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Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • PM-POSHAN Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The material cost for the PM-POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) Scheme has been increased by 9.5%, resulting in an additional cost of ₹954 crore to be incurred by the Centre in the 2025-26 financial year.

    About PM-POSHAN Scheme:

    • The PM-POSHAN Scheme, formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, is a centrally sponsored initiative aimed at providing a hot, cooked meal to children studying in government and government-aided schools across India.
    • Launched under the Ministry of Education, it focuses on improving children’s nutritional status, school participation, retention, and attendance.
    • The scheme complements POSHAN Abhiyan and Mission POSHAN 2.0 to improve nutrition among children and mothers.

    Key Features:

    • Target Group: It serves 11.20 crore children in Balvatikas (pre-primary classes) and Classes 1-8 in 10.36 lakh schools. Special focus is placed on disadvantaged children from low-income backgrounds.
    • Nutritional Goals: The scheme provides balanced meals to meet children’s nutritional needs.
      1. Primary Students: 20g pulses, 50g vegetables, 5g oil.
      2. Upper Primary Students: 30g pulses, 75g vegetables, 7.5g oil.
    • Model: The Centre provides 100% funding for food grains through the Food Corporation of India (FCI), while States contribute to meal implementation.
    • Funding Pattern:
      • 60:40 between Centre and States/UTs with the legislature.
      • 90:10 for Northeastern and Himalayan States.
      • 100% central funding for UTs without legislature.
    • 26 lakh metric tonnes of food grains are provided annually, with transportation costs covered by the Centre.
    • It also has a component to promote the development of School Nutrition Gardens in schools
    • Social Audit of the scheme is made mandatory in all the districts.
    [UPSC 2014] Which of the following can be said to be essentially the parts of Inclusive Governance?

    1 Permitting the Non-Banking Financial Companies to do banking

    2 Establishing effective District Planning Committees in all the districts

    3 Increasing the government spending on public health

    4 Strengthening the Mid-Day Meal Scheme

    Select the correct answers using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • [10th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Will Aviation Disputes be easier to Resolve?

    PYQ Relevance:

    Question: “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. [UPSC 2021]

    Linkage: The broader context of competition for influence in the continent. 

    Mentor’s Comment:  The aviation sector is vital for India’s economic growth, connectivity, and global integration. The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 strengthens legal protections for lessors, encouraging foreign investment and lowering leasing costs. This directly supports fleet expansion, enhances regional connectivity, and boosts India’s ambition to become a global aviation hub, especially through GIFT City.

    Today’s editorial talks about the aviation sector, which is a key part of India’s infrastructure. This topic is useful for GS Paper 3 (Infrastructure) and GS Paper 2 (Policy and Governance) in the UPSC exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Last week, Parliament passed the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025. This new law sets up a legal system to handle disputes between airlines and aircraft lessors over valuable aviation assets like planes, helicopters, and engines.

    What is the main objective of the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025?

    • To Protect Aircraft Lessors’ Rights: The Bill allows aircraft lessors to repossess aircraft and engines swiftly in case of default by airlines. Eg: During GoFirst’s insolvency (2023), lessors couldn’t recover their planes due to legal delays—this Bill now provides legal backing for quicker repossession.
    • To Implement the Cape Town Convention and Protocol: Aligns Indian aviation law with global standards to enhance legal predictability and reduce risk for international investors. Eg: Many countries that have implemented the Convention see lower leasing costs and more confidence from global leasing firms.
    • To Boost Investment and Reduce Costs in Aviation: Encourages leasing activity in India (especially at GIFT City) by reducing legal and financial uncertainties, lowering aircraft leasing costs by up to 8–10%. Eg: IndiGo and Air India’s fleet expansion could benefit from cheaper leases, ultimately leading to lower operational costs.

    What was the Cape Town Convention in 2008?

    The Cape Town Convention is an international treaty designed to standardize and protect the rights of creditors (like aircraft lessors) in transactions involving high-value mobile assets, especially in aviation, rail, and space sectors.

    Why was the Bill needed despite India signing the Cape Town Convention in 2008?

    • Lack of Implementing Legislation in India: Though India signed the Convention in 2008, it did not pass a domestic law to give it legal force. Eg: Courts couldn’t apply the Convention directly, leading to confusion during airline insolvency cases like GoFirst.
    • Conflict with Existing Indian Laws: Domestic laws such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) often clashed with the Convention’s provisions. Eg: In GoFirst’s 2023 case, NCLT imposed a moratorium that barred lessors from repossessing aircraft, conflicting with the Convention’s rights.
    • Low Compliance Score on Global Index: India scored low on the Cape Town Compliance Index (score of 50 out of 100), reducing global confidence. Eg: Lessors viewed India as high-risk, making leasing more expensive and legally uncertain.
    • Previous Airline Failures Exposed Legal Gaps: Airline shutdowns like Kingfisher, SpiceJet, and GoFirst highlighted legal ambiguities in asset repossession. Eg: Lessors struggled for months to retrieve aircraft and were also burdened with costs like parking fees.
    • To Encourage Investment and Reduce Risk Perception: The absence of a robust legal mechanism discouraged foreign leasing firms from doing business in India. Eg: The new Bill aims to improve investor sentiment and facilitate cheaper leases for growing airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

    How did legal conflicts affect aircraft repossession during GoFirst’s insolvency?

    • Moratorium under IBC Prevented Repossession: The NCLT imposed a moratorium that barred lessors from reclaiming their aircraft, despite defaults by GoFirst. Eg: Lessors were legally restricted from de-registering and removing aircraft even though the Cape Town Convention allows it.
    • Delay in Aircraft Maintenance and Access: Legal restrictions also denied lessors access to their aircraft for routine maintenance, risking airworthiness. Eg: Aircraft parked at airports couldn’t be inspected or serviced, causing additional losses to lessors.
    • Lessors Incurred Extra Operational Costs: Lessors had to pay dues on behalf of GoFirst, including airport handling, parking, and office space charges. Eg: These unexpected expenses made the leasing business financially unviable under Indian legal conditions.

    What concerns do lessors have about India’s tax regime and GIFT City push?

    • Stringent Tax Scrutiny under GAAR: India’s General Anti-Avoidance Rule (GAAR), implemented in 2017, allows tax authorities to deny tax benefits if a leasing company is deemed to exist solely for tax-saving purposes without substantial commercial activity. Eg: Lessors cannot merely establish a shell entity in GIFT City to avail tax perks; they must demonstrate genuine business operations, unlike the more lenient frameworks in countries like Ireland.
    • Challenges in Financing Support: Unlike other global leasing hubs, Indian banks are cautious about lending to airlines due to past airline failures, leading lessors to rely on overseas funding, which increases costs. Eg: European banks support leasing businesses in Ireland, but in India, the absence of similar backing means lessors face higher financing costs.
    • Uncertainty in Tax Incentives Implementation: While GIFT City offers tax incentives, ambiguity in their application and interpretation by tax officials can lead to procedural delays and increased compliance burdens. Eg: Lessors may face delays due to unclear tax exemption procedures, affecting their operational efficiency.
    • Requirement to Establish Physical Presence: The push for lessors to set up operations in GIFT City necessitates a physical presence, involving additional costs and administrative efforts. Eg: Lessors must establish offices and staff in GIFT City to comply with regulatory requirements, unlike jurisdictions that allow more flexible arrangements.
    • Regulatory and Operational Challenges: Despite incentives, lessors face regulatory hurdles and operational challenges, such as the absence of an airport in GIFT City, complicating logistics for leased aircraft. Eg: Newly leased aircraft need proper parking facilities, and the lack of an airport in GIFT City poses logistical issues.

    Way forward: 

    • Enact and Operationalize the Bill Swiftly: The government should ensure the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 is not only passed but implemented effectively, with clarity on how it interacts with the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and other domestic laws.
    • Enhance Infrastructure and Regulatory Clarity at GIFT City: India should build supportive infrastructure (like an airport) in or near GIFT City and offer clear, predictable tax and regulatory policies to attract top-tier leasing companies.

  • The pandemic — looking back, looking forward

    Why in the News?

    Last month, in March, it was five years since the COVID-19 pandemic began around the world.

    What did COVID-19 reveal about trust in healthcare and public health interventions?

    • Fragility of Public Trust: Public trust in healthcare systems is delicate and can quickly deteriorate during a crisis. Eg: In countries like the U.S. and Brazil, misinformation and politicization of health measures led to public skepticism about mask mandates and vaccines.
    • Trust Influences Compliance: Low trust in healthcare institutions led to reduced compliance with health measures like vaccination, social distancing, and testing. Eg: In India, varying levels of trust in different states resulted in underreporting of COVID-19 deaths, as later highlighted in Science.
    • Communication is Crucial: Clear and consistent communication from governments and health agencies helped in building public trust. Eg: New Zealand’s early success was due in part to science-based communication from the Prime Minister and health officials.
    • Trust Shapes Health Behavior: People’s willingness to seek medical help or follow guidelines depended on their trust in healthcare providers. Eg: In Nigeria, fear and mistrust led many to avoid hospitals, fearing infection or poor treatment.
    • Erosion of Trust Undermines Future Preparedness: Damaged trust affects the public’s response to future health threats and reduces the uptake of new interventions.Eg: The inconsistent global response to monkeypox was partly due to lingering distrust from the COVID-19 experience.

    How did technology both aid and challenge digital health and education during the pandemic?

    • Enabled Remote Health Services (Telemedicine): Technology allowed continuation of healthcare through teleconsultations when in-person visits were restricted. Eg: In India, platforms like eSanjeevani facilitated over 100 million teleconsultations, especially in rural areas.
    • Accelerated Use of AI in Pharma and Diagnostics: Artificial Intelligence helped speed up drug discovery, vaccine research, and diagnostic tools. Eg: Tools developed by DeepMind (UK) predicted protein structures, aiding faster vaccine development and earning its creators the Nobel Prize.
    • Exposed the Digital Divide: Access to digital tools remained unequal, affecting remote education and healthcare access for underprivileged groups. Eg: In India, many rural students lacked smartphones or internet, disrupting schooling during lockdowns.
    • Boosted Digital Learning Platforms: Educational apps and platforms saw a massive surge, enabling continuity in learning. Eg: Platforms like Byju’s and Google Classroom were widely adopted in India and globally for virtual classes.
    • Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Concerns: Increased reliance on tech led to concerns over data breaches, surveillance, and lack of digital ethics. Eg: Contact-tracing apps like Aarogya Setu raised privacy concerns due to unclear data protection protocols.

    Why were vulnerable groups, especially women and the poor, hit hardest by the pandemic?

    • Loss of Livelihood and Informal Jobs: The poor, especially those in informal sectors, lost income due to lockdowns and lack of social protection. Eg: In India, millions of migrant workers lost jobs overnight and walked back to their villages without government support.
    • Increased Burden on Women: Women faced a double burden of unpaid care work (childcare, household chores) and job losses in female-dominated sectors. Eg: During school closures, women in urban slums often had to quit jobs to care for children, worsening gender inequality.
    • Limited Access to Health Services: Vulnerable groups faced disruptions in essential health services, including maternal care and mental health support. Eg: In many low-income countries, access to reproductive health services declined, increasing risks for pregnant women.

    When and why did universal health coverage and hybrid solutions gain urgency?

    • Exposure of Weak Health Infrastructure:The pandemic exposed gaps in health systems, especially in developing countries, creating urgency for universal health coverage to ensure no one is left behind. Eg: In India, shortages of hospital beds and oxygen highlighted the need for strong public health systems accessible to all.
    • Need for Remote Healthcare: Lockdowns limited physical access to hospitals, leading to a surge in telemedicine and hybrid care models that combine digital tools with on-ground services. Eg: Teleconsultations increased in both urban and rural areas to provide care without physical contact during peak COVID-19 waves.
    • Cost-Effective and Scalable Solutions: Governments began to focus on sustainable and scalable healthcare strategies that balance cost, access, and efficiency through hybrid models. Eg: Countries like Brazil and Bangladesh started integrating AI-powered diagnostics with community healthcare workers to reach underserved populations.

    Which IP-related debates during COVID-19 exposed tensions between innovation and access?

    • TRIPS Waiver Proposal: The proposal to waive certain intellectual property rights under the TRIPS Agreement sparked global debate. It aimed to let countries produce COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments without legal barriers. Eg: India and South Africa led the push at the WTO in 2020; many developed nations opposed it, fearing harm to innovation.
    • Opposition from Pharmaceutical Companies: Pharmaceutical companies resisted IP waivers, arguing it would discourage future research investments. They emphasized the role of patents in incentivizing innovation and funding advanced research. Eg: Pfizer and Moderna opposed sharing mRNA technology, despite global demand.
    • Vaccine Nationalism and Access Inequality: IP protections contributed to unequal global vaccine distribution, especially in low-income countries. Wealthier nations secured large vaccine stocks early, while poorer countries struggled due to production limits. Eg: Africa faced major delays in vaccine access due to limited manufacturing and patent restrictions.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Flexible IP Frameworks During Health Crises: Encourage temporary waivers or compulsory licensing for life-saving technologies to ensure global equity in access.
    • Strengthen Global South Collaboration: Build regional manufacturing and research partnerships to reduce dependency on patent-holding nations and improve pandemic preparedness.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2020] “COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment.

    Linkage: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in India’s health sector and taught important lessons on how to better prepare for and manage similar health crises in the future. This impacted the vulnerable groups, especially women and the poor, hit hardest by the pandemic.

  • [9th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Why is active mobility necessary in India?

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries.

    Linkage:  Increasing urbanisation and the consequent challenges in large cities, such as traffic congestion and strain on infrastructure, which active mobility can help alleviate by providing alternative modes of transport.

     

    Mentor’s Comment: Active mobility is getting more attention in India because of growing traffic jams, pollution, health problems, and more deaths of people walking on the roads. The government is now focusing more on sustainable transport through policies like the National Transit Oriented Development (NTOD) policy and the Smart Cities Mission. At the same time, global efforts like the Paris Agreement are pushing countries to cut carbon emissions and support environment-friendly ways of travel.

    Today’s editorial highlights why active mobility is important for India. This topic is useful for UPSC Mains preparation, especially for GS Paper 2 (governance, health, and urban planning) and GS Paper 3 (environment, infrastructure, and sustainable development).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Accidental deaths and injuries of pedestrians, cyclists, street vendors, and others are increasing in metro cities of India.

    What is Active Mobility?

    Active mobility refers to human-powered transportation modes like walking, cycling, and skateboarding used for commuting, promoting sustainability, public health, and reduced pollution, without relying on motorised vehicles or fuel.

     

    Why are accidental deaths and injuries of pedestrians, cyclists increasing in metro cities of India?

    • Encroachment of Dedicated Lanes: Even when cities build footpaths or cycling tracks, they are often occupied by motor vehicles, street vendors, or parked cars, making them unsafe. Eg: In Delhi and Bengaluru, two-wheelers and cars frequently use cycle lanes during traffic jams, forcing cyclists onto busy roads.
    • Lack of Proper Infrastructure and Road Design: Many urban roads lack continuous, well-marked, and safe pedestrian crossings or protected bike lanes, leading to risky road usage. Example: Mumbai’s arterial roads have few safe pedestrian crossings, leading to frequent jaywalking and accidents.
    • Poor Enforcement of Traffic Rules: Drivers often ignore speed limits, red lights, and pedestrian right-of-way due to weak law enforcement, increasing accident risks for non-motorised users. Example: In Chennai, despite designated zebra crossings, vehicles rarely stop for pedestrians, leading to unsafe road conditions.

    Why is active mobility gaining attention in urban planning and national policies?

    • Rising Traffic Congestion and Air Pollution: Active mobility offers a sustainable solution to reduce vehicle load and emissions in crowded cities. Eg: Delhi’s EV Policy promotes cycling and walking infrastructure to curb air pollution and decongest roads.
    • Public Health and Lifestyle Benefits: Walking and cycling improve physical and mental health, reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Eg: WHO supports active transport to combat lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart ailments.
    • High Rates of Pedestrian and Cyclist Fatalities: Inadequate infrastructure has made Indian roads unsafe for non-motorised users, triggering urgent reforms. Eg: Karnataka Active Mobility Bill, 2022 was drafted after the state reported the highest pedestrian deaths in 2020 (13%).
    • Climate Change Commitments and Sustainable Goals: Active mobility helps reduce carbon emissions and supports international commitments like the Paris Agreement. Eg: The National Transit Oriented Development (NTOD) Policy integrates eco-friendly transport in urban planning.
    • Inclusion in Smart Cities and Urban Missions: Government schemes now prioritise walkable, cyclist-friendly cities for better liveability and accessibility. Eg: Pune developed over 300 km of dedicated cycle lanes under its Comprehensive Bicycle Plan.

    What has WHO said about Active mobility?

    • Health Benefits: Active mobility helps combat physical inactivity, which leads to nearly 1 million deaths annually in the WHO European Region. Regular walking and cycling lower the chances of developing noncommunicable diseases such as cancer, type-2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Eg: Just 20 minutes of cycling or 30 minutes of walking a day can reduce the risk of death by over 10%.
    • Environmental Impact: Opting for active transport instead of motorised vehicles helps curb greenhouse gas emissions, cuts down air pollution—which is responsible for over 500,000 deaths in Europe each year—and reduces energy use and noise. Eg: Cities prioritising cycling and pedestrian zones experience cleaner air and quieter surroundings.
    • Economic and Social Benefits: Active mobility drives green job creation and lowers the economic burden of healthcare related to lifestyle diseases. It also improves inclusivity by offering affordable, accessible mobility options to people across income groups. Eg: Investment in pedestrian zones often boosts local economies and enhances community interaction.
    • Global Initiatives: WHO leads programs like the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity and regional collaborations such as THE PEP (Transport, Health and Environment Pan-European Programme). These aim to reduce global physical inactivity by 15% by 2030 through integrated, measurable efforts.

    Where have Indian cities taken steps to improve infrastructure for active mobility?

    • Chennai’s Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) Policy: Chennai was the first Indian city to adopt a dedicated NMT policy in 2014, allocating 60% of its transport budget to pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. The city has transformed over 100 km of streets with better footpaths, improved access to bus stops, and inaugurated the Pondy Bazaar Pedestrian Plaza, a model public space. with underground utilities and seating areas.
    • Coimbatore’s NMT Network Plan: Coimbatore developed a comprehensive NMT network plan focusing on creating 290 km of safe roads for walking and cycling. This initiative aims to improve safety, increase the share of non-motorized transport, and benefit approximately 1 million residents by 2035.
    • India Cycles4Change and Streets4People Challenges: Launched under the Smart Cities Mission, these initiatives have inspired 33 cities to implement over 570 km of walking and cycling projects, with an additional 1,400 km under development. These programs have encouraged cities to prioritize active mobility as part of their urban planning.
    • Surat and Pimpri-Chinchwad’s Active Mobility Efforts: Surat and Pimpri-Chinchwad have created dedicated public transport funds that support walking and cycling infrastructure. These cities are integrating active mobility into their broader urban development plans to make streets more people-centric.

    How do other countries like the Netherlands and Germany promote active mobility successfully?

    Key Factor Description Example
    Extensive Dedicated Infrastructure Safe, continuous networks of cycling and walking paths. Netherlands – Over 35,000 km of cycling lanes for daily and commuter use.
    Pro-Pedestrian and Cycling Laws Legal systems prioritize non-motorised users with right of way and protection. Germany – Berlin Mobility Act gives cyclists and pedestrians legal priority.
    Speed Regulations & Traffic Calming Low-speed zones in urban areas to reduce accidents and promote walking/cycling. Germany – Urban areas enforce 30 km/h speed limits.
    Integration with Public Transport Active mobility combined with public transport through parking, rentals, and policies. Netherlands – Railway stations offer bicycle parking and rental services.
    Cultural Normalisation & Education Awareness campaigns and education embed active mobility in daily life. Netherlands – Children are taught cycling and road safety from an early age.

    Way forward: 

    • Institutional Integration and Funding: Mandate dedicated NMT (Non-Motorised Transport) cells and budget allocations in all urban local bodies to ensure planning, execution, and maintenance of active mobility infrastructure.
    • Behavioural Change and Awareness: Launch nationwide campaigns and school-based programs to promote cycling and walking as safe, healthy, and aspirational choices for daily commute.

  • How the police view custodial torture in India

    Why in the News?

    The data shows that many police officers accept using forceful methods like shouting, threatening, slapping, or even harsh physical torture during investigations, even for small crimes.

    How the police view custodial torture in India

    What proportion of police support violence against serious offenders for the greater good?

    • Majority Support Violence: 63% of police personnel believe it’s acceptable to use violence on serious offenders for the greater good of society. Eg: Officers may justify beating a suspected murderer if they believe it helps prevent future crimes.
    • Strong vs Moderate Support: Among those who agreed, 22% strongly agreed and 41% moderately agreed with using violence. Eg: Some officers might strongly feel torture is necessary in terrorism cases, while others may support limited force.
    • Opposition is Minor: Only 35% of police personnel opposed the idea of violence, showing that a minority disagrees with such practices. Eg: These officers might believe in legal methods like investigation and interrogation without physical harm.

    How does this infringe Fundamental Rights? 

    • Violation of Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21): Coercive actions like custodial torture and third-degree methods breach the right to live with dignity. Eg: A suspect beaten during interrogation suffers physical and mental trauma without legal conviction.
    • Denial of Protection Against Self-Incrimination (Article 20(3)): Forcing suspects to confess under pressure or torture violates their right to remain silent during interrogation. Eg: A person forced to admit guilt in a theft case, even if innocent, due to police pressure.
    • Breach of Equality Before Law (Article 14): Targeting specific individuals like history-sheeters or the poor with harsh treatment undermines equal legal protection. Eg: Repeat offenders being tortured without due process, while others get fair legal treatment.

    Why do many police personnel justify torture in national security and serious crime cases?

    • Perceived Urgency in National Security Cases: Many police believe torture is necessary to extract crucial information in time-sensitive situations like terrorism. Eg: 42% of police personnel strongly supported torture during terrorism-related interrogations.
    • Belief in Strong Punishment for Heinous Crimes: Officers feel that serious crimes such as rape and murder deserve harsher treatment to deliver justice quickly. Eg: 34% of police strongly supported torture in cases involving rape and serious violent crimes.
    • Assumption that Certain Suspects Are Repeat Offenders: There’s a mindset that “history-sheeters” don’t respond to normal interrogation, justifying harsher methods. Eg: 28% of police strongly agreed that torture is justified for repeat or habitual offenders.

    What are the coercive methods that police frequently justify during interrogations, even for minor offenses?

    • Verbal Abuse and Threats: A large portion of police personnel find it acceptable to verbally abuse or threaten suspects in minor crimes like theft. Eg: 49% said such verbal abuse and threats are justified even in petty cases.
    • Slapping Suspects: Physical force such as slapping is often seen as a mild and acceptable tactic. Eg: 32% of police justified slapping suspects during minor offence investigations.
    • Use of Third-Degree Methods: Even for minor crimes, some support more extreme measures like third-degree torture to get confessions. Eg: 9% of personnel justified using third-degree methods in minor cases.
    • Threats as Routine Practice: Many police reported that threats are a frequent part of their interrogation techniques. Eg: 26% said threats are used “often” during investigations; 34% said they occur “sometimes.”
    • Light Force Considered Normal: Slapping or applying light physical force is not seen as excessive by a significant number of police officers. Eg: 18% admitted it’s commonly done, and another 28% said it happens occasionally.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • Implementation of Guidelines by Supreme Court: The government follows the D.K. Basu vs. State of West Bengal (1996) guidelines issued by the Supreme Court to prevent custodial violence. Eg: Police are required to inform relatives of an arrest and maintain arrest records.
    • Enactment of Human Rights Protection Laws: The government established legal bodies to monitor human rights violations. Eg: The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 led to the creation of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
    • Police Reforms and Training Programs: Reforms aim to modernize police functioning and encourage ethical conduct through training. Eg: The National Police Mission promotes citizen-centric policing and sensitization on human rights.

    Way forward: 

    • Independent Investigation and Accountability Mechanisms: Establish robust, independent bodies at the state level to investigate complaints of custodial violence and misconduct. Eg: Set up Police Complaints Authorities (PCA) with judicial oversight to ensure fair and transparent inquiries into custodial torture.
    • Comprehensive Sensitisation and Legal Training: Mandate regular training for police personnel on human rights, ethical investigation practices, and legal procedures. Eg: Include modules on constitutional rights, custodial safeguards, and mental health awareness in police academies and refresher courses.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2019] The police reforms in India have been left halfway due to lack of political will. Critically analyse.

    Linkage: The ongoing justification of coercive tactics, even in minor crimes, shows ineffective implementation of police reforms in India. It remains incomplete, largely due to a lack of political will, weak implementation, and cultural resistance within the force.

  • Palna Scheme under Mission Shakti

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Women and Child Development has informed that 1,761 Anganwadi-cum-Creches are operational across the country under the Palna Scheme.

    About the Palna Scheme

    • Launched to address childcare needs for working mothers, the Palna Scheme provides day-care facilities for children aged 6 months to 6 years.
    • In 2022, the National Creche Scheme was reorganized and renamed Palna Scheme under the Samarthya sub-scheme of Mission Shakti.
    • It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, with a 60:40 funding ratio between the Centre and State/UT Governments (90:10 for North-Eastern and Special Category States). UTs without legislature receive 100% funding.
    • Target Audience: Provides services for all mothers (irrespective of their employment status), offering a safe, hygienic, and supportive environment for children.
    • Creche Services: Includes day-care, early stimulation, preschool education, nutrition, health check-ups, and immunization support.

    Other Creche Schemes:

    • Standalone Creches: Independent creches are providing care for children aged 6 months to 6 years. They include provisions for one Creche Worker and one Creche Helper. Services include sleeping arrangements, health monitoring, and education.
    • Anganwadi-cum-Creches (AWCC): A key component of Palna Scheme, these creches combine Anganwadi services with daycare for working mothers.
      • Staffing: Includes an Anganwadi Worker, Helper, and Creche Worker and Helper.
      • Target: Establish 17,000 new AWCCs by 2024-25, with 11,395 already approved as of March 2025.
      • Objective: To provide childcare in rural and semi-urban areas, ensuring last-mile delivery.
      • Honorarium: ₹6,500 for Creche Workers in standalone crèches and ₹5,500 for AWCC Workers.

    About Mission Shakti

    • Mission Shakti is the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s flagship scheme, designed to strengthen women’s safety, security, and empowerment in India. 
    • The scheme supports women-led development by addressing issues affecting women across their life-cycle.
    • Components:
      1. Sambal: Focuses on women’s safety, with initiatives like the One Stop Centre (OSC), Women Helpline (WHL), and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP).
      2. Samarthya: Empowering women through sub-schemes like Ujjwala, Swadhar Greh, and the Palna Scheme. It integrates support for childcare and maternal health.
      3. Gap Funding for Economic Empowerment: A new initiative to support financial gaps in women’s enterprises.
    [UPSC 2019] With reference to the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017, consider the following statements:

    1. Pregnant women are entitled for three months pre-delivery and three months post-delivery paid leave

    2. This act applies to all organisations with 20 or more employees

    3. It has made it mandatory for every organisation with 50 or more employees to have a crèche.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • [7th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Prescribe preventive medicine for a healthy India

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2021] Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

    Linkage: This highlights the importance of a primary health structure, which is crucial for delivering preventive healthcare services, including screening and early detection of diseases.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  India is aiming to become a $5 trillion economy and a major global power. But there’s a growing problem that often goes unnoticed — non-communicable diseases (NCDs), like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. These diseases now cause about two out of every three deaths in the country and pose a serious threat to our progress. To build a healthy and successful future, India must focus more on preventing illness, rather than only treating it after people fall sick.

    Today’s editorial discusses the issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India. This analysis will be useful for GS Paper 2 and Paper 3 in the UPSC Mains examination.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    India is seeing a rapid rise in non-communicable diseases, so people need to be aware that staying healthy is possible by taking care of themselves early before any illness starts.

    What are the major non-communicable diseases (NCDs) affecting India’s population?

    • Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs): The Leading cause of NCD-related deaths in India. Eg: Heart attacks and hypertension are increasingly seen in people as young as 30–40 years.
    • Diabetes and Its Complications: Rapidly rising due to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets. Eg: Many young adults require dialysis due to diabetic kidney complications.
    • Chronic Respiratory Diseases and Cancers: Included chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, and oral cancer. Eg: Air pollution has led to increased COPD and lung cancer cases, especially in urban areas.

    How do they impact the country’s economy?

    • Loss of Productivity: NCDs reduce the ability of working-age individuals to remain productive. Eg: A 35-year-old with heart disease may take frequent leaves or drop out of the workforce, affecting economic output.
    • Increased Healthcare Expenditure: Families spend more on long-term treatment and medications, leading to out-of-pocket expenditure and pushing many into poverty. Eg: The cost of dialysis for kidney failure due to diabetes can be ₹20,000–₹30,000 per month, unaffordable for many.
    • Strain on Public Health Infrastructure: Public hospitals and health schemes get overburdened by rising cases of NCDs. Eg: Increased cases of cancer and diabetes require long-term care and monitoring, diverting resources from other healthcare needs.
    • Reduction in Demographic Dividend: India’s youthful population, considered an asset for economic growth, becomes a liability if affected by chronic illnesses early. Eg: Young professionals in IT or manufacturing sectors becoming diabetic or hypertensive by their mid-30s reduces long-term economic contribution.
    • Macroeconomic Losses: NCDs collectively reduce national income due to loss of labor force and healthcare costs. Eg: A World Economic Forum study estimated India may lose $3.5–$4 trillion between 2012–2030 due to NCD-related economic impacts.

    Why is preventive healthcare considered a crucial strategy for India’s sustainable development?

    • Reduces Disease Burden and Healthcare Costs: Preventive care helps in early detection and control of diseases, reducing the need for expensive treatments and hospitalizations. Eg: Widespread vaccination against polio eliminated the disease from India, saving billions in treatment costs.
    • Improves Productivity and Economic Growth: A healthier population means fewer sick days and a more productive workforce, which boosts economic development. Eg: Regular health screenings in workplaces reduce absenteeism and increase employee efficiency.
    • Strengthens Public Health Infrastructure: Focusing on prevention encourages investment in primary healthcare and rural health systems, making care more accessible. Eg: Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres promote lifestyle changes and early diagnosis at the grassroots level.
    • Mitigates Impact of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Preventive measures like health education and lifestyle changes are key to tackling rising NCDs such as diabetes and hypertension. Eg: National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS).
    • Supports Environmental and Social Sustainability: Preventive healthcare includes sanitation, nutrition, and pollution control—contributing to better environmental and community health. Eg: Swachh Bharat Abhiyan improved sanitation, reducing waterborne diseases and promoting healthy living conditions.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS): A flagship initiative aimed at early diagnosis, treatment, and management of NCDs at various levels of healthcare. Eg: Screening camps are organized at district and sub-district levels to detect hypertension and diabetes.
    • Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): Over 1.6 lakh HWCs are being set up to provide comprehensive primary healthcare, with a focus on preventive care and NCD screening. Eg: Regular health check-ups for people over 30 years to catch NCDs early at the grassroots level.
    • Fit India Movement and Eat Right India Campaign: Aimed at promoting physical activity and healthy eating habits to reduce lifestyle-related NCDs. Eg: Schools and workplaces are encouraged to adopt fitness routines and healthier cafeteria menus.
    • Tobacco and Alcohol Control Measures: Implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, and awareness campaigns to curb use of tobacco and alcohol — key NCD risk factors. Eg: Graphic health warnings on cigarette packs and bans on public smoking areas.
    • Integration of Digital Health and Telemedicine: Leveraging platforms like eSanjeevani and CoWIN to deliver health advice, track NCD risk, and facilitate remote consultations. Eg: Teleconsultation for diabetic patients in rural areas via mobile apps and village-level health workers.

    Way forward:

    • Strengthen Preventive and Community-Based Healthcare: Expand health education in schools, workplaces, and rural communities to promote healthy lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, no tobacco/alcohol).Eg: Launch campaigns like “Healthy India, Fit India 2.0” with a focus on local dietary habits, mental health, and physical fitness, integrated into school curricula and rural outreach.
    • Enhance Multi-sectoral Collaboration and Policy Integration: Coordinate between health, education, urban development, food processing, and environment ministries to tackle NCD risk factors comprehensively. Eg: Enforce stricter urban pollution controls, promote cycling/walking infrastructure, regulate trans fats/sugars in processed foods, and incentivize healthy food production through farm policies.

  • Three billion people cannot afford a healthy diet

    Why in the News?

    A healthy and nutritious diet costs much more than just eating enough to fill the stomach. Because of this, around three billion people worldwide cannot afford to eat healthy diet.

    What is the primary difference between a calorie-sufficient diet and a healthy diet? 

    Aspect Calorie-Sufficient Diet Healthy Diet Example (Eg)
    Purpose Provides minimum energy to survive Provides energy + essential nutrients for overall health Eating only rice vs. eating rice with dal, vegetables, and curd
    Nutrient Content Lacks micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, proteins) Rich in macro and micronutrients (carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins) Rice alone vs. balanced meal with fruits, vegetables, proteins
    Food Variety Limited to cheap staples like rice, maize, or flour Includes diverse food groups (grains, fruits, dairy, protein, etc.) Maize flour daily vs. varied diet with pulses, greens, dairy
    Health Impact May cause “hidden hunger” and nutritional deficiencies Promotes growth, immunity, and good physical and mental health Feeling full but weak vs. feeling full and energized
    Affordability Very cheap (less than $1/day) Expensive (around $3.67/day globally) Affordable for poor families vs. out of reach for billions

    Why are the three billion people unable to afford a healthy diet globally?

    • High Cost of Nutritious Foods: Healthy diets with fruits, vegetables, proteins, and dairy are much more expensive than basic staples. Eg: A meal with rice, lentils, vegetables, and milk costs much more than a plain rice or maize meal.
    • Low Incomes in Poor Countries: In many low-income countries, the median income is lower than the daily cost of a healthy diet. Eg: In parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, people would need to spend over 100% of their income just to afford healthy food.
    • Most Income Spent on Non-Food Essentials: People also need to spend on housing, transport, education, etc., leaving less money for nutritious food. Eg: A poor family may prioritize rent and school fees, and manage meals with only the cheapest staples.
    • Dependence on Starchy Staples: Many rely heavily on calorie-dense but nutrient-poor foods like rice, maize, or wheat due to affordability. Eg: A person eats only maize porridge daily, missing out on proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
    • Limited Production by Small Farmers: Even subsistence farmers may not produce enough variety to meet dietary needs, and cannot afford to buy it either. Eg: A farmer growing only rice and vegetables may lack access to milk, eggs, or fruits, leading to an unbalanced diet.

    Where is the affordability of a healthy diet the lowest, affecting over 80% of the population?

    • Sub-Saharan Africa: This region has the highest percentage of people who cannot afford a healthy diet. Eg: In countries like Chad, Burundi, or Niger, more than 80% of the population cannot afford fruits, dairy, or protein-rich foods regularly.
    • South Asia: Countries like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have large populations with low incomes, making even basic healthy foods costly. Eg: In rural India, a balanced diet might cost nearly an entire day’s wage.

    How do subsistence farmers fit into the statistics on food affordability according to the FAO report?

    • Included in Affordability Calculations: The FAO includes the value of food produced for self-consumption when calculating affordability. Eg: A farmer growing their own rice and vegetables is considered as having partial income from that food production.
    • Still Unable to Afford or Produce a Healthy Diet: Even with homegrown food, many subsistence farmers cannot meet the dietary diversity needed for good health. Eg: A small farmer in rural Nepal may grow millet but can’t access milk, eggs, or leafy greens.
    • Dependence on Staple Crops: Most subsistence farmers rely on calorie-rich but nutrient-poor staples like maize or cassava. Eg: A family in Malawi surviving mostly on maize lacks essential proteins and vitamins.
    • Limited Market Access and Income: They often have little surplus to sell and low access to markets, limiting their purchasing power for other foods. Eg: A farmer in northern Nigeria may produce yams but can’t reach a market to sell or buy fruits.
    • Vulnerable to Shocks and Seasonal Gaps: Crop failures, poor rainfall, or pests can wipe out their food supply and worsen affordability. Eg: In drought-prone Kenya, crop failure forces families to skip meals or rely on relief aid.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission): Launched to reduce malnutrition among children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers through better monitoring, awareness, and convergence of nutrition schemes. Eg: Promotion of locally sourced nutritious food and growth monitoring of children.
    • Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM POSHAN): Provides free nutritious meals to school children to improve school attendance and address childhood hunger and malnutrition. Eg: Meals include rice, dal, vegetables, and sometimes eggs or milk.
    • Fortification of Staples: The government promotes adding essential micronutrients (like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12) to staples such as rice, wheat, and edible oils. Eg: Distribution of fortified rice through the Public Distribution System (PDS).

    Way forward: 

    • Invest in Local Production and Diversification of Nutritious Foods: Governments and NGOs should support smallholder farmers to grow a wider range of nutritious crops (e.g., pulses, fruits, vegetables, dairy, poultry). Eg: Promoting kitchen gardens, poultry, and millet farming in rural India to diversify diets.
    • Make Healthy Foods Affordable Through Policy and Subsidies: Implement targeted subsidies or cash transfers for poor households to afford healthy food groups. Eg: Expanding India’s mid-day meal and ICDS schemes with eggs, fruits, and vegetables for children.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle?

    Linkage: Poverty and malnutrition which are key reasons why three billion people cannot afford a healthy diet. The inability to afford nutritious food leads to malnutrition, which in turn perpetuates poverty by hindering human capital development.

  • India’s educational transformation — the true picture 

    Why in the News?

    India’s education system was neglected for decades, with no major policy update since 1986. While the world evolved, India remained stuck in outdated methods, resisting technological and global advancements.

    What were the key flaws in India’s education system before NEP 2020?

    • Outdated and Rigid Curriculum: The last major policy revision was in 1986 (with minor changes in 1992), making the education system disconnected from modern technological and economic advancements. Example: While global education systems embraced digital learning and skill-based curricula.
    • Lack of Access and Equity: The system failed to provide inclusive education, with marginalized communities, women, and rural students facing significant barriers. Example: Inadequate scholarships, lack of infrastructure in rural schools, and gender disparity led to lower enrollments among Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women.
    • Political Interference and Corruption: Governance bodies like UGC and AICTE became instruments of political control rather than enablers of academic excellence. Example: The 2009 Deemed University scandal, where 44 private institutions were granted university status without proper evaluation, exposing financial irregularities.
    • Underfunded Public Education & Rise of Unregulated Private Institutions: Public universities were systematically starved of funds, leading to poor infrastructure and faculty shortages. Meanwhile, private institutions emerged as degree mills with little regulation. Example: Many engineering and medical colleges prioritized profit over education quality, leading to subpar graduates with minimal employable skills.
    • Eurocentric and Ideologically Driven Curriculum: The education system failed to incorporate India’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage, with history often being selectively framed to suit political narratives. Example: Contributions of revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad, and Veer Savarkar were downplayed.

    How has the NEP 2020 contributed to improving access, equity, and quality in education in India?

    • Increased Access to Education for Marginalized Groups: NEP 2020 introduced policies to improve enrollment among SCs, STs, OBCs, and minorities. Example: Enrollment in higher education increased by 50% for SCs, 75% for STs, and 54% for OBCs since 2014-15. Women’s enrollment also grew by 38.8% in 2022-23.
    • Expansion of Early Childhood Education & Foundational Learning: NEP 2020 introduced the 5+3+3+4 system, focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy. Example: The NIPUN Bharat Mission aims to ensure that every child attains foundational literacy and numeracy by Grade 3.
    • Multilingual Education & Inclusion of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS): Promotes regional languages in schools and integrates traditional knowledge into the curriculum. Example: The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Yojana aims to publish 15,000 textbooks in 22 Indian languages to make higher education accessible in local languages.
    • Improved Infrastructure & Teacher-Student Ratio: NEP 2020 mandates modern infrastructure, teacher training, and support systems to improve learning outcomes. Example: Per-child government expenditure increased by 130% (from ₹10,780 in 2013-14 to ₹25,043 in 2021-22), leading to improved pupil-teacher ratios and reduced dropout rates.
    • Quality Enhancement Through Skill-Based & Digital Learning: NEP 2020 emphasizes coding, AI, and multidisciplinary learning to prepare students for the future. Example: Over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) have been set up to promote STEM education, and plans are underway to establish 50,000 more with broadband access.

    Why is the empowerment of women a key focus of the education reforms under NEP 2020?

    • Bridging Gender Gaps in Education: NEP 2020 emphasizes increasing female enrollment across all levels of education. Example: Female enrollment in higher education grew by 38.8%, crossing 2.18 crore in 2022-23. Among Muslim minority students, female enrollment rose by 57.5%.
    • Encouraging Women in STEMM Fields: The policy promotes gender inclusion in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM). Example: Women now make up 43% of students in STEMM fields, breaking traditional gender barriers in male-dominated domains.
    • Improving Female Representation in Academia: NEP 2020 ensures equal opportunities in teaching and research positions. Example: The proportion of female teachers increased from 38.6% in 2014 to 44.23%, transforming academic leadership landscapes.
    • Financial and Social Support for Girls’ Education: NEP 2020 promotes scholarships, financial aid, and safety measures to encourage girls’ education. Example: The introduction of Gender Inclusion Fund supports school infrastructure, sanitary facilities, and incentives for female students.
    • Skill Development & Economic Independence: NEP 2020 integrates vocational training, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy to empower women economically. Example: The policy supports multidisciplinary learning and skilling programs that prepare women for careers in emerging fields like AI and data science.

    Which NEP 2020 initiatives promote innovation and research in education?

    • Establishment of the National Research Foundation (NRF): The NRF aims to fund, mentor, and support research across disciplines by integrating industry and academia. Example: India’s research publications have increased by 88% since 2015, and India’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index improved from 76 (2014) to 39 (2023).
    • Introduction of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) for Grassroots Innovation: Over 10,000 ATLs have been set up in schools to nurture a culture of experimentation, problem-solving, and innovation among students. Example: The government plans to expand ATLs to 50,000 schools with broadband connectivity in the next five years.
    • Multidisciplinary and Flexible Learning Approach: NEP 2020 promotes multidisciplinary research by breaking rigid subject barriers and introducing coding, artificial intelligence (AI), and data science at the school level. Example: Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) are being integrated into over 8,000 higher education institutions, encouraging innovation rooted in traditional knowledge.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Public-Private Collaboration in Research & Innovation: Strengthen industry-academia partnerships to bridge the skill gap, improve employability, and boost indigenous research in emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology.
    • Robust Monitoring & Implementation Framework: Establish independent regulatory bodies to track progress, ensure equitable access, and prevent commercialization of education, ensuring that NEP 2020 achieves its intended objectives effectively.

    Mains PYQ:

    Question: National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement. [UPSC 2020]

    Linkage: Critical examination of the policy’s intent to restructure and reorient the education system.

  • [31st March 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The ‘3Cs’ that haunt Indian education today

    PYQ Relevance:

    Question: National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement. [UPSC 2020]

    Linkage: Critical analysis of a major education policy, where aspects of centralisation, commercialisation, and the underlying ideological orientation (potentially related to communalisation, although not directly stated) could be part of the critique.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 may seem important, but it hides the government’s lack of real effort to improve education for children and youth in India. Over the past ten years, the government has mainly focused on three things—taking more control over education, encouraging private schools and colleges while reducing public funding, and changing textbooks and courses to fit its own ideas.

    Today’s editorial discusses education policy and its impact, providing useful insights for GS Paper 2 in the UPSC Mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The government’s three-point agenda is causing serious harm to the education system, affecting accessibility, quality, and fairness in learning opportunities.

    What is the three-point agenda of the government?

    • Centralisation of Power: The Union Government has taken control over education policy and decision-making, sidelining State governments.
    • Commercialisation & Outsourcing to the Private Sector: Government policies have led to the closure of public schools and increased dependence on expensive private education.
    • Communalisation of Curriculum & Institutions:  The Opposition has accused the government of modifying textbooks and appointing ideologically aligned individuals in academic institutions to promote a biased narrative.

    What are the key concerns regarding the centralization of education under NEP 2020?

    • Lack of State Consultation & Decision-Making: Despite education being in the Concurrent List, the Union Government has not consulted State governments on policy implementation. Example: The Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE), which includes State Education Ministers, has not been convened since 2019.
    • Financial Coercion to Implement Central Schemes: The Union Government uses financial control to push State governments into adopting centrally designed schemes. Example: Funds under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), meant for RTE implementation, were withheld to pressure States into adopting PM-SHRI model schools.
    • Undermining State Control Over Higher Education: The Union Government is reducing the role of State governments in governing their own universities. Example: The 2025 UGC guidelines remove State governments from the process of appointing Vice-Chancellors, giving power to Governors (as Chancellors) instead.
    • Shift from Neighborhood Schools to Centralized School Complexes: NEP 2020 promotes school complexes, which leads to the closure of small public schools, reducing accessibility for marginalized students. Example: Since 2014, 89,441 government schools have been shut down, while 42,944 private schools have been opened.
    • Increased Control Over Curriculum & Textbooks: The Union Government has made unilateral changes to the NCERT curriculum, promoting a selective historical and ideological narrative. Example: Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination details, Mughal history, and the Preamble to the Indian Constitution were removed from textbooks, later reinstated due to public backlash.

    How has the commercialisation of education impacted public schools and higher education institutions in India?

    • Closure of Public Schools & Growth of Private Schools: The shift towards school complexes under NEP 2020 has led to the closure of public schools, forcing students into expensive private education. Example: Since 2014, 89,441 public schools have been closed, while 42,944 private schools have opened, increasing educational inequality.
    • Higher Education Funding Shift to Loans Instead of Grants: The introduction of the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) forces universities to take loans at market interest rates, instead of receiving government grants. Example: Universities now recover loan repayments from student fees, leading to fee hikes, making higher education less affordable.
    • Rise in Corruption & Lack of Accountability: Increased privatisation and outsourcing have led to corruption in regulatory bodies and lower academic standards. Example: The NAAC bribery scandal and failures of the National Testing Agency (NTA) have exposed financial misconduct and inefficiency in public education governance.

    What is the criticism of the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA)?

    • Shift from Grants to Loans Increases Financial Burden: HEFA replaces UGC’s block grants with market-rate loans, forcing universities to generate their own funds. Example: Universities struggle to repay loans, leading to higher student fees, making education less accessible to the economically weaker sections.
    • Universities Rely on Student Fees for Loan Repayments: Most universities lack revenue sources, so they increase student fees to repay loans. Example: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education found that between 78% to 100% of HEFA loans were repaid using student fees, worsening affordability.
    • Neglect of Public Education & Research: HEFA discourages public investment in higher education, prioritizing financial viability over quality education and research. Example: Many state universities, lacking resources, avoid infrastructure development or research expansion due to loan repayment concerns.

    Which specific changes in NCERT textbooks have been linked to the alleged communalisation of education?

    • Removal of Mughal History & Selective Erasure of Historical Facts: Chapters on Mughal India and references to their contributions in architecture, administration, and culture have been removed or reduced.Example: Class 12 history textbooks no longer include sections on Mughal rule, diminishing a key period of Indian history.
    • Omission of Mahatma Gandhi’s Assassination and Hindutva Ideology’s Role: References to Nathuram Godse and the RSS’s role in Gandhi’s assassination were removed, altering historical narratives. Example: Class 12 Political Science textbooks no longer mention how Hindu nationalist ideologies influenced Godse’s actions.
    • Exclusion of Constitutional Principles & Secularism: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution was initially removed, and sections on secularism and democracy have been diluted. Example: Class 10 political science textbooks saw removal of content discussing secularism as a foundational principle, sparking public backlash.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Federalism in Education Governance: Restore State consultation mechanisms like the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) to ensure inclusive decision-making.
    • Ensure Transparency & Academic Integrity in Curriculum Revisions: Establish an independent curriculum review committee with experts from diverse backgrounds to prevent ideological biases in textbooks.