights. While many states are yet to take action, Rajasthan sets an example by prioritizing the welfare of these workers, especially with assembly elections looming next year.

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  • Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

    India’s Maternal Healthcare Crisis: A Call for Urgent Action

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Maternal Healthcare

    Central Idea

    • A recent United Nations report revealed a startling reality that India, along with nine other nations, accounted for a staggering 60% of global maternal deaths, stillbirths, and newborn deaths. In 2020 alone, India accounted for over 17% of such fatalities, making it the country with the second-highest number of maternal deaths after Nigeria.

    What is maternal mortality?

    • As per World Health Organization, Maternal death is the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management but not from accidental or incidental causes.

    Gaps in maternal Healthcare in India

    • Maternal mortality rate: A United Nations report highlighted that India was among the top 10 countries responsible for 60% of global maternal deaths, stillbirths, and new-born deaths. In 2020, India accounted for over 17% of such deaths, making it the second-highest contributor after Nigeria.
    • Antenatal care (ANC):1% of mothers in India did not attend any ANC visit during their recent pregnancy. Furthermore, only 34.1% of mothers attended one, two, or three visits, falling short of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation of four visits.
    • Postnatal care: 16% of women in India did not receive any postnatal health check-ups, while 22.8% experienced delayed check-ups occurring two days after childbirth. In the poorest 20% of the households, 26.3% women never had a postnatal health check-up, whereas among the richest, only 7.9% did not.
    • Lack of skilled health providers: 8% of Indian women did not receive tetanus shots, which are crucial for preventing infections during and after surgery. In about 11% of cases, no skilled health providers were present at the time of delivery, posing risks in detecting and managing complications.
    • Decline in MMR: The Sample Registration System (SRS) 2016-2018 estimated India’s MMR at 113 per 100,000 live births. This represents a decline from previous years and indicates progress in reducing maternal deaths.

    Facts for prelims

    • India’s maternal mortality ratio (MMR) has improved to 103 in 2017-19, from 113 in 2016-18.
    • Seven Indian states have very high maternal mortality. These are Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Odisha and Assam.
    • The MMR is ‘high’ in Punjab, Uttarakhand and West Bengal. This means 100-130 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
    • It is ‘low’ in Haryana and Karnataka.
    • The states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar have seen the most drop in MMR.
    • West Bengal, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Chhattisgarh have recorded an increase in MMR over the last survey.

    Challenges in achieving further reductions in MMR in India

    • Regional Disparities: States with limited healthcare infrastructure and resources often report higher MMR compared to more developed regions. Bridging these regional gaps in healthcare access and quality is crucial for ensuring equitable maternal healthcare outcomes.
    • Socioeconomic Factors: Socioeconomic factors play a substantial role in maternal health outcomes. Women from marginalized communities, low-income households, and rural areas face higher risks due to limited access to healthcare facilities, education, and economic resources.
    • Quality of Healthcare Services: The availability of skilled healthcare providers, adequate infrastructure, and essential medical supplies is lacking in many parts particularly in remote and ares.
    • Awareness and Education: Limited awareness among women, families, and communities about the importance of antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postnatal care hindering timely and appropriate care-seeking behavior.
    • Cultural and Social Factors: Deep-rooted cultural and social factors often influence maternal healthcare-seeking behavior and decision-making. Traditional beliefs, practices, and societal norms directly or indirectly affect women’s access to and utilization of maternal healthcare services.

    Government’s initiatives to improve maternal health

    • National Health Mission (NHM): The NHM is a flagship program of the Government of India aimed at providing accessible and affordable healthcare services, including maternal healthcare. Under the NHM, the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) strategy focuses on improving maternal and child health outcomes through a continuum of care approach.
    • Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY): The JSY is a conditional cash transfer program that encourages institutional deliveries and postnatal care utilization. It provides financial assistance to pregnant women from low-income households to cover the cost of delivery and associated expenses. The program aims to reduce financial barriers and promote institutional deliveries, ensuring access to skilled birth attendants.
    • Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): The PMMVY is a maternity benefit scheme that provides cash incentives to pregnant and lactating women for their first live birth. It aims to provide partial wage compensation to pregnant women for wage loss during childbirth and to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes.
    • Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK): The JSSK program ensures free and cashless delivery, including caesarean section, in public health facilities. It covers the costs of essential drugs, diagnostics, blood transfusion, and transportation for pregnant women and sick infants. The program also provides free referral transport services for pregnant women in need of emergency care.
    • Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR): The MDSR system is an important component of the government’s efforts to reduce maternal deaths. It focuses on identifying, reporting, and analyzing maternal deaths to understand the causes and take appropriate actions for prevention in the future.
    • National Iron Plus Initiative (NIPI): The NIPI focuses on addressing anemia in pregnant women by providing iron and folic acid supplements. Anemia is a significant risk factor for maternal mortality, and the NIPI aims to ensure universal coverage and adherence to iron and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy.
    • Skill Development Initiatives: The government has also emphasized the training and skill development of healthcare professionals, especially in the field of obstetric and neonatal care. This includes the establishment of skilled birth attendant programs, enhancing the capabilities of healthcare providers, and promoting evidence-based practices for safe deliveries and postnatal care.

    Way ahead

    • Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: Investing in healthcare infrastructure, especially in underserved areas, is crucial to improve access to quality maternal healthcare services. This includes ensuring the availability of skilled healthcare professionals, adequate facilities, and essential medical supplies in both urban and rural settings.
    • Enhancing Healthcare Workforce: Strengthening the healthcare workforce through training programs and capacity-building initiatives is essential. This involves increasing the number of skilled birth attendants, midwives, and other healthcare professionals who can provide comprehensive maternal care services.
    • Improving Access and Affordability: Addressing financial barriers is crucial to ensure that all women can access and afford maternal healthcare services. Enhancing the coverage and effectiveness of health insurance schemes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for maternal healthcare.
    • Community Engagement and Awareness: Promoting community participation and awareness about maternal health is vital. Community-based programs can play a significant role in educating women, families, and community members about the importance of antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, postnatal care, and recognizing pregnancy-related complications.
    • Strengthening Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR): Enhancing the MDSR system can provide critical insights into the causes of maternal deaths and inform evidence-based interventions. Establishing robust systems for reporting, reviewing, and analyzing maternal deaths can help identify gaps in the healthcare system and facilitate targeted interventions to prevent future deaths.
    • Empowering Women and Gender Equality: Promoting gender equality and empowering women are fundamental to improving maternal health outcomes. This includes increasing access to education, economic opportunities, and decision-making power for women. Empowered women are more likely to seek and demand quality maternal healthcare services.
    • Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, NGOs, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders is crucial. Partnerships can facilitate the sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices to drive collective efforts toward reducing maternal mortality rates.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress and identify areas that require further attention is essential. Regular data collection, analysis, and reporting on maternal health indicators can help assess the effectiveness of interventions and inform evidence-based decision-making.

    Conclusion

    • India’s high maternal mortality rates necessitate immediate interventions to address the gaps in ANC, PNC, awareness, and access to skilled healthcare providers. Bridging the disparities based on education, wealth, and caste is crucial for equitable maternal healthcare. It is imperative to prioritize comprehensive maternal healthcare and take urgent action to save lives and ensure the well-being of women and newborns in India.

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    Also Read:

    AI to improve maternal and child health in India

     

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Matrilineality in Meghalaya

    | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    meghalaya

    Central Idea: A tribal council’s order not to issue a Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificate to any Khasi person who adopts the surname of her or his father has triggered a war of words in matrilineal Meghalaya.

    Matrilineal Society of Meghalaya

    • Multiple tribes in Meghalaya, northeast India, practice matrilineal descent.
    • Khasi and Garo people are the primary tribes discussed in the article.
    • The term “Ki Hynniew Trep” (The Seven Huts) refers to the Khasi people, while the Garo people are also known as Achik people.
    • These tribes have a proud heritage of matrilineality, but there are concerns about the decline of matrilineal traits.

    Background

    • Khasi people are an ancient tribe and are considered the largest surviving matrilineal culture in the world.
    • Khasis, along with other subgroups like the Garo, reside in Meghalaya, as well as bordering areas of Assam and Bangladesh.
    • The matrilineal tradition practiced by the Khasi people is unique within India.
    • Matrilineal principles are emphasized in myths, legends, and origin narratives of the Khasi tribe.
    • Reference to “Nari Rajya” in the epic Mahabharata likely correlates with the matrilineal culture of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya.

    Rights, Roles and Responsibilities

    • Women play a dominant role in the matrilineal society of Meghalaya.
    • The youngest daughter, known as Ka Khadduh, inherits ancestral property.
    • Husbands live with their mother-in-law after marriage.
    • Children take their mother’s surname.
    • In case a couple has no daughters, they can adopt a daughter and pass property rights to her.
    • The birth of a girl is celebrated, and there is no social stigma associated with women remarrying or giving birth out of wedlock.
    • Women have the freedom to intermarry outside their tribe.
    • Independent, well-dressed, unmarried women enjoy security and prefer not to get married.
    • Many small businesses are managed by women.

    Comparison between Garo and Khasi Practices

    Bina Agarwal compared the Garo and Khasi practices in 1994. (Aspirants with Sociology optional are bound to remember the sociologist’s name.)

    • Garo also practices matrilineal inheritance and matrilocal post-marital residence.
    • Both tribes accept pre-marital sex by women, but adultery by women is punished.
    • The Khasi practice duolocal post-marital residence, where the husband lives separately from the wife’s parents’ residence.
    • The Khasi have an aversion to cross-cousin marriage.

    Roles of Men and Political Representation

    • Mothers or mothers-in-law are responsible for the care of children.
    • Khasi men perceive themselves as having a secondary status and established societies to protect men’s rights.
    • Representation of women in politics, legislative assembly, village councils, and panchayats is minimal.
    • Women believe they handle money matters better and enjoy economic freedom.

    Matrilineal, not matriarchal

    • While society is matrilineal, it is not matriarchal. In past monarchies of the state, the son of the youngest sister of the king inherited the throne.
    • Even now in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly or village councils or panchayats the representation of women in politics is minimal.

    Issues with the system

    • Some Khasi men perceive themselves to be accorded a secondary status.
    • They have established societies to protect equal rights for men.
    • They express that Khasi men don’t have any security, they don’t own land, they don’t run the family business and, at the same time, they are almost good for nothing.

     

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  • Monsoon Updates

    Monsoon onset in Kerala on June 4

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    monsoon

    Central Idea: The monsoon is likely to set in over Kerala with a “slight delay” on June 4, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. The usual onset date over Kerala is June 1, within a seven-day window.

    What does the “Onset of Monsoon” mean?

    • The onset of the monsoon over Kerala marks the beginning of the four-month, June to September southwest monsoon season over India.
    • It brings more than 70 per cent of the country’s annual rainfall.
    • It marks a significant transition in the large-scale atmospheric and ocean circulations in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • The IMD announces it only after certain newly defined and measurable parameters, adopted in 2016, are met.
    • The onset is a significant day in India’s economic calendar.

    How does IMD predict the monsoon?

    • Broadly, the IMD checks for the consistency of rainfall over a defined geography, its intensity, and wind speed:
    1. Rainfall: The IMD declares the onset of the monsoon if at least 60% of 14 designated meteorological stations in Kerala and Lakshadweep record at least 2.5 mm of rain for two consecutive days at any time after May 10.
    2. Wind field: The depth of westerlies should be upto 600 hectopascal (1 hPa is equal to 1 millibar of pressure) in the area bound by the equator to 10ºN latitude, and from longitude 55ºE to 80ºE. The zonal wind speed over the area bound by 5-10ºN latitude and 70-80ºE longitude should be of the order of 15-20 knots (28-37 kph) at 925 hPa.
    3. Heat: The INSAT-derived Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) value (a measure of the energy emitted to space by the Earth’s surface, oceans, and atmosphere) should be below 200 watt per sq m (wm2) in the box confined by 5-10ºN latitude and 70-75ºE latitude.
    • The onset is not officially declared until the prescribed conditions (above) are met.

    Factors considered by IMD

    • The IMD uses a specialised model that forecasts the arrival dates within a four-day window.
    • It uses six predictors:
    1. Minimum temperatures over northwest India
    2. Pre-monsoon rainfall peak over south Peninsula
    3. Outgoing long-wave radiation (OLR) over the South China Sea
    4. Lower tropospheric zonal wind over the southeast Indian Ocean
    5. Upper tropospheric zonal wind over the east equatorial Indian Ocean, and
    6. OLR over the southwest Pacific region

    Back2Basics: Long Period Average (LPA)

    • The IMD predicts a “normal”, “below normal”, or “above normal” monsoon in relation to a benchmark “long period average” (LPA).
    • The LPA of rainfall is the rainfall recorded over a particular region for a given interval (like month or season) average over a long period like 30 years, 50 years, etc.
    • LPA refers to the average rainfall recorded from June to September for the entire country, the amount of rain that falls every year varies from region to region and from month to month.
    • The IMD’s prediction of a normal monsoon is based on the LPA of the 1971-2020 period, during which India received 87 cm of rain for the entire country on average.
    • It has in the past calculated the LPA at 88 cm for the 1961-2010 period, and at 89 cm for the period 1951-2000.

    Why LPA is needed?

    • The IMD records rainfall data at more than 2,400 locations and 3,500 rain-gauge stations.
    • Because annual rainfall can vary greatly not just from region to region and from month to month, but also from year to year within a particular region or month.
    • An LPA is needed to smooth out trends so that a reasonably accurate prediction can be made.
    • A 50-year LPA covers for large variations in either direction caused by freak years of unusually high or low rainfall, as well as for the periodic drought years.
    • It also takes into account the increasingly common extreme weather events caused by climate change.

    Range of normal rainfall

    The IMD maintains five rainfall distribution categories on an all-India scale. These are:

    1. Normal or near normal, when the percentage departure of actual rainfall is +/-10% of LPA, that is, between 96-104% of LPA;
    2. Below normal, when departure of actual rainfall is less than 10% of LPA, that is 90-96% of LPA;
    3. Above normal, when actual rainfall is 104-110% of LPA;
    4. Deficient, when departure of actual rainfall is less than 90% of LPA; and
    5. Excess, when the departure of actual rainfall is more than 110% of LPA.

     

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    India nears milestone with first indigenous Dengue Vaccine

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    dengue

    Central Idea: Serum Institute of India and Panacea Biotec have applied to the ICMR’s call for Expression of Interest for collaborative Phase-III clinical trials for an indigenous dengue vaccine.

    What is Dengue?

    Details
    Transmission Primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes
    Virus and Serotypes Dengue virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family

    Four distinct serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4
    Symptoms High fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, pain behind the eyes, mild bleeding
    Severe Dengue Progression to severe dengue can cause plasma leakage, bleeding, organ impairment
    Geographic Distribution Endemic in more than 100 countries, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions
    Incidence and Global Impact 100-400 million dengue infections occur annually globally, affecting healthcare systems and economies
    Vector and Breeding Sites Aedes aegypti mosquito breeds in stagnant water containers found near human dwellings
    Treatment No specific antiviral treatment available; supportive care, rest, fluid intake, symptom management
    Prevention and Control Reduce mosquito breeding sites, proper water storage, cleaning of water containers, use of insecticides

     

    Dengue Virus Disease and Global Impact

    • Dengue virus disease causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, with 2 to 2.5 lakh (200,000 to 250,000) cases reported annually in India.
    • The global incidence of dengue has increased dramatically, with over half of the world’s population at risk.
    • The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified dengue as one of the top ten global health threats in 2019.
    • Currently, there is no specific treatment for dengue, highlighting the urgent need for effective vaccines.

    Desirable Characteristics of a Dengue Vaccine

    The ICMR highlights the desirable characteristics of a dengue vaccine, including a-

    • Favorable safety profile
    • Protection against all four serotypes of dengue
    • Reduced risk of severe disease and death
    • Induction of a sustained immune response and
    • Effectiveness regardless of previous sero-status and age

     

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  • North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

    In news: Sikkim Statehood Day

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

    sikkim

    Sikkim Statehood Day

    • Sikkim day is annually celebrated on May 16, commemorating the integration of Sikkim with India in 1975.
    • The process of Sikkim joining India occurred about two decades after Sardar Vallabbhai Patel led the integration of princely states into India.

    Sikkim’s History with the Chogyal Royals

    • The kingdom of Sikkim was established in 1642 when Phuntsong Namgyal was consecrated as the first ruler or Chogyal.
    • Sikkim’s monarchy, under the Namgyal dynasty, lasted for 333 years until its integration with India in 1975.
    • Sikkim had a Tibetan origin and was located between India and China. It often faced conflicts over land with Bhutan and Nepal.
    • The British saw Sikkim as a buffer state and established a formal relationship with it.
    • Various treaties like the Treaty of Tumlong (1861), Treaty of Titaliya (1817), Calcutta Convention (1890), and Lhasa Convention (1904) shaped the relationship between Sikkim and the British.

    Independent India and Sikkim

    • After India’s independence, princely states had the option to accede to India or Pakistan.
    • Sikkim’s unique relationship with British rule led to complexities in its integration with India.
    • Sardar Vallabbhai Patel and BN Rau wanted Sikkim to sign the Instrument of Accession to integrate it with India.
    • Jawaharlal Nehru acknowledged the situation in Sikkim and emphasized its autonomous growth.
    • Sikkim State Congress (SSC), Praja Mandal (PM), and Praja Sudharak Samaj (PSS) demanded a popular government, abolition of landlordism, and accession to India.
    • A Standstill Agreement was signed to maintain the existing arrangement while discussions continued.

    War with China

    • Sikkim had a state council with elected and nominated members.
    • Political developments in the 1960s and 1970s played a significant role in Sikkim’s status.
    • The formation of the Sikkim National Congress (SNC) in 1960 and changes in political leadership on both sides influenced the course of events.
    • India-China war of 1962 and containment of border skirmishes made it important to clarify the relationship between India and Sikkim.

    How Sikkim finally joined India?

    • The Indian leadership started supporting pro-democracy forces in Sikkim, such as Kazi Dorji of the SNC.
    • Protests in Sikkim in 1973 led to a tripartite agreement between the Chogyal, the Indian government, and three major political parties.
    • Elections were held in 1974, and a new constitution limited the role of the monarch.
    • A referendum held in 1975 resulted in a majority vote in favor of joining India.
    • The Constitution (Thirty-Sixth Amendment) Bill was passed, recognizing Sikkim as a state in the Union of India.
    • Sikkim’s new parliament proposed a bill for Sikkim to become an Indian state, which was accepted by the Indian government.

     

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  • Blockchain Technology: Prospects and Challenges

    Worldcoin: The Iris-scanning Cryptocurrency

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

    worldcoin

    Central Idea: Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, is reportedly raising $100 million for Worldcoin, a unique cryptocurrency.

    What is Worldcoin?

    • Worldcoin, co-founded by Altman and Alex Blania in 2019, aims to provide every human being on Earth with a share of its digital token.
    • Worldcoin is a crypto project that seeks to establish a global identity and financial network for everyone.
    • It utilizes a device called the Orb, which scans people’s irises to verify their uniqueness and humanity.
    • Individuals who undergo the iris scan are rewarded with Worldcoin tokens.
    • The World App, developed by Worldcoin, enables users to make payments, purchases, and transfers using Worldcoin and other digital assets.
    • The project plans to launch in the first half of 2023 and distribute a total of 10 billion tokens, with 80% going to users.

    Functioning of Worldcoin

    • Worldcoin’s founders aimed to freely distribute shares of the digital token to every person on the planet.
    • They envisioned it as a global distribution system for Universal Basic Income and a means to distribute profits generated by AI systems equally among people.
    • To ensure fair distribution, Worldcoin utilizes biometric iris scans through the Orb device.
    • The Orb scans the iris and converts it into a hash, which is impossible to recreate even if compromised.
    • The iris hash and the user’s public key hash are sent to Worldcoin servers, and if the person is new to the system, the hashes are added to the database and the company’s blockchain.

    Challenges and criticisms

    • Worldcoin faces challenges regarding the accessibility of the Orb and expanding the user database.
    • The project plans to incentivize sign-ups by offering coupons or access to loans.
    • Concerns exist about the privacy and security of biometric data and potential misuse.
    • Questions arise about the feasibility and scalability of reaching unbanked or underbanked populations.
    • The value and utility of the Worldcoin token and its competitiveness with other cryptocurrencies or fiat currencies are also subject to scrutiny.

    Back2Basics: Cryptocurrency

    • A cryptocurrency is a digital asset stored on computerised databases.
    • These digital coins are recorded in digital ledgers using strong cryptography to keep them secure.
    • The ledgers are distributed globally, and each transaction made using cryptocurrencies are codified as blocks.
    • And multiple blocks linking each other forms a blockchain on the distributed ledger.
    • There are estimated to be more than 47 million cryptocurrency users around the world.
    • These cryptocurrencies are created through a process called mining.

     

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  • G20 : Economic Cooperation ahead

    India’s G20 Presidency and Disaster Risk Management

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Central Idea

    • The endorsement of a new working group on disaster risk reduction by the G20, under India’s presidency, presents an opportunity to prioritize disaster risk financing and achieve the targets set by the Sendai framework for 2030. The increasing occurrence of natural and human-made catastrophes globally has highlighted the need for competent financial risk management and insurance.

    The Need for Disaster Risk Financing

    • Recent years have witnessed a surge in both natural and human-made catastrophes worldwide. Disasters not only exacerbate poverty and hinder development but also generate social polarization.
    • Lack of competent financial risk management and insurance has allowed risks to proliferate, causing havoc in society and the economy. Annual disaster losses have a significant impact on low-income economies

    The Role of the G20 in Strengthening Financial Risk Management

    • Enhancing Risk Understanding and Integration: The G20 can support countries in enhancing their understanding of disaster risks and integrating them into government planning and budget processes. This includes promoting the development and dissemination of risk assessment tools, methodologies, and best practices.
    • Strengthening Regulation and Supervision in the Insurance Industry: Effective regulation, legislation, and supervision are crucial for the insurance industry to play a proactive role in managing disaster risks. The G20 can facilitate dialogue and cooperation among regulators and policymakers to establish robust frameworks that ensure fair and transparent insurance practices
    • Facilitating Public-Private Partnerships: Public-private partnerships are essential for managing and financing disaster risks effectively. The G20 can foster an enabling environment for partnerships between governments, private sector entities, and financial institutions.
    • Shifting from Ex-post to Ex-ante Financing Mechanisms: Traditionally, financial resources for disaster response, recovery, and reconstruction have been mobilized after an event occurs (ex-post financing). The G20 can advocate for a shift towards ex-ante financing mechanisms, where financial resources are pre-arranged and readily available to respond to disasters.
    • Encouraging Investment in Disaster Risk Reduction: There is a scarcity of investment in a development-oriented approach that focuses on reducing disaster risks. The G20 can promote investment in disaster risk reduction by raising awareness about the benefits of resilience-building measures and creating incentives for both public and private sectors to allocate resources towards risk reduction initiatives.

    What is Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRWG)?

    • The Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group is a newly endorsed working group within the G20 that focuses on disaster risk reduction.
    • It serves as a platform for member countries to collaborate and share knowledge on effective strategies for managing and reducing disaster risks.
    • It aims to address key components of comprehensive financial management strategies for disaster risks, including risk assessment, insurance coverage, financial assistance, and risk transfer mechanisms.

    Facts for prelims

    What is Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)?

    • The CDRI is an international coalition of countries, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic institutions that aim to promote disaster-resilient infrastructure.
    • Its objective is to promote research and knowledge sharing in the fields of infrastructure risk management, standards, financing, and recovery mechanisms.
    • It was launched by the Indian PM Narendra Modi at the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit in September 2019.
    • CDRI’s initial focus is on developing disaster-resilience in ecological, social, and economic infrastructure.

    Significance of the Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRRWG)

    • Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: The DRRWG provides a platform for member countries to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in disaster risk reduction. It facilitates collaboration and learning from diverse approaches and methodologies employed by different nations.
    • Harmonization and Standardization: The DRRWG promotes harmonization and standardization of definitions, methodologies, and data collection practices related to disaster risk assessment and financing. This improves comparability and enables better analysis and benchmarking of disaster risks across different regions.
    • Access to International Markets: By harmonizing definitions and methodologies, the DRRWG helps countries improve access to international (re)insurance markets. Standardized approaches and better data quality enhance the confidence of insurers and reinsurers, facilitating the availability of insurance coverage and risk transfer mechanisms.
    • Comprehensive Financial Management Strategies: The DRRWG aims to address all key components of comprehensive financial management strategies for disaster risks. Comprehensive strategies enhance countries’ abilities to manage and reduce disaster risks effectively.
    • Investment in Disaster Risk Reduction: The DRRWG emphasizes the importance of investment in disaster risk reduction initiatives. By providing screening criteria for disaster-resilient investments and entities, the DRRWG helps guide investment decisions toward reducing risks and building resilience.
    • Global Resilience Building: The efforts of the DRRWG contribute to global resilience-building against disasters. By fostering cooperation, sharing expertise, and promoting best practices, the DRRWG strengthens the collective capacity of member countries to mitigate, manage, and recover from disasters, ultimately enhancing global resilience.

    How India can guide G20’s disaster management initiatives?

    • Setting the Agenda: India, as the G20 president, can prioritize disaster management on the agenda of G20 meetings and discussions. By emphasizing the importance of disaster resilience and risk reduction, India can ensure that member countries address these issues at the highest level of international cooperation.
    • Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: India can lead efforts to facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building among G20 member countries in the field of disaster management. This can involve organizing workshops, training programs, and conferences to promote the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches.
    • Policy Advocacy: India can advocate for policy measures that strengthen disaster management capabilities. This includes encouraging the adoption of robust regulatory frameworks, promoting risk-based approaches, and supporting the integration of disaster risk reduction into national development plans and policies.
    • Financial Commitments: As the G20 president, India can encourage member countries to allocate financial resources towards disaster risk reduction and resilience-building initiatives. By highlighting the economic and social benefits of such investments, India can mobilize support for increased funding and financing mechanisms for disaster management.
    • Public-Private Partnerships: India can promote partnerships between governments and the private sector to enhance disaster management efforts. By fostering collaboration and sharing expertise, technologies, and resources, India can facilitate the development of innovative solutions and strengthen resilience across sectors.
    • International Cooperation: India can leverage its position as G20 president to strengthen international cooperation in disaster management. This involves collaborating with other international organizations, regional bodies, and stakeholders to coordinate efforts, share data and information, and foster a collective response to global disaster risks.

    Conclusion

    • Prioritizing disaster risk financing within the G20, under India’s presidency, presents an opportunity to convert intentions into investment opportunities. India’s experience in dealing with natural disasters positions it to lead in disaster risk management.

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    Also Read:

    Disasters at Himalayan Region (Uttarakhand)

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