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  • Tele-MANAS counsels 2 Lakh distressed people

    manas

    Central Idea: The government-run national tele-mental health programme, Tele MANAS, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving over 2,00,000 calls from individuals across India since its launch in October 2022.

    What is Tele-MANAS?

    • Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative has been launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2022.
    • It aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas.

    Implementation of the scheme

    • Counselling: The programme includes a network of 38 tele-mental health centres of excellence spread across 27 States and UTs working in over 20 languages.
    • Helpline: A toll-free, 24/7 helpline number (14416) has been set up across the country allowing callers to select the language of choice for availing services. Service is also accessible at 1-800-91-4416.

    Two-tier working

    • Tele-MANAS will be organised in a two-tier system; Tier 1 comprises state Tele-MANAS cells which include trained counsellors and mental health specialists.
    • Tier 2 will comprise specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e-Sanjeevani for audio-visual consultation.

    Call Demographics and Concerns

    • Age Group: Two-thirds of the callers fall in the 18-45 years age group, while 12.5% belong to the 46-64 years age group, and 8% are below 18 years of age.
    • Gender Distribution: Of the two lakh calls, 59.6% were made by male callers, and 40% by female callers.
    • Top Concerns: The most common reasons for seeking help were general feelings of sadness (28.8%), sleep-related problems (27.6%), anxiety (20.4%), relationship issues (10%), aggression (9.2%), and low interest in activities (9.7%).

    Expansion of the scheme

    • The initial rollout providing basic support and counselling through a centralized Interactive Voice Response system (IVRS) is being customized for use across all States and UTs.
    • It is being linked with other services like National teleconsultation, e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat, mental health professionals, health centres, and emergency psychiatric facilities for specialized care.
    • This will not only help in providing immediate mental healthcare services but also facilitate a continuum of care.
    • Eventually, this will include the entire spectrum of mental wellness and illness, and integrate all systems that provide mental health care.

    Back2Basics: National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP)

    • The Indian Government announced the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the Union Budget 2022-23.
    • The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru is the nodal centre for the programme.
    • The programme sought to establish a digital mental health network that can address the mental health crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • The pandemic has brought forth challenges to mental health, and the NTMHP aims to provide accessible and affordable mental health services to all.
    • The programme will involve the use of digital platforms such as teleconsultations, chatbots, and mobile applications to deliver mental health services.
    • The NTMHP will integrate with existing mental health services to provide a comprehensive and coordinated approach to mental healthcare.

  • Tax can be an incentive

    Tax

    What’s the news?

    • While India’s tax reforms have been awe-inspiring in magnitude and scale in recent years, the country needs a voluntary tax transparency framework to sustain its current economic growth.

    Central Idea

    • As the Indian economy aims to surpass the $5 trillion milestone, focusing on sustainable growth has become paramount. Achieving this goal requires the active participation of key stakeholders, including the government, corporations, investors, and civil society. In this context, tax transparency emerges as a crucial catalyst for sustaining India’s economic growth.

    What is meant by voluntary Tax Transparency?

    • Voluntary tax transparency refers to a proactive approach taken by organizations, businesses, or individuals to disclose their tax-related information and practices willingly and without any legal obligation. In this context, the term voluntary implies that there is no specific legal requirement or regulatory mandate forcing entities to disclose their tax-related information.

    The Framework for Voluntary Tax Transparency

    • The proposed voluntary tax transparency framework aims to incentivize organizations operating in India, encompassing private companies, multinationals, and public-sector units, to disclose their strategies and approaches towards domestic and international taxation.
    • Moreover, these voluntary disclosures could be linked to the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework, creating a standard of commitment to sustainability for every company.

    What is a tax transparency report (TTR)?

    • Globally, a tax transparency report (TTR) serves as a format for such disclosures, providing annual voluntary information on a company’s global tax strategies.
    • While some large companies voluntarily file these reports, the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project initiated by the OECD is working towards addressing gaps and mismatches in international tax regulations, which, over the years, have allowed many multinationals to minimize their tax outgo through creative tax structuring.

    Benefits of Tax Transparency

    • Economic benefits:
    • Tax transparency serves as a litmus test to assess each company’s contribution to India’s growth and provides valuable insights into corporate tax strategies.
    • It will attract international investors who prioritize transparency and responsible tax behavior, resulting in increased capital inflow, job opportunities, economic expansion, and overall prosperity.
    • Environmental benefits:
    • It will attract larger capital inflows, particularly in sectors like infrastructure and green energy.
    • It fosters healthy competition among companies, encouraging them to disclose tax strategies and engage in responsible tax practices, thereby improving their ESG scores.
    • Extending transparency to include environmental practices, such as reporting environmental taxes related to carbon emissions, plastic usage, waste management, and water consumption, incentivizes businesses to adopt greener practices.
    • Social benefits:
    • Tax transparency highlights a company’s contributions to areas such as social insurance, healthcare, and pension premium
    • Additionally, under governance disclosures, the framework motivates companies to align their ESG policies with tax behavior, promoting robust corporate governance practices, accountability, and transparency.

    The Influence of Tax Transparency on Consumer Behavior

    • As India approaches the $5 trillion milestone and witnesses growing per capita income, the younger generation’s consumer behavior is undergoing a noticeable shift.
    • These individuals prioritize a company’s ESG performance when making purchasing decisions or evaluating job prospects.
    • Tax transparency, falling under the broader ESG umbrella, will play a significant role in influencing these choices.

    Challenges for implementing voluntary tax transparency in India

    • Lack of awareness and understanding of the concept of voluntary tax transparency among companies and organizations. Many may not fully grasp the benefits and importance of voluntarily disclosing tax-related information.
    • Some companies may be hesitant to embrace voluntary tax transparency due to concerns about revealing sensitive financial information or competitive advantages.
    • India’s tax system is known for its complexity. Companies may find it challenging to navigate India’s complex tax system
    • The absence of clear regulations or guidelines on voluntary tax transparency
    • Companies may be cautious about how the public, investors, and other stakeholders will perceive the information disclosed voluntarily.
    • Smaller companies or organizations with limited resources might find it challenging to allocate time and effort to prepare and disclose voluntary tax-related information.

    What India needs to do to promote voluntary tax transparency?

    • India should develop a well-defined voluntary tax transparency framework that incentivizes organizations, including private companies, multinationals, and public-sector units, to disclose their domestic and international tax strategies voluntarily.
    • Link tax transparency with the broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework.
    • Social contributions and governance policies should also be considered as part of the disclosure.
    • Launch extensive awareness campaigns to educate businesses, investors, and the public about the benefits and significance of voluntary tax transparency
    • India can establish a voluntary framework for companies on the lines of TTR to solidify its economic foundations and cultivate a business environment cantered around integrity.
    • Set up a monitoring and evaluation mechanism to assess the effectiveness of voluntary tax transparency efforts regularly.
    • Ensure that India’s voluntary tax transparency framework aligns with international best practices and standards.
    • Ensure that the voluntary tax transparency framework does not hinder the ease of doing business in India.

    Conclusion

    • India’s pursuit of becoming a global economic powerhouse demands sustained and responsible growth. Adopting a voluntary tax transparency framework will not only attract sustainable investments but also demonstrate India’s commitment to a greener, more socially responsible, and transparent business environment. By embracing tax transparency, Indian companies can become trailblazers in promoting sustainable development and fostering a prosperous future for the nation

    Also read:

    Levying the Wealth tax to reduce income inequality

  • Climate targets are becoming outdated: India needs its own

    Climate

    What’s the news?

    • The media’s attention has been focused on the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming target and the influence of El Niño this year. While crossing this temperature threshold is a cause for concern, the hyperbolic end-of-the-world messaging around the climate crisis deserves revaluation.

    Central idea

    • The target in the Paris Agreement, to keep the planet’s surface from warming by 2 degrees Celsius by 2100, has been touted as a monumental goal. However, despite negotiations for more than two decades, global carbon emissions have not slowed. Also, the target was not derived scientifically. Instead of fixating on alarming scenarios, it is crucial to approach the climate challenge with a balanced perspective.

    What is 2 Degrees Celsius Target?

    • In 2015, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, the Paris Agreement was adopted by nearly all countries of the world.
    • The central aim of the agreement is to keep global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
    • The 1.5 degrees Celsius target was introduced to address concerns raised by vulnerable nations, particularly small island states.
    • To achieve the 2 degrees Celsius target, countries are required to make nationally determined contributions (NDCs) that outline their planned efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
    • The Paris Agreement emphasizes the importance of global cooperation and collective action to tackle climate change

    What is Earth System Models (ESM’s)?

    • ESM’s are complex computational models used by climate scientists to simulate the Earth’s climate system.
    • These models are designed to represent the interactions and feedbacks between various components of the Earth system, including the atmosphere, oceans, land surface, ice, and biogeochemical processes.
    • These models use numerical methods to solve these equations over a grid covering the entire globe, allowing scientists to simulate climate processes and changes over both short and long-time scales.

    Key concerns regarding 2 Degrees target

    • The 2 degrees Celsius target was not established based on robust scientific evidence or a comprehensive understanding of the potential impacts of such warming.
    • Despite the international efforts and commitments made under the Paris Agreement, global carbon emissions have not shown signs of significant reduction.
    • The 2 degrees Celsius target may not adequately address the regional variations in climate impacts.
    • ESM’s used for climate projections struggle to accurately simulate regional-scale climate variations, especially in places like the Indian subcontinent.
    • There are doubts about the ability to distinguish between the consequences of 1.5- and 2-degrees Celsius warming and to design region-specific climate adaptation policies.

    Uncertainties for India

    • Uncertainties in ESM’s make it difficult to accurately predict regional climate impacts at the scale of the Indian subcontinent.
    • Climate change affects water availability, precipitation patterns, and glacial melt in the Himalayas. Unpredictability of these factors can have significant implications for India’s overall water security.
    • Uncertainties in climate projections impact India’s agricultural sector, making it challenging to predict crop yields and plan for food security.
    • Coastal areas in India, including major cities like Mumbai and Kolkata, are vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels, leading to increased risks of flooding and coastal erosion.
    • Climate change can exacerbate health issues, including heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and air pollution. Uncertainties in how climate change affects disease patterns make it challenging to plan and implement effective public health responses.

    Way forward

    • Set ambitious and science-based climate targets that align with the latest climate research and international commitments.
    • Revisit the 2 degrees Celsius warming target and consider more stringent goals to limit global warming.
    • Invest in climate science and research to enhance the accuracy of regional climate projections and improve understanding of climate impacts on India.
    • Strategies should focus on sectors like agriculture, water resources, infrastructure, and health to build resilience against the impacts of climate change.
    • Accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
    • Develop and implement measures to protect coastal areas from sea-level rise and extreme weather events.
    • Strengthen public health systems to address health challenges related to climate change. This includes heatwave preparedness, disease surveillance, and measures to reduce air pollution.
    • Foster climate education and empower citizens to participate in climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.

    Conclusion

    • The 2 degrees Celsius target, while widely accepted and seen as a significant milestone in addressing climate change, is not without its flaws and uncertainties. Going forward, it is essential for the global community to reassess and update climate targets based on the best available scientific evidence and consider the specific needs of different regions to effectively combat the climate crisis.

    Also read:

    Climate Change: Mission Adaptation A Comprehensive Measure

  • How to cover Environment & Science Tech for UPSC Prelims 2024-25? LIVE with Zeeshan sir | Get resources, complete strategy and Telegram group access

    How to cover Environment & Science Tech for UPSC Prelims 2024-25? LIVE with Zeeshan sir | Get resources, complete strategy and Telegram group access

    Almost 30% of Prelims 2024 Questions will come from this section | Register for Zeeshan sir’s Dominate Prelims FREE Webinars | 25th July, 7:30 pm | Get CD’s Atomic Notes PDF post-webinar | Register below to secure your spot

    Register

    Civilsdaily IAS is excited to announce the launch of our highly anticipated “Dominate Prelims Webinars” featuring the renowned mentor, Zeeshan Hashmi Sir.

    These webinars are designed to equip UPSC aspirants with the best approach to tackle the UPSC Prelims paper effectively. From covering the GS and current affairs syllabus to mastering note-making techniques and smart elimination strategies, these webinars will provide comprehensive guidance for aspirants aiming to excel in the Prelims examination.

    Dominate Prelims Webinars will empower you with a well-structured study plan and strategic approach tailored specifically for UPSC Prelims. We believe in realistic and achievable goals, ensuring that you gain a solid foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for success.

    Zeeshan sir

    In this inaugural webinar, Zeeshan Sir will dive into the intricacies of the Environment and Science Tech section for UPSC Prelims 2024-25. Join us to gain valuable insights and a comprehensive understanding of this crucial subject.

    Webinar Highlights:

    In the “Dominate Prelims” webinar series, Zeeshan sir will be conducting the first webinar on how to cover Environment and Science & Technology (E&S) for UPSC Prelims 2024-25. Aspirants can expect to learn the following important points during the session:

    1. Syllabus Coverage: Zeeshan sir will provide a detailed analysis of the UPSC Prelims syllabus for Environment and Science & Technology. He will identify the most important topics and areas that aspirants must focus on.
    2. Study Resources: He will recommend the best study resources for E&S, including standard textbooks, government publications, and online sources. Aspirants will gain insights into the most effective materials for comprehensive preparation.
    3. Current Affairs Relevance: Zeeshan sir will emphasize the significance of current affairs in the E&S section. He will discuss how to connect current events with core concepts to answer relevant questions accurately.
    4. Mind Maps and Mnemonics: Aspirants can expect to learn about the creation of mind maps and mnemonics to retain crucial information easily. These aids will help in quick recall during the exam.
    5. Smart Elimination Techniques: Zeeshan sir will share smart elimination techniques to handle tricky and confusing questions. Aspirants will understand how to use logic and reasoning to arrive at the correct answer even when unsure.
    6. Previous Year Questions: The webinar will include a thorough analysis of previous year questions from E&S. Zeeshan sir will highlight the recurring themes and patterns to help aspirants identify frequently asked topics.
    7. Important Government Reports: Aspirants will gain insights into the significance of government reports related to the environment and technology. Zeeshan sir will discuss how to extract valuable information from these reports for the exam.
    8. Time Management: Zeeshan sir will address effective time management during the preparation of E&S. Aspirants will learn how to allocate time to different topics and sections to cover the syllabus efficiently.
    9. Conceptual Clarity: The webinar will focus on building conceptual clarity for better retention and understanding of topics. Zeeshan sir will simplify complex concepts for easy comprehension.
    10. Q&A Session: The webinar will conclude with a dedicated Q&A session where aspirants can interact with Zeeshan sir and get their doubts and queries clarified.

    Entry is FREE but seats are limited (only 100)

    Register

    Civilsdaily’s Toppers

    https://youtube.com/shorts/DEnW_FoZFBk?feature=share

    How to attend this webinar?

    Date: 25th July 2023, Tuesday

    Time: 7:30 pm

    Mode: Online through Zoom

    The Zoom Link for the webinar will be shared by email

    Entry is FREE but seats are limited (only 100)

    Register

    However, you can come and visit Civilsdaily’s Karol Bagh Center and meet Sajal sir and other mentors personally.

    Address: Civilsdaily IAS, 1 LGF, Apsara Arcade, (near Karol Bagh metro station gate number 7) New Delhi, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi, 110060

    Contact here: +917303316700

    Who Should Attend This Webinar?

    This webinar will benefit:

    • Aspirants targeting UPSC 2024.
    • Those who found UPSC Prelims 2023 challenging and unpredictable.
    • Aspirants seeking to understand the changing dynamics of UPSC exams.
    • Anyone keen on getting insights from successful UPSC mentors and rankers.

    So, come join us and uncover the skills and understanding necessary to be a part of that 1% for UPSC 2024. Register now for the webinar and take your first step towards achieving your IAS dream!

    What Can You Expect to Learn from Dominate Prelims Webinars?

    Through these webinars, Zeeshan sir will prepare you for the changed expectations of UPSC, which is targeting not just rote knowledge but also Common Sense, Stress Response, and Risk Appetite. 

    • Learn the best approach to cover the GS and current affairs syllabus.
    • Master note-making techniques for effective revision.
    • Acquire smart elimination strategies for accurate answering.
    • Explore recommended study resources and toolkits for comprehensive preparation.
    • Stay updated with summaries of government reports and surveys.
    • Interact with Zeeshan Hashmi Sir and gain valuable insights from his experience.

    Entry is FREE but seats are limited (only 100)

    Register

    You will also get an opportunity to interact 1-1 with Zeeshan sir to discuss:

    1. What most important reports/publications you must cover?
    2. Critical insights to fill gaps in your preparation.
    3. Decoding the complex and changing patterns of UPSC wrt government data,reports, etc.
    4. Practical insights and tips for tackling common challenges on your UPSC journey.
    5. Strategies for continuously adapting to the evolving nature of UPSC.

    (Note: The zoom link will be shared soon. Stay tuned for updates!)

    CivilsDaily’s FREE Atomic Notes Magazine

    Post-webinar we will share Civilsdaily’s Atomic Notes Magazine with you all along with other important PDFs, timetable framework, and notes.

    • Samachar Manthan Current Affairs Module for FREE
    • Prelims and Mains 2024 Toolkit

    We will also schedule your 1-1 detailed mentorship call to help you prepare your self-study routine.

    Join us for this power-packed webinar session with Zeeshan Hashmi Sir to gain a competitive edge in your UPSC Prelims 2024-25 preparation. Enhance your knowledge, refine your approach, and boost your confidence in tackling the various components of UPSC Prelims effectively.

    Entry is FREE but seats are limited (only 100)

    Book your seat now!

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  • World’s Largest Office Space: Surat Diamond Bourse

    surat diamond

    Central Idea

    • The Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), hailed as the world’s largest office space project, is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister.

    About Surat Diamond Bourse

    • The SDB is a large-scale project located in Surat, Gujarat, India.
    • It is claimed to be the world’s biggest office space in a single project.
    • It is built to expand and consolidate the diamond trading business from Mumbai to Surat.
    • Surat is renowned as a major hub for cutting and polishing diamonds, and the development of SDB aims to bring all diamond-related activities and infrastructure under one roof.

    Key features  

    • Location: The SDB is situated at DREAM (Diamond Research and Mercantile) city in Surat.
    • Size: The bourse spans an area of 66 lakh square feet (approximately 6.6 million square feet), making it one of the largest office spaces in the world.
    • Design: The thematic landscaping of the project is based on the ‘panch tatva’ theme, representing the five elements of nature – air, water, fire, earth, and sky.
    • Infrastructure: The SDB consists of nine towers, each with ground plus 15 floors. It will accommodate over 4,200 offices with sizes ranging from 300 square feet to 7,500 square feet.
    • Security: Given the high-security nature of the diamond industry, over 4,000 CCTV cameras have been installed at different locations inside and outside the SDB.
    • Shifting from Mumbai: The bourse seeks to address the space crunch and expensive office real estate in Mumbai, where much of the diamond trading currently takes place.

    Economic significance of SDB

    • Businesses: The complex will house various diamond-related businesses, including the sale of rough and polished diamonds, diamond manufacturing machinery, diamond planning software, diamond certificate firms, lab-grown diamonds, and more.
    • Employment: The SDB is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, providing direct employment to over 1 lakh people in various roles related to the diamond industry.

  • [pib] IMD launches Heat Index

    heat index

    Central Idea

    • Union Ministry of Earth Sciences informed that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has introduced the Heat Index on an experimental basis.

    IMD Heat Index

    • The Heat Index aims to provide general guidance for regions in India where the combination of temperature and humidity leads to higher apparent temperatures, causing discomfort for people.
    • It is derived using an equation similar to the one used by the National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the USA.
    • It considers the impact of humidity on high temperatures, providing a “feel-like” temperature for human beings and indicating the level of discomfort.

    Color Codes for Experimental Heat Index

    The Heat Index is represented with different color codes to signify the varying levels of heat impact and discomfort:

    1. Green: Below 35°C
    2. Yellow: Range of 36-45°C
    3. Orange: Range of 46-55°C
    4. Red: Above 55°C

    Mitigating heat impact in India

    • The Heat Index is currently being implemented on an experimental basis across India, including Andhra Pradesh.
    • Under the Heat Action Plan, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) collaborates with local agencies such as the Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) to implement the Heat Index project for Bhubaneshwar and Ahmedabad.

  • Niti Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index, 2022

    export
    PC: Live Mint

    Central Idea

    • Tamil Nadu has emerged as the most export-competitive state in India, securing the top spot in the Export Preparedness Index 2022 by Niti Aayog.

    Export Preparedness Index (EPI)

    • EPI is a comprehensive tool aimed at gauging the export readiness of India’s states and union territories (UTs).
    • The index analyses various parameters, enabling the identification of strengths and weaknesses in each region and offering valuable insights for effective policy formulation.
    • EPI focuses on four pillars:
    1. Policy: This pillar evaluates the effectiveness of a state’s trade policy, providing strategic direction for both exports and imports.
    2. Business Ecosystem: The efficiency of a business ecosystem is crucial for attracting investments and fostering an enabling infrastructure for startups and entrepreneurship.
    3. Export Ecosystem: This pillar assesses the business environment specific to exports, determining the level of support and facilitation provided to exporters.
    4. Export Performance: The sole output-based parameter, this pillar examines the reach of export footprints in states and UTs, measuring their actual export achievements.
    • 10 Sub-pillars include: Export Promotion Policy; Institutional Framework; Business Environment; Infrastructure; Transport Connectivity; Export Infrastructure; Trade Support; R&D Infrastructure; Export Diversification; and Growth Orientation.

    States performance

    • Export-Competitive State: Top Contenders: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat (last year’s leader) followed closely, while Haryana claimed the fifth position.
    • Coastal States’ Dominance: Coastal states dominated the top rankings, with four out of the top five positions occupied by them. Andhra Pradesh also secured the ninth spot.
    • Gujarat- Leading Merchandise Exporter: Gujarat holds the top position as the leading merchandise exporter, accounting for one-third of India’s total merchandise exports.
    • Top Five Exporting States: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh complete India’s top five exporters.
    • Seven States’ Dominance: An impressive 75% of India’s total exports are contributed by just seven states.

    Reasons for export boost

    • Export Promotion Policies: The top-performing states have implemented export promotion policies at both state and district levels.
    • Diversified Export Basket: These states have a diverse export basket, showcasing their global footprint.
    • Promoting Unique Products: Successful states focus on promoting products unique to their region. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka lead in exporting geographical indication (GI) products.

    India’s Export Performance

    • Resilient Exports: Despite pandemic challenges and supply-side issues, India’s goods exports remained robust, reaching an all-time high of $447 billion in FY23.
    • Target for FY24: The government refrained from setting a specific export target for FY24 due to global headwinds but may aim for $450 billion to $500 billion in goods exports.
    • Services Exports: Services exports amounted to $323 billion in FY23, bringing India’s overall exports to $770 billion.

  • Eighth Schedule of Indian Constitution

    langauge eighth

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court said it cannot direct the Centre to include Rajasthani as an official language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

    About Eighth Schedule

    • The Eighth Schedule outlines the official languages of the Republic of India.
    • Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Constitution contain constitutional provisions relating to the Eighth Schedule.
    • It was originally created to grant representation on the Official Languages Commission and enrich Hindi and English, the official languages of the Union.
    • Candidates appearing for public service examinations have the privilege of using any language from the Eighth Schedule as a medium to answer the exam papers.
    Article 344(1): It mandates the appointment of a Commission by the President after 5 years from the date the Constitution comes into effect.

    Article 351: It places the responsibility on the Union to promote and develop the Hindi language, enabling it to be a medium of expression for India’s diverse cultural elements.

    Article 351(1): The President is required to establish a commission every five years, and subsequently every ten years, with a chairman and members representing languages listed in the Eighth Schedule. The primary role is to provide advice to the President on the effective use of Hindi for official purposes by the GOI.

    Languages included

    • 22 languages: Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
    • Classical Languages among these: Tamil (declared in 2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), and Odia (2014).

    Chronological Additions

    • 1950: The Constitution initially included 14 languages in the Eighth Schedule.
    • 1967: Sindhi was added through the 21st Constitutional Amendment Act.
    • 1992: Konkani, Manipuri (Meitei), and Nepali were included through the 71st Constitutional Amendment Act.
    • 2003: Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, and Santali were added through the 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act.
    • 2011: The spelling “Oriya” was replaced with “Odia” through the 96th Constitutional Amendment Act.

    Try this PYQ:

    Consider the following languages:

    1. Gujarati
    2. Kannada
    3. Telugu

    Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language / Languages’ by the Government?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Post your answers here.

     

  • Opposition calls for President’s Rule in Manipur

    manipur president rule
    PC: The Hindu

    Central Idea

    • A political party has called for the dismissal of the state government in Manipur and immediate imposition of President’s Rule to initiate a peace process under a neutral administration.

    What is President’s Rule?

    • Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, commonly known as President’s Rule, empowers the President to impose central rule in a state where the constitutional machinery has broken down.
    • While initially intended for extraordinary circumstances, it has often been misused by central governments for political purposes.

    Provisions of Article 356:

    • Imposition of President’s Rule: Article 356 allows the President to withdraw the executive and legislative powers of a state government when it cannot function in accordance with the Constitution.
    • Triggering factors: The President can invoke Article 356 based on a report from the Governor or suo motu if the constitutional machinery has broken down in the state.
    • Duration: It can be imposed for six months at a time, with a maximum duration of three years.
    • Parliamentary approval: Every six months, Parliament’s approval is required to continue the imposition of President’s Rule.

    Historical Origins

    • Inspiration from the Government of India Act, 1935: Article 356 was inspired by Section 93 of this act, which allowed the Governor of a province to assume the powers of the government under certain circumstances.
    • Controlled democracy: The provision provided some autonomy to provincial governments while enabling British authorities to exercise ultimate power when necessary.

    Political Misuse of Article 356

    • Early instances: During Congress dominance, Article 356 was used against governments of the Left and regional parties in states. Jawaharlal Nehru’s government utilized it six times until 1959, including to dislodge Kerala’s elected communist government.
    • Increasing misuse: In subsequent decades, Article 356 was used frequently against state governments by various central governments, including those led by Indira Gandhi and the Janata Party.

    Landmark Judgment: S R Bommai Case

    • Landmark Supreme Court ruling: In the 1994 R. Bommai v. Union of India case, the Supreme Court provided detailed guidelines on the use of Article 356.
    • Specific instances for imposition: The court stated that President’s Rule can be invoked in cases of physical breakdown of the government or a ‘hung assembly.’
    • Curbing arbitrary use: The judgment emphasized the need to give the state government a chance to prove its majority or instances of violent breakdown before imposing President’s Rule.

    Try this PYQ:

    Which of the following are not necessarily the consequences of the proclamation of the President’s rule in a State?

    1. Dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly
    2. Removal of the Council of Ministers in the State
    3. Dissolution of the local bodies

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 1 and 3

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Post your answers here. 

     

  • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023

    cinema

    Central Idea

    • Union Information and Broadcasting Minister has introduced the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha, with the goal of addressing piracy concerns in the film industry.
    • It seeks to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

    What is the Cinematograph Act, 1952?

    • The Cinematograph Act of 1952, was enacted by the Parliament to ensure that films are shown in accordance with the limits of tolerance of society.
    • The Act establishes the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC, or the censor board) to certify films.
    • Under the Act, the Board scrutinizes the films following the procedure laid down in the Act and can either reject or grant a certificate, valid for ten years.
    • The Act authorizes the police to perform search and seizure actions if the film is being exhibited in contravention of any of the provisions of the Act.

    Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023

    Amendment The bill proposes to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952
    Harsher Penalty The act has provisions for harsher penal provisions for film piracy
    New Age Categories It introduces new sub-age categories for films to bring about uniformity in categorisation across platforms
    Perpetual Certification The certification once given will be perpetual
    New Sub-age based Certification UA-7+’, ‘UA-13+’, and ‘UA-16+’ in place for 12 years
    Alignment The act will be aligned with Supreme Court judgments
    Recertification Recertification of the edited film for television broadcast
    Public Exhibition Only Unrestricted Public Exhibition category films can be shown on television
    Uniformity It will make the act provisions in line with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 to maintain uniformity

    Stringent Laws against Piracy

    Details
    Imprisonment and Penalty It includes imprisonment for three years and a Rs 10 lakh penalty for those found involved in piracy
    Legal Offence The act of piracy will be a legal offense, and even transmitting pirated content will be punishable

    Indian Cinema: A Backgrounder

    • The history of Indian cinema dates back to the late 19th century, with the screening of the Lumiere Brothers’ short films in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1896.
    • Dadasaheb Phalke is considered to be the father of Indian cinema.
    • The first Indian-made film, Raja Harishchandra, was released by him in 1913 and marked the beginning of Indian cinema.
    • The first Indian talkie, Alam Ara, was released in 1931, marking a new era in Indian cinema.

    Contribution of Indian Cinema

    (1) Economic contribution

    • Revenue Source: The film industry contributes significantly to the country’s economy, generating substantial revenue through production, distribution, and exhibition.
    • Employment Generation: The film sector offers employment opportunities to millions of people in various related fields.
    • Allied Sectors: The film industry provides a boost to other industries like advertising, hospitality, tourism, and fashion.
    • Entertainment Economy: Cinema houses and multiplexes generate revenue through ticket sales, concessions, and merchandise sales.

    (2) Societal Contribution

    • Social Cause: Movies have addressed crucial social issues, raising awareness and encouraging discussions.
    • Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Strong female characters in films challenge traditional gender roles, positively impacting women’s status.
    • Accessible Entertainment: Cinema breaks social barriers by providing affordable and accessible entertainment.
    • Inspirational Aspects: Movies inspire the youth, leading them to look up to their favorite stars as role models.

    (3) Nation Building

    • Promotion of Social Harmony: Indian cinema showcases diversity and cultural richness, promoting social harmony and unity.
    • Inculcation of Moral Values: Films play a crucial role in imparting moral values and social responsibilities.
    • Creating Awareness about Social Issues: Movies raise awareness about various social issues, breaking taboos and addressing important topics.

    Issues with Indian Cinema

    • Portrayal of Violence and Sexuality: Some films depict violence and sexual content, impacting younger viewers negatively.
    • Reinforcement of Stereotypes: Certain films reinforce gender, caste, and religious stereotypes, perpetuating prejudice.
    • Promotion of Materialism: Movies that promote materialism can lead to unrealistic expectations and values.
    • Lack of Diversity: The lack of diversity in mainstream films needs to be addressed to ensure equal representation.
    • Undue Commercialization: Excessive commercialization may overshadow the importance of quality content.
    • Nepotism: The practice of nepotism can hinder deserving talent from entering the industry.

    Way Forward

    • Revising the Certification Process: Ensure transparency and accountability in the certification process.
    • Protecting Artistic Freedom: Safeguard artistic freedom and creativity in filmmaking.
    • Encouraging Regional Cinema: Promote and support regional cinema through incentives and subsidies.
    • Promoting Cultural Diversity: Encourage filmmakers to explore diverse cultures and promote intercultural dialogue.
    • Combating Piracy: Take effective measures to combat film piracy and protect revenues.
    • Developing Film Infrastructure: Invest in developing film infrastructure and educational facilities.

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