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  • Understanding the world of the informal waste picker

     

    High time to address occupational hazards of waste pickers

    Why is it in news?  

    • On March 1, International Waste Pickers Day, waste pickers across the world will pay homage to fellow pickers who were murdered in Colombia in 1992.

    Who are informal waste pickers?

    • The International Labour Organization defines the informal sector in waste management as ‘individuals or small and micro-enterprises that intervene in waste management without being registered and without being formally charged with providing waste management services’

    Background:

    • Informal waste pickers, often overlooked and marginalized, play a crucial but unseen role in India’s waste management systems. They are vital yet often forgotten members of the waste value chain ecosystem, deserving recognition and understanding.
    • These workers are the primary collectors of recyclable waste, playing a critical role in waste management and resource efficiency by collecting, sorting, trading and sometimes even reinserting discarded waste back into the economy.
    • Yet, they face systemic marginalisation due to non-recognition, non-representation, and exclusion from social security schemes and legal protection frameworks.

    What data shows?

    • While reliable estimates of informal waste pickers are difficult to come by, the Centre for Science and Environment reported that the informal waste economy employs about 5%–2% of the urban population globally.
    • Many are women, children and the elderly, who are often disabled, are the poorest of the urban poor, and face violence and sexual harassment often. The Periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18 indicates that there are nearly 1.5 million waste pickers within India’s urban workforce, with half a million being women.

    Challenges Faced by Waste Pickers

    • Work Conditions: Waste pickers labor for 8 to 10 hours daily, collecting 60 kg to 90 kg of waste, often without safety equipment, exposing themselves to hazards.
    • Health Issues: They suffer from dermatological and respiratory problems, alongside regular injuries, due to their hazardous work conditions.
    • Socioeconomic Factors: Low income, irregular work, and harassment exacerbate their precarious livelihoods, compounded by their subordinate position in the caste hierarchy.

    Impact of Private Sector Participation in waste collection

    • Exclusion: Private sector involvement in waste management alienates waste pickers, depriving them of their rights and exacerbating their vulnerability.
    • Marginalization: As noted by the Alliance of Indian Waste Pickers (AIW) 2023 report, Private actors employ expensive machinery, marginalizing informal waste pickers by offering competitive rates to waste generators, forcing them into hazardous scavenging activities.
    • Loss of Rights: Private players and municipal authorities often cordon off dump sites, further limiting waste pickers’ access and exacerbating their vulnerability.

    Importance of Waste Pickers in Plastic Management

    • Global Contribution: Waste pickers globally collect and recover up to 60% of all plastic waste, contributing significantly to its recycling efforts, as highlighted in the 2022 World Economic Forum report.
    • Underappreciated Role: Despite their crucial contribution to sustainable recycling, waste pickers’ work is undervalued, and they struggle to earn a decent livelihood.
    • Quantitative Impact: Reports by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Pew state that informal waste pickers collected 27 million metric tonnes of plastic waste in 2016 alone, representing 59% of all plastic material collected for recycling, thereby preventing it from ending up in landfills or oceans.
    • Relevance in India’s Context: In India, where per capita plastic waste generation is rising, waste pickers’ role becomes even more critical, especially considering that the country is among the top 12 responsible for 52% of the world’s mismanaged waste, as per a recent CPCB report.
    • Harnessing Traditional Knowledge: Waste pickers possess traditional knowledge about waste handling, which could significantly enhance the effectiveness of the EPR system if integrated properly.
    • Rethinking EPR Norms: In light of this, there is a need to reconsider the formulation of EPR norms to ensure the inclusion and empowerment of millions of informal waste pickers within the new legal framework.

    Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

    • Objective: EPR aims to enhance plastic waste management by transferring the responsibility of waste management from municipal authorities to commercial waste producers.
    • Promises of EPR: EPR holds the potential for social inclusion for waste pickers and other informal grassroots actors by promoting accountability among commercial waste producers.

    Analysis of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Guidelines

    • Stakeholder Identification: The EPR guidelines in India recognize various stakeholders, including the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), producers, brand owners, industry, industry associations, civil society organizations, and citizens.
    • Uncertainty Regarding Inclusion: It remains unclear whether these stakeholders include informal waste pickers or their representing organizations, raising questions about the extent of their involvement in the EPR framework.
    • Discrepancies with Solid Waste Management Rules 2016: While the Solid Waste Management Rules 2016 mandate the inclusion of waste pickers in municipal solid waste management systems, informal waste pickers are evidently missing in the prioritization within the EPR guidelines.
    • Omission in EPR Guidelines 2022: The EPR Guidelines 2022, published by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, have blatantly ignored the role of informal waste pickers in waste management and recycling, further exacerbating their exclusion from the formal waste management framework.

    Challenges in Implementation

    • Redirection of Waste: Despite its promises, EPR often redirects waste away from the informal sector, posing a threat of large-scale displacement for informal waste pickers.
    • Concerns Raised by WIEGO: Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO) have noted the potential negative impacts of EPR on informal waste pickers, highlighting the need for careful consideration and mitigation of such effects.

    In conclusion, acknowledging waste pickers’ crucial role in plastic recycling is imperative for sustainable waste management. Efforts should focus on integrating them into formal systems like the Extended Producer Responsibility mechanism while addressing their socio-economic vulnerabilities for a more equitable and environmentally sound future.

     

  • 99% of UPSC aspirants have a goal. Rankers have a system | Next 14-month strategy for a Top-50 rank in UPSC 2025 | AIR 48, Aaditya’s Webinar

    99% of UPSC aspirants have a goal. Rankers have a system | Next 14-month strategy for a Top-50 rank in UPSC 2025 | AIR 48, Aaditya’s Webinar

    IAS Topper’s 14-month study plan for UPSC 2025

    Join AIR 48, IAS Aaditya Pandey’s FREE Webinar on 3rd March, 7:00 pm

    First 100 will get personalized study plan and mentorship session

    Register Now!

    Why is it that some aspirants seem to be confident about their preparation and successful in their first attempt, while the vast majority struggle attempt after attempt? 

    Three things stand out more than others: 

    1. Rankers have had a system in place since day zero. 
    2. Rankers developed a mindset, i.e., believing in the timetable and mock test accountability. 
    3. Rankers worked smart by taking weekly feedback from qualified mentors. 

    If you want results, you must approach things like a ranker, not a regular ‘go with the flow’ aspirant. You must learn to control the direction of your preparation. It all comes down to your approach.

    So, What’s the difference? Actually, there are many differences:

    • 99% of aspirants focus on completing the syllabus. Rankers focus on PYQ-based preparation. 
    • 99% of aspirants stop when they achieve a good mock score. Rankers sit with mentors to understand that the initial achievement is just a launchpad for the next step.
    • 99% of aspirants are reactive. Rankers are proactive.
    • 99% of aspirants want to win the mock tests. Rankers want to win in the exam, meaning they think long-term. 
    • 99% of aspirants wait for the exam result to tell their blindspots and issues; Rankers go to their mentors and take feedback. 
    • 99% of aspirants are kind of in. Rankers are all-in.
    • 99% of aspirants focus on the outcome. Rankers focus on the process.
    • 99% of aspirants think they are good at everything. Rankers understand their strength and weaknesses and use them to their advantage in exam. 
    • 99% of spirants see feedback as someone criticising who they are. Rankers know they have blind spots and seek out thoughtful criticism from mentors. 
    • 99% of aspirants value doing it once. Rankers value doing it consistently.
    • 99% of aspirants focus on being right. Rankers concentrate on getting the best outcome.
    • 99% of aspirants worry about what they see. Rankers worry about what they can’t see.
    • 99% of aspirants blame others. Rankers accept responsibility.
    • 99% of aspirants are intermittent. Rankers are consistent.
    • 99% of aspirants focus on speed. Rankers focus on velocity.

    Register for AIR 48, Aaditya sir’s webinar on 14 month blueprint for UPSC 2025

    Register Now!

    Read what IAS, Aaditya Pandey, AIR 48 sir has to say about UPSC preparation and approach

    “I’m Aaditya, got rank 48 in UPSC 2022. Guys, thinking and preparing for UPSC can feel exciting and a bit scary. I’ve been in your shoes, and now I want to help you through it.

    Whether you are someone who can immerse themselves in preparation for 7-8 hours daily, or a UPSC warriors balancing work or college with 4-5 hours of study, remember, it’s about quality, not just quantity.

    Join me on a Zoom session on 3rd March 2024 at 7 PM. It’s for everyone – whether you’re new to UPSC or you’ve tried before but targeting a Top-50 rank in UPSC 2025.

    In the session we will talk about how to start and strategize your prep for UPSC 2025. I will share precise step wise studyplan and apporach you should have for a top-50 rank. More than that I will also talk about the philosophy of UPSC prep, what UPSC expects, and how you should adapt towards meeting those expectations.

    We will deal with all the aspects for a comprehensive UPSC preparation.

    We’ll talk about how to start with the basics, NCERTs that aren’t just textbooks but your foundation stones. And how you will have to complement this with a disciplined approach to reading newspapers and covering CA. It’s not about skimming through; it’s about understanding the world around you, which is crucial for both Prelims and Mains.

    Gradually how to progress to standard books, but do so with a strategy. You don’t just read; but analyze and understand. And here’s where the mindset plays a massive role. Transforming from an aspirant to a top ranker isn’t just about hard work; it’s about smart work, the right attitude, and persistence.

    Focus on mastering answer writing should be from early on. Your notes should be concise, clear, and, most importantly, useful. You have to learn to weave current affairs with static portions seamlessly. This isn’t just preparation; it’s about building a habit, a discipline that will stand you in good stead not just for UPSC but for life.

    I’ve talked to thousands of UPSC hopefuls on YouTube and through Civilsdaily. I know what you’re up against because I’ve been there. In this webinar, I’ll also share my notes with you.

    See you in the webinar”

    Register for AIR 48, Aaditya sir’s webinar on 14 month blueprint for UPSC 2025

    Register Now!

    In this masterclass, you will get:

    1. A 45-minute deep dive on how to plan your UPSC 2025 strategy from scratch: Level-0 to IAS in 1st attempt
    2. How do first attempt IAS Rankers plan their weeks, months, and year?
    3. Insider tips that only the top IAS and IPS rankers know and apply in every attempt

    By the end, you’ll have razor-sharp clarity and a clear roadmap for approaching and qualifying your UPSC 2025 exam with confidence and near-perfect certainty. 

    Aaditya Pandey sir, IAS, AIR 48

    Join AIR 48, IAS Aaditya Pandey’s FREE Webinar on 3rd March, 7:00 pm

    First 100 will get personalized study plan and mentorship session

    Register Now!

    (Don’t wait—the next webinar won’t be until May 24)

    upsc prelims mains

    These masterclasses are packed with value. They are conducted in private with a closed community. We rarely open these webinars for everyone for free. This time we are keeping it for 300 seats only.

    Ready to attend the UPSC Webinar?

    Register Now!

    Not sure yet?

    We recommend you register here. It takes less than 10 seconds to register.

    • No spam! Once in a while, we’ll only send you high-quality exam-related content. 
    • We will inform you about the upcoming Masterclasses that might benefit you.
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    • You can always choose to unsubscribe. 

  • 29th February 2024 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1611]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1611]

    UPSC 2024 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)

  • [29 Feb 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The economic case for investing in India’s children

    [29 Feb 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The economic case for investing in India’s children

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:
    1. Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail (2021)

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

    Prelims:
    In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of (2020)
    a) Digital security infrastructure,
    b) Food security infrastructure,
    c) Health care and education infrastructure
    d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure
    From The Hindu

    Note4Students:

    Relevance: GS II (Social Justice)

    • Prelims: Government Schemes for minor sections of the Society;
    • Mains: Education; Health;

    Mentors Comment: Human Resources are the bedrock of a nation, and early childhood care is the bedrock of a human being. If we want India’s women to work and India’s children to thrive, investing in ECCE is the crucial step towards development of Indian Human Resource. In order to formulate evidence-based policy, it is critical to understand the opportunity cost of inadequate allocation of material resources, and high-quality talent to the early childhood sector.

    Let’s Learn.

    Why in the News?

    Recently, an argument for investment in early childhood care and education has increased after the Interim budget 2024. 

    Context:

    • The Employer Rating Survey revealed at the “Women in the Workforce for Viksit Bharat” (30th Jan 2024) event, highlights a shift recognizing ‘Child Care and Upbringing’ as crucial work for the nation. 
    • Despite India’s emphasis on demographic dividend, education, and jobs, early childhood education has been historically neglected and underexplored.

    Significance of ECCE Investment and Government Initiatives for Early Care:

    • Implementing Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) initiatives can have wide-ranging developmental benefits for India by preparing children for school education, reducing dropouts, and enhancing literacy and numeracy skills. 
    • The focus on ECCE is crucial for India’s future development, aligning with global efforts to invest in human capital for inclusive growth and achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
    • Early childhood is fundamental for individual development and the nation’s human resources. The Indian government has progressively focused on parental education aspirations, enhancing access, quality, and learning outcomes.
    Nobel Laureate Heckman’s Perry Preschool study found that children who received high-quality ECCE grew into less violent adults — stronger socio-emotional skills built early might even help prevent later student suicides.
    • Slowly, but surely, India has fostered and catered to parental aspirations for education, targeting first access, crossing 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio at the primary level, and now quality, with an increased focus on measuring learning outcomes.
    • Initiatives like ‘NIPUN Bharat’ by the Ministry of Education’s National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading and the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s (MWCD) ‘Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi’ to improve ECCE quality through the Anganwadi system target children under six for foundational literacy and numeracy.

    Initiatives by the Indian Government to Improve ECCE Quality

    What do statistics say These rules put in place a flimsy system that required pharmaceutical companies to provide an “undertaking” to State drug controllers, along with their applications for manu (17).png

    Other Programs and Policies:

    • Anganwadi system: It is a government-sponsored program in India started in 1975 to combat child hunger and malnutrition, providing basic health care, nutrition, and early learning initiatives. As of March 2021, there are 13.87 lakh Anganwadi and mini-Anganwadi centers operational in India.
    • Implementation of NEP 2020: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 focuses on strengthening the foundation of learning, especially the ECCE, to enhance school readiness and create developmental benefits for children entering schools, leading to improved educational outcomes.
    • Vidya Pravesh Program: The government launched the Vidya Pravesh program as part of NEP 2020, offering a three-month play-based school readiness module for Grade 1 students to enhance school readiness and prepare them for formal education.
    • Strengthening Systems for Quality Education:  UNICEF has been working to strengthen systems in India to enhance the provision of quality early childhood education. By focusing on improving ECCE systems, UNICEF aims to ensure that every child receives quality education for school readiness and lifelong learning

    What are the challenges faced by the Indian Government in Implementing ECCE Initiatives?

    • Fragmented Service Delivery: Division of Responsibilities and funds between Union and Centre stalls Effective Implementation of Child-Friendly Policies in Early Childhood Care and Education.
    • Lack of standardization: ECCE programs lack standardization and regulation, leading to disparities in curricula, educational quality, and teacher qualifications.
    • Coordination Challenges: The division of responsibilities between the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) and the Ministry of Human Resource Development complicates policy implementation and coordination for holistic child development.
    • Inadequate Infrastructure and Training Needs: Implementing ECCE initiatives requires significant investments in infrastructure, teacher training, and resource personnel to ensure safe environments, adequate facilities, and quality education delivery.
    • Standardization vs. Customization: Balancing the need for standardized guidelines with the necessity for customization based on cultural and social diversities poses a challenge in setting quality benchmarks for ECCE programs.

    Need for research in India (Way Forward)

    • Understand macroeconomic and social implications: International studies suggest a 13% annual return on investment for early childhood care. India needs similar studies to explore the impact of early childhood care, including the Anganwadi system.
    • Need to be Goal-oriented: Children born in 2024 will be five years into adulthood by 2047, India’s 100th year of independence and the target year for Viksit Bharat. Investing in ECCE is crucial for India’s future development.
    99% of UPSC aspirants have a goal. Rankers have a system | Next 14-month strategy for a Top-50 rank in UPSC 2025 | AIR 48, Aaditya’s Webinar

    References: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-economic-case-for-investing-in-indias-children/article67896821.ece

  • Ex-SC Judge Justice A M Khanwilkar appointed Lokpal Chairperson

    In the news

    • Former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar has been appointed as the chairperson of Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman of India.
    • Justice Khanwilkar retired from the Supreme Court in July 2022, bringing a wealth of judicial experience to his new role.

    About Lokpal

    • Establishment: Lokpal is a statutory body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act of 2013.
    • Mandate: It is tasked with investigating allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and related matters.
    • Organisational Structure:
    1. The Lokpal comprises a chairperson and a maximum of 8 members.
    2. The chairperson must be a former Chief Justice of India, a former Supreme Court judge, or an eminent person meeting eligibility criteria.
    3. Half of the members must be judicial members, either former Supreme Court judges or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
    4. At least 50% members must be from SC / ST / OBC / Minorities and women.
    5. Members serve a term of 5 years or until they turn 70, whichever is earlier.
    • Perks and Benefits: The salary, allowances, and other conditions of service for the chairperson are equivalent to those of the CJI, while members receive benefits similar to Supreme Court judges.

    Appointment Process:

    • The President of India appoints the chairperson and members based on the recommendation of a selection committee.
    • The selection committee includes the PM as Chairperson, the Speaker of Lok Sabha, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a nominated judge, and one eminent jurist.

    Jurisdiction:

    • Lokpal has jurisdiction to investigate allegations of corruption against Prime Ministers, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials of the Union Government.
    • It extends to individuals associated with government-funded entities and those receiving substantial foreign contributions.

    Exceptions for Prime Minister:

    • Lokpal cannot probe allegations against the PM related to certain sensitive areas like international relations, security, public order, atomic energy, and space without the approval of at least 2/3rds of its members.
    • A full Lokpal bench must consider initiating inquiries into complaints against the PM.

    Powers of Lokpal:

    • Lokpal exercises superintendence over and provides directions to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in corruption cases.
    • It can authorize the CBI for search and seizure operations linked to such cases.
    • The Lokpal’s Inquiry Wing possesses powers akin to a civil court.
    • It can recommend the transfer or suspension of public servants implicated in corruption allegations.
    • Lokpal is empowered to prevent the destruction of records during preliminary inquiries and confiscate assets obtained through corruption.

    Reporting and Accountability

    • Annually, Lokpal submits a report on its activities to the President, which is then presented to both Houses of Parliament for scrutiny.

    Try this PYQ from CS Mains 2013

    Q.‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.

  • Cannabis Use: Implications for Psychiatry

    cannabis

    In the news

    • Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) has long intrigued psychiatrists due to its impact on mood and cognition, prompting research into its potential therapeutic applications for conditions like schizophrenia and mood disorders.

    Do you know?

     

    • The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 regulates cannabis by defining it under Section 2(iii) of the act.
    • Cannabis, also known as hemp, includes various forms such as charas (resin), ganja (flowering or fruiting tops), and any mixture or drink prepared from these forms.
    • However, interestingly, bhang, a preparation of cannabis, is NOT covered under this act and remains beyond its purview.
    • Bhang is permitted for production and sale by many States as it falls outside the definition of cannabis under the NDPS Act.

    What is Cannabis?

    • Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, pot, or ganja, is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Cannabaceae family.
    • It is primarily known for its psychoactive properties due to the presence of compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
    • This THC interacts with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, resulting in various effects including relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, and increased appetite.
    • The plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, with THC and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most well-known and studied.

    Why discuss this?

    • Researchers at the University of British Columbia initiated a clinical trial to explore the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) in treating bipolar depression, offering promise for addressing depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
    • While delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD has garnered attention for its potential antipsychotic and neuroprotective effects.

    Understanding the Cannabinoid System

    • Receptor Mechanisms: The human cannabinoid system, comprising CB1 and CB2 receptors, plays a crucial role in modulating various bodily functions, including pain, memory, and appetite, with THC exerting acute effects on motor control and memory.
    • Endo-cannabinoid System (ECS): The ECS, governed by endogenous molecules, regulates neurotransmitter activity, influencing mood and cognitive processes.

    Therapeutic Applications  

    • Medical Uses: THC and synthetic cannabinoids are utilized to stimulate appetite, alleviate nausea, and manage pain associated with conditions like HIV-AIDS and cancer.
    • Addiction and Withdrawal: Debate surrounds the addictive potential of THC, with animal studies suggesting addictive responses and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of heavy use.

    Psychiatric Implications

    • Mood Effects: Cannabis’ impact on mood is multifaceted, with reports suggesting associations with depression and bipolar disorder, although rigorous scientific scrutiny is lacking.
    • Psychotic Risks: Individuals with psychotic illnesses, including schizophrenia, exhibit heightened susceptibility to cannabis-induced psychotic symptoms, with youth cannabis use potentially advancing the onset of schizophrenia in genetically vulnerable individuals.

    Policy Considerations

    • Global Trends: The global trend toward legalizing medical and recreational cannabis underscores the need for informed policymaking to mitigate risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and individuals with mental illnesses.
    • Decriminalization Debate: Broader debates on decriminalization necessitate measures to prevent commercialization and ensure safeguards against misuse, emphasizing protection for vulnerable segments of society.

    Conclusion

    • Navigating the complexities of cannabis necessitates a balanced approach, leveraging its therapeutic potential while addressing associated risks through evidence-based policymaking and clinical interventions.

    Back2Basics: Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985

    • The NDPS Act is a comprehensive law that consolidates and amends the existing laws relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in India.
    • The Act prohibits the manufacture, cultivation, possession, sale, purchase, transport, storage, or consumption of drugs without permission from appropriate authorities.
    • Violations are punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of 10 years and a fine.
    • Lesser punishments are mandated for illegal possession in small quantities for personal consumption.
    • The Act also provides for the forfeiture of property derived from, or used in, illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
    • Drugs covered include:
    1. Narcotic Drugs: Coca leaf, cannabis (hemp), opium, poppy straw, and their manufactured goods.
    2. Psychotropic Substances: Any substance that modifies the mind, including amphetamine, methaqualone, diazepam, alprazolam, ketamine, etc.
    3. Other substances: Cocaine, morphine, diacetylmorphine, or any other narcotic drug or any psychotropic substance as may be specified on this behalf by the Central Government.
  • On Irregularities in Vertical Devolution

    On Irregularities in Vertical Devolution

    Introduction

    • Recent agitations and concerns raised by state governments highlight critical issues in the practice of fiscal federalism in India.
    • Kerala and Karnataka governments, supported by others, have underscored the urgency for the 16th Finance Commission (FC) to address vertical and horizontal inequalities in devolution

    Also read:

    Explained: Financial Devolution among States

    Trends in Vertical Devolution

    • Shrinking Divisible Pool: Historically, the divisible pool consisted mainly of income taxes and excise duties shared with states. However, recent changes have seen the exclusion of certain taxes, like corporation taxes, from the divisible pool, reducing the share available for states.
    • Expansion of Cesses and Surcharges: Despite the GST implementation, new cesses and surcharges continue to be introduced, contributing to the exclusion of an increasing share of gross tax revenue from net proceeds, impacting vertical devolution.
    • Conflicting Data: Discrepancies in government-released information on the quantum of cesses and surcharges have raised concerns about transparency and accurate reporting, which are vital for assessing the true extent of vertical devolution challenges.

    Financial Implications

    • Collection Trends: Disaggregated data analysis reveals a significant rise in the collection of cesses and surcharges over the past decade, with amounts not shared with states but retained solely by the Union government, exacerbating the vertical devolution imbalance.
    • Cumulative Collection: Cumulatively, substantial amounts have been collected as cesses and surcharges, depriving states of their rightful share and necessitating corrective measures to address historical wrongs in vertical devolution.

    Challenges in Tied Transfers

    [A] Nature of Transfers:

    • Central Schemes: The requirement for state contributions to centrally sponsored schemes and central sector schemes places a financial burden on states, undermining their fiscal autonomy and perpetuating a patron-client relationship with the Union government.
    • Conditionalities: Grants provided to states often come with conditionalities, such as labelling requirements, further limiting states’ flexibility in utilizing funds according to their specific needs.
    • Loan Nature: Most capital transfers to states are in the form of loans, adding to states’ debt burdens and constraining their financial freedom.

    [B] Impact on Federal Dynamics:

    • Centralizing Tendency: Imposed conditionalities and the reliance on centrally sponsored schemes reinforce a centralizing tendency, eroding the principles of cooperative fiscal federalism and undermining states’ autonomy in fiscal matters.
    • Substitution of Untied Transfers: The substitution of untied transfers with centrally sponsored schemes introduces rigidity in Union-State relations, hindering effective collaboration and diluting the spirit of cooperative federalism envisioned in the Indian federal structure.

    Scrutiny by Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

    • Non-Transfer of Funds: Instances of non-transfer or short transfer of collected amounts, as highlighted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), raise concerns about the effective utilization of funds and the transparency of financial management practices.
    • Consequences:
      1. Defeat of Collection Logic: The failure to transfer cesses and surcharges to the designated reserve funds undermines the intended purpose of their collection, leading to inefficiencies and potential misappropriation of funds.
      2. Ruse for Fund Diversion: The discrepancies in fund transfers raise suspicions regarding the true intent behind cesses and surcharges, with indications that they may serve as a means to divert funds away from the divisible pool for other government expenditures.

    Deviations from Finance Commission (FC) Recommendations

    [A] Assessment of Union Government’s Claims:

    • Retention of Gross Tax Revenue: While the retention of a portion of gross tax revenue by the Union government has a basis in constitutional provisions, the failure to adhere to FC recommendations on sharing net proceeds raises questions about the government’s commitment to equitable fiscal federalism.
    • Failure in Net Proceeds Sharing: Analysis of the share of central taxes devolved to states against FC-stipulated percentages reveals consistent underperformance by the Union government, indicating a significant deviation from FC recommendations.

    [B] Quantitative Analysis:

    • Shortfalls: Comparisons of actual devolutions with FC-recommended shares highlight substantial shortfalls, amounting to significant cumulative amounts over the years, representing a systemic failure in achieving equitable distribution of resources among states.
    • Cumulative Impact: The cumulative amounts not devolved to states underscore the magnitude of the fiscal imbalance and the urgent need for corrective measures to rectify historical injustices in vertical devolution.

    Way Forward: Reform Agenda for the 16th Finance Commission

    [A] Corrective Measures

    • Compensations to States: Addressing historical wrongs in vertical devolution requires compensatory measures to ensure fair resource distribution among states and rectify past imbalances.
    • Accurate Reporting: Mandating accurate reporting of “net proceeds” in budget documents is essential for transparency and accountability in fiscal management, enabling stakeholders to assess the true extent of resource allocation.
    • Addressing Shortfalls: Providing lump sum untied grants to states to offset past shortfalls in devolution is crucial to restoring states’ fiscal autonomy and promoting cooperative federalism.

    [B] Legislative Action:

    • Limiting Cesses and Surcharges: Enacting legislation to impose strict limits on the collection of cesses and surcharges, with provisions for automatic expiry and prevention of rechristening, is necessary to prevent misuse and ensure transparency in revenue generation.

    Conclusion

    • The stance of the 16th Finance Commission on vertical devolution is pivotal for the survival of fiscal federalism in India, requiring decisive action to address existing challenges and uphold the principles of cooperative federalism.

  • Row over Karnataka Temple Bill

    temple

    In the news

    • The Karnataka government’s recent move to amend the law governing the taxation of Hindu temples sparked significant debate and controversy.
    • It aims to overhaul the existing framework, particularly in terms of income allocation and management.

    Proposed Changes in Temple Taxation

    The Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aimed to modify several provisions in the existing law:

    • Income Allocation: The proposed change sought to divert 10% of the gross income of temples earning over Rs 1 crore annually to a common pool for temple maintenance. Section 19 of the Act outlines the purposes for which the common fund may be utilized, including religious studies, temple maintenance, and charitable causes.
    • Shift in Calculation: This change would shift from the previous norm of allocating 10% of the net income of temples with earnings over Rs 10 lakh annually.
    • Dedicated Common Pool: Additionally, 5% of the income of temples earning between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore annually would have been dedicated to the common pool.
    • Priests Welfare: The Congress government proposed utilizing the enhanced funds to support lower-income temples, provide assistance to ailing priests, and offer scholarships to priests’ families.

    Additional Amendments Proposed:

    • Committee of Management: The Bill proposed including a member skilled in Vishwakarma Hindu temple architecture and sculpture within the committee of management for temples.
    • Authority of Rajya Dharmika Parishat: It granted the Rajya Dharmika Parishat the power to appoint the chairman of temple management committees.
    • Infrastructure Oversight: The Bill mandated the creation of district-level and state high-level committees to oversee infrastructural projects facilitating temple pilgrimage.

    Criticism and Opposition

    • Interference into Religious Matters: BJP leaders accused the government of attempting to “rob” Hindu temples and questioned the selective targeting of Hindu institutions.
    • Questioning Motives: Concerns were raised regarding the selective taxation of Hindu temples, prompting questions about the government’s intentions.

    Constitutional Insights into the Issue

     

    The proposed Bill, which aimed to divert a percentage of temple income to a common pool, raised concerns about government interference in temple finances, potentially infringing on these constitutional rights under:

    • Article 25: Ensures individuals’ freedom to profess, practice, and propagate religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
    • Article 26: Grants religious denominations autonomy to manage their religious affairs and establish institutions for religious and charitable purposes.

    Comparison with Other States

    • Telangana’s Model: Similar to Karnataka, Telangana also mandates temple contributions towards a common good fund, utilized for temple maintenance and related expenses.
    • Kerala’s Devaswom Boards: Kerala’s temples are managed by state-run Devaswom Boards, each with its own budget and administrative laws, overseen by government-appointed nominees.

    Issues with the Bill

    • Government Interference: The appointment of members from Hindu and other religions to temple management committees raises concerns about state involvement in temple affairs.
    • Contradiction to Secularism: Perceived as contradicting the principle of secularism advocating for a separation of religion and state involvement in religious matters.
    • Conflict with Autonomy: Opposition to the diversion of temple income for a common pool fund highlights concerns about encroachment on religious autonomy and financial mismanagement by the state.

    Conclusion

    • The Karnataka temple bill controversy underscores the complex interplay between governance, religion, and finance.
    • While intended reforms aimed to enhance temple infrastructure and support, differing interpretations and political alignments led to its rejection.
    • As states grapple with temple management, a balance between tradition, governance, and public welfare remains a constant challenge.

    Try this Question from CS Mains 2018:

    Q.How the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism? Discuss. (10)

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”ba3uieqcag” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Article 371A’s Influence on Coal Mining Rules in Nagaland

    In the news

    • The Nagaland CM is facing pressure to regulate coal mining after a tragic incident where six miners died in an explosion.
    • The unique land rights granted under Article 371A of the Indian Constitution have complicated efforts to control illegal coal mining activities.

    Article 371A: Special Provisions for Nagaland

    Details
    Historical Context Established in 1963 for Nagaland, recognizing its autonomy after the Naga people’s struggle.
    Religious & Social Practices Protects Naga tribes’ customs, traditions, and religious practices from external interference.
    Customary Laws Allows continuation of indigenous legal systems and traditional methods of justice.
    **Autonomy Grants Nagaland autonomy in managing its land, forests, and natural resources.
    Legislation Reserves seats in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for various tribes and communities.
    Special Rights Aims to protect Naga people’s rights and promote socio-cultural development within the state.

    Article 371A

    Why discuss this?

    • Rat-hole Mining: Nagaland’s coal mining policy, permitting rat-hole mining due to the scattered nature of coal deposits, presents challenges for effective regulation.
    • Licensing Restrictions: Small pocket deposit licenses, awarded to individual landowners, impose limitations on lease duration, mining area, and machinery usage, as outlined in the Nagaland Coal Policy (First Amendment) of 2014.

    Conclusion

    • The intersection of constitutional provisions, traditional land rights, and regulatory frameworks poses complex challenges for the Nagaland government in its endeavour to address illegal coal mining activities.
    • As legislative deliberations continue, concerted efforts towards public awareness, regulatory reforms, and enforcement actions remain imperative for safeguarding both natural resources and community welfare in the state.

  • Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP)

    Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP)

    In the news

    • Despite the recent agreement between India and Nepal, discussions over the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) remain deadlocked.

    About Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP)

    • It is a bi-national project between India and Nepal, aimed primarily at energy production and enhancing irrigation in both countries.
    • It involves the construction of a 315-meter high dam across the River Mahakali (Sarada in India).
    • It forms an 80 km long reservoir with a surface area of 116 km square and a total gross storage volume of about 11.35 billion cubic meters.
    • Once completed, the PMP is expected to have a capacity of 5,040 megawatts (MW) and will be among the tallest dams globally, with an estimated cost ranging from Rs. 401.84 billion to Rs. 500 billion.
    • The project’s objectives include energy production and irrigation enhancement, but environmentalists have raised concerns about its potential impact on the region’s ecology and local communities.
    • This project underscores the progress of the Mahakali Treaty signed in February 1996 between India and Nepal includes provisions for the integrated development of the Mahakali River basin.

    Obstacles to Progress

    • Benefit Sharing: Disagreements arise over the distribution of benefits, with India receiving a larger share of irrigation benefits while Nepal emphasizes the value of water as a precious resource.
    • Political and Bureaucratic Challenges: Political considerations, including impending elections in India and domestic political fragility in Nepal, hinder progress. Bureaucratic concerns further impede consensus-building.

    Back2Basics: Mahakali Treaty

    Details
    Mahakali River Also known as Sharda River or Kali Ganga in Uttarakhand.

    Joins Ghagra River in Uttar Pradesh, a tributary of the Ganga.
    Signatories and Date Signed between Nepal and India on February 12, 1996.
    Objective Aimed at the integrated development of the Mahakali River, including projects like the Sarada Barrage, Tanakpur Barrage, and Pancheshwar Project.
    Ratification Process Required a two-thirds majority in the combined session of both houses of the Nepalese parliament.

    Faced opposition and scrutiny from parliamentarians during the process.
    Establishment of Commission Provision for the establishment of a Mahakali River Commission to oversee and regulate matters outlined in the treaty.

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