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  • Starting for Prelims 2024? Follow Zeeshan sir’s 7-step strategy for Holistic Prelims Preparation | Join FREE Masterclass

    Starting for Prelims 2024? Follow Zeeshan sir’s 7-step strategy for Holistic Prelims Preparation | Join FREE Masterclass

    Concluded successfully for the FREE Dominate Prelims 2024 LIVE Workshop by Senior IAS Faculty Zeeshan Hashmi sir

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    Every year, only about 10,000 of the approximately 11 Lakh applicants who appear qualify for the UPSC Prelims. It’s only 1%. This provides no room for error, even silly mistakes, yet many of you continue to make the same mistakes. 

    Guys, there is no doubt that the UPSC Prelims would be the most difficult level. Now merely completing the syllabus, Practicing PYQs, and Mock Tests are not enough to beat the unpredictability and uncertainty of the Prelims. 

    It is the great filter that pulls out not-so-serious candidates while also weeding out many serious prospects. Our inability to meet Prelim needs frequently demoralizes us and causes us to lose hope. Remember that the appropriate strategy & overcoming your critical Prep gaps can increase your chances of success.

    Zeeshan Hashmi sir will be LIVE on “Cracking UPSC Prelims 2024-25 with 120+ marks even in the most unpredictable question paper”. This is a must for UPSC CSE 2024-25 aspirants.

    Zeeshan sir & Rankers conduct The Dominate Prelims 2024, a holistic program for UPSC Prelims Prep. The Prog offers time-bound syllabus (GS+CA) coverage, advanced conceptual clarity, AI-powered Replica-based Test Series, personalized mentorship, strategy sessions, and periodic performance evaluations, to help you overcome all your critical gaps.

    Masterclass/Webinar Details:

    Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert in the UPSC field! Here are the details for Zeeshan Hashmi sir’s live webinar:

    Date: 19th May (Friday) 2023

    Time: 7:30 PM Onwards

    Zoom Meeting Link will be sent to your registered email.

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    What to Expect in the Webinar:

    In this enlightening webinar, Zeeshan Sir will share:

    • How to cover the syllabus in a time-bound holistic manner. First, let’s divide everything into its respective topics because UPSC does not provide any syllabus for prelims. So, how to do a UPSC-Prelims-centric study will be discussed.
    • How to maintain a proper balance between memorization & understanding.
    • How to predict prelims questions from previous years’ question papers?
    • How to impart logical MCQs solving skills and practical hacks to solve questions with limited knowledge.
    • How not to lose hope if more offbeat questions come into the paper? UPSC Prelims trends to more offbeat questions. How to identify offbeat questions! And how to use the offbeat approach will be disclosed by Zeeshan Sir.
    • What is ‘Intelligent Guessing’ (TIKDAM)? How to utilize it. Intelligent guessing means finding clues in the question or options themselves.
    • Targeting an accuracy rate of 90% and attempting maximum questions

    Don’t ever miss such an important webinar.

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    CivilsDaily’s FREE Webinar package UPSC 2024

    Post-webinar we will share important PDFs, timetable framework, and notes.

    Other than this a strategy package will be emailed to you.

    What The Hindu opined about Civilsdaily Mentorship

    AIR 65, Pranav, IAS (Serving IAS officer, Gujrat)
    Karishma Nair, AIR 14 was also Sajal sir’s student
    best coaching for upsc in delhi

    Register FREE for Zeeshan sir’s Dominate Prelims 2024 Masterclass

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  • 19th May 23 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1372]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1372]

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  • Freedom of Speech the ‘Bulwark’ of Democracy: Andhra HC

    Central Idea: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has overturned a Government Order (GO) issued by the state government that aimed to regulate public meetings, processions, and assemblies on roads.

    Key takeaways of the ruling

    • The court held that the right to assemble, protest peacefully, and express one’s opinion freely was a precious freedom.
    • It emphasized that this freedom should not be curtailed based on unproven assertions made by government officials.
    • The court reiterated that freedom of speech was considered the foremost among liberties and was crucial for democracy.
    • It stated that such a precious freedom should not be left to the unrestricted discretion of any individual.

    AP move regulating Public Assembly

    • The GO sought to regulate public meetings and assemblies on roads, roadsides, and margins.
    • The state government argued that the regulations were necessary to address fatal accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow.
    • Sections 30, 30A, and 31 of the Police Act, 1861 were cited as the basis for the directions under the GO.

    High Court’s decision and reasoning

    • The court set aside the GO, ruling that it imposed a ban on all meetings on public highways and roads.
    • It stated that accidents or incidents at specific locations should not result in a total restriction on the right to assemble or conduct processions on other roads.
    • The court suggested studying the causes of incidents and issuing guidelines to prevent their recurrence rather than imposing broad restrictions.

    Upholding the Right to Assembly

    • The court asserted that the right to assemble, protest peacefully, and express opinions freely is a fundamental freedom that cannot be curtailed arbitrarily.
    • Freedom of speech is regarded as a crucial pillar of democracy and must not be subject to unfettered discretion.
    • The court deemed the power conferred by the GO as excessive, arbitrary, and failing the test of proportionality.

    Reference: 2018 SC Ruling on Peaceful Assembly

    • The court referred to the guidelines laid down in the Supreme Court’s ruling in “Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan v Union of India (2018).”
    • The guidelines regulate protests and demonstrations, recognizing the right to peaceful assembly while allowing reasonable restrictions.
    • The ruling includes provisions on the number of participants, minimum distances from important locations, and restrictions during visits by foreign dignitaries.

    Back2Basics: Right to Assemble

    • The right to assemble in India refers to the fundamental right guaranteed under Article 19(1)(b) of the Constitution of India.
    • It grants individuals the freedom to peacefully assemble, protest, and hold public meetings or processions.
    • This right allows citizens to come together to express their views, opinions, and grievances collectively in a public setting.
    • It is an essential aspect of democracy, enabling citizens to engage in peaceful activism, raise awareness about social issues, and participate in public discourse.
    • However, reasonable restrictions can be imposed on this right in the interest of public order, morality, and the sovereignty and integrity of India.

     

     

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  • Nikaalo Prelims Spotlight || Current affairs developments in last one year in environment

    Dear Aspirants,

    This Spotlight is a part of our Mission Nikaalo Prelims-2023.

    You can check the broad timetable of Nikaalo Prelims here

    Session Details

    YouTube LIVE with Parth sir – 7 PM  – Prelims Spotlight Session

    Evening 04 PM  – Daily Mini Tests

    Join our Official telegram channel for Study material and Daily Sessions Here

    19th May 2023

    Current affairs developments in last one year in environment

    Please refer to current affairs compilation.

  • [ORF] Narco-Terrorism in India

    [ORF] Narco-Terrorism in India

    narco terror

    Central Idea

    • Recently 2,500 kilograms of methamphetamine worth around ₹ 12,000 crore was seized from a vessel in Indian waters along the Kerala coast.
    • Soon after that, NIA conducted raids and searches across more than a 100 locations in six states in connection with the smuggler-gangster nexus case.
    • The raids are aimed at cracking down on the nexus between terrorists and narcotic smugglers.

    What is Narco-terrorism?

    • Narco-terrorism is the intersection of the illegal drug trade and terrorism.
    • Drug trafficking organizations engage in acts of terrorism to further their illicit activities or intimidate governments and people.
    • Examples include financing terrorist groups through drug proceeds, using violence and intimidation to control drug trafficking routes and areas, and carrying out acts of terrorism to destabilize governments and societies.

    Origin and Spread of Narco-terrorism

    • The origin of narco-terrorism is unclear, but it became widespread in the 1980s and 1990s.
    • Drug trafficking organizations in countries like Colombia and Peru carried out increasingly violent and sophisticated criminal and terrorist activities.
    • They finance themselves through the drug trade and use it to further terrorism, such as bombings, kidnappings, and assassinations.
    narco terror

    Narco-terrorism in India

    • Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab has seen a steep rise in drug trafficking in recent years.
    • Illegal drugs, including heroin and marijuana, are grown and produced in neighboring countries and smuggled into India.
    • Drug money is used to fund separatist and militant groups, contributing to ongoing terror and violent activities.

    How is it flourishing in Punjab?

    • Terrain difficulties: The riverine stretches along Punjab’s border are difficult to police effectively.
    • Historic connections and provocations: There are ethnic and economic ties across the Radcliffe Line, contributing to smuggling activities.
    • Vast nexus: Seizures represent only a small fraction of the actual drugs flowing across the border.

    Exploitation of Narco-terrorism by Pakistan

    • Targeting Drug-Addicted Youth: The cognitive impairment caused by drug abuse makes these individuals vulnerable to manipulation and radicalization.
    • Pushing Drugs to influence cognitive behaviour: Pakistan has accelerated its efforts to push narcotics, especially heroin. The objective is to create instability in the region, brainwash the youth, and weaken their cognitive behavior.
    • Funding Terror Activities: Narco-trade serves as a source of funding for terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The proceeds from drug trafficking are used to finance militant groups operating in the region.
    • Manipulation through Drug Addiction: Terror outfits manipulates drug-addicted individuals to serve their agenda. This manipulation creates a cycle of drug addiction and radicalization, further fueling the problem of narco-terrorism.

    Factors contributing to such rise

    • Proximity to drug-producing regions: India’s proximity to the “Golden Crescent” (including parts of Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan), provides easy access to narcotics.
    • Cross-border connections: India shares borders with countries like Pakistan, which is known for its involvement in drug trafficking.
    • Financing mechanism: Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities can contribute to the involvement of individuals in the drug trade.
    • Corruption and weak law enforcement: Corruption within law enforcement agencies can facilitate the operations of drug trafficking networks ex. in Punjab.
    • High profits and demand: The lucrative nature of the illegal drug trade makes it an attractive source of revenue for terrorist organizations.
    • Transnational nature of the trade:  Transnational drug syndicates collaborate with terrorist organizations, facilitating the flow of drugs and funding for terrorist activities.

    Security Implications

    • Criminalization of youth: Drug trafficking and abuse can lead to an increase in crime, violence, and corruption within communities. 
    • Public health concerns: Drug addiction and related health issues, such as the spread of infectious diseases through shared needles, pose significant challenges to public health systems.
    • Threat to national security: The linkages between drug trafficking networks and terrorist organizations create a complex security environment with civilian-military conflict.
    • Drain on Resources: Security forces, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement entities need to dedicate substantial human resources, equipment, and funding to effectively counter narco-terrorism.

    Efforts to Combat Narco-terrorism

    (1) Rehabilitation Programs and Counselling Centers:

    • The government has allocated funds for drug rehabilitation measures and established counselling centers across all districts.
    • Rehabilitation facilities have been set up under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction.

    (2) Operation Sadbhavana

    • The Indian Army has implemented Operation Sadbhavana, which includes de-addiction counseling centers and awareness camps.
    • De-addiction counselling centers help drug-addicted youth, while awareness camps aim to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse.
    • The army conducts drug awareness camps periodically to caution people against the use of drugs.

    (3) Nasha Mukt J&K Campaign:

    • The campaign, launched by LG, aims to make Jammu and Kashmir drug-free.
    • The “Zero Tolerance Policy” of the state police and anti-narcotics task force has been praised for its effectiveness.
    • Continued vigilance by security forces and agencies is crucial to eliminate the nexus between criminals and Pakistan-sponsored terror modules.

    Recommendations to curb narco-terrorism

    • Strengthening ED: ED’s jurisdiction should be improved and extended to monitor terrorist financing and money laundering. By investigating the hawala network operated by Pakistan ED can cut off the funding sources of narco-terrorism.
    • Anti-Drone Technology: Pakistan utilizes drones to transport narcotics. There is a need to enhance anti-drone technology along the Line of Control (LOC) and the international border.

    Way forward

    • Multilateral Cooperation: Enhance international cooperation and information sharing to disrupt drug trafficking networks and dismantle the nexus between drug trade and terrorism.
    • Advanced Technology Integration: Invest in advanced technologies to enhance detection and interception of drug shipments, monitor financial transactions, and secure border areas.
    • Community Engagement and Rehabilitation: Focus on community awareness, education, and rehabilitation programs to prevent drug abuse and support individuals struggling with addiction.
    • Target Financing Networks: Strengthen efforts to track and disrupt the financing networks supporting narco-terrorism through collaboration with financial institutions and international organizations.
    • Cross-Border Intelligence Sharing: Strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms and conduct joint operations with countries sharing borders affected by drug trafficking.
    • De-radicalization: Implement sustainable economic development programs to provide viable alternatives to communities involved in the drug trade.

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  • SC backs TN position on Jallikattu

    jallikattu

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court Constitution Bench has upheld the amendments made by Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
    • The decision overturns a previous verdict that banned practices such as Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport.

    Overturning the previous verdict

    • The court rejected the 2014 verdict of the Welfare Board of India v. A. Nagaraja case that deemed Jallikattu incompatible with animal rights.
    • The Constitution Bench emphasized that Jallikattu has been a part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage for at least a century.

    Significance of Pongal and Jallikattu

    • Pongal is a harvest festival in Tamil Nadu, celebrated with thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest and rituals honoring cattle.
    • Jallikattu, a bull-taming event, is an integral part of the festival and showcases the strength and skill of farm hands in southern Tamil Nadu.

    Supreme Court’s 2014 verdict and animal rights perspective

    • The previous two-judge Bench ruling emphasized the importance of animal rights and suggested elevating them to the level of constitutional rights.
    • Animal welfare organizations presented evidence of physical and mental torture inflicted on the animals during Jallikattu.

    Issue with the sport

    An investigation by the Animal Welfare Board of India concluded that “Jallikattu is inherently cruel to animals”.

    • Human deaths: The event has caused several human deaths and injuries and there are several instances of fatalities to the bulls.
    • Manhandling of animals: Animal welfare concerns are related to the handling of the bulls before they are released and also during the competitor’s attempts to subdue the bull.
    • Cruelty to animal: Practices, before the bull is released, include prodding the bull with sharp sticks or scythes, extreme bending of the tail which can fracture the vertebrae, and biting of the bull’s tail.
    • Animal intoxication:  There are also reports of the bulls being forced to drink alcohol to disorient them, or chilli peppers being rubbed in their eyes to aggravate the bull.

    Arguments in favour

    • Native breed conservation: According to its protagonists, it is not a leisure sport available but a way to promote and preserve the native livestock.
    • Cultural significance: Jallikattu has been known to be practiced during the Tamil classical period (400-100 BCE) and finds mention in Sangam texts.
    • Man-animal relationship: Some believe that the sport also symbolizes a cordial man-animal relationship.
    • Agrarian pride: It represents a cultural infirmity to urban modernity that marginalizes rural and agrarian values.

    Conclusion

    • Tradition and culture should be considered in the rights discourse, recognizing the cultural context of practices like Jallikattu.
    • Engagement and negotiation between animal rights advocates and local culture and tradition are necessary for a balanced approach.

     

     

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  • Credit cards put under Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)

    Central Idea: The Centre has amended rules under Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) Rules, bringing international credit card spends under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS).

    Changes introduced

    • Credit card spends outside India now fall under the LRS, allowing for the application of a higher TCS rate.
    • The amendment removes the exclusion of credit card transactions from the LRS, which was previously covered under Rule 7 of the Foreign Exchange Management (Current Account Transaction) Rules, 2000.
    • The changes do not apply to payments for the purchase of foreign goods/services from India.

    What is Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)?

    • LRS is a facility provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to resident individuals to remit funds abroad for permitted current or capital account transactions or a combination of both.
    • The scheme was introduced in 2004 and has been periodically reviewed and revised by the RBI.
    • Under the scheme, resident individuals can remit up to a certain amount in a financial year for permissible transactions including education, travel, medical treatment, gifts, and investments in equity and debt securities, among others.
    • The limit for LRS is currently set at USD 250,000 per financial year.

    Eligibility for LRS

    • LRS is open to everyone including non-residents, NRIs, persons of Indian origin (PIOs), foreign citizens with PIO status and foreign nationals of Indian origin.
    • The Scheme is NOT available to corporations, partnership firms, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), Trusts etc.

    Benefits provided by LRS

    • LRS is an easy process that anyone can use to transfer money between two countries.
    • It’s especially useful for businesses because they can use it to transfer funds to India, and investors can receive their investments back home.
    • LRS also has some added benefits, like fast transfer timing and no issues with exchange rates.

    Concerns with credit card spends

    • The amendment aims to achieve parity between the usage of credit and debit cards, which were already covered under the LRS.
    • Instances of disproportionately high LRS payments compared to disclose incomes prompted the amendment.
    • Business visits of employees, where costs are borne by the employer, are not covered under the LRS.
    • The data collected from major money remitters under the LRS indicated that international credit cards were being issued with limits exceeding the prescribed norm.

    Exclusions and impact of the Scheme

    • The government assured that the LRS scheme would not cover genuine business visits abroad by employees.
    • The imposition of a 20% tax collection on source (TCS) for foreign remittances would primarily affect tour travel packages, gifts to non-residents, and domestic high net-worth individuals investing in assets like real estate, bonds, and stocks outside India.
    • The Ministry emphasized that the 5% TCS levied on medical or education expenses abroad, allowed up to ₹7 lakh per year, and would remain unchanged.

  • RBI regulations on Green Deposits

    Central Idea: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a regulatory framework to govern the acceptance of green deposits by banks, ensuring transparency and accountability in their investments.

    What are Green Deposits?

    • Green deposits are financial products offered by banks that are similar to regular deposits, but the money received is specifically earmarked for environmentally friendly projects.
    • These deposits support projects aimed at combating climate change, such as renewable energy initiatives, while avoiding investments in activities that harm the environment, like fossil fuel projects.
    • They are part of a broader range of financial products, including green bonds and green shares that enable investors to contribute to environmentally sustainable projects.

    Regulatory framework for accepting Green Deposits

    • The RBI’s framework mandates that banks establish a set of rules or policies, approved by their respective Boards, to guide the investment of green deposits.
    • These rules must be made public on the banks’ websites, ensuring transparency and enabling customers to make informed decisions.
    • Banks are required to disclose information on the amount of green deposits received, how these funds are allocated to different green projects, and the environmental impact of such investments.
    • To verify the banks’ claims and the sustainability credentials of the projects, a third-party is appointed to conduct independent verification.

    Sectors eligible for green deposits

    • The RBI has identified a list of sectors classified as sustainable, which are eligible to receive green deposits.
    • These sectors include renewable energy, waste management, clean transportation, energy efficiency, and afforestation.
    • Banks are prohibited from investing green deposits in sectors considered detrimental to the environment, such as fossil fuels, nuclear power, tobacco, gambling, palm oil, and hydropower generation.

    Addressing greenwashing

    • Greenwashing refers to the practice of making misleading claims about the positive environmental impact of an activity or investment.
    • The RBI’s regulatory framework aims to prevent greenwashing in the banking sector by ensuring that the actual impact of green deposits is accurately represented.
    • By requiring transparency, disclosure, and third-party verification, the framework aims to protect customers from deceptive practices and ensure genuine environmental benefits.

    Impact and controversies

    • Depositors who prioritize environmental concerns may find satisfaction in investing their money in environmentally sustainable products like green deposits.
    • However, some critics argue that green investment products may primarily serve to make investors feel good without generating significant environmental benefits.
    • Additionally, the range of projects available for investment through green deposits may be limited, posing challenges in achieving broad environmental impact.

    Key challenge: Assessing environmental sustainability

    • Evaluating the true environmental sustainability of a project can be challenging in a complex world with interconnected systems and second-order effects that are difficult to anticipate.
    • It is essential to consider the indirect consequences and long-term effects of actions to determine if a project genuinely contributes to environmental sustainability.
    • Uncertainty surrounding the actual environmental impact of green projects highlights the need for rigorous evaluation and ongoing monitoring to ensure the desired outcomes are achieved.

     

     

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  • 18th May 2023 | Nikaalo Prelims- Mini test 37 (Environmental laws, International organisations)

    18th May 2023 | Nikaalo Prelims- Mini test 37 (Environmental laws, International organisations)

    [WpProQuiz 1368]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1368]

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  • India’s Pension Reforms: Ensuring Pension Security

    Pension

    Central Idea

    • The issue of government employees’ pension has emerged as a critical political concern, leading several states to consider reverting from the New Pension Scheme (NPS) to the defined-benefit (DB) Old Pension Scheme (OPS). Acknowledging the significance of this matter, the Government of India has established a committee to enhance the NPS.

    What is pension?

    • A pension is a retirement plan that provides a stream of income to individuals after they retire from their job or profession. It can be funded by employers, government agencies, or unions and is designed to ensure a steady income during retirement.

    What is Old Pension Scheme (OPS)?

    • The OPS, also known as the Defined Benefit Pension System, is a pension plan provided by the government for its employees in India.
    • Under the OPS, retired government employees receive a fixed monthly pension based on their last drawn salary and years of service.
    • This pension is funded by the government and paid out of its current revenues, leading to increased pension liabilities.

    What is NPS?

    • NPS is a market-linked, defined contribution pension system introduced in India in 2004 as a replacement for the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
    • NPS is designed to provide retirement income to all Indian citizens, including government employees, private sector workers, and self-employed individuals

    Pension

    Facts for prelims: Key differences between the two pension schemes

    Parameters The Old Pension Scheme(OPS) The New Pension Scheme (NPS)
    Nature of the schemes OPS offer pensions to government employees on the basis of their last drawn salary NPS pays the employees for their investments in the NPS Scheme during their employment.
    Amount of pension derived 50 per cent of the last drawn salary 60% lump sum after retirement and 40% to be invested in annuities for getting a monthly pension
    Benefits in taxes No tax benefits The employee can claim tax deductions of 1.5 lakh under Section 80C of income tax and up to 50,000 on other investments under 80CCD (1b)
    Tax on pension No tax on pension 60% of the NPS Corpus is tax-free while the remaining 40% is taxable
    Option of Investment No option Two choices: Active and Automatic
    Who can avail? Only government employees Any Indian Citizen between 18-65 years.
    Switching Schemes OPS scheme can be switched to NPS NPS scheme cannot be switched back to OPS in general, but central government employees can switch back to OPS  in case of death and disablement of the employee.

    Reasons behind the growing demand for reverting to OPS

    • Stability and Predictability: One of the primary motivations for the demand to return to OPS is the desire for stability and predictability in pension benefits. Under the OPS, employees receive a fixed pension based on their last drawn salary, which is increased periodically to account for inflation. This offers a sense of security and certainty about post-retirement income, ensuring a stable financial future.
    • Market Risk and Annuity Payouts: The NPS, being a market-linked pension scheme, exposes pensioners to market risks. The returns on the pension fund are subject to market fluctuations, which can impact the overall corpus and subsequently affect annuity payouts. This volatility raises concerns among employees who seek a more secure and reliable pension arrangement.
    • Lower Annuity Prospects: With the NPS, pensioners bear the market risk and face the possibility of lower-than-expected annuity amounts. This uncertainty about future pension prospects prompts many employees to advocate for a return to OPS, which offers a predetermined pension amount.
    • Comparisons with Other Pension Systems: Employees often compare the OPS with pension systems in other countries, particularly those in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) economies. These comparisons reveal that OPS provides higher pension replacement rates, lower retirement ages, and covers the entire family. Such favorable aspects of OPS generate a perception of better benefits and incentivize employees to demand its reinstatement.
    • Perception of Unsustainability: While the NPS was introduced to address fiscal strains associated with the unfunded OPS, there are concerns about its long-term sustainability. Some argue that OPS can be sustained through effective fiscal management and reform, rather than completely abandoning it. The perception of unsustainability drives the demand for reverting to OPS as a viable alternative.

    Challenges involved in reverting back to OPS

    • Fiscal Sustainability: The OPS operates on a pay-as-you-go (PAYG) system, where present workers finance the retired. With declining birth rates and increased life expectancy, the burden on the future workforce to fund pensions will intensify. The OPS, being an unfunded scheme, poses challenges in maintaining fiscal sustainability in the long run.
    • Demographic Shifts: The dependency ratio is expected to increase substantially, with fewer workers supporting a larger number of retirees. This demographic shift adds to the challenges of sustaining the OPS, as it puts additional strain on the funding mechanism and the ability to meet pension obligations.
    • Inflationary Pressures: The OPS guarantees periodic increases in pension payouts through dearness allowance (DA) adjustments to account for inflation. However, relying on fixed increments tied to DA can pose challenges during periods of high inflation. Ensuring that pension payments keep pace with inflation without compromising fiscal stability can be a complex task for policymakers.
    • Budgetary Constraints: The financial burden of reverting to OPS can put a significant strain on the government’s budget. Pension liabilities already account for a substantial portion of states’ revenue receipts and own revenues. Increasing pension obligations may lead to a reduction in development expenditure or necessitate additional borrowing, potentially exacerbating the issue of public debt.
    • Inter-generational Equity: Maintaining inter-generational equity is a crucial consideration in pension reforms. Reverting to OPS might fulfill the aspirations of current employees, but it can impose a heavy burden on future generations. Striking a balance between providing reasonable pension security for present employees and ensuring the sustainability of the pension system for future generations is a key challenge that needs to be addressed.
    • Economic Factors: The economic environment, including interest rates and investment returns, can impact the financial viability of OPS. Changes in economic conditions, such as low interest rates or inadequate returns on pension fund investments, can strain the financial resources needed to sustain OPS and meet pension obligations.

    Pension

    Way ahead: Building sustainable and inclusive pension systems

    • Comprehensive Reform: Governments should undertake comprehensive reforms which may involve revisiting the pension architecture, introducing alternative pension models, and exploring hybrid schemes that combine elements of defined-benefit and defined-contribution systems. Reforms should be guided by a thorough analysis of demographic trends, fiscal constraints, and economic conditions.
    • Adequate Funding Mechanisms: Pension systems must establish robust funding mechanisms to ensure that pension obligations can be met. This may involve setting up dedicated pension funds, implementing sound investment strategies, and establishing appropriate contribution rates for both employees and employers.
    • Strengthening Pension Governance: Effective governance is crucial for the success of pension systems. Governments should strengthen the regulatory framework, improve transparency, and enhance accountability in the management of pension funds. Establishing independent oversight bodies and adopting international best practices can help ensure the integrity and efficiency of pension governance.
    • Promoting Financial Literacy: Financial literacy programs should be implemented to educate individuals about the importance of retirement planning, investment strategies, and the risks and benefits associated with different pension options. Empowering individuals with financial knowledge will enable them to make informed decisions and take an active role in securing their retirement income.
    • Encouraging Voluntary Savings: Governments should encourage voluntary retirement savings programs to complement the mandatory pension schemes. Providing incentives, such as tax benefits or matching contributions, can incentivize individuals to save for retirement beyond the mandatory contributions. Voluntary savings options, such as individual retirement accounts or employer-sponsored plans, can offer individuals greater flexibility and control over their retirement savings.
    • Flexibility and Portability: Pension systems should adapt to the changing nature of work and support individuals with diverse employment patterns. Portable pension accounts that allow individuals to carry their accumulated benefits across jobs can ensure continuity of retirement savings. Flexibility in pension payout options, such as lump sum withdrawals or phased withdrawals, can accommodate different financial needs and preferences of retirees.
    • Social Safety Nets: To address the needs of vulnerable populations, social safety nets should be incorporated into pension systems. These safety nets can provide minimum income guarantees or targeted assistance for individuals with limited or interrupted work histories, low-income earners, and those facing economic hardships in retirement.

    Conclusion

    • Amidst the debate between NPS and OPS, it is crucial to devise a pension system that ensures security without compromising fiscal sustainability and inter-generational equity.

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    Must read:

    Contributory Guaranteed Pension Scheme (CGPS): A Considerable Alternative

     

  • How to make a consistent 5hr/day Self-Study regime that will get you a Top 10 rank in UPSC 2023-24? | Book FREE Samanvaya Mentorship session with IAS/IPS officers

    How to make a consistent 5hr/day Self-Study regime that will get you a Top 10 rank in UPSC 2023-24? | Book FREE Samanvaya Mentorship session with IAS/IPS officers

    A six pillared approach will make your self-study regime effective

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    Hey there UPSC 2024 aspirants! Are you still lost in the coaching vs self-study debate? Let me tell you, my friend, there’s only one answer to cracking the UPSC Civil Services exam in 2023-24 – consistent 5 hours of self-study every day.

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    The 6 Pillars of Effective Self-Study

    Failing to incorporate any one of these pillars, feeds into a vicious cycle. Without guidance or mentoring, understanding where the problem lies in and how to rectify it becomes problematic.

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    How does Samanvaya Mentorship work? Introducing 3 layers of mentorship: Get IAS or UPSC ranker as your mentor

    1. 1st step starts with this Samanvaya call: Once you fill in the form, we get on a 30-40 minute call with you to understand your prep level, working/ study constraints, and current strategies and create a step-by-step plan for the next week, next month and so on.

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    3. The third and the most personalized tier is the 1 on 1 mentor allotment who stays with you through the course of your UPSC preparation – always-on chat and on scheduled calls to help you assess, evaluate, and chart the next milestone of your IAS 2023-24 journey.

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    What The Hindu opined about Civilsdaily Mentorship

    Karishma Nair, AIR 14 was also Sajal sir’s student
    AIR 65, Pranav mentored under Sajal sir for UPSC 2020

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  • 18th May 23 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1370]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1370]

    UPSC 2023 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)

  • Strengthening India’s Drug Regulatory Framework for Ensuring Quality Medicines

    Medicine

    Central Idea

    • The recent incidents of substandard and contaminated medicines in India have raised concerns about the quality and regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical industry. While India takes pride in being the largest manufacturer of generic medicines globally, it is essential to address the persistent quality concerns to maintain its reputation and protect public health.

    Tragic incidents highlighting quality concerns

    • Digital Vision Contamination: In January 2020, 12 children in Jammu died after consuming contaminated medicine manufactured by Digital Vision, revealing the presence of diethylene glycol. Despite previous red flags from drug laboratories, another incident occurred six months later, leading to the death of a two-year-old consuming Cofset cough syrup from the same manufacturer.
    • Nycup Syrup: In March 2021, Nycup syrup was found to have lower levels of the active ingredient, raising concerns about quality control. However, limited regulatory action hindered effective intervention against the manufacturer.

    An overview of the drug regulation mechanism in India

    • Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO): The CDSCO, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is the central regulatory authority responsible for the approval, regulation, and control of pharmaceutical products in India. It plays a crucial role in granting licenses, conducting inspections, and monitoring drug manufacturing, import, and distribution.
    • Drug Controller General of India (DCGI): The DCGI is the head of the CDSCO and holds the overall responsibility for drug regulation in India. The DCGI oversees the approval of new drugs, clinical trials, and the regulation of imported drugs.
    • National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA): The NPPA regulates the prices of essential drugs in India to ensure affordability and accessibility. It monitors and controls the prices of scheduled medicines and sets guidelines for the pricing of pharmaceutical products.
    • Pharmacovigilance Program of India (PvPI): PvPI is a national program that focuses on monitoring and reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to ensure the safety of medicines. It encourages healthcare professionals and the public to report any suspected ADRs to a centralized database for analysis and evaluation
    • Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Protection: The regulatory framework includes provisions to protect intellectual property rights related to pharmaceutical inventions and innovations. This promotes research and development in the industry and encourages the introduction of new drugs.
    • Manufacturing Standards: The CDSCO ensures that drug manufacturers in India adhere to good manufacturing practices (GMP) to ensure that drugs are produced under quality standards and are safe for use.
    • Clinical Trials: The CDSCO regulates clinical trials in India to ensure that they are conducted ethically and with the safety of participants in mind. The CDSCO requires that clinical trials follow the guidelines of the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH).

    Challenges in the Indian pharmaceutical industry

    • Fragmented Regulatory Structure: With approximately 36 drug regulators in India, coordination and consistency in regulatory oversight become challenging. A consolidated and centralized regulatory body can mitigate the risk of regulatory capture and ensure common standards across states.
    • Persisting Quality Concerns: Despite being the largest manufacturer of generic medicines globally, India has encountered quality issues. Recent inspections revealed that 48 drugs failed to meet quality standards, jeopardizing patient safety.
    • Global Reputation at Stake: Observations from global regulators, such as the US FDA, indicate compliance issues in Indian pharmaceutical facilities, potentially tarnishing India’s image as a quality drug manufacturing country.
    • Limited Regulatory Action: In some instances, regulatory action has been limited or challenging to implement due to various reasons, making it difficult to effectively address quality issues and hold manufacturers accountable.
    • Insufficient Transparency and Accountability: The lack of transparency in the drug regulatory regime hinders public trust and confidence. Limited public disclosure of drug application reviews, inspection records, and past violations makes it challenging to evaluate the compliance and track record of manufacturers.
    • Inspection and Enforcement Capacity: The sheer number of pharmaceutical manufacturing units in India, coupled with the large-scale inspection load, puts strain on the inspection teams under state drug controllers.

    Way forward

    • Regulatory Reforms: Amend the Drugs and Cosmetics Act (1940) and establish a centralized drugs database for effective surveillance. Consolidate regional regulators into a single regulatory body to minimize state-level patronage and influence networks. Implement common standards across states.
    • Enhanced Transparency and Reporting: Publish comprehensive reports on drug testing laboratories’ findings and establish a public database of past violations, inspection records, and failure history. Introduce a national law on drug recall, empowering victims and imposing penalties on firms exporting spurious drugs.
    • Strengthening the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO): Provide statutory backing and establish a Central Drugs Authority as an independent body, ensuring effective regulation and enforcement.
    • Industry Accountability: The pharmaceutical industry should focus on producing quality generic and innovative drugs, moving beyond generic manufacturing. Embrace zero-defect principles and prioritize public health.

    Conclusion

    • Addressing the challenges India’s pharmaceutical industry requires comprehensive reforms, including regulatory consolidation, transparency, enhanced inspections, and industry accountability. By prioritizing patient safety and ensuring the delivery of quality medicines, India’s pharmaceutical industry can reclaim its position as a global leader in drug manufacturing.

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    Also read:

    India’s delayed implementation of mandatory Drug Recall Law

     

  • Revisiting the Anti-Defection Law: Upholding Accountability in Parliamentary Democracy

    Central idea

    • Two recent judgments by the Supreme Court of India have brought attention to the constitutional framework governing the relationship between the executive, legislature, and political parties. While the judgments were unanimous, they present a contradiction in their application. The Delhi case emphasized the importance of accountability of civil services to the elected government, while the Maharashtra case upheld the power of party leadership over legislators, undermining the principles of parliamentary democracy.

    Delhi Case: Reinforcing the Importance of Accountability

    • Importance of Accountability: The case underscores the significance of accountability in a democratic system. It reaffirms the idea that a government elected by the people must be answerable to them through a triple chain of command: civil service officers being accountable to ministers, ministers being accountable to the legislature, and the legislature being accountable to the electorate.
    • Power Distribution: The judgment clarifies the delineation of powers between the Delhi government, headed by the Chief Minister, and the Lieutenant Governor appointed by the central government. It establishes that in matters concerning civil services, the elected government of Delhi should have control and authority, emphasizing the democratic principle of decentralization of power.
    • Constitutional Provisions and Democratic Values: The case highlights the significance of adhering to the constitutional provisions and demarcation of powers in a Union Territory like Delhi. It upholds the principles of parliamentary democracy, emphasizing the importance of a government accountable to the people it serves.
    • Strengthening Democratic Institutions: The judgment emphasizes the role of institutions in upholding democratic values enshrined in the Constitution. By safeguarding accountability and appropriately allocating powers, it sets a precedent for future cases and reinforces the role of institutions in maintaining a robust democratic system.

    What is triple chain of accountability?

    1. Civil Service Officers to Ministers: The first link in the chain is the accountability of civil service officers to the Ministers. Civil service officers are responsible for implementing government policies and carrying out administrative tasks. They are answerable to the Ministers who oversee their work and provide directions.
    2. Ministers to the Legislature: The second link in the chain is the accountability of Ministers to the legislature. Ministers are accountable for their decisions, actions, and policies to the legislature, which represents the voice of the people. They are expected to participate in debates, answer questions, present bills, and seek approval or support for government initiatives from the elected representatives.
    3. Legislature to the Electorate: The third link in the chain is the accountability of the legislature to the electorate. The elected representatives in the legislature are accountable to the people who have chosen them through the electoral process. Legislators are expected to represent the interests and concerns of their constituents, work towards their welfare, and ensure that their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

    Maharashtra Case: Undermining the Triple Chain of Accountability

    • Interpretation of the Tenth Schedule: The case revolves around the interpretation and application of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which deals with the anti-defection law. The judgment focuses on the distinction between the legislature party and the political party, clarifying the power to issue binding directions to members of the legislature.
    • Role of Party Leadership: The judgment reinforces the authority of the political party leadership over the legislature. It establishes that the person in charge of the political party holds the power to issue directions to the members of the party, including MLAs/MPs, and failure to comply can result in disqualification.
    • Limitation on Legislators’ Accountability: The judgment raises concerns regarding the accountability of legislators to their voters. By upholding the authority of the political party leadership, it potentially weakens the accountability of legislators to the electorate and emphasizes their accountability solely to the party that fielded them in the election.
    • Triple Chain of Accountability: The judgment diverges from the principles outlined in the Delhi case concerning the triple chain of accountability. It suggests that legislators should adhere to the directions of the political party, potentially undermining the daily assessment of the government by the legislature and diluting the accountability of the government to the people.
    • Need for Re-evaluation: The judgment indicates the need for re-evaluating the anti-defection law and its compatibility with the principles of parliamentary democracy. It raises questions about the anti-defection law violating the basic structure of the Constitution, calling for a larger bench to examine this issue.

    Facts for prelims: Basics

    Anti-defection Law

    • The Anti-Defection Law under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution punishes MPs/ MLAs for defecting from their party by taking away their membership of the legislature.
    • It gives the Speaker of the legislature the power to decide the outcome of defection proceedings.
    • It was added to the Constitution through the Fifty-Second (Amendment) Act, 1985 when Rajiv Gandhi was PM. The law applies to both Parliament and state assemblies.

    Contradictory Conclusions: The Problem of the Anti-Defection Law

    • The contradictory conclusions arising from the application of the anti-defection law in both the cases:
    • Constitutional Position: While the Delhi case emphasizes the accountability of civil services to the Delhi government and upholds the triple chain of command, the Maharashtra case highlights the power of the political party leadership over legislators, as dictated by the Tenth Schedule.
    • Incompatibility with Parliamentary Democracy: The Maharashtra case raises concerns about the anti-defection law, which is at the core of the Tenth Schedule, and its compatibility with the structure underlying parliamentary democracy. The anti-defection law’s assumption that any vote against the party direction is a betrayal of the electoral mandate contradicts the principle of representative democracy.
    • Legislative Accountability: The Maharashtra judgment reinforces the authority of the political party leadership, implying that legislators are primarily accountable to the party that fielded them, rather than to the electorate. This breaks the triple chain of accountability.
    • Impact on Daily Assessment: The Maharashtra judgment’s emphasis on party directions limits the daily assessment of the government by the legislature. If legislators of the party with a majority are bound by party directions, it undermines the meaningfulness of debates, resolutions, and no-confidence motions, as the party leadership controls the votes on every issue, ensuring the government’s victory.
    • Electoral Mandate and Voter Decision: The anti-defection law assumes that voters prioritize party affiliation, disregarding other factors such as candidates’ criminal records, assets and liabilities, and educational qualifications. However, voters’ decisions in elections often contradict this assumption, as demonstrated by instances of legislators winning by-elections after switching parties.

    Way forward

    • Re-evaluation of the Anti-Defection Law: It is crucial to revisit the anti-defection law and assess its compatibility with the basic principles of parliamentary democracy. A thorough examination by a larger Bench of the Supreme Court can help determine if the law violates the basic structure of the Constitution.
    • Reviewing the Tenth Schedule: The Tenth Schedule, which forms the basis of the anti-defection law, should be subject to a critical review. This includes analyzing its impact on the accountability of legislators to their constituents and evaluating whether it aligns with the principles of representative democracy.
    • Strengthening Legislative Accountability: Efforts should be made to reinforce the accountability of legislators to the electorate. This can be achieved by ensuring that legislators prioritize their constituents’ interests over party directives, thereby fostering a stronger connection between legislators and the people they represent.
    • Promoting Informed Voting: Emphasizing the importance of informed voting can help voters make decisions based on factors beyond party affiliation. Providing comprehensive information about candidates, including their track records, assets and liabilities, and educational qualifications, will enable voters to make more informed choices during elections.
    • Balancing Party Discipline and Individual Freedom: Striking a balance between party discipline and individual freedom of legislators is crucial. There should be mechanisms in place that encourage healthy debate, dissent, and the ability of legislators to vote based on their own judgment, while still respecting party affiliations.
    • Enhancing Parliamentary Debates and Oversight: Efforts should be made to strengthen the role of legislatures in holding the government accountable. This can be achieved through robust parliamentary debates, effective question hour sessions, and rigorous scrutiny of government actions and policies.

    Conclusion

    • The contradiction between the Delhi and Maharashtra cases underscores the need to revisit the anti-defection law. A larger Bench should re-examine the law’s compatibility with the basic structure of the Constitution, reaffirming the centrality of accountability in parliamentary democracy. This step is crucial to restore the balance between party loyalty and the representatives’ duty to serve their constituents and uphold democratic values.

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    Also read:

    [Burning Issue] Shiv Sena Party Symbol Conundrum

     

  • Strengthening Quad: The Need for a Biomanufacturing Hub in India

    Central Idea

    • The Quad, comprised of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, established a Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group in March 2021 to foster collaboration and explore opportunities in critical and emerging technologies, including biotechnology. However, there remains untapped potential for Quad cooperation in the field of biotechnology. The need of the hour is to establish a Quad-led biomanufacturing hub in India to enhance cooperation and leverage the complementary strengths of Quad nations.

    What is QUAD’s Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group?

    • The Quad’s Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group is a collaborative initiative established by the Quad countries.
    • It was formed in March 2021 with the aim of facilitating cooperation, monitoring trends, and exploring opportunities related to critical and emerging technologies. The working group focuses on identifying and addressing key issues and challenges in areas such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, and other cutting-edge fields.
    • It serves as a platform for the Quad countries to share expertise, exchange information, and coordinate efforts in order to harness the potential of these technologies for economic growth, national security, and societal development.
    • For instance, in the field of 5G, the Quad members have worked on developing telecommunications networks to counter the pervasive presence of China’s Huawei through the use of open radio access (O-RAN) networks.

    Facts for prelims

    Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (ICET)?

    • The ICET initiative was launched by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Joe Biden in May 2022, to work together in developing important and new technologies.
    • The Prime Minister’s Office in Delhi and the White House in Washington will oversee and direct the ICET.
    • The ICET’s goal is to increase the technology interaction between the US and India while also potentially adding additional strategic depth and breadth to their growing partnership.
    • It involves collaboration in a range of areas including quantum computing, semiconductors, 5G and 6G wireless infrastructure, and civilian space projects such as lunar exploration.
    • Six focus areas of co-development and co-production includes, 1. Strengthening innovation ecosystems, 2. Defence innovation and technology cooperation, 3. Resilient semiconductor supply chains, 4. Space, 5. STEM talent, and 6. Next generation telecom.

    What is mean by Biomanufacturing?

    • Biomanufacturing refers to the use of biological systems, such as living organisms (microorganisms, cell cultures, or plants), to produce commercially valuable products on a large scale. It involves harnessing the power of biological processes and utilizing them in industrial applications.
    • In biomanufacturing, living organisms are employed as “factories” to perform specific tasks or produce desired molecules. These organisms can be genetically engineered or naturally occurring, depending on the desired outcome.
    • The organisms are cultivated in controlled environments, such as bioreactors, where they are provided with optimal conditions for growth and production. They are fed with specific nutrients, and their growth and metabolic activities are carefully regulated.
    • Biomanufacturing can encompass a wide range of products, including pharmaceuticals, enzymes, biofuels, specialty chemicals, biomaterials, and more.
    • Biomanufacturing is often more sustainable and environmentally friendly, as it relies on renewable resources and has the potential to reduce waste and pollution.

    Why India stands as the ideal choice to host the biomanufacturing hub?

    • India’s ambition of biomanufacturing: India’s National Biotechnology Development Strategy sets a target of reaching $100 billion in the biomanufacturing sector.
    • Existing Infrastructure: India already has existing infrastructure in place, including pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and research institutions, that can be utilized to establish and expand biomanufacturing capabilities. This infrastructure provides a solid foundation for the development of a biomanufacturing hub.
    • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Expertise: India has a long-standing reputation as a major player in the global pharmaceutical industry. The country has established expertise in manufacturing and quality control processes, which can be leveraged for biomanufacturing. The experience gained in pharmaceutical manufacturing can be applied to biomanufacturing, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining high-quality production.
    • Skilled Workforce: India possesses a large pool of skilled professionals in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors. The country’s workforce includes scientists, engineers, and technicians with expertise in various aspects of biomanufacturing. This skilled workforce can contribute to the success of the biomanufacturing hub by driving research, development, and production activities.
    • Research Output: India has demonstrated its research capabilities in biomanufacturing, ranking high in terms of the quality of research output and the share of research publications. The country’s strong research base provides a solid foundation for innovation and advancements in biomanufacturing processes and technologies.
    • Cost-Effectiveness: India has a competitive advantage in terms of cost-effectiveness. The cost of manufacturing in India is generally lower compared to countries like the United States, making it an attractive destination for cost-efficient biomanufacturing. This cost advantage can contribute to the affordability and accessibility of biomanufactured products.
    • Potential for Affordable Scale: India has the potential to provide affordable scalability in biomanufacturing processes. With its large population and manufacturing capabilities, India can meet the demand for biomanufactured products on a large scale, leading to cost-effective production and availability of essential biopharmaceuticals and other biotechnological products.

    Complementary Strengths of Quad Nations

    • Advanced Biotechnology Innovation Ecosystems: Japan, Australia, and the United States have well-established and advanced biotechnology innovation ecosystems. These ecosystems comprise research institutions, universities, biotech companies, and startups that drive innovation and technological advancements in biotechnology.
    • Funding Capability: The United States, being one of the Quad nations, brings significant funding capability to the table. The U.S. government and private sector invest heavily in research, development, and commercialization of biotechnology.
    • Skilled Workforce: India, as a Quad member, offers a large pool of skilled manpower, particularly in the life sciences field. Collaborative efforts can facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building to enhance the skills of the workforce across the Quad nations.
    • Manufacturing and Scale-Up Capabilities: India has well-established pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities. The country has a robust infrastructure and expertise in large-scale production, which can be harnessed for biomanufacturing purposes.
    • Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer: The Quad nations, particularly Japan and the United States, have strong intellectual property protection systems and expertise in technology transfer. Sharing intellectual property and facilitating technology transfer can accelerate the development and commercialization of biomanufacturing technologies, benefiting all Quad nations.
    • Research Output and Innovation: All Quad nations contribute significantly to global research output in the field of biotechnology. They produce high-quality research publications and drive innovation in various subfields of biotechnology. Collaboration within the Quad can facilitate knowledge exchange, joint research projects, and the development of innovative solutions in biomanufacturing.

    Way ahead

    • Collaborative Research and Development: Foster collaborative research and development initiatives between the Quad nations and India. This can involve joint projects, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer to accelerate the development of biomanufacturing processes, products, and technologies.
    • Capacity Building and Skill Development: Establish training programs, workshops, and exchange programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals in biomanufacturing. This can include specialized training in areas such as advanced bioprocessing techniques, quality control, regulatory compliance, and technology transfer.
    • Infrastructure Investment: Allocate resources for infrastructure development, including the establishment of specialized bioreactor facilities, research centers, and manufacturing capabilities.
    • Regulatory Framework Alignment: Collaboratively work towards aligning regulatory frameworks among the Quad nations and India. This involves harmonizing regulations, streamlining approval processes, and ensuring consistent quality standards.
    • Public-Private Partnerships: Foster public-private partnerships to leverage the expertise, resources, and capabilities of both sectors. Engaging industry stakeholders, academia, research institutions, and government agencies in collaborative initiatives can drive innovation, facilitate technology transfer, and accelerate the commercialization of biomanufactured products.
    • International Collaboration: Explore collaborations beyond the Quad nations to foster international cooperation in biomanufacturing. Engaging with countries outside the Quad can expand opportunities for knowledge exchange, market access, and research collaboration.\

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    Must read:

    QUAD and the Telecom network security

  • Nikaalo Prelims Spotlight || Environmental laws, International organisations

    Dear Aspirants,

    This Spotlight is a part of our Mission Nikaalo Prelims-2023.

    You can check the broad timetable of Nikaalo Prelims here

    Session Details

    YouTube LIVE with Parth sir – 7 PM  – Prelims Spotlight Session

    Evening 04 PM  – Daily Mini Tests

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    18th May 2023

    Environmental laws, International organisations

    Please refer to current affairs compilation.

  • Trend of unnecessary Hysterectomies

    hyster

    Central Idea: The Health Ministry in India is concerned about the high incidence of unnecessary hysterectomies, particularly among poor, less-educated women in rural areas.

    Why in news?

    • The Supreme Court has directed States and Union Territories to implement health guidelines formulated by the Centre to monitor and prevent unnecessary hysterectomies.

    What is Hysterectomy?

    • Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, and sometimes surrounding organs and tissues.
    • It can be classified as a partial hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix), or radical hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues).
    • The procedure can be performed through the vagina or through an incision in the abdomen.

    Issues with such surgery

    • Overuse and unnecessary procedures: Hysterectomy can be performed without exploring alternative treatments.
    • Psychological and emotional impact: The procedure may lead to feelings of loss and changes in body image.
    • Surgical risks and complications: Hysterectomy carries risks such as infection and damage to surrounding organs.
    • Long-term health effects: Removal of the uterus may have impacts on hormones and bone health.
    • Patient autonomy and informed consent: Patients should be fully informed about the procedure and involved in decision-making.
    • Access and equity: Disparities in access to healthcare may contribute to overuse, particularly among marginalized communities.

    Concerns and Petition

    A public interest litigation (PIL) highlighted the occurrence of unnecessary hysterectomies in the states of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan under government healthcare schemes.

    • Marginalized women were targeted: Women from marginalized communities, such as Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Communities, were disproportionately affected.
    • Misuse and Insurance Fraud: Healthcare institutions were found to be misusing hysterectomies to claim high insurance fees from the government under various health insurance schemes.

    Key issue: Violation of Fundamental Rights

    • The recent judgement acknowledges that rising hysterectomy rates among young women in India deviate from trends observed in developed countries.
    • It recognizes the violation of fundamental rights, stating that unnecessary hysterectomies infringe upon the right to health and the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

    Government action and guidelines

    • The Health Ministry has closely monitored the issue of hysterectomies and requested States to share data on hysterectomy cases before and after the implementation of guidelines.
    • Compulsory audits for all hysterectomies are advised, similar to those conducted for maternal mortality, in both public and private healthcare institutions.
    • In 2022, the Health Ministry issued guidelines to prevent unnecessary hysterectomies and urged States to comply with them.

     

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  • India-EU discuss ways to resolve Carbon Border Tax

    Central Idea

    Why such move?

    • The EU is India’s second-largest trading partner and export market.
    • India has expressed confidence that the intention behind CBAM was not to create a trade barrier but to promote sustainability.
    • CBAM has potential impact on India’s Steel and Aluminum sectors.

    Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

    Proposed by European Union (EU)
    Purpose To reduce carbon emissions from imported goods and prevent competitive disadvantage against countries with weaker environmental regulations
    Objectives Reduce carbon emissions from imported goods

    Promote a level playing field between the EU and its trading partners

    Protect EU companies that have invested in green technologies

     

    How does CBAM work?

    Coverage Applies to imported goods that are carbon-intensive
    Integration Covered by the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS), which currently covers industries like power generation, steel, and cement
    Implementation CBAM taxes would be imposed on the carbon content of imported goods at the border, and the tax rates would be based on the carbon price in the EU ETS
    Exemptions Possible exemptions for countries that have implemented comparable carbon pricing systems
    Revenue Use Revenue generated from CBAM taxes could be used to fund the EU’s climate objectives, such as financing climate-friendly investments and supporting developing countries’ climate efforts

     

    Who will be affected by CBAM?

    Details
    Countries Non-EU countries, including India, that export carbon-intensive goods to the EU
    Items Initially covers iron and steel, cement, aluminium, fertilisers, and electric energy production
    Expansion The scope of the CBAM may expand to other sectors in the future

    Advantages offered

    • Encourages non-EU countries to adopt more stringent environmental regulations, reducing global carbon emissions.
    • Prevents carbon leakage by discouraging companies from relocating to countries with weaker environmental regulations.
    • Generates revenue that could be used to support EU climate policies.

    Challenges with CBAM

    • Difficulty in accurately measuring the carbon emissions of imported goods, especially for countries without comprehensive carbon accounting systems.
    • Potential for trade tensions with the EU’s trading partners, especially if other countries implement retaliatory measures.

    Ways to ease impact of CBAM

    To minimize the impact of CBAM, India can consider several actions:

    • Set up a carbon trading mechanism: To reflect the level of development and adjust the carbon tax paid domestically when paying CBT to the EU.
    • Re-designate taxes on essential products: Make these as carbon taxes, which could help lower the net impact of CBT.
    • Create a cadre of energy auditors: To ensure fair assessment of carbon emissions for products and help the industry calculate carbon intensity and adopt cleaner technologies.
    • Start an industry awareness program: To educate sectors affected by CBT and create a dedicated group involving government, industry associations, and researchers.
    • Devise a WTO-compatible retaliation mechanism: To counter CBT, considering that developing countries exporting to developed nations will also suffer from it.
    • Sign new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): After resolving the CBT issue, as high CBT would undermine the benefits of zero import duties.
    • Expose the perceived hypocrisy: Utilize global platforms to expose offshoring pollution of developed countries and proposing to tax imports, while not addressing their own consumption patterns.

    Conclusion

    • The CBAM is a proposed policy by the EU to reduce carbon emissions from imported goods and to promote a level playing field between the EU and its trading partners.
    • Although the CBAM has its challenges, it has the potential to incentivize non-EU countries to adopt more stringent environmental regulations and reduce global carbon emissions.

     

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  • Cabinet nod for ₹1.08 lakh crore kharif Fertilizer Subsidy

    Central Idea

    • The Union Cabinet has approved a fertilizer subsidy of ₹1.08 lakh crore for the ongoing kharif or monsoon season.
    • ₹38,000 crore will be allocated for Nitrogen, phosphatic and potassic (NPK) fertilizers, while ₹70,000 crore will go towards the urea subsidy.

    Fertilizer consumption and subsidies

    • The country’s total consumption of urea is approximately 325 to 350 lakh metric tonnes (LMT).
    • Other fertilizers sold in the country include 100 to 125 LMT of DAP, 100 to 125 LMT of NPK, and 50 to 60 LMT of Muriate of Potash (MoP).
    • The fertilizer subsidy per hectare of land is about ₹8,909, and each farmer receives a subsidy of ₹21,223.
    1. DAP: The actual price of a bag of DAP is ₹4,000, but farmers receive it at a subsidized rate of ₹1,350 per bag, with a subsidy of ₹2,461 per bag.
    2. NPK: This subsidy is ₹1,639 per bag, and the MoP subsidy amounts to ₹734 per bag.
    3. Urea: The Centre spends ₹2,196 per bag of urea.

    Fertilizer Subsidy in India

    • Subsidy as a concept originated during the Green Revolution of the 1970s-80s.
    • Fertiliser subsidy is purchasing by the farmer at a price below MRP (Maximum Retail Price), that is, below the usual demand-and-supply-rate, or regular production and import cost.
    • The rate of subsidy is based on the average price of imported fertilizer in the last six months.

    How is the subsidy paid and who gets it?

    • The subsidy goes to fertiliser companies, although its ultimate beneficiary is the farmer who pays MRPs less than the market-determined rates.
    • From March 2018, a new so-called direct benefit transfer (DBT) system was introduced, wherein subsidy payment to the companies would happen only after actual sales to farmers by retailers.
    • With the DBT system, each retailer — there is over 2.3 lakh of them across India — now has a point-of-sale (PoS) machine linked to the Department of Fertilizers’ e-Urvarak DBT portal.

    How does this system work?

    • A popular example of how this system works is that of the neem-coated urea fertiliser.
    • Its MRP is fixed by the government at Rs. 5922.22 per tonne.
    • The average cost of domestic production is at Rs 17,000 per tonne. The difference is footed by the centre in the form of subsidy.

    What about non-urea fertilizers?

    • The non-urea fertiliser is decontrolled or fixed by the companies.
    • The non- urea fertilizers are further divided into two parts, DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) and MOP (Muriate of Phosphate).
    • The government pays a flat per tonne subsidy to maintain the nutrition content of the soil, and ensure other fertilizers are economical to use.

    Issues with such subsidies

    • Low NUE: Indian soil has low Nitrogen use efficiency, which is the main constituent of Urea.
    • Groundwater pollution: Consequently, excess usage contaminates groundwater.
    • Overuse beyond prescription: The bulk of urea applied to the soil is lost as NH3 (Ammonia) and Nitrogen Oxides. The WHO has prescribed limits been breached by Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.
    • Health hazards: For human beings, “blue baby syndrome” is a common side ailment caused by Nitrate contaminated water.

     

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  • Quantum Biology: Unveiling the Quantum Secrets of Life

    biology

    Central Idea: The article introduces the concept of quantum biology, which explores the influence of quantum effects on living systems.

    Nature and Quantum Mechanics

    • Quantum effects refer to phenomena that occur between atoms and molecules that cannot be explained by classical physics.
    • Quantum mechanics, which governs the behavior of objects at atomic scales, differs from classical mechanics, leading to counterintuitive phenomena like particle tunnelling and superposition.

    Quantumness in Biology

    • Quantum biology is an emerging field that explores the role of quantum mechanics in biological processes and living systems.
    • It investigates how quantum phenomena and effects, which typically occur at atomic and subatomic scales, influence and contribute to the functioning and behavior of biological systems.
    • It aims to uncover and understand the quantum nature of biological molecules, processes, and interactions.
    • It seeks to study how quantum mechanics may impact various biological phenomena such as photosynthesis, enzyme reactions, and navigation in birds.

    Evidence of Quantum Effects in Biology

    • Research on chemical reactions in biomolecules like proteins and genetic material suggests the influence of quantum effects.
    • Nanoscopic quantum effects can drive macroscopic physiological processes, including enzyme activity, sensing magnetic fields, cell metabolism, and electron transport.

    Studying Quantum Biology

    • Studying quantum effects in biology requires tools to measure short time scales, small length scales, and subtle differences in quantum states.
    • Researchers can apply tailored magnetic fields to control the spins of electrons, influencing physiological processes that respond to magnetic fields.

    Potential applications

    • Therapeutic devices: Understanding and fine-tuning quantum properties in nature could lead to non-invasive, remotely controlled therapeutic devices accessible through mobile phones.
    • Bio-manufacturing: Electromagnetic treatments based on quantum principles could be used for disease prevention and treatment, such as brain tumors, as well as in bio-manufacturing.

    Scope quantum biology’ study

    • Multi-disciplinary: Quantum biology is an interdisciplinary field that brings together researchers from various disciplines, including quantum physics, biophysics, medicine, chemistry, and biology.
    • Many applications: Collaboration and cross-disciplinary research are crucial for advancing quantum biology and unlocking its transformative potential in biology, medicine, and technology.

     

    Facts for Prelims

    Superposition: A quantum phenomenon where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously until measured or observed, in contrast to classical physics where objects have definite properties.

    Spins: Quantum properties of electrons that define their interaction with magnetic fields, analogous to the way charge defines their interaction with electric fields.

    Deterministic Codebook: A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between quantum causes and physiological outcomes, providing a guide for mapping quantum phenomena to specific biological effects.

     

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