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Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • [25th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Surveillance capitalism: the power to control personal data

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Data security has assumed significant importance in the digitized world due to rising cyber-crimes. The Justice B. N. Srikrishna Committee Report addresses issues related to data security. What, in your view, are the strengths and weaknesses of the Report relating to protection of personal data in cyber space? (UPSC CSE 2018)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on “ Data security”  (2018), and the Impact of digital technology (2021).

    Surveillance capitalism is an economic system where tech companies collect, analyze, and sell personal data to predict and influence behaviour. This system, described by Shoshana Zuboff in The Age of Surveillance Capitalism (2018), treats human experiences as a resource for profit, similar to how colonialism and industrial capitalism exploited natural and human resources.

    Today’s editorial highlights current issues related to surveillance capitalism and its impact. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 2 and 3 in the UPSC Mains.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recently, surveillance capitalism has depended on turning personal data into a product. It affects people’s privacy and freedom while being closely linked to government surveillance.

    What is Surveillance Capitalism? 

    • Surveillance capitalism is an economic system where technology companies collect, analyze, and monetize personal data to predict and influence human behaviour.
    • This data is often gathered through digital platforms like social media, search engines, and smart devices, often without users’ full awareness.

    How does surveillance capitalism rely on the commodification of personal data?

    • Collection of Personal Data as Raw Material: Google Search tracks every query a user makes, including location and device information. This data is processed to understand user preferences and behaviour patterns.
    • Behavioural Prediction for Targeted Advertising: Companies monetize behavioural data by selling it to advertisers who target users with precision, maximizing ad effectiveness.
      • Meta (Facebook) monitors user activity across its platforms to deliver highly personalized ads. Users discussing fitness products may soon see ads for gym memberships.
    • Continuous Data Harvesting Across Devices: Data is continuously extracted from smart devices, even during routine interactions, deepening the pool of user insights.
      • Amazon’s Alexa collects voice commands and ambient sounds to refine product recommendations and improve its machine-learning models.
    • Algorithmic Manipulation to Influence Behaviour: Algorithms shape user behaviour by curating content that fosters prolonged engagement, increasing ad revenue.
      • YouTube’s recommendation algorithm analyses watch history to suggest videos that keep users engaged, often promoting content that aligns with their interests or biases.

    What are the strong connections between data commodification and state surveillance?

    • Mass Data Collection Programs: Governments collaborate with private tech companies to access vast amounts of personal data for surveillance purposes. Example: The PRISM program by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) collected user data from major tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft to monitor global communications.
    • Legal Mandates for Data Sharing: Many countries enforce laws requiring digital platforms to share user data with state agencies for national security and law enforcement. Example: India’s Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 require platforms to trace the origin of messages, facilitating state surveillance.
    • Surveillance Technologies Integration: States use advanced technologies like facial recognition and AI-driven monitoring to track citizens’ movements and online activities. Example: China’s Social Credit System uses surveillance cameras and digital monitoring to track citizens’ behavior, affecting access to services based on their social scores.

    What are the negative impacts of commodifying personal data?

    • Privacy Erosion: When personal data is commodified, individuals lose control over their private information, leading to widespread privacy violations. Example: Social media platforms like Facebook have been criticized for selling user data to third parties, such as Cambridge Analytica which used it for targeted political advertising without users’ explicit consent.
    • Exploitation and Manipulation: Personal data is often used to influence behaviour through targeted advertising or algorithmic content curation, exploiting vulnerabilities. Example: Companies like Google and Amazon use personal data to create highly targeted ads.
    • Increased Risk of Data Breaches: The collection and trade of personal data raise the likelihood of data breaches, leading to identity theft, financial loss, and other harms. Example: The Equifax data breach in 2017 exposed the personal information of 147 million people.
    • Inequality and Discrimination: Commodified data can reinforce social and economic inequalities by enabling discriminatory practices, such as price discrimination or exclusion from services. Example: Insurance companies may use personal data to charge higher premiums to individuals based on their health or lifestyle, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups.
    • Loss of Autonomy and Trust: The exploitation of personal data weakens public trust in institutions and reduces individuals’ sense of control over their own information. Example: The revelation that apps like TikTok collect and share user data with governments or third parties.

    What steps has the Indian government taken?

    • Data Protection Legislation: The Indian government enacted the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA), 2023, which regulates the collection, processing, and storage of personal data. It mandates user consent, imposes penalties for data breaches, and establishes a Data Protection Board to address grievances.
    • Strengthening Cybersecurity: Initiatives like the National Cyber Security Policy (2013) and the establishment of CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) aim to protect critical information infrastructure, prevent cyberattacks, and enhance data security.
    • Regulating Big Tech: The government has introduced guidelines like the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which require platforms to ensure transparency, allow user grievance redressal, and hold intermediaries accountable for data misuse.

    What steps have been taken at the global level?

    • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), European Union (2018): The GDPR sets a global benchmark for data privacy by enforcing strict guidelines on data collection, processing, and storage. It grants individuals the right to access, correct, and delete their personal data and imposes hefty penalties for non-compliance.
    • Global Data Protection Frameworks: Initiatives like the OECD Privacy Guidelines and the UN’s Internet Governance Forum promote international cooperation on data privacy, emphasizing transparency, user consent, and cross-border data flow regulations.
    • The USA’s Sectoral Approach: The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and similar state-level laws provide data protection rights to consumers, including the ability to opt out of data sales. The USA also advocates for a federal privacy law to harmonize regulations across industries.

    Way forward: 

    • Stronger Regulatory Frameworks: Implement comprehensive and adaptive data protection laws with clear accountability for data handlers, regular audits, and stringent penalties to safeguard user privacy and prevent misuse.
    • User Empowerment and Transparency: Promote data literacy programs and ensure platforms provide clear, accessible consent mechanisms, allowing users greater control over their personal information and how it is shared.

  • National Consumer Helpline (NCH) witnesses growth in NE-States

    Why in the News?

    The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has seen a 300% rise in complaints in Arunachal Pradesh, reflecting increased awareness and trust in consumer grievance redressal.

    What is National Consumer Helpline (NCH)?

    • NCH is an initiative of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution to provide a nationwide grievance redressal system for consumers.
    • It offers advice, guidance, and assistance to consumers facing issues with products, services, and unfair trade practices.
    • Key Features of NCH:
      • Toll-Free Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000 / 1915 (Available from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM, except national holidays).
      • Multi-Channel Complaint Registration: Website, mobile app, email, WhatsApp, and SMS-based complaint filing.
      • Covers a Wide Range of Sectors: E-commerce, telecom, banking, insurance, transport, healthcare, digital payments, etc.
      • Operated under: The Centre for Consumer Studies at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA).

    How has the NCH succeeded in Northeast India?

    • Complaints rose from 9,162 in 2020 to 36,609 in 2024, with Arunachal Pradesh seeing a 50-fold rise in consumer grievances.
    • 517% increase in online complaint registrations; introduction of regional language assistance to enhance accessibility.
    • Workshops, SHG partnerships, and NGO collaborations helped rural and tribal communities understand consumer rights.
    • “Jago Grahak Jago” initiatives, grants to NE states, and Panchayat training programs increased consumer participation.
    • Consumers experienced faster redressal in cases like e-commerce refunds, delayed product deliveries, and service-related issues.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to consumers rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.

    2. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.

    3. In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • [pib] Project NAKSHA

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister of Rural Development has inaugurated the National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations (NAKSHA) in 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs).

    What is Project NAKSHA?

    • It is an AI-driven urban land survey and digitization initiative launched by the Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development.
    • Announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, the project aims to modernize urban land records through geospatial mapping, drone technology, and AI.
    • Launched in February 2025, the initiative will digitize and update land records in 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs) in its pilot phase.
    • Survey of India is the technical partner, conducting aerial mapping and high-resolution imaging to create accurate, tamper-proof property records.
    • The Madhya Pradesh State Electronic Development Corporation (MPSEDC) is developing an end-to-end web-GIS platform.
      • National Informatics Centre Services Inc. (NICSI) will provide storage and data security.
      • The Survey of India will provide orthorectified imagery for accurate mapping.
    • Project NAKSHA builds on:
    1. Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) for digitizing rural land records.
    2. SVAMITVA Scheme, using drone technology to map village properties.
    • Budgetary Provisions:
      • Pilot phase funding: ₹194 crore, fully financed by the Government of India.
      • Overall Phase 1 budget: ₹5,000 crore for nationwide expansion.

    Aims and Objectives of Project NAKSHA:

    • Standardizing urban property ownership details to eliminate land disputes.
    • Ensuring fraud-proof, legally valid land documentation.
    • Drone surveys and satellite imagery for precision mapping.
    • Detecting encroachments, illegal constructions, and land use changes.
    • Providing spatial data for urban expansion and infrastructure projects.
    • Digital land records enable seamless property transactions and ownership transfers.

    Features and Provisions:

    • 150+ cities covered in the first year, with full urban coverage in five years.
    • AI-enabled classification to identify disputed, encroached, or illegal land parcels.
    • Web-GIS Platform for Land Record Management to be developed by MPSEDC, ensuring real-time data access and updates.
    • States and UTs to conduct field surveys and ground verification.

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?

    (a) The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.

    (b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.

    (c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.

    (d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.

     

  • [14th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The problematic globalisation of medical education

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC CSE 2015)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Public health system (2015), and the Health for All’ in India (2018).

    Medical education is changing in unusual ways. There is a shortage of doctors, yet governments and medical professionals limit access to medical studies. As a result, more students from different countries travel abroad to study medicine. In the past, medical education was international, but now each country controls it while it still becomes more global. This trend is important because of healthcare needs. The exact number of students studying medicine abroad is unknown, but it is estimated to be over 200,000, often in low-quality institutions. Before the Russian invasion, Ukraine had 24,000 foreign medical students, mostly from India.

    Today’s editorial talks about issues in the  Medical sector. This content would help in GS Papers 1, 2 and 3 to substantiate your answer.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Studying medicine abroad is common, but it is largely unnoticed and lacks proper regulation.

    How does the globalization of medical education impact the quality and accessibility of healthcare?

    • Increased Access to Medical Education but Quality Concerns Persist: India has only 1 medical seat for every 22 applicants, with 2.3 million students appearing for NEET annually.
      • As a result, over 20,000 Indian students go abroad for medical studies each year. While foreign education provides an alternative, some countries have lax regulatory frameworks, leading to concerns over clinical training standards.
    • Low Licensing Exam Pass Rates for Foreign Medical Graduates: India’s Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate has historically been below 20%.
      • In 2022, only 10,500 out of 41,349 candidates (25.4%) cleared the exam. Many foreign-trained doctors struggle to meet national standards, delaying their entry into the healthcare system.
    • Disproportionate Dependence on Foreign-trained Doctors in Some Countries: In the US, 25% of physicians are international medical graduates (IMGs), while in the UK, 37% of doctors in the NHS come from abroad.
      • While globalization helps address doctor shortages in developed countries, it exacerbates the “brain drain” in source countries like India, Nigeria, and Pakistan.
    • Growth of For-profit Medical Schools with Limited Oversight: The Caribbean region alone has over 50 private medical schools, many catering exclusively to international students from the US and Canada.
      • These institutions charge high tuition fees but often lack sufficient clinical training infrastructure, raising concerns about graduate competence.
    • Shortage of Trained Doctors in Source Countries: The WHO estimates a global shortfall of 10 million healthcare workers by 2030, with Africa facing a deficit of 6 million doctors and nurses.
      • Many doctors trained abroad do not return home, worsening healthcare shortages in low-income countries while benefiting high-income nations.

    What are the consequences of medical degrees that are obtained abroad, especially from countries with lower academic standards?

    • High Failure Rates in Licensing Exams: Foreign-trained doctors often struggle to meet national medical standards, leading to low pass rates in licensing exams.
      • Example: In India, the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate has historically been below 20%. In 2022, only 10,500 out of 41,349 candidates (25.4%) cleared the exam, delaying their entry into the healthcare system.
    • Limited Clinical Exposure and Skill Gaps: Some foreign medical colleges lack proper clinical training, affecting students’ hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients.
      • Example: Several Caribbean medical schools, catering to US and Canadian students, have faced criticism for their limited hospital affiliations, forcing students to complete clinical rotations in different countries.
    • Difficulty in Securing Residency and Employment: Graduates from lesser-known foreign institutions often struggle to secure postgraduate training and jobs in competitive healthcare markets.
      • Example: In the United States, international medical graduates (IMGs) face higher rejection rates for medical residencies, with only about 60% of non-US IMGs matching into residency programs in 2023, compared to 93% of US medical graduates.

    Is the global mobility of medical education sustainable, and how does it affect local health systems?

    • Brain Drain Weakens Healthcare in Source Countries: Many doctors trained abroad do not return, leading to a shortage of medical professionals in their home countries.
      • Example: Nigeria loses over 2,000 doctors annually to migration, worsening its doctor-to-patient ratio, which stands at 1:5,000, far below the WHO-recommended 1:1,000.
    • Unequal Distribution of Healthcare Professionals: High-income countries attract foreign-trained doctors, leaving rural and underserved regions in low- and middle-income nations critically short-staffed.
      • Example: In India, only 20% of doctors serve in rural areas, even though 65% of the population resides there, leading to severe healthcare disparities.
    • Reliance on Foreign-trained Doctors in Host Countries: Developed nations depend on foreign medical graduates to fill workforce gaps, making their healthcare systems vulnerable to changing immigration policies.
      • Example: The UK’s NHS workforce includes 37% foreign-trained doctors, with a significant number from India and Pakistan.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Domestic Medical Education Infrastructure: Increase the number of medical seats and improve the quality of training in home countries to reduce dependence on foreign institutions. Example: India has added over 100 new medical colleges since 2019 to expand access to medical education.
    • Stricter Accreditation and Recognition of Foreign Medical Degrees: Establish global accreditation standards and bilateral agreements to ensure only high-quality foreign medical degrees are recognized. Example: The National Exit Test (NExT) in India will standardize assessment for both domestic and foreign medical graduates.

  • [pib] NITI Aayog launches Swavalambini Initiative

    Why in the News?

    The NITI Aayog has launched Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).

    About Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme:

    • It is a program to foster entrepreneurial skills among female students in higher education institutions across Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram.
    • Aims and Objectives:
      • Empowerment: To inspire and equip young women to become job creators and leaders, thereby contributing to economic development in Northeast India.
      • Skill Development: To provide structured training that covers essential business aspects, enhancing participants’ entrepreneurial competencies.
    • Provisions and Features:
      • Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP): A two-day session introducing 600 female students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
      • Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP): An intensive 40-hour training for 300 selected participants, covering topics such as financial planning, market access, legal compliance, and business networking.
      • Mentorship: Six months of dedicated mentorship to assist participants in transforming their business ideas into viable enterprises.
      • Faculty Development Programme (FDP): A 5-day training for faculty members to enhance their ability to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs effectively.

    PYQ:

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme

    Why in the News?

    In the Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister, has introduced the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital textbooks in Indian languages.

    What is Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme?

    • Aims and Objectives:
      • It will provide digital textbooks and study resources for students at the school and university levels, promoting regional languages in the education system.
      • The scheme aims to bridge the language gap by providing digital textbooks and study materials in multiple Indian languages.
      • It ensures that students from diverse linguistic backgrounds can study subjects in their mother tongue, improving comprehension and retention.
    • It aligns with the NEP 2020 vision to promote multilingualism in education.
    • It complements the ASMITA (Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing) initiative.
      • 22,000 books in Indian languages will be developed in the next five years under ASMITA.

    Criteria and Provisions:

    • The scheme will be implemented in schools, colleges, and universities across India.
    • Institutions affiliated with UGC, AICTE, and other regulatory bodies will be part of the initiative.
    • The scheme will focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Social Sciences, Commerce, and Humanities.
    • Special emphasis on technical education in Indian languages.
    • The digital books will be available on government-supported e-learning platforms like DIKSHA, e-PG Pathshala, and National Digital Library of India.
    • AI-based tools will be used to facilitate translations, voice-assisted learning, and personalized study materials.

    PYQ:

    [2016] ‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at:

    (a) Promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas

    (b) Providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs

    (c) Promoting the education and health of adolescent girls

    (d) Providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free

  • [pib] E-Shram Microsites & Occupational Shortage Index (OSI)

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister for Labour & Employment has launched State and Union Territory Microsites under the e-Shram initiative and the Occupational Shortage Index (OSI).

    About E-Shram Microsites

    • E-Shram Microsites are state-specific digital platforms integrated with the national e-Shram database.
    • It is aimed at providing unorganised workers seamless access to both Central and State government welfare programs.
    • These platforms ensure real-time integration between State portals and the e-Shram database, allowing simplified registration of unorganised workers.

    Key benefits includes:

    (1) For Workers:

    • One-stop access to employment opportunities, skilling programs, and social security benefits.
    • Multilingual accessibility, ensuring workers from different regions can navigate the platform in their preferred language.
    • Two-way integration with the e-Shram database, allowing workers to receive real-time updates on welfare schemes and job opportunities.

    (2) For States/UTs:

    • Cost-effective digital infrastructure, reducing the need for separate State-level portals.
    • Real-time analytics dashboards for better policy decision-making and customized tools for specific labour market requirements.

    What is Occupational Shortage Index (OSI)?

    • The OSI is a data-driven tool designed to identify job roles and industries facing labour shortages, improving workforce planning and employment outcomes.
    • It is based on ILO methodology and quarterly Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data, ensuring an accurate and updated analysis of the job market.
    • It comprise of following 4 sub-indicators:
    1. Hourly Wage Growth
    2. Employment Growth
    3. Growth in Hours Worked
    4. Share of Under-qualified Workers
    • High OSI indicates Shortage/higher demand of workers within a particular occupation, which may result in higher wages, more job opportunities.
    • Low OSI indicates Surplus/less demand of workers, which may lead to lower wages, fewer job opportunities, and increased competition for available positions.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades.

  • Centre notifies Unified Pension Scheme for Government Staff

    Why in the News?

    The Finance Ministry has announced the operationalization of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government employees under the National Pension System (NPS), effective from April 1, 2025.

    Salient features of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

    • Effective from April 1, 2025.
    • Eligibility: Applicable to Central Government employees with at least 10 years of service.
    • Assured Pension:
      • 50% of average basic pay over the last 12 months before retirement for employees with 25+ years of service.
      • Proportionate benefits for employees with 10–25 years of service.
    • Assured Minimum Pension: ₹10,000 per month for eligible employees.
    • Assured Family Pension: 60% of the pension drawn by the employee prior to their death.
    • Inflation Protection:
      • Pensions indexed to inflation.
      • Dearness Relief (DR) linked to the All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (AICPI-IW).
    • Government Contribution: Increased to 18.5% of basic pay and DA (up from 14% under NPS).
    • Employee Contribution: 10% of basic pay and DA (same as NPS).
    • Lump Sum Payment:
      • One-tenth of last drawn pay (including DA) for every six months of completed service, in addition to gratuity.
    • Choice of Scheme: Employees can choose between UPS and NPS starting from the upcoming financial year, with the choice being final once made.
    • Beneficiaries: Initially benefits 23 lakh Central Government employees, with potential extension to 90 lakh employees if adopted by state governments.

    Differences between UPS, NPS and OPS (Old Pension Scheme)

    Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) National Pension Scheme (NPS) Old Pension Scheme (OPS)
    Pension Amount 50% of average basic pay over last 12 months; proportional for service <25 years. Market-linked, dependent on contributions and market performance. 50% of last drawn salary, increases with DA hikes.
    Family Pension 60% of employee’s pension after their death. Based on accumulated corpus and annuity plans. Continued benefits to family after retiree’s death.
    Employee Contribution 10% of basic salary. 10% of basic salary. None; entirely government-funded.
    Government Contribution 18.5% of basic salary. 14% of basic salary. Entire cost borne by the government.
    Inflation Indexation Linked to AICPI-IW. Not applicable (market-linked returns). Indexed; pension increases with DA hikes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Who among the following can join the National Pension System (NPS)?

    (a) Resident Indian citizens only

    (b) Persons of age from 21 to 55 only

    (c) All State Government employees joining the services after the date of notification by the respective State Governments

    (d) All Central Government employees including those of Armed Forces joining the services on or after 1st April, 2004

  • [pib] Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

    Why in the News?

    Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) has completed 10 years on January 22, 2025. As of November 2024, over 4.1 crore SSY accounts have been opened, highlighting the scheme’s success and its role in fostering inclusivity and progress.

    About Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY):

    • Launched on January 22, 2015, under Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Campaign.
    • It is a small deposit scheme by the Ministry of Finance for a girl child
    • Over 4.1 crore accounts opened as of November 2024.
    • Aims and Objectives:
      • To meet the education and marriage expenses of a girl child.
      • Promote financial independence and secure futures for girl children.

    Criteria and Provisions:

    • Eligibility: For girl children under 10 years; max 2 accounts per family (exceptions for twins/triplets).
    • Deposits: Minimum: ₹250; Maximum: ₹1.5 lakh annually; deposits for 15 years.
    • Withdrawals:
      • Partial: Up to 50% after age 18 or completion of 10th standard for education.
      • Full: Allowed for marriage (minimum age 18).
    • Interest Calculation: Monthly on the lowest balance; credited annually.
    • Premature Closure: Allowed for medical emergencies or death of guardian.
    • Interest: ate of interest 9.2% Per Annum (wef 1-4-2015), calculated on yearly basis, yearly compounded.
    • Tax Benefits: Quarterly rates compounded annually; investments and returns are tax-free under Section 80C.

    Structural Mandate and Implementation

    • Managed by guardian till age 18; account matures in 21 years.
    • Can be opened/transferred at post offices or banks.
    • Early closure for marriage requires proof of age and marriage documents.

    PYQ:

    [2014] What is/are the facility/facilities the beneficiaries can get from the services of Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in branchless areas?

    1. It enables the beneficiaries to draw their subsidies and social security benefits in their villages.
    2. It enables the beneficiaries in the rural areas to make deposits and withdrawals.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • What is the status of the Smart Cities Mission?

    Why in the News?

    The Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a flagship initiative launched during the NDA-1 government, has lost prominence in this year’s list of electoral promises and accomplishments.

    What are smart cities? 

    • The Government of India defines smart cities as urban areas that provide core infrastructure, ensure a decent quality of life, promote a clean and sustainable environment, and utilize smart solutions for inclusive development.

    What are the two major aspects of the Smart Cities Mission?

    • Area-Based Development (ABD): This includes three components:
      • Redevelopment: Transforming existing urban areas.
      • Retrofitting: Improving infrastructure in underdeveloped areas.
      • Greenfield Development: Creating new urban spaces with modern infrastructure.
    • Pan-City Solutions: These involve applying smart solutions across the entire city, enhancing services through technology and improving overall urban management and governance.

    Why did the implementation of smart cities bypass local government? 

    • Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Model: The SCM employed a governance structure that relied heavily on Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), which were set up as limited companies under the Companies Act.
      • This model often sidelined local elected councils, as SPVs were typically led by bureaucrats or representatives from multinational corporations, limiting local government involvement in decision-making processes.
    • Top-Down Approach: Critics argue that the SPV model was too top-down, lacking alignment with the 74th Constitutional Amendment, which emphasizes decentralized governance. This disconnect resulted in many cities objecting to the governance structure, as it did not adequately reflect the needs and demands of local populations.
    • Competitive Selection Process: The selection of cities was based on a competitive process that did not account for the diverse urban realities across India. This approach led to an exclusionary scheme where only small portions of cities were targeted for development, often ignoring broader community needs and existing urban dynamics.
    • Limited Local Engagement: The mission’s design did not prioritize citizen participation or local stakeholder engagement effectively, which is crucial for understanding and addressing unique urban challenges. This lack of engagement contributed to projects that did not resonate with the actual needs of residents.

    What has happened to the mission in Shimla?

    • Project Value and Status: The ongoing projects in Shimla are valued at approximately ₹150 crore and are still in the early stages of construction. Key initiatives include the assembly flyover and various parking facilities, with tenders currently being processed.
    • Funding: The Union Government has allocated a total of ₹500 crore to Shimla under the SCM, with two installments of ₹98 crore still pending. The overall budget for the mission in Shimla is ₹750 crore, which includes a contribution of ₹250 crore from the state government.
    • Unfinished Projects: Despite the extension, several projects remain incomplete, including those at IGMC, Auckland, and Vikas Nagar. Additionally, construction for the bus stand parking area has not yet commenced.

    What are the achievements of Smart City Mission?

    • Project Completion: As of December 2024, 91% of the total projects under the SCM have been completed, with 7,380 out of 8,075 projects finalized. This reflects significant progress in urban development initiatives across 100 selected cities.
    • Investment and Infrastructure: The mission has seen an investment of approximately ₹1,47,704 crore. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, governance improvements, and social services such as housing, transport, education, and healthcare.
    • Technological Integration: All 100 smart cities have established Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs), which utilize data analytics and emerging technologies like AI and IoT to manage urban services more effectively. These centres played crucial roles during the COVID-19 pandemic by functioning as operational hubs.
    • Public Safety Enhancements: Over 84,000 CCTV cameras have been installed for enhanced surveillance, along with emergency call boxes and public address systems to improve public safety.
    • Solid Waste Management: The mission has improved solid waste management practices in over 66 cities through technology integration, enhancing efficiency in waste collection and management.
    • Mobility Improvements: The development of smart roads and cycle tracks has been a significant focus, with over 1,740 kilometres of roads constructed or improved under the mission.

    What are the challenges related to  Smart City Mission?

    • Disparity in Performance: While some cities have exceeded their project targets significantly, others have struggled to meet even basic completion goals. Reports indicate that 66 out of the 100 cities have not met their physical targets as of January 2023, highlighting a stark disparity in performance across regions.
    • Limited Impact on Quality of Life: Critics argue that despite substantial investments, there has been little improvement in fundamental quality-of-life issues for citizens, such as access to clean water and affordable housing. The mission’s focus on high-tech solutions has sometimes overshadowed pressing social needs.
    • Financial Constraints: Many local governing bodies face challenges in raising funds for projects due to financial limitations and resistance from citizens regarding user charges for services provided under the mission. This has hindered project execution in several cities.
    • Implementation Delays: A significant number of projects remain incomplete or are stuck at various stages due to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of coordination among stakeholders involved in the SCM.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Decentralized Governance: Empower local governments by aligning the SCM governance model with the 74th Constitutional Amendment. Involve elected councils and local stakeholders in planning, implementation, and decision-making to ensure projects reflect community needs and realities.
    • Enhance Financial and Technical Capacities: Provide cities with access to sustainable funding mechanisms, including better public-private partnership models, while building technical expertise for efficient project execution and addressing socio-environmental challenges comprehensively.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are ‘Smart Cities’? examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ‘Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission. (UPSC IAS/2016)