From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mashko Piro Tribe
Why in the News?
An NGO has released rare photographs of the Mashco Piro tribespeople, one of the world’s 100-odd uncontacted tribes.
Who are the Mashko Piro people?
The Mashco Piro tribe, possibly numbering over 750, are nomadic hunter-gatherers.
They live in the Amazon jungles of the Madre de Dios Region, near Peru’s border with Brazil and Bolivia.
Almost all uncontacted tribes, including the Mashco Piro, live in the jungles of the Amazon and Southeast Asia.
The Mashco-Piro speak a dialect of the Piro language.
The tribe is highly reclusive and only occasionally contacts the Yine people, another native group.
Threats from the logging activities
Logging companies has been allotted 53,000 hectares in the Madre de Dios forests to extract cedar and mahogany.
The Mashco Piro have expressed their disapproval of the logging companies through the Yine people, reporting feelings of pressure and upset due to company assaults.
Historical Context:
The Mashco Piro’s territory was invaded during Peru’s rubber boom in the 1880s, resulting in displacement, enslavement, and mass killings.
Survivors moved further upstream on the Manu River and have lived in isolation since then.
Protective measures from the Government
In 2002, the Peruvian government established the Madre de Dios Territorial Reserve to protect the Mashco Piro’s territory.
However, large parts of their traditional lands lie outside the reserve and have been sold as logging concessions.
The Peruvian government has forbidden all contact with the Mashco Piro to prevent the spread of diseases to which the tribe has no immunity.
As logging companies encroach on their territories, the Mashco Piro have nowhere left to go.
PYQ:
[2016] Consider the following pairs:
Community sometimes in the affairs of mentioned in the news
Kurd : Bangladesh
Madhesi : Nepal
Rohingya : Myanmar
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tobacoo industry in India
Mains level: CRISPR can reduce the impact of Tobacoo
Why in the news?
On July 8th, 1497, Vasco da Gama’s historic voyage began, reshaping global maritime routes and leaving a lasting impact on trade and culture. This era of exploration introduced and disseminated tobacco, profoundly affecting societies in numerous ways.
Cultivation and Production of Tobacco
Historical Introduction: Tobacco was originally cultivated by Native Americans and brought to Europe in the 16th century. It was introduced to South Asia by European traders and colonizers, notably the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.
Economic Significance: Tobacco is a drought-tolerant crop providing livelihoods to many. It accounts for about 2% of India’s agricultural exports and employs over 45 million people.
Revenue Generation: The tobacco industry is a major source of revenue through taxation and exports, generating over ₹22,000 crores annually.
Implications on Human Health
Health Issues: Tobacco use contributes to various cancers (lung, mouth, throat, oesophagus, pancreas, and bladder), respiratory diseases (COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis), cardiovascular problems (heart disease, stroke, hypertension), and other conditions like diabetes, infertility, weakened immune system, and complications in pregnancy.
Addiction: Nicotine, a highly addictive substance in tobacco, alters brain function leading to severe addiction.
Health Crisis: In India, tobacco use causes over 1.2 million deaths annually. It is responsible for 27% of all cancers and adds significant costs to healthcare and productivity losses, totaling approximately ₹1.82 trillion annually.
Ethical and Revenue Considerations
Economic Benefits vs. Health Costs: While tobacco provides economic benefits and employment, it comes with tremendous human and financial costs due to tobacco-related illnesses.
Constitutional Provisions: Under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life and health. The Directive Principles of State Policy mandate the state to improve public health and living standards.So,Govt. has responsibility to prevent tobacoo consumption.
Indian needs to Stack Up Its Priorities
Institutional Conflict: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) focuses on eliminating tobacco to mitigate health impacts, while the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) aims to increase tobacco crop yields.
Policy and Ethical Dilemma: The conflicting priorities between ICMR and ICAR create significant policy challenges. The constitutional mandate to prioritize public health should guide policy decisions.
Will CRISPR make a difference?
Gene Editing Potential: CRISPR technology offers potential solutions by developing genetically modified tobacco plants with reduced nicotine content.
Research Developments: Studies have shown promise in using CRISPR to significantly lower nicotine levels in tobacco plants. However, further characterization is needed to ensure these modifications do not negatively impact other important traits.
Collaborative Efforts: Collaboration between ICMR and ICAR is crucial to align scientific advancements with public health goals and agricultural sustainability.
The Tobacco Lobby and Surrogate Advertising
Circumventing Regulations: The tobacco industry employs surrogate advertising to promote its products despite stringent advertising bans. These tactics perpetuate tobacco consumption, especially among youth, undermining public health efforts.
Aggressive Lobbying: The tobacco industry has a large network of 1,027 registered lobbyists at the state level in 2024, many of whom are former government employees. They engage in extensive lobbying to weaken, delay or block life-saving tobacco control measures.
Way forward:
Implement Stricter Regulations: Enforce stringent regulations on tobacco advertising, including surrogate advertising, and ensure compliance through regular monitoring and penalties.
Ban on Public Smoking: Implement and strictly enforce smoking bans in public places to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke.
Mains PYQ:
Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (UPSC IAS/2021)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: About Foreigners Tribunals
Mains level: Decision-Making Process of Foreigners Tribunals
Why in the news?
On July 5, the Assam government instructed the Border wing of the State police not to refer cases of non-Muslims who entered India illegally before 2014 to the Foreigners Tribunals (FTs).
About Foreigners Tribunals:
Foreigners Tribunals are quasi-judicial bodies established to determine if a person staying illegally in India is a “foreigner” or not.
They were set up under the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964, enacted by the central government under the Foreigners Act, 1946.
Initially, only the central government could set up these tribunals. But a 2019 amendment empowered district magistrates in all states and UTs to establish Foreigners Tribunals.
The tribunals have the powers of a civil court to summon witnesses, require document production, and examine evidence.
Decision-Making Process of Foreigners Tribunals:
Referral: Individuals suspected of being foreigners are referred to FTs by local authorities or border police. This referral can be based on various factors, including lack of documentation or doubtful voter status.
Notice Issuance: Upon receiving a reference, the FT issues a notice to the person alleged to be a foreigner. This notice is served in English or the state’s official language.The person has 10 days to respond to the notice and an additional 10 days to submit evidence supporting their claim of citizenship.
Submission of Evidence: The individual must present evidence to prove their Indian citizenship. This may include documents like birth certificates, school certificates, land records, or other official records.
Verification: The tribunal examines the documents and evidence provided, and may call witnesses or seek additional information if necessary.
Hearing: The FT has the authority to summon and examine the individual on oath, and to require the production of additional documents. The tribunal operates with certain powers of a civil court.
Judgment: If the evidence provided is deemed insufficient to prove citizenship, the individual may be declared a foreigner. If evidence is adequate, the person is recognized as an Indian citizen.
Detention and Deportation: If declared a foreigner and unable to appeal successfully, the person may be sent to a detention center (transit camp) for deportation.
Role of Border Police:
Detection and Referral: The Assam Police Border Organisation is responsible for detecting illegal foreigners and referring suspicious cases to FTs.
Patrolling and Defence: They patrol the India-Bangladesh border, work with the Border Security Force, and maintain a second line of defense.
Monitoring: They monitor people settled in riverine and char (sandbar) areas.
Cases of ‘D’ Voters: They refer cases of ‘D’ (doubtful) voters to FTs as directed by the Election Commission of India.
NRC Appeals: People excluded from the NRC can appeal to the FTs through this wing to prove their citizenship.
Challenges and Criticisms:
Supreme Court Rulings: The Supreme Court has overturned FT orders citing grave miscarriages of justice, such as the wrongful declaration of a deceased farmer, Rahim Ali, as a foreigner.
Corruption and Malpractice: Observations have been made about corruption within the system, with allegations of notices being improperly served.
Conclusion: Need to Implement stricter oversight and auditing of Foreigners Tribunals to ensure fairness and adherence to legal procedures. Regular reviews and monitoring can help prevent corruption and malpractice, ensuring that notices are properly served and tribunal processes are transparent.
Mains PYQ:
Q How far are India’s internal security challenges linked with border management particularly in view of the long porous borders with most countries of South Asia and Myanmar? (UPSC IAS/2013)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Initiative related to Tree plantation
Mains level: India's accountability and challenges toward environmental Goals
Why in the news?
India’s tree planting schemes have garnered attention as part of the country’s efforts to combat climate change and restore degraded ecosystems. However, these initiatives face several challenges and criticisms.
Recent Trends of Special Conservation Drives:
Increased Initiatives: There has been a surge in global and national tree planting drives, such as the “One Trillion Project” by the World Economic Forum, Pakistan’s “10 Billion Tree Tsunami,” China’s “Great Green Wall,” and the “Bonn Challenge” to restore degraded landscapes.
High Media Attention: These drives often feature catchy slogans and glamorous campaigns that attract substantial media attention and public involvement.
Annual Events: India celebrates Van Mahotsava annually in July, aiming to promote tree planting and environmental conservation.
Issues Associated with These Drives:
Limited Community Participation: Many programs lack significant involvement from local communities, affecting their effectiveness and sustainability.
Post-Planting Measures: Insufficient focus on post-planting care and monitoring hinders the success of tree planting efforts.
Monoculture Risks: Some drives promote monoculture, which can be detrimental to biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
Ecological Impact: Inappropriate tree planting in non-deforested areas like grasslands or animal habitats can damage ecosystems, increase wildfire risk, and exacerbate global warming.
India’s Accountability and Challenges Toward Environmental Goals:
Achievements: India claims to have fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments and achieved an additional carbon sink of 1.97 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
Encroachment and Loss: Approximately 10 million hectares of Indian forests are under encroachment, and about 5.7 million hectares have been lost for non-forestry purposes.
Dependence on Forests: Nearly 27.5 crore people rely on forests for subsistence, highlighting the importance of sustainable management.
Restoration Goals: India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded forests by 2030, but faces challenges such as encroachment and the need for effective tree planting strategies.
Way forward:
Community Involvement: Need to foster local participation in tree planting drives by involving communities in planning, execution, and ongoing maintenance.
Monitoring and Maintenance: Try to implement robust post-planting monitoring and care systems to ensure the survival and growth of planted trees.
Policy and Strategy Improvements: To address criticism of mass planting drives, India needs to prioritize adequate financing, active community participation, and technical considerations in forestry and restoration strategies.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS); Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Why in the News?
Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) are mutual fund schemes that offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Recently, ELSS has seen a decline in popularity, with more money being withdrawn from these schemes than invested.
What is Section 80C of the Income Tax Act?
Section 80C permits certain investments and expenses to be tax-exempted.
By well-planning the 80C investments that are spread diversely across various options like National Savings Certificate (NSC), Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP), Public Provident Fund (PPF), etc., an individual can claim deductions up to Rs 1,50,000.
By taking tax benefits under 80C, one can avail of a reduction in tax burden.
About Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS)
An ELSS fund or an equity-linked savings scheme is the only kind of mutual funds eligible for tax deductions under the provisions of Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Investors can claim a tax rebate of up to Rs 1,50,000 and save up to Rs 46,800 a year in taxes by investing in ELSS mutual funds.
ELSS mutual funds’ asset allocation is mostly (65% of the portfolio) made towards equity and equity-linked securities such as listed shares.
They may have some exposure to fixed-income securities as well.
These funds come with a lock-in period of 3 years only, the shortest among all Section 80C investments.
Being market-linked, they are subject to market risk, but may offer potentially higher returns compared to traditional tax-saving instruments like National Savings Certificate (NSC) or Public Provident Fund (PPF).
Recent Trends in ELSS
In the past few months, more money has been taken out of ELSS than put in.
For example, last month ₹445 crore was withdrawn, while in April it was ₹144 crore.
In the last fiscal year, only ₹1,041 crore was invested in ELSS, compared to ₹7,744 crore the previous year.
Impact of the New Tax Regime
A new tax regime was introduced in 2020-21, which is now the default option.
The old tax regime offered various tax exemptions and deductions, helping to reduce income tax.
These benefits are not available under the new tax regime, making ELSS less attractive to investors.
PYQ:
[2021] Indian Government Bond Yields are influenced by which of the following?
Actions of the United States Federal Reserve
Actions of the Reserve Bank of India
Inflation and short-term interest rates
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mapping of these locations.
Why in the News?
Details
Niger
Turkish delegation visited to strengthen military cooperation with the junta, shifting alliances to Turkey and Russia.
Geography: Landlocked in West Africa, bordered by Algeria, Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Population ~26.3 million; capital Niamey.
Key Points:
Gained independence from France in 1960.
Political instability with coups and a military junta in 2023.
It faces significant challenges including desertification, water scarcity, and economic development issues.
It is one of the world’s poorest nations despite having large uranium reserves.
Ivory Coast
Recent discoveries have revealed substantial oil reserves estimated at six billion barrels, potentially making Ivory Coast a net oil exporter by the end of the decade.
The Baleine field, operated by Eni, aims to reach significant production levels by 2026.
Geography: Located on the southern coast of West Africa; bordered by Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana, and the Gulf of Guinea. Population ~30.9 million; capital Yamoussoukro.
Key Points:
Gained independence from France in 1960.
Experienced political instability, now relatively stable since 2016.
Fast-growing economy dependent on cocoa, coffee, and expanding into gold mining and oil refining.
Abidjan is a major hub for West African economic activities.
Pacific Island States
Participated in a summit with Japan expressing concerns over military build-ups and the need for regional peace and security.
Geography: Vast region in the Pacific Ocean, categorized into Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia; diverse climates and ecosystems.
They face challenges such as climate change impacts, biodiversity loss, and varying levels of development.
Economic activities include tourism, agriculture (especially coconut and palm oil), and fishing.
These islands play a crucial role in global biodiversity and climate resilience efforts.
PYQ:
[2022] Consider the following pairs:
Region often mentioned in the news: Country
Anatolia: Turkey
Amhara: Ethiopia
Cabo Delgado: Spain
Catalonia: Italy
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs
(d) All four pairs
[2018] Consider the following pairs:
Towns sometimes mentioned in news: Country
1. Aleppo: Syria
2. Kirkuk: Yemen
3. Mosul: Palestine
4. Mazar-i-Sharif: Afghanistan
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: About NSSO
Mains level: Key highlight of recent survey by NSSO
Why in the news?
The NSSO’s 2021-22 and 2022-23 survey outcomes reveal effects of significant economic shocks due to demonetisation, GST implementation, and the COVID-19 pandemic on India’s economy.
About NSSO:
The NSSO is India’s premier agency for conducting large-scale nationwide sample surveys on socio-economic aspects that collects data on employment, consumption, health, education, and other areas to provide essential inputs for policy and planning.
The NSSO was merged with the Central Statistical Office in 2019 to form the National Statistical Office.
Key highlight as per the recent survey by NSSO
Impact of Economic Shocks: The surveys reflect the aftermath of major economic events such as demonetisation (November 2016), the rollout of GST (July 2017), and the COVID-19 pandemic (starting March 2020).
Employment Trends: There has been a noticeable decline in employment within the informal sector over the past seven years, with around 16.45 lakh jobs lost.
Sectoral Dynamics: The unincorporated manufacturing sector saw a significant contraction, with the number of enterprises declining by 9.3% from 19.7 million in 2015-16 to 17.82 million in 2022-23.
What are unincorporated enterprises?
Unincorporated enterprises are informal businesses not legally registered as companies.
They include MSMEs, household units, own-account enterprises, and partnerships, operating outside formal regulatory frameworks but contributing significantly to employment and economic activity.
Why are these survey results important and what do they represent?
Timely Insights: These survey results offer current data crucial for understanding the evolving role of the informal sector in job creation, particularly during economic slowdowns when formal sector employment may decline.
Impact Assessment: They provide a detailed analysis of how significant economic events like demonetisation, GST implementation, and the COVID-19 lockdowns have affected the informal sector, highlighting vulnerabilities and resilience.
Policy Relevance: The findings inform policymaking aimed at supporting and regulating the informal sector, ensuring that measures address its unique challenges and contributions to overall economic stability and inclusivity.
What has been the pattern of ‘Informal Employment’ across states?
The data shows a mixed pattern across states, with 16 out of 34 states/UTs recording a decline in informal sector workers in 2022-23 compared to 2015-16.
Around 63 lakh informal enterprises shut down due to GST between 2015-16 and 2022-23, resulting in a loss of about 1.6 crore jobs.
The number of informal enterprises plunged from 50.32 lakh with 85.6 lakh workers in April-June 2021 at the peak of the COVID-19 second wave, to 1.91 crore firms with 3.12 crore employees in January-March 2022.
Way Forward:
The government should provide targeted support and incentives to help informal enterprises adapt to the post-GST and post-pandemic environment.
Policymakers should aim to facilitate a gradual transition of informal enterprises to the formal sector.
Mains PYQ:
Q How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country? (UPSC IAS/2016)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: About 106th Amendment Act
Mains level: Quota should be provided in political parties for women
Why in the News?
In the recently concluded general elections in the U.K., a record 263 women MPs, making up 40% of the total, have been elected to the House of Commons.
Political representation of Women in the world:
Have women been fairly represented in Parliament in independent India?
Women were granted the right to vote from the First General Elections in 1952, yet their representation in the Lok Sabha has been low.
Statistics about women’s representation: The women’s representation in Lok sabha in between of 1952 and 2004 was about ranged from 5% to 10%.
The percentage women’s representation had increased to 12% in 2014 and stands at 13.6% in the 18th Lok Sabha while in the Rajya Sabha (upper house), the figure is 13%.
Constitutional Amendments: The 73rd and 74th amendments in 1992/1993 provided one-third reservation for women in panchayats and municipalities, but similar reservations for the Lok Sabha and State assemblies have not been successful until recently.
Note: The global average of 26.9% of women in National parliaments.
Women’s Representation in State Legislatures:
No state has more than 20% women representation in its legislative assembly.
Chhattisgarh has the highest representation with 18% women MLAs.
Himachal Pradesh has just one woman MLA and Mizoram has none.
Should political parties provide internal reservations to increase women’s political participation?
Globally, higher representation for women is achieved through voluntary or legislated compulsory quotas for candidates within political parties or reserved seats in parliament.
So, quotas within political parties offer more democratic choices to voters and flexibility in candidate selection. It means quota in Political parties could be the most important step to increase women’s representation in Parliament.
Some parties, like Naam Tamilar Katchi in Tamil Nadu, have adopted voluntary quotas (50% for women candidates), but such measures alone have not significantly improved overall representation.
When will the 106th constitutional amendment be implemented?
The 106th Amendment Act provides for 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, including the Delhi Legislative Assembly.
The reservation will come into effect after an exercise of delimitation is undertaken following the first census conducted after the commencement of the 106th Amendment Act.
The women’s reservation will be in operation for a period of 15 years from its commencement.
Way Forward:
Public Awareness and Advocacy: Need to conduct widespread awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of gender equality in political representation.
Capacity Building and Support Mechanisms: Need to implement comprehensive capacity-building programs aimed at empowering women politically. For example,provide training in leadership skills, campaign management, and legislative processes.
Mains PYQ:
Q The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment. (UPSC IAS/2019)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Agronomy; Food production;
Mains level: Challenges in Farm Sector; Value Chains;
Why in the News?
India holds the position of the second-largest agricultural producer globally however, it only accounts for 2.4% of global agricultural exports, ranking eighth worldwide due to the post-harvest loss.
A closer look at India’s post-harvest loss:
Economic Impact: India faces annual post-harvest losses amounting to approximately ₹1,52,790 crore, significantly impacting farmer incomes and the agricultural economy.
Perishable Commodities: The biggest losses occur in perishable commodities like livestock produce (22%), fruits (19%), and vegetables (18%). Export processes further add to these losses, particularly at the import-country stage.
Supply Chain Inefficiencies: There is Inefficiencies in storage, transportation, and marketing, alongside a lack of assured market connectivity, contribute to significant post-harvest losses. Small and marginal farmers, who make up 86% of the farming community, struggle with economies of scale and market access.
Initiatives taken by the Railways Department:
Truck-on-Train Service: Indian Railways introduced the truck-on-train service, allowing loaded trucks to be transported on railway wagons. This service has been expanded following successful trials with commodities like milk and cattle feed.
Parcel Special Trains: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Railways introduced parcel special trains to transport perishables and seeds between producers and markets, ensuring timely delivery and reducing post-harvest losses.
The DFI (Doubling farmers’ income) committee recommends streamlining loading and unloading processes to minimize transit times and address staffing shortages through recruitment and training initiatives.
Kisan Rail Scheme: It was launched to connect production surplus regions with consumption regions. This scheme facilitates the transportation of perishables (including milk, meat, and fish) more efficiently.
Specialized Wagons and Facilities: Investment in specialized wagons for temperature-controlled transport and establishing rail-side facilities for safe cargo handling are essential steps taken by the Railways.
Way for Untapped Opportunities:
Enhanced Environmental Benefits: Rail transport generates up to 80% less carbon dioxide for freight traffic compared to road transport.
Public-Private Partnerships: The private sector can play a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening rail infrastructure through public-private partnerships, thereby improving the overall logistics ecosystem for agricultural produce.
Budgetary Support and Infrastructure Development: The budgetary allocation for agriculture in 2024 aims to bridge the farm-to-market gap with modern infrastructure and value-addition support.
Technology Integration: Incorporating advanced technologies like real-time tracking, temperature monitoring, and automated loading/unloading systems.
Way forward:
Expand climate-controlled storage facilities and cold storage capacity to accommodate a larger share of agricultural produce.
Provide small and marginal farmers access to storage facilities through cooperatives or subsidies.
Invest in specialized rail wagons for temperature-controlled transport and establish rail-side cargo handling facilities.
Mains PYQ:
Q How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers? (UPSC IAS/2017)
Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Population of SC and ST in India
Mains level: Objective of reservation
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has reserved its decision on sub-caste reservations for SC/STs. Any ruling on this matter must be substantiated not only legally but also academically.
What is the Sub-categorization of castes?
It refers to the practice of further dividing larger caste categories into smaller groups or sub-groups based on specific criteria such as socio-economic status, geographical location, historical background, or specific needs for policy implementation.
Background of the Case:
The case involves the validity of sub-classification within the SC and ST categories for providing reservations in government jobs and education.
In 2004 Supreme Court strikes down Andhra Pradesh Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act, 2000, citing violation of the right to equality in the E.V.Chinnaiah v State of Andhra Pradesh case and emphasised that the SC list should be treated as a single, homogeneous group
Only Parliament has the power to sub-classify SCs and STs for reservations
The Supreme Court is now considering whether states have the power to create sub-classifications within these reserved categories.
The case stems from a 1975 Punjab government notification that divided its 25% reservation for SCs into two categories: half for Balmikis (Valmikis) and Mazhabi Sikhs, and the other half for the remaining groups within the SC category.
Objectives behind the implementation of reservations and present SC scenario:
Objective of Reservations: The primary objective of reservations, as advocated by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, is to ensure equitable representation and opportunities for historically marginalized communities, particularly Scheduled Castes (SCs).
Present SC scenario: Despite reservations, certain sub-castes within SCs continue to face challenges in securing adequate representation in jobs and education. This under-representation is often attributed to factors such as inadequate educational opportunities, economic disparities, and historical discrimination.
The policy of economic empowerment in India and its associated challenges:
Policies for Economic Empowerment: These policies complement reservations by focusing on enhancing the ownership of capital assets (like land and businesses) and improving educational attainment among SC individuals
For example, Self-Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS), National Scheduled Castes Finance & Development Corporation (NSFDC) and National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC).
These policies are aimed at building capabilities and enabling greater participation in economic activities.
Challenges: There are challenges in implementing economic empowerment policies including inadequate access to credit and financial resources, lack of skill development initiatives, and persistent socio-economic barriers that hinder the upward mobility of SC communities.
Intersection with Reservations: Integrating economic empowerment with reservations is crucial to ensure that individuals from SC backgrounds not only secure reserved positions but also have the necessary skills and resources to thrive in competitive environments.
What must be our focus? (Way Forward)
Holistic Approach: There is a need for a holistic approach that combines reservations with targeted economic and educational interventions. This approach should address both systemic discrimination and socio-economic barriers faced by SC communities.
Capacity Building: There should be emphasis on enhancing the educational infrastructure and skill development programs tailored to the needs of SC individuals.
Data-Driven Policy: The policy decisions related to sub-caste reservations should be informed by empirical data that assesses the actual impact of discrimination versus socio-economic factors on under-representation.
Mains PYQ:
Q Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine (UPSC IAS/2018)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lunar Caves; Mare Tranquillitatis, LRO.
Why in the News?
Scientists have confirmed the presence of a cave on the Moon, near the site of the first lunar landing 55 years ago.
This discovery could provide astronauts with a potential habitat on the Moon in the future.
About the Cave on Mare Tranquillitatis
A study titled “Radar evidence of an accessible cave conduit on the Moon below the Mare Tranquillitatis pit” was published in the journal Nature Astronomy.
The study established the presence of a moon cave at the Sea ofTranquillity, a large, dark, basaltic plain on the Moon’s surface.
The cave is located 400 kilometers from where astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed in 1969.
It is roughly 45 meters wide and up to 80 meters long, with an area equivalent to 14 tennis courts.
Research Method
Researchers analyzed photos taken in2010 by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) spacecraft.
They concluded that the pit was the entry point to a cave created by the collapse of a lava tube, a tunnel formed when molten lava flows beneath a field of cooled lava.
Back2Basics:Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO)
NASA launched the LRO on June 18, 2009.
LRO’s primary mission is to map the Moon’s surface in high detail to identify safe landing sites and locate potential resources.
It is equipped with seven scientific instruments, including a camera, a laser altimeter, and a radiation detector.
LRO has provided critical data on lunar topography, temperature, and radiation levels, significantly enhancing our understanding of the Moon.
Characteristics of Lunar Caves
Craters are bowl-shaped and result from asteroid or comet strikes.
Pits, in contrast, appear as massive steep-walled depressions.
At least 200 such pits have been discovered, with 16 believed to have formed from collapsed lava tubes due to volcanic activity over a billion years ago.
Benefits for Human Exploration
The Moon is exposed to solar radiation 150 times stronger than Earth.
The lunar surface heats to about 127 degrees Celsius during the day and cools to around -173 degrees Celsius at night.
Caves, however, maintain stable average temperatures of around 17 degrees Celsius.
They could shield human explorers from radiation and micrometeorites, making them viable for future lunar bases or emergency shelters.
Challenges and Further Research
The depth of such caves could present challenges for accessibility.
There are risks of potential avalanches and cave-ins.
Need for Further Research
Further research is needed to understand and map the structural stability of the caves.
This could be done using ground-penetrating radar, robots, or cameras.
To become viable habitats, caves would need systems to monitor movement or seismic activity and safety zones for astronauts in case of a cave collapse.
PYQ:
[2008] Selene-1, the lunar orbiter mission belongs to which one of the following?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Python Farming
Why in the News?
In the farmlands of central Thailand, thousands of pythons are raised in a warehouse for their diamond-patterned skins, which are sold to high-end European fashion houses.
Some scientists and industry insiders believe the true value of these snakes lies in their meat.
Python Farming in Asia
Researchers estimate that China and Vietnam alone have at least 4,000 python farms, producing several million snakes primarily for the fashion industry.
A study published in Nature highlighted python farming as a flexible and efficient response to global food insecurity.
Benefits of Python Farming
Pythons can survive for monthswithout food or water and maintain their condition.
They were fed waste chicken and wild-caught rodents, offering a more efficient feed-to-meat ratio than poultry, beef, and even crickets.
Female pythons can lay between 50 and 100 eggs annually, leading to rapid reproduction.
Advantages of Python Meat
Pythons offer a more efficient feed-to-meat ratio than poultry, beef, and even crickets.
They can survive without food and water for months without losing condition.
Python meat has a chicken-like texture and is low in saturated fats.
It could provide a sustainable protein source with a lower environmental impact compared to traditional meat.
Challenges and Market Acceptance
Despite the advantages, the market is limited for python meat.
Python farmers struggle to convince people to consume snake meat, resulting in most of it being discarded or sold to fish farms.
Environmental Impact of Traditional Meat
The UN’s IPCC notes that meat from grazing animals has the greatest environmental impact.
The climate impact of traditional meat is significant, with beef identified as having the greatest environmental impact.
The UN and climate activists advocate for a more plant-based diet, but the demand for meat is expected to increase by 14% by 2032.
Drought and extreme weather are making traditional farming difficult in many parts of the world, increasing the need for alternative protein sources.
The paradox of rising meat demand and environmental concerns has spurred interest in alternatives like edible insects and lab-grown meats.
Python Meat as an Alternative
Protein-energy malnutrition caused nearly 190,000 deaths globally in 2021, emphasizing the urgent need for protein sources in many parts of the world.
Python meat could help address this issue, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative.
PYQ:
[2018] How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: FARC Peace Deal
Why in the News?
Colombia, the global center of the cocaine industry, is undergoing significant changes due to domestic and global forces.
Recent Changes: Disruption in Cocaine Trade
Colombia, the global center of the cocaine industry, is undergoing significant changes due to domestic and global forces.
Two years ago, drug traffickers who buy coca paste stopped showing up.
This sudden halt left the villagers without income, leading to food shortages and exodus in search of jobs.
The population of Cano Cabra shrunk from 200 to 40 people.
This pattern has repeated in communities across Colombia where coca is the only source of income.
About the FARC Peace Deal
It refers to the agreement reached between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to end decades of conflict. It is a significant milestone in Colombia’s efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.
FARC is a Marxist-Leninist guerrilla group founded in 1964 that waged an armed struggle against the Colombian government for over five decades.
The conflict resulted in over 220,000 deaths and the displacement of millions of people, making it one of the longest-running conflicts in Latin America.
A peace deal was signed on November 24, 2016, and subsequently ratified by the Colombian Congress.
How does the peace deal impact Columbia?
The FARC financed its war through cocaine, relying on farmers to provide coca leaves.
After the FARC left the cocaine industry, smaller criminal groups took over, adopting a new economic model.
These groups buy large quantities of coca from fewer farmers and limit operations to border regions for easier drug transport.
The shift in the drug trade has left the communities economically devastated.
Cocaine Production in Latin America:
Pablo Escobar the famous drug lord and the leader of the Medellín Cartel was a Colombian.
Ecuador has become a top cocaine exporter, and coca cultivation has increased in Peru and Central America.
These changes have pushed global cocaine production to record highs.
While cocaine consumption has reduced in the United States, it is growing in Europe and Latin America and emerging in Asia.
Implications on India:
Changes in the Colombian cocaine industry may alterglobal drug trafficking routes.
India, as part of the global drug trade network, could see changes in the routes used to smuggle cocaine into the country.
Increased cocaine production globally could lead to a higher availability of the drug in India.
This could result in an increase in drug trafficking activities within the country visible in increased seizures in major cities like Pune.
Higher availability of cocaine could lead to an increase in drug abuse cases in India.
PYQ:
[2018] India’s proximity to the two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What counter-measures should be taken to prevent the same?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: General Finance Rules (GFR)
Why in the News?
The Finance Ministry has announced new rules under the General Finance Rules (GFR) to give scientific Ministries more flexibility in importing and buying research equipment.
These changes address scientists’ concerns about strict rules have slowed down research.
Changes introduced in GFR
The limit for buying goods without needing a tender has been raised from ₹25,000 to ₹1,00,000.
For goods priced between ₹25,000 and ₹250,000, a committee of three members must check the market for the best value and quality.
This limit has been raised from ₹1,00,000 to ₹10,00,000.
Note: These changes only apply if the goods are NOT available on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
What are General Finance Rules (GFR)?
The General Finance Rules (GFR) are a set of rules issued by the Government of India to regulate financial matters in public administration.
They provide a framework for financial management, ensuring accountability, transparency, and efficiency in the use of public funds.
The GFR were first issued in 1947, post-independence.
The rules have been revised multiple times, with significant updates in 1963, 2005, and the latest in 2017.
The GFR applies to all central government departments, ministries, and organizations funded by the government.
Key Provisions:
General System of Financial Management: Guidelines on budgeting, accounting, and auditing.
Procurement of Goods and Services: Rules for procurement, emphasizing transparency and competition.
Contract Management: Procedures for awarding, managing, and terminating contracts.
Inventory Management: Guidelines for managing government inventories and assets.
Grants-in-Aid: Procedures for providing grants to institutions and individuals.
Major Highlights:
Emphasis on e-procurement to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Use of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for procurement of common use goods and services.
Requirement for performance security in government contracts to ensure compliance and reduce risk.
Strengthening of internal controls and audit mechanisms to ensure compliance with rules and regulations.
Back2Basics:Government e-Marketplace (GeM)
The GeM is a one-stop National Public Procurement Portal to facilitate online procurement of common use Goods & Services required by various Government Departments / Organizations / PSUs.
It was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
It was developedby the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (under MCI) with technical support from the National E-Governance Division (MEITy).
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Burnt Memory of EVM
Mains level: Process to be followed for the verification of EVMs and VVPATs
Why in the News?
The ECI released a technical Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on July 16 for verifying burnt memory in EVMs and VVPATs, following an April Supreme Court verdict.
What is the Burnt Memory of EVM?
“Burnt memory” in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) refers to the firmware or software program permanently written onto the microcontroller’s memory during the manufacturing process.
This memory controls the EVM’s operations, and “burnt” implies it is fixed and cannot be altered or reprogrammed easily.
What was the case before the Supreme Court, and what did it order?
Case Before the Supreme Court:
The Supreme Court was hearing a challenge to the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The judgment was delivered on April 26, 2024, during the Lok Sabha election.
The Supreme Court upheld the EVM-VVPAT system and rejected the plea for a return to paper ballots and for 100% counting of VVPAT slips.
The court directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to allow second and third-placed candidates to seek verification of burnt memories of EVMs and VVPATs of up to 5% of machines in an Assembly constituency or an Assembly segment of a Lok Sabha constituency.
Court’s Orders:
The burnt memory/microcontroller in 5% of the EVMs (control unit, ballot unit, and VVPAT) per assembly constituency/assembly segment of a parliamentary constituency shall be checked and verified for tampering or modification.
Candidates who are at Sl. No. 2 or Sl. No. 3 behind the highest polled candidate can request verification in writing.
Candidates or their representatives have the option to be present during the verification process. Requests for verification must be made within seven days of the declaration of the result.
The actual cost or expenses for the verification will be notified by the ECI, and the candidate requesting the verification will bear the expenses. These expenses will be refunded if tampering is found.
What is the process to be followed for the verification of EVMs and VVPATs?
Technical SOP by ECI:
Mock Poll: A mock poll of up to 1,400 votes per machine will be conducted in the presence of candidates or their representatives.
Result Comparison: If the results of the machines and VVPAT slips match, it will be concluded that the burnt memory or microcontrollers have not been tampered with.
Selection of Machines: Candidates can select the polling stations, EVMs, BUs, CUs, and VVPATs they want checked.
Verification Team: Trained engineers from the EVM manufacturers, Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) will perform the checks.
Technical Methods: Various technical methods will be used to verify the fidelity of firmware burnt into a microcontroller through a public process.
When will this process of checking start?
Preliminary Step: Verification will commence after it is confirmed by the High Courts of the respective states that no Election Petitions have been filed regarding the constituencies in question.
Election Petitions: Petitions challenging the election outcome can be filed within 45 days of the results being declared. Since the results were announced on June 4, petitions can be filed until July 19.
Applications Received: Eleven applications cover 118 polling stations or sets of EVMs and VVPATs. Applications have been received from candidates from BJP, Congress, DMDK, and YSRCP.
Way forward:
Enhanced Transparency and Confidence: Conduct regular and public verification processes of EVMs and VVPATs with involvement from political parties and independent observers to build public trust and confidence in the electoral system.
Technological Upgradation and Training: Invest in upgrading EVM technology and provide comprehensive training for election officials and engineers to ensure efficient and accurate verification and operation of voting machines.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Staus of digital Infrastructure of India
Mains level: Digital Infrastructure;
Why in the News?
The telecom industry has proposed several policy recommendations to the Ministry of Communications that are essential to realize the Government’s vision of promoting digital empowerment and inclusivity.
Present global status of the Indian market:
Digital Connectivity Advancements: India has made significant strides in digital connectivity, positioning itself as the third-largest digitized country globally, following the USA and China.
Telecommunications Infrastructure: The telecommunications infrastructure in India serves as a cornerstone for digital transformation, facilitating connectivity across various devices and applications, thereby contributing to higher standards of living and economic growth.
Policy Reforms: Ambitious policy reforms have been implemented to elevate India’s status as a leading digital economy. These reforms aim at fostering digital empowerment and inclusivity, crucial for sustaining growth and competitiveness in the global market.
Recommendations submitted by the telecom industry
Reduction in Levy and Tax Burden:
Abolishment of the USOF (Universal Service Obligation Fund) levy because of imposes a burden on telecom service providers (TSPs), diverting resources that could be invested in newer technologies such as 5G and network upgrades
USOF is the pool of funds generated by 5% Universal Service Levy that is charged upon all the telecom fund operators on their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).
Reduction of the license fee from 3% to 1%.
Clarity in the definition of Gross Revenue (GR) to exclude non-telecom activities from tax calculations.
Exemption and Duty Reductions:
Exemption of Service Tax on additional Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) liabilities is demanded because it is crucial for the recovery of the industry’s financial health and ensuring efficient 5G rollout.
AGR has resulted in massive dues of over ₹1.5 lakh crore that telecom companies like Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and others have to pay.
Reduction of Customs Duty to zero for telecom manufacturing, with gradual increases for 4G and 5G products.
Urgency in renewing Customs Duty exemptions for submarine cable vessels to prevent future cost increases.
Spectrum Allocation:
Prioritization of 6 GHz spectrum for 5G deployment in India.
Strategic planning of 6 GHz spectrum for future 6G technologies, aiming at enhancing network quality, coverage, and supporting a range of advanced applications like telemedicine and smart cities.
Telecommunications Act 2023:
Introduction of the Telecommunications Act 2023, addressing critical issues such as Right of Way (RoW) for telecom infrastructure.
Standardization of RoW rules across states, simplification of licensing processes, and delinking telecom infrastructure from property taxes to facilitate faster deployment of 5G services.
Implementation of Reforms:
Emphasis on the swift implementation of regulatory reforms to minimize bureaucratic delays and operational hurdles.
Creation of a conducive environment for telecom investments by ensuring clarity and uniformity in RoW regulations, thereby improving the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in the sector.
Conclusion: The Government should prioritize the swift implementation of proposed policy reforms, including the reduction of levies and taxes, clarity in revenue definitions, and spectrum allocation for 5G and future 6G technologies. Timely execution will bolster investor confidence, accelerate infrastructure development, and enhance digital connectivity nationwide.
Mains PYQ:
Q Cyber warfare is considered by some defence analysts to be a larger threat than even Al Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by Cyberwarfare? Outline the cyber threats which India is vulnerable to and bring out the state of the country’s preparedness to deal with the same. (2013)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is EEG?
Mains level: Ethics; Concerns and opportunities related to digitisation of neuro-data;
Why in the News?
Many researchers anticipate the imminent development of wearable EEGs capable of enhancing human cognitive functions directly.
Elon Musk’s Neuralink has also sparked optimism by exploring brain-computer interfaces to potentially restore lost functions in physically impaired individuals.
Neuralink is a company founded by Elon Musk in 2016 that’s developing a brain-computer interface called “the Link,” which is a surgically embedded neural-chip implant designed to decode and stimulate brain activity.
Neuralink implanted its first device in a patient’s brain in January 2024.
What is EEG?
EEGs refer to electroencephalograms, which are devices used to record electrical activity in the brain. These devices are valuable in neuroscience for monitoring brain functions and diagnosing various neurological conditions.
What is Neuroscience?
Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It is a multidisciplinary field that combines various approaches to understand the structure, function, and disorders of the nervous system.
What is Neuro data?
Neuro-data refers to data related to the nervous system, particularly the brain. It encompasses various types of data collected through neuroscience research and clinical studies.
Significance of Neurodata:
Medical Advancements: It has the potential to provide precise diagnosis and personalized treatment of neurological disorders. It facilitates the continuous monitoring of brain health and early detection of abnormalities.
Technological Innovation: It supports the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and wearable neurodevices. It would enhance rehabilitation options for individuals with neurological impairments.
Research and Insights: It can provide data for studying brain functions, cognition, and behaviour. It fuels advancements in neuroscience, leading to new therapies and interventions.
What are your neurorights?
Right to Mental Privacy: Individuals have the right to privacy concerning their neural activities and cognitive processes. This includes protection against unauthorized access to neural data and ensuring confidentiality in the use of neurotechnologies.
Right to Neurological Integrity: Individuals possess the right to autonomy over their neurological functions and activities. This entails the freedom from undue manipulation or coercion through neurotechnological interventions, ensuring that such technologies respect and preserve individuals’ neurological integrity.
What is Neuroethics?
Neuroethics is a field that addresses the ethical, legal, and social implications of advancements in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. It aims to ensure that the development and application of these technologies benefit humanity while minimising harm.
The digitisation of neuro-data raises great opportunities as well as concerns
Opportunities:
Enhanced Cognitive Assistance: Wearable EEGs and other neurotech devices can directly aid cognitive functions. For example, Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) like Neuralink could help physically impaired individuals restore lost functions.
Medical Advancements: It provides Real-time health monitoring and personalized healthcare options. For example, Improved diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders through detailed neuro-data.
Commercial and Research Value: It provides Valuable insights for neuromarketing to understand and influence consumer behaviour.
Integration with Daily Life: It can be used in daily life by using Smartwatches and apps that can track physiological activities and emotions, integrating neurotech into everyday activities.
Concerns:
Surveillance Risks: It has a potential misuse of neuro data for monitoring by employers, governments, and private companies.
Privacy and Security: It may threaten mental privacy and autonomy with the collection and analysis of sensitive neuro data.
Ethical and Legal Challenges: It has the potential for ethical dilemmas in mental privacy, consent, and the use of neurotech in various societal contexts.
Impact on Individual Rights: The right to think freely and safeguard one’s mental state from monitoring could be compromised. For example, Digitized health data’s commercial value could lead to exploitation and loss of personal control.
Initiatives related to neuroethics:
Institutional Efforts:
U.S. Presidential Commission on Bioethics: In 2015, it published the ‘Gray Matters’ report, addressing cognitive enhancement, consent capacity, and the legal implications of neuroscience.
Global Initiatives:
OECD Recommendations: In 2019, the OECD recommended principles such as safeguarding personal brain data and monitoring potential misuse of neurotechnologies.
UNESCO’s Concerns: In 2022, UNESCO highlighted issues related to human identity, freedom of thought, and privacy, emphasizing the risks of unauthorized access to neural data.
Research and Training:
Institute of Neuroethics: In 2023, researchers emphasized the need for proactive consideration of the implications of scientific advances and incorporating ethics into research training.
Conclusion: Governments and international bodies should collaborate to create robust regulations that govern the collection, use, and sharing of neuro data. These regulations should ensure that neurotechnologies are used ethically, protecting mental privacy, consent, and individual rights.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the advantages and security implications of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-vis in-house machine-based hosting for government business. (2015)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015
Mains level: Laws and Legislations in Debate
Why in the News?
In May, a speeding car, allegedly driven by a teenager, resulted in the deaths of two young techies in Pune.
The Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) initially granted the minor bail on conditions like writing a 300-word essay on road safety. This decision sparked public outrage and criticism from the Maharashtra Deputy CM.
Later, the JJB canceled the minor’s bail and sent him to an observation home, which was again challenged in the Bombay High Court.
The Bombay High Court eventually ordered the release of the minor, stating that the JJB’s remand order was illegal and that the minor should be in the care of his paternal aunt as per the Juvenile Justice Act.
What were the provisions led under the previous Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015?
Definitions:
Section 2 defines a “child” as a person below the age of 18 years.
Section 2(13) defines “children in conflict with law” as those who are alleged or found to have committed an offence.
Section 2(14) defines “children in need of care and protection” as those meeting certain criteria, such as being homeless, engaged in illegal labour, victims of abuse, etc.
Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs):
Section 4 mandates the establishment of Juvenile Justice Boards in each district.
Section 4(2) states that the JJBs shall comprise a Metropolitan Magistrate or a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class and two social workers.
Section 8 outlines the powers and functions of the JJBs in handling cases related to children in conflict with the law.
Child Welfare Committees (CWCs):
Section 27 requires the establishment of Child Welfare Committees in each district.
Section 28 defines the composition and functions of the CWCs in the care, protection, treatment, development, and rehabilitation of children in need of care and protection.
Adoption Procedures:
Chapter VIII (Sections 56-65) provides a comprehensive adoption regime, including the establishment of the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
Sections 56-65 outline the adoption procedures and ensure transparency and accountability.
Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration:
Section 39 emphasizes the rehabilitation and social reintegration of children in conflict with the law through various measures, including counseling, education, skill development, and community-based programs.
Preliminary Assessment for Heinous Offences:
Section 15 mandates a preliminary assessment by the JJB to determine if a child in the age group of 16-18 years accused of committing a heinous offence should be tried as an adult.
Children’s Court:
Section 19 provides for the establishment of a Children’s Court to try children in the age group of 16-18 years accused of committing heinous offences.
Mandatory Reporting:
Section 19(1) makes it mandatory to report the presence of a child in need of care and protection to the authorities, and failure to do so is a punishable offence.
Registration of Child Care Institutions:
Section 41 requires all childcare institutions, whether run by the government or NGOs, to be registered within six months of the commencement of the Act.
Penalties:
Chapter XI (Sections 75-85) prescribes penalties for various offences, including the non-registration of childcare institutions and the sale and procurement of children.
Amendment in 2021
Empowering District Magistrates: The amendment authorized District Magistrates, including Additional District Magistrates, to issue adoption orders under Section 61 to ensure speedy disposal of cases and enhance accountability.
Strengthening Child Welfare Committees (CWCs): The eligibility parameters for the appointment of CWC members were redefined, and criteria for disqualification were introduced under Section 28 to ensure that only competent and capable individuals were appointed.
Categorization of Offences: The amendment categorized offences where the maximum sentence is more than 7 years imprisonment but no minimum sentence is prescribed or the minimum sentence is less than 7 years as “serious offences” under Section 2(54).
Addressing Implementation Challenges: The amendment introduced changes to remove difficulties arising in the interpretation of various provisions of the Act and to clarify the scope of certain provisions.
Need for Accountability:
Promoting Justice and Fairness: Accountability ensures that juvenile offenders are held responsible for their actions in a manner that aligns with principles of justice and fairness.
Preventing Recidivism and Ensuring Rehabilitation: Holding juvenile offenders accountable helps in addressing underlying issues that contribute to their offending behaviour.
Maintaining Public Confidence and Trust: Accountability in the juvenile justice system enhances public confidence in the legal process and ensures transparency in decision-making.
Conclusion: Implement comprehensive rehabilitation programs that are tailored to the individual needs of juvenile offenders, focusing on mental health support, educational opportunities, vocational training, and family reintegration.
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. (2016)
