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Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • [19th August 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: New migrant realities in Karnataka’s gig sector

    [19th August 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: New migrant realities in Karnataka’s gig sector

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q  How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?  (UPSC IAS/2016)

    Q Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (UPSC IAS/2021)

    Q Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2022)

    Mentor comment: The Karnataka Platform-based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, which was introduced on June 29, 2024, aimed to regulate the welfare and rights of gig workers in the state. It is the second such legislation in India after the state of Rajasthan. The proposed ‘quota-for-local’ Bill in Karnataka aims to reserve a significant percentage of jobs for locals, mandating that 70% of non-management and 50% of management positions be filled by Kannadigas. This legislation has raised concerns about its impact on migrant workers, who comprise a substantial portion of the workforce in IT and gig economy jobs.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the News? 

    Karnataka’s Gig Workers Bill has raised concerns about its impact on migrant workers, which comprises a substantial portion of the workforce in IT and gig economy jobs.

    Key Features of the Bill:

    • Rights Protection: The Bill is designed as a rights-based framework, ensuring gig workers have protections against unfair dismissals and arbitrary payment deductions.
    • Social Security Fund: A welfare fund will be established, funded by a fee from aggregators based on gig workers’ earnings. This fund aims to provide social security benefits to registered gig workers.
    • Contractual Clarity: Aggregators must provide clear contracts detailing termination grounds and must give a 14-day notice before contract changes.
    • Grievance Redressal: The Bill mandates a two-level grievance redressal mechanism, requiring aggregators with over 50 workers to form an internal dispute resolution committee.
    • Transparency in Operations: Aggregators must disclose parameters related to work allocation and automated decision-making processes affecting workers.

    How does the proposed ‘quota-for-local’ Bill impact migrant workers?

    • Job Opportunities: The bill could limit job opportunities for migrant workers, as companies would be required to prioritize local candidates. This may lead to a reduction in the already precarious employment options available to migrants, who often fill lower-skilled positions.
    • Increased Competition: The migrant workers might face intensified competition for fewer available roles, particularly in sectors where they have traditionally been employed, such as delivery services and hospitality.
    • Economic Migration: The bill could lead to a demographic shift in the labor market. Migrants may choose to relocate to states with more inclusive hiring practices, impacting the state’s economy and workforce diversity.
    • Exploitation Risks: The present Bill could make migrants more vulnerable to exploitation, as companies may feel less inclined to hire them, leading to further marginalization of these workers.
    • Industry Concerns: Business leaders and industry representatives have expressed concerns that the bill could deter investment and talent from flowing into Karnataka, potentially leading to job losses and reduced economic growth. The focus should be on skills rather than reservations.

    What measures can be taken to protect migrant workers from exploitation?

    • Right to Change Employers: States need to ensure that migrant workers have the freedom to change employers without facing penalties, which can reduce their vulnerability to abuse and exploitation.
    • Empower Migrant workers: The government/ Private sector needs to provide comprehensive information regarding workers’ rights, including recruitment processes, legal protections, and avenues for reporting abuse.
      • Strengthening labor laws and legal assistance with counseling services that protect migrant workers and ensure strict enforcement through regular inspections of workplaces is a need of the hour.
    • Social Security and Housing Access: States need to ensure that migrant workers have access to social services, housing, and healthcare, which can help mitigate their vulnerabilities.
      • NITI Aayog in its report ”India’s Booming Gig and Platform Economy” has said that fiscal incentives such as tax breaks or startup grants may be provided for businesses that provide livelihood opportunities where women constitute a substantial portion of their workers.
    • International Cooperation: Encourage countries to adopt and implement international standards and conventions that protect the rights of migrant workers, promoting safe and ethical recruitment practices.

    Conclusion: The Karnataka Bill, like the Code on Social Security, 2020 and the Rajasthan Act 2023, fails to address employment issues in India. This oversight needs a rightful strategy to look into the issue concerning the gig economy as well as the migration pattern in India in past decades.

    Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/new-migrant-realities-in-karnatakas-gig-sector/article68540307.ece

  • Do doctors need a Central protection Act?     

    Why in the News?

    Resident doctors across India are on strike, demanding safety laws after a young doctor was tragically raped and murdered at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata on August 9.

    Why are Healthcare Workers Protesting?

    • Response to Violence: The protests were triggered by the brutal rape and murder of a young doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9, 2024.
    • Demand for Safety: Healthcare workers are demanding laws and measures that ensure their safety while on duty.
    • Historical Context: Violence against healthcare workers is not a new issue in India. Previous incidents, such as the case of Aruna Shanbaug, a nurse who was sexually assaulted in 1973, underscore a long-standing pattern of violence in healthcare settings.

    Working Conditions of Junior Doctors, Interns, and Nurses

    • Poor Working Environment: Junior doctors, interns, and nurses often work in ill-lit and poorly secured hospital environments.
    • Long Shifts and Exhaustion: Many healthcare workers, including the victim of the recent incident, are subjected to excessively long shifts—in this case, a 36-hour duty shift—without adequate rest or safe spaces to recuperate.
    • Mental Health Concerns: The stressful working conditions, combined with the threat of violence, have raised significant concerns about the mental health and well-being of healthcare workers.

    Key Demands of the Protesters

    • Central Protection Act: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is advocating for a Central protection law specifically for healthcare workers, similar to measures in other countries that classify assaults on medical staff as serious offenses.
    • Enhanced Security Measures: Protesters are calling for hospital security protocols that match those of airports, including the installation of CCTV cameras, deployment of security personnel, and improved lighting in hospital corridors and wards.
    • Safe Work Environment: There is a demand for immediate systemic reforms to improve working conditions, including better security arrangements and the establishment of healthcare facilities as safe zones.
    • Accountability and Justice: The IMA has requested a thorough investigation into incidents of violence against healthcare workers, with a focus on timely and professional handling of cases and ensuring that perpetrators face exemplary punishment.
      • Government Response: Following the protests, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued an order mandating that any violence against healthcare workers must be reported and acted upon swiftly, with institutional FIRs to be filed within six hours of an incident.

    Sole responsible for the safety of Health workers:

    • State Governments: Health and law enforcement are primarily state subjects in India, meaning that state governments are primarily responsible for ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals. They are tasked with implementing laws, providing adequate security in hospitals, and ensuring a safe working environment for medical staff.
    • Central Government: The central government plays a role in formulating national policies and frameworks that support the safety of healthcare workers. 
      • Recent initiatives include the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s order mandating the filing of FIRs within six hours of any violence against healthcare workers, indicating a push for accountability and swift action.

    Way forward: 

    • Implement a Central Protection Law for Healthcare Workers: The government should fast-track the enactment of a Central law specifically designed to protect healthcare workers from violence.
    • Improve Working Conditions and Mental Health Support: Hospitals should prioritize creating safe and well-secured environments for healthcare workers, including reasonable shift hours, adequate rest periods, mental health support, and robust security protocols to prevent future incidents of violence.

  • Ensuring social justice in the bureaucracy

    Why in the News?

    On July 29, 2024, Rahul Gandhi (Leader of the opposition) pointed out the absence of SC/ST officers in framing the 2024 Budget.

    Issue of Upper Caste Domination in Services:

    • Lack of Representation: During his parliamentary address, the Leader of the opposition (Rahul Gandhi) highlighted the absence of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) officers among the 20 officials involved in framing the 2024 Budget proposals. He pointed out that only one officer from the minorities and one from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) were included, underscoring a systemic lack of representation for marginalized communities in key government functions.
    • Upper Caste Dominance: The dominance of upper castes in senior civil service positions was confirmed by Minister of State (Jitendra Singh), who stated that out of 322 officers holding Joint Secretary and Secretary posts, 254 belonged to the general category, while only 16 were from SC, 13 from ST, and 39 from OBC categories. This indicates a significant underrepresentation of SC/ST officers in policy-making roles.

    About Eligibility:

    • Age Limits: General category candidates can appear for the civil services examination between 21 and 32 years, with a maximum of six attempts.
      • SC/ST candidates can take the exam until 37 years of age with unlimited attempts.
      • While OBC candidates have an upper age limit of 35 years with nine attempts.
      • The upper age limit for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) is 42 years.

    Reason behind the underrepresentation of SCs, STs and OBCs in upper posts of civil services:

    • Late Entry Disadvantage: SC/ST and PwBD candidates often join the civil services later in life and are unable to reach the highest positions due to retirement before attaining senior roles.
    • Cabinet Secretariat data (2nd ARC) from 2004 shows that on average, unreserved candidates enter the service at the age of 24.7 years, whereas SC, ST, and OBC members do so at 27.6 years, 26.9 years, and 27.1 years respectively.

    The Solution Lies in Having a Fixed Tenure: (Way forward)

    • Fixed Tenure Proposal: To address the disparity, it is proposed that all civil servants, regardless of their age of entry, should have a fixed tenure of service, such as 35 years.
    • Retirement Age Adjustment: The retirement age limits could be adjusted to ensure all civil servants retire by around 67 years of age, with annual medical fitness checks after the age of 62.
    • Independent Committee Recommendation: It is suggested that an independent, multi-disciplinary committee with adequate SC/ST, OBC, and PwBD representation be established to examine this fixed tenure proposal to ensure social justice and broader representation at the highest levels of government.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the two major legal initiatives by the state since Independence, addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (ST)?  (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Jiyo Parsi Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Minister for Minority Affairs has launched a dedicated portal for Jiyo Parsi Scheme.

    What is the Jiyo Parsi Scheme?

    • It is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2013-14 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
    • It aims to arrest the population decline of the Parsis, a minority community in India.
    • It focuses on stabilizing and increasing the Parsi population through scientific protocols and structured interventions.
    • Features of the Scheme:
      • Financial support for infertility treatments and related medical care in empanelled hospitals.
      • Assistance for childcare and support for elderly Parsis.
      • Programs to raise awareness and encourage participation within the Parsi community.
    • Target Groups:
      • Parsi married couples of childbearing age needing assistance.
      • Young adults and adolescents in the Parsi community for disease detection, with parental/legal guardian consent.

    Significance of the scheme:

    • This scheme has successfully facilitated the birth of over 400 Parsi children.
    • It preserves the cultural heritage and identity of the Parsi community.
    • It ensures the long-term sustainability of the community in India.
    • It demonstrates government commitment to supporting minority communities and promoting diversity.

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to?

    1. It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
    2. The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
    3. It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • The Seductive Trap of the Civil Services    

    Why in the News?

    Public service doesn’t have exclusive rights to serve the nation, nor does it offer any special opportunities for doing so.

    Present Status of Civil Services in India

    1. Reputation and Credibility: Recent controversies, such as the case of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who has allegedly misused quotas and provided false documentation shadow over the credibility of UPSC.
    2. High Aspirations and Struggles: The civil service job is a highly demandable career in India. It is often viewed as a prestigious and stable option which leads to a competitive environment where many aspirants repeatedly attempt the UPSC exams leading to mental health struggles and societal pressure. 
    3. Coaching Industry Influence: The expansive coaching industry thrives on the aspirations of civil service candidates by capitalizing on the high failure rates and the desperation of aspirants.

    About the Kothari Commission: 

    • The Kothari Commission, officially known as the Education Commission of 1964-66, was established by the Government of India to comprehensively evaluate the educational system and recommend reforms. It was chaired by Dr. D. S. Kothari.
    • The Commission aimed to align education with national development goals and address various shortcomings in the existing system. 
    • Its report, titled “Education and National Development,” was submitted on June 29, 1966.

    Suggestions from the Kothari Commission:

    The Kothari Commission’s recommendations, which aimed to reform education and public service, can provide a framework for addressing the current challenges in the civil services:

    1. Age Limit Adjustments: The government should reduce the upper age limit for candidates from around 34-35 years to 25 years, with allowances for special categories which could help mitigate the prolonged pursuit of civil services and reduce the burden on young aspirants.
    2. Limiting Attempts: Restricting the number of attempts to three, with an additional attempt for special categories which could help streamline the process and discourage the excessive commercialization of coaching services that exploit aspirants’ ambitions.
    3. Broadened Perspectives on Service: Encouraging young people to view various professions as valid forms of national service rather than solely focusing on government positions.

    Way forward: 

    • Reforming Recruitment and Training Processes: To enhance credibility and transparency in civil services recruitment, the UPSC and related bodies could implement stricter verification processes for candidates’ credentials, including quotas and documentation.
    • Diversifying Career Awareness and Opportunities: The government, along with educational institutions like CBSE can promote awareness of diverse career paths beyond civil services, emphasizing the value of contributing to the nation through various professions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Initially Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you agree with the view that drastic reforms are required in Civil Services. Comment (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • On the allegations against the SEBI chief      

    Why in the News?

    Hindenburg Research has alleged SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband held stakes in Adani-linked offshore funds, implying bias in SEBI’s Adani investigation.

    Accusations Against SEBI Chairman Madhabi Puri Buch 

    • Hindenburg Research has accused SEBI Chairman Madhabi Puri Buch of conflicts of interest related to offshore funds tied to the Adani Group, financial opacity regarding a consulting firm transferred to her husband, and potential favoritism towards Blackstone, where her husband is a senior advisor. 

    Status of the Ongoing Investigation by SEBI

    • Supreme Court Oversight: The Supreme Court has directed SEBI to investigate the allegations made by Hindenburg Research.
    • Show Cause Notice by SEBI: In June 2024, SEBI issued a show cause notice to Hindenburg Research, indicating that the regulator is actively pursuing the matter.

    About SEBI’s Code on Conflict of Interest:

    According to SEBI’s Code on Conflict of Interest, board members, including the Chairperson, are prohibited from holding any other office of profit or engaging in professional activities that involve receiving a salary or professional fees.It can constitute a number of different things that need to be disclosed by the concerned board member:

    • Certain transactions in shares: The Code says that a member must disclose their, and their family’s (spouse, dependent children below 18 years of age) holdings within 15 days of the assumption of Office, and annually update this disclosure.
    • Outside private activities: SEBI board members are not allowed to hold any other ‘office of profit’.
    • Acceptance of gifts: Board members are not allowed to accept “any gift (whose value exceeds Rs 1,000) by whatever name called, to the extent possible, from a regulated entity”. If they do, they have to hand it over to the General Services Department of the SEBI.
    • Miscellaneous: Members are bound to disclose “any post, other employment or fiduciary position” which they hold or have held in the past five years, in connection with any regulated entity.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance stricter disclosure requirements:  SEBI should implement stricter disclosure requirements for all board members, including the Chairperson, ensuring transparency about their financial interests, past affiliations, and potential conflicts.
    • Establishing an Independent Ethics Committee: An independent ethics committee should be created to oversee and review any potential conflicts of interest involving SEBI board members.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in the corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability. (2015)

  • No population Census — in the dark without vital data 

    Why in the News?

    Despite growing concerns, India’s decadal Census has been delayed by over three years. In fact, there is an overwhelming misconception among officials about substituting the Census with alternative ways and means of counting the population.

    Significance of Calculating Census

    • Comprehensive Population Data: The Census provides a detailed population count, which includes locational, familial, and individual information.
      • For instance, the Census can reveal insights into population density, age distribution, educational attainment, and employment status.
    • Foundation for Surveys and Indicators: The Census acts as a foundational frame for large-scale surveys like the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) and Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). 
    • Support for SDG Monitoring: In the context of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Census data is crucial for generating accurate indicators, particularly those requiring disaggregated data below the sub-national level.
      • For instance, to monitor progress on goals related to poverty reduction, gender equality, and health, precise demographic data is necessary to identify disparities and target interventions effectively.
    • Demographic Transition Insights: The Census is vital for capturing changes in population composition, familial structures, and occupational distribution, especially during periods of rapid demographic transition.
    • Global Implications: Given India’s significant influence on global population trends, accurate Census data is crucial for global demographic studies and projections.
      • For example Global Health Security Index and Multidimensional Poverty Indices.

    Changes to understand before taking Census Count

    • Population Dynamics: Since the last Census, significant changes in population count and composition must be understood, including shifts due to migration, fertility, and mortality rates.
      • For example: In India, the average annual growth rate of the population has slowed from 2.2% in 1971 to 1.1% in 2021, with projections indicating further declines to 0.58% by 2036.
    • Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has had a profound impact on health, employment, and livelihoods, which need to be accurately captured in the Census.
      • For example, The Indian government reported over 500,000 COVID-19 related deaths, which have affected overall mortality statistics and health indicators.
    • Socio-economic Transformations: Changes in education, occupation, and employment patterns over the last decade are crucial to understanding current societal trends.
      • For example, The literacy rate in India has improved significantly, rising from 64.8% in 2001 to 77.7% in 2011, with further increases expected.
    • Infrastructure and Development Changes: The transformation in physical and digital infrastructure, as well as regional development patterns, must be considered to accurately reflect the current state of the nation.
      • For example, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies, with a reported increase in internet users from 560 million in 2019 to over 800 million in 2022. This digital transformation has reshaped how people work and access services.

    Demand for Caste Census in India

    • Political Motivations: The demand for a caste Census is largely driven by political interests, aiming to establish differential entitlements based on perceived representation and deprivation.
      • For instance, leaders from the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) have emphasized the need for a caste Census
    • Historical Context: Caste auditing was part of earlier Census exercises but was discontinued for specific reasons.
      • For example, Caste auditing was part of earlier Census exercises, with the British-era Censuses from 1881 to 1931 enumerating all castes. However, after independence, the Government of India decided not to enumerate castes in the 1951 Census, except for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
    • Assessment of Mobility: There is a lack of systematic assessment of social mobility in education and occupation across caste lines, despite decades of affirmative action. A caste Census could potentially address this gap but is viewed with skepticism.
      • For instance, while reservations exist for OBCs and SCs, the actual impact on social mobility remains unclear due to insufficient data.

    Way forward: 

    1. Incorporation of Caste Data: Need to amend the Census Act of 1948 to mandate the enumeration of caste data alongside other demographic information. This would provide a legal framework for collecting comprehensive caste-wise data.
    2. Independent Studies and Pilot Surveys: The government should conduct independent studies at district and state levels to gather data on castes and sub-castes.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society? Elaborate your answer with illustrations. (2020)

  • Vinesh Phogat’s Olympics disqualification     

    Why in the News?

    Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after the official weigh-in on Wednesday morning, before her scheduled gold medal bout in the evening, leaving her without a medal.

    What is Weight Cutting?

    • Weight cutting is the process by which athletes systematically reduce their body weight before a competition. This typically involves a combination of dietary restrictions and intensive physical activity aimed at shedding a specific amount of weight, often over a period of weeks leading up to the event.
    • Wrestlers often employ extreme measures such as skipping meals, limiting water intake, and engaging in intense exercise, including sauna sessions and wearing heavy clothing to promote sweating. This can lead to rapid weight loss primarily through fluid loss.

    Why Do Combat Athletes Cut Weight?

    • Combat sports like wrestling, boxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA) are organized by weight classes to ensure fair competition. Athletes aim to compete in lower weight classes to gain a size and strength advantage over their opponents, as they can often regain weight after the weigh-in.
    • By cutting weight, athletes believe they can compete against opponents who are lighter and potentially less strong, thus increasing their chances of success in the competition.

    Should Weight Cutting Be Banned?

    • The practice of weight cutting poses significant health risks, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and energy depletion, which can impair performance and lead to serious medical issues. Athletes may experience severe fatigue and reduced physical capabilities after extreme weight cuts.
    • There is an ongoing debate about whether weight cutting should be banned or regulated more strictly. Critics argue that the health risks outweigh the competitive advantages, while supporters maintain that it is a part of the sport’s culture and can be managed safely with proper guidance.
    • Some suggest that instead of banning weight cutting, sports organizations should implement better regulations and educate athletes about safe practices for weight management, including gradual weight loss and hydration strategies.

    Way forward: 

    • Implement Hydration Testing: Regular hydration tests can prevent severe dehydration, ensuring athletes remain within safe hydration levels.
    • Weight Class Monitoring: Monitor athletes’ weight throughout the training period to discourage rapid weight loss just before competition.
    • Set Minimum Weight Limits: Establish minimum weight thresholds based on athletes’ natural body weight to prevent extreme weight cuts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q An athlete participates in the Olympics for personal triumph and the nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state-sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Why Himalayan towns need a different kind of development    

    Why in the News?

    The Teesta dam breach and Himachal floods highlight the urgent need to evaluate development projects based on their environmental impact, especially in fragile mountain regions.

    What are the underlying issues in the cities of IHR? 

    1. Inadequate Planning Models: Planning institutions in the IHR often use models from the plains, which are ill-suited to the region’s unique conditions, leading to ineffective implementation and failures.
    2. Human Resource Deficit: City governments in the IHR face a severe shortage of human resources, with staffing levels falling short by nearly 75%, hampering effective urban management.
    3. Uncontrolled Urban Expansion: Cities are expanding into village peripheries, encroaching on common lands and natural resources, as seen in Srinagar, where built-up areas increased by 75.58% from 2000 to 2020, while water bodies shrank by 25%.
    4. Environmental Strain: Urbanization, high-intensity tourism, and unsustainable infrastructure development are exacerbating environmental pressures in the IHR, further worsened by changing precipitation patterns and rising temperatures.
    5. Financial Constraints: The IHR cities lack the capacity to generate capital for infrastructure needs, highlighting the need for the Finance Commission to address urban financing in this region, given the high costs and absence of industrial corridors.

    What can be done?

    1. Every town needs to be mapped, with layers identifying vulnerabilities from geological and hydrological perspectives. The planning process should involve locals and follow a bottom-up approach.
    2. Consultant-driven urban planning processes should be shelved for Himalayan towns, with the urban design based on climate resilience.
    3. Current intergovernmental transfers from the centre to urban local bodies constitute a mere 0.5% of GDP. This should be increased to at least 1% of GDP.
    4. Himalayan towns must engage in wider conversations about sustainability, with the focus on urban futures being through robust, eco-centric planning processes involving public participation.

    Case Study 

    Nainital: Integrated Development Plan

    1. Nainital district in Uttarakhand implemented an Integrated Development Plan that aimed to balance urban growth with environmental conservation.
    2. The plan involved mapping vulnerable areas, restricting construction in ecologically sensitive zones, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
    3. Community participation and awareness programs were also part of the initiative to ensure long-term sustainability.

    Dharamshala: Green Building Norms

    1. The Dharamshala Municipal Corporation in Himachal Pradesh has adopted green building norms for new constructions, focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management.
    2. The city has also invested in public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to reduce vehicular emissions and promote sustainable mobility

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of development initiatives and tourism?  (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • Court shifts the tide on stray dog policy  

    Why in the news?

    The Supreme Court ended the 15-year-old (Animal Welfare Board of India & Anr Versus People for Elimination of Stray Troubles & Ors) AWBI vs. PEST case on July 12, after the final hearing on May 9, sparking mixed reactions.

    The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules are:

    • The PCA Act, 1960 was enacted by the Parliament of India to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and to amend the laws relating to the prevention of cruelty to animals.
      • The PCA Act, 1960 and ABC Rules, 2001 prohibit the killing of stray dogs and mandate sterilization as the only scientific and humane method of controlling stray dog populations.
      • The new ABC Rules, 2023 notified under the PCA Act, 1960 also prohibit wanton killing of stray dogs by municipalities and require them to follow sterilization.
    • The Act defines “animal” as any living creature other than a human being. It establishes the Animal Welfare Board of India to promote animal welfare.
    • Chapter III of the Act lists different forms of cruelty to animals that are banned, including those related to work animals, captivity, ownership, abuse, mutilation or killing.
    • Chapter IV deals with experiments on animals. While it does not make experiments unlawful for the advancement of knowledge, it allows the Board to advise the government to create a committee to control and supervise such experiments.
    • Chapter V outlines restrictions, procedures and offences related to performing animals. The Central Government can prohibit any animal from exhibition or training through notification.

    Note: In 2022, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying submitted a draft Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Amendment) Bill 2022 for public comment. The draft includes 61 amendments to further clarify the law and make punishments more stringent.

    The Supreme Court stated that the Central law (PCA Act 1960 and ABC Rules, 2023) which prohibits killing of stray dogs by local authorities remains the governing law of the land.

    What the Supreme Court said on the ‘Duty of every Citizen’:

    • The Supreme Court capped off the judgment with the lines: “Compassion to all living beings, is the enshrined Constitutional value and mandate, and cast obligation on the authorities to maintain.”
      • This refers to Article 51A(g) of the Constitution of India which states: “It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures.”
    • The court emphasized that Citizens should avoid unscientific and cruel methods like killing stray dogs and instead choose the scientific and humane method of sterilization.

    Issues due to stray dogs in India: 

    • Population: India has an estimated 60 million stray dogs, making it the country with the highest number of stray dogs globally.
    • Rabies Incidence: India accounts for 36% of global rabies deaths and 65% of rabies deaths in the South-East Asia region.
      • Between 2012 and 2022, the National Rabies Control Program reported 6,644 clinically suspected cases of rabies in humans.
    • Dog Bite Cases: Reports indicate that major cities have seen alarming numbers of dog bite incidents. For example, Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital recorded nearly 48,000 dog bite cases in just six months. In Kerala alone, there were over 1.9 lakh dog bite cases last year, with 21 deaths attributed to rabies.

    Way forward:

    • Enhanced Public Awareness and Education: Need to implement nationwide campaigns to educate the public on responsible pet ownership, the importance of sterilization, and the humane treatment of stray dogs.
    • Strengthening Enforcement of Existing Laws: Need to ensure that municipalities and local authorities are adequately trained and funded to implement the ABC Rules effectively.