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Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • Greater regularity: On the Nipah virus

    Why in the News?

    A 42-year-old woman in Kerala tested positive for the Nipah virus on May 8, marking the third case reported from Malappuram district in the past two years.

    Why is studying the genetic evolution of Nipah in humans and bats important?

    • Understanding Virulence and Transmission Potential: Genetic mutations can influence how severe the disease is and whether it can spread between humans. Eg: The 2018 outbreak in Kerala showed a high fatality rate (17 out of 18 cases), partly attributed to a variant with small but significant differences from the Bangladesh strain.
    • Detecting New Strains and Preventing Outbreaks: Regular monitoring of genetic changes in the virus found in bats (natural hosts) helps identify emerging strains before they jump to humans. Eg: Repeated spillovers in Kerala suggest evolving viral dynamics in bat populations.
    • Informing Vaccine and Diagnostic Development: Understanding the virus’s genetic structure enables the development of effective diagnostic tools, therapies, and future vaccines. Eg: Without updated genomic data, public health responses may lag behind fast-evolving variants.

    Why is it important to share the genetic sequences of the Nipah virus in public databases without delay?

    • Enables Global Scientific Collaboration and Rapid Response: Sharing genetic sequences in public databases allows scientists worldwide to study the virus, track mutations, and develop diagnostic tools, treatments, or vaccines more efficiently. Eg: Rapid sharing of SARS-CoV-2 sequences in 2020 helped in the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines.
    • Monitors Viral Evolution and Assesses Public Health Risk: Timely sequence sharing helps detect genetic changes that may enhance the virus’s transmissibility or virulence, allowing health authorities to prepare accordingly. Eg: Genetic analysis of the 2018 Nipah strain in Kerala showed variation from the Bangladesh strain, helping researchers understand its unique impact.

    How did the 2018/2023 outbreaks differ from the recent case in symptoms and transmission?

    Aspect 2018/2023 Outbreaks 2024 Case
    Clinical Presentation Type Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) Relatively milder, with fewer complications
    Disease Severity More severe, with multisystem involvement Relatively milder, with fewer complications
    Human-to-Human Transmission Yes, leading to outbreaks No human-to-human transmission observed yet
    Viral Load and Spread Potential High viral load in throat swabs, indicating spread Lower viral load in AES patients, reducing spread
    Outcome and Fatality High fatality rate (17 deaths from 18 cases in 2018) No deaths reported, with early detection and isolation

     

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • Rapid Response and Surveillance Systems: The government deploys central teams including epidemiologists and virologists for outbreak investigation and containment. Eg: In the 2023 Kerala outbreak, a Central team was sent immediately to assist the State with contact tracing and containment measures.
    • Strengthening Laboratory Diagnostics and Research: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, have developed diagnostic kits and conduct genomic sequencing of the virus. Eg: NIV Pune confirmed the Nipah virus infection in the May 2024 case and also conducted genome analysis during previous outbreaks.
    • Public Health Awareness and Isolation Protocols: Health departments issue guidelines on infection control, isolation of suspected cases, and public advisories to avoid contact with bats and consume only washed fruits. Eg: During the 2018 and 2023 outbreaks, Kerala implemented isolation wards, restricted public gatherings, and sensitised healthcare workers and the public.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish Permanent Nipah Surveillance Units in High-Risk Areas: Set up dedicated monitoring and response units in regions like Kerala for continuous bat sampling, genomic sequencing, and early detection.
    • Promote Transparent Data Sharing and Regional Collaboration: Ensure timely release of viral genomic data in public databases and collaborate with neighbouring countries for joint research and response planning.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.

    Linkage: The importance of timely detection and isolation of Nipah cases and mentions different clinical presentations (AES and ARDS), implying the need for diagnostic and clinical management capacity. A robust public healthcare system, particularly at the grassroots level, is essential for effective surveillance, early detection, diagnosis, isolation, and management of infectious disease outbreaks like Nipah, making this question highly relevant.

  • India to showcase SVAMITVA Scheme at World Bank Land Conference

    Why in the News?

    India’s SVAMITVA Scheme will be showcased at the World Bank Land Conference, highlighting its role in land governance reform, climate action, and rural empowerment.

    About SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas):

    • Launched on 24th April 2020 by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the SVAMITVA Scheme aims to provide legal ownership of residential properties in rural areas using drone and geospatial technology.
    • It is a Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Centre.
    • It involves the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Revenue Departments at the state level, and the Survey of India as the technical partner.
    • The scheme issues property cards to rural households, reducing land disputes and enhancing financial inclusion.
    • These cards serve as legally valid ownership documents (e.g., Gharauni in Uttar Pradesh, Adhikar Abhilekh in Madhya Pradesh), and the scheme aims to formalize property rights in rural India.

    Key Features:

    • Drone-based technology ensures high-resolution mapping of village areas for transparency and accuracy.
    • Uses Continuous Operating Reference System (CORS) to achieve mapping precision up to 5 cm.
    • The Gram Manchitra platform helps in village-level development planning, disaster risk mitigation, and infrastructure management.
    • Aims to unlock land value estimated at USD 1.162 trillion, formalizing property ownership and enabling its use as a financial asset.
    • Promotes collaboration between central and state governments and aims to reduce litigation and improve rural governance.
    [UPSC 2024] With reference to the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme, consider the following statements:

    1. To implement the scheme, the Central Government provides 100% funding.

    2. Under the Scheme, Cadastral Maps are digitised.

    3. An initiative has been undertaken to transliterate the Records of Rights from local language to any of the languages recognized by the Constitution of India.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     

  • Indians fear fake news but are less concerned about press freedom

    Why in the News?

    In India, although many people are worried about fake news and misinformation, they don’t mostly blame the government for it. Instead, many people are okay with the government having more control over the media, according to a recent survey by the Pew Research Centre.

    What does the Pew survey reveal about misinformation and government control in India?

    • High concern about fake news: 65% of Indian respondents said made-up news and information is a “very big problem,” placing India among the top 10 countries with the highest concern.
    • Low emphasis on need for free media: Only 68% said it is very or somewhat important for the media to report news without government censorship, the second-lowest among 35 countries surveyed.
    • Belief in media freedom: 80% of respondents believe that the Indian media is currently “somewhat” or “completely” free from state intervention, among the highest in the survey.
    • Misinformation seen as non-governmental: Citizens largely attribute fake news to sources like social media and WhatsApp, rather than to state action or censorship.

    Why is there a contradiction between concern for fake news and support for state control?

    • Misinformation blamed on non-state actors: Many Indians see fake news as stemming from social media platforms like WhatsApp or Facebook, not from government channels. Eg: Viral misinformation during elections is often attributed to private forwards, not official news broadcasts.
    • Trust in government regulation over systemic reforms: There is greater public belief that the state can control misinformation better than a free and independent press. Eg: Support for internet bans during riots or unrest, viewed as a way to stop rumors, even if it limits press freedom.
    • Low awareness of press freedom deterioration: Despite India’s declining World Press Freedom Index ranking, most respondents think the media is already free. Eg: 80% of Indians believe media is free, while only 68% think freedom from state censorship is important.

    How does India’s World Press Freedom Index ranking reflect on media freedom?

    • Deteriorating Position Globally: India ranked 159 out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, reflecting a serious decline in media independence and journalist safety. Eg: India has consistently ranked below 100 since 2003, showing a long-term concern.
    • Gap Between Perception and Reality: While 80% of Indians believe media is free, global rankings suggest significant censorship, legal pressure, and harassment of journalists. Eg: Arrests and raids on independent news portals contradict the public’s belief in press freedom.
    • Impact of State Influence and Surveillance: The low ranking indicates increasing state influence, with reports of surveillance, restrictions on digital media, and pressure on newsrooms. Eg: Pegasus spyware allegations against journalists in India highlight these issues.
    • Legal and Political Threats to Journalists: India’s ranking reflects how stringent laws (like UAPA and sedition) are used against journalists, creating a chilling effect on independent reporting. Eg: The arrest of journalist Siddique Kappan under UAPA demonstrates misuse of laws.
    • Public Support for Control vs. Press Freedom Standards: Despite the low press freedom score, a large section of Indians supports state control over the media, showing a disconnect between democratic ideals and citizen expectations. Eg: Only 68% Indians see uncensored reporting as important—the second-lowest globally.

    Where is the “press freedom gap” reversed according to the survey?

    • India and Kenya Show Reversal: Unlike most countries, India and Kenya are the only two where more people believe the media is free than believe media freedom is important. Eg: In India, 80% say the media is free, but only 68% feel uncensored reporting is important.
    • Contrary to Global Trend: In 33 out of 35 countries, the importance of media freedom is rated higher than the belief that it actually exists, but India and Kenya show the opposite. Eg: In Greece, a higher number want free media but few believe it actually exists, unlike India.
    • High Confidence Despite Global Ranking: Even though India’s global press freedom ranking is poor (159/180), public confidence in existing media freedom remains oddly high. Eg: 80% Indians feel the media is free despite evidence of censorship and harassment.
    • Low Awareness of Press Challenges: The reversed gap suggests a lack of public awareness about the extent of media control, censorship, or intimidation. Eg: Many Indians attribute misinformation to social media platforms rather than government control.
    • Potential for Justifying State Control: Since many believe the media is already free, there is less pressure on governments to ensure genuine press freedom, and greater acceptance of censorship. Eg: High public tolerance allows laws and actions against journalists to go unchallenged.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Media Literacy and Public Awareness: Launch nationwide campaigns to educate citizens about the role of a free press, the risks of censorship, and the importance of independent journalism. Eg: School curricula and public broadcasts can include modules on identifying misinformation and understanding media freedom.
    • Strengthen Institutional Safeguards for Press Freedom: Enact legal and institutional reforms to protect journalists from harassment, ensure transparency in state actions, and promote accountability in media regulation. Eg: Independent media commissions and judicial safeguards against misuse of laws like UAPA.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2014] What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.

    Linkage: “Freedom of speech and expression”, which is guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution and forms the fundamental basis for press freedom in India. 

  • Enabling legislation: on Tamil Nadu Bills, persons with disabilities

    Why in the News?

    Affirmative action is a powerful way to correct past injustices and ongoing discrimination. Tamil Nadu’s latest step to support persons with disabilities is a strong move that could greatly improve their lives and opportunities.

    Why is Tamil Nadu’s appointment of persons with disabilities seen as a major step for social empowerment?

    • Political Inclusion of a Marginalised Group: Tamil Nadu is the first State in India to ensure statutory representation of PwDs in all local bodies through nomination, giving them a formal voice in grassroots governance. Eg: With these Bills, over 13,000 PwDs will be appointed across panchayats and municipal bodies, a leap from the current count of just 35 in urban areas.
    • Dismantling Stigma and Promoting Leadership: The initiative helps challenge stereotypes by projecting PwDs as leaders and decision-makers, rather than passive recipients of welfare. This enhances their visibility and social status. Eg: A PwD nominated to a municipal council can directly influence accessibility policies, public infrastructure design, and welfare schemes.
    • Ensures Real Empowerment, Not Just Welfare: Unlike schemes focused only on aid, this move offers dignity through participation, aligning with the constitutional vision of equality and justice for all. Eg: Just as women’s political reservation has created strong women leaders at the village level, this step is likely to produce role models within the disability community.

    How does this initiative differ from earlier affirmative actions like women’s reservation in political bodies?

    • Focus on Economic Empowerment, Not Just Representation: Earlier efforts like political reservations aimed at ensuring women’s presence in governance. This initiative emphasizes economic inclusion through schemes, skills, and leadership roles. Eg: Women’s reservation in Panchayats gave political voice; this promotes financial independence via SHGs, entrepreneurship, etc.
    • Holistic and Multi-sectoral Approach: Unlike single-domain reservations, this initiative spans education, health, digital access, and finance, aiming at overall empowerment. Eg: Beyond seats in politics, it includes Ujjwala, Jan Dhan, and STEM skill-building for women.
    • Outcome-Oriented and Data-Driven: Newer policies use real-time monitoring and performance tracking to ensure impact, unlike earlier blanket quotas. Eg: Mission Shakti uses dashboards to track women’s welfare schemes, unlike static political reservation measures.

    What are the key provisions in Tamil Nadu’s Bills to boost disability representation in local bodies? 

    • Direct Nomination Without Elections: The amendments to the Tamil Nadu Urban Local Bodies Act, 1998, and the Tamil Nadu Panchayats Act, 1994, allow for the direct nomination of PwDs to local bodies, eliminating the need for them to contest elections. This move seeks to ensure their active participation in governance. Eg: Approximately 650 PwDs will be nominated to urban local bodies, and 12,913 to village panchayats.
    • Tenure and Entitlements: Nominated members will serve terms concurrent with the respective councils and will receive honoraria, fees, or allowances similar to those granted to elected councillors. However, they will not possess voting rights in council proceedings.
    • Enhanced Representation Based on Council Size: In municipal councils where the number of members exceeds 100, two PwDs will be nominated to ensure adequate representation.

    What is the current status of disability representation in local bodies across India?

    • Lack of Mandatory Reservation Nationwide: Most Indian states do not have legally mandated seats reserved for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in local self-government institutions (panchayats and municipalities). Eg: Unlike SC/ST or women’s reservations, there is no uniform constitutional or legal mandate for PwD representation across all states.
    • Scattered State-Level Initiatives: A few states like Tamil Nadu have taken progressive steps by amending local body laws to allow nomination of PwDs, but such moves remain isolated and not yet a nationwide norm. Eg: Tamil Nadu recently passed laws to nominate over 13,000 PwDs to local bodies without requiring them to contest elections.
    • Limited Political Participation and Influence: Even where PwDs are included, their roles are often symbolic, with limited decision-making power due to lack of voting rights or institutional support. Eg: In Tamil Nadu, nominated PwD members will not have voting rights in council meetings, limiting their legislative influence.

    Way forward: 

    • Legal Mandate for Nationwide Inclusion: Introduce a constitutional or statutory provision to ensure uniform representation of PwDs in local bodies across all states. Eg: Amend the Representation of the People Act to include PwD nomination or reservation guidelines.
    • Empower with Voting Rights and Capacity Building: Grant voting powers to nominated PwD members and provide leadership training for meaningful participation. Eg: Like elected members, PwDs should influence decisions on local infrastructure and welfare schemes.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies.

    Linkage: Tamil Nadu government tabled Bills to increase the representation of persons with disabilities in local bodies, is relevant because the Bills directly impact the structure and composition of these local bodies. The question’s focus on the role and governance of local bodies aligns with the intention of the Tamil Nadu legislation to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities in decision-making at the grassroots level, which is expected to enhance governance by bringing diverse perspectives.

  • Waqf-by-user denotification would be ‘huge problem’, says Supreme Court

    Why in the News?

    On Wednesday, the Supreme Court raised concerns about certain parts of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.

    What provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 are under Supreme Court scrutiny?

    • Derecognition of “Waqf-by-user” Properties: The Act removes recognition of properties declared Waqf through long-standing community use without formal documentation. Eg: Jama Masjid in Delhi, built centuries ago without a registered deed, is a Waqf-by-user property that may lose its legal status.
    • Inclusion of Non-Muslims in Waqf Bodies: The Act allows non-Muslims to be appointed as ex-officio members in the Central and State Waqf Boards. Eg: A Hindu bureaucrat could be appointed to a Waqf Board that oversees Islamic charitable endowments.
    • State Power to Decide Waqf Status: The Act empowers a government officer to determine whether a property is Waqf or government-owned and restricts its use during inquiry. Eg: A dargah used by the community for generations may be prevented from religious use while the officer assesses its legal status.
    • Religious Identity Condition for Creating Waqf: The Act requires an individual to be a practising Muslim for at least five years to dedicate property as Waqf. Eg: A recent Muslim convert wanting to donate land for a madrasa may be barred if they haven’t completed five years in the faith.

    Why did CJI Khanna raise concerns over derecognising Waqf-by-user properties?

    • Historical Origin Without Documentation: Many mosques and Waqf properties were established centuries ago, long before land registration laws existed, making it impossible to produce formal documents today. Eg: Jama Masjid, constructed in the 17th century, lacks a registered sale deed but has been in religious use for generations.
    • Established Legal Recognition in Earlier Laws: Previous versions of the Waqf Act recognised Waqf-by-user, and removing this category retroactively undermines settled legal rights and community practices. Eg: Properties that were protected under earlier Waqf Acts may now be denotified, leading to legal uncertainty and community unrest.
    • Risk of Large-Scale Disputes and Displacement: The derecognition could lead to widespread property disputes, potential communal tensions, and loss of religious spaces vital to Muslim communities. Eg: In states like West Bengal, such provisions have already triggered protests and violence over fears of losing religious sites.

    Who can be ex-officio members in Waqf bodies as per the CJI’s interim proposal?

    • Non-Muslims Permitted as Ex-Officio Members: CJI Khanna suggested that while all appointed members of Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council should be Muslims, non-Muslims could serve as ex-officio members. Eg: A non-Muslim District Collector could be included in a State Waqf Board as an ex-officio member due to their administrative role.
    • Maintaining Muslim Majority in Waqf Bodies: The proposal aims to ensure that the religious character of Waqf institutions is preserved by maintaining a Muslim majority among members, with non-Muslims participating only in an ex-officio capacity. This approach seeks to balance administrative inclusivity with religious autonomy. Eg: In a 22-member Central Waqf Council, if 8 members are Muslims and 2 are non-Muslim judges serving ex-officio, the inclusion of additional non-Muslim members could shift the majority, raising concerns about the council’s religious representation.

    How did the petitioners argue that the Act violates Article 26 of the Constitution?

    • State Cannot Restrict Religious Institutions or Charitable Intentions: The petitioners argued that Article 26 guarantees the right to establish and maintain religious and charitable institutions. The new Act mandates a person to prove they have been a practising Muslim for five years before declaring a Waqf, which interferes with this right. Eg: If a devout Muslim wishes to dedicate their land for charitable Islamic purposes but cannot prove five years of religious practice, their right under Article 26 is restricted.
    • Disrupts Traditional Waqf Practices: Recognizing Waqf-by-user dismisses historical Waqfs without documents, disrupting long-standing religious practices. Eg: A 17th-century mosque used by the community could be denotified despite its religious use.
    • Enables Excessive State Interference: Giving the state power over Waqf status and allowing non-Muslims in Waqf bodies undermines community autonomy. Eg: A religious property may be declared government-owned without judicial review, violating institutional independence.

    Way forward:

    • Preserve Historical Waqf Rights: Legal provisions should be revised to recognize and protect Waqf-by-user properties, ensuring that historically significant religious sites are not unduly denotified, thereby maintaining continuity with longstanding community practices.
    • Ensure Religious Autonomy in Waqf Management: The state should limit its interference in Waqf management by maintaining Muslim-majority representation on Waqf bodies while allowing non-Muslims to serve in an ex-officio capacity, balancing inclusivity with respect for religious autonomy.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution.

    Linkage: Secular nature of the Indian state and its interaction with religious institutions and laws governing them, such as the Waqf Act. The debate over the amendment and the Supreme Court’s intervention highlight the complexities of the state’s role in religious matters within a secular framework.

  • Giving shape to the University of the Future    

    Why in the news?

    The National Education Policy aims to transform India’s separate higher education system by creating large institutions that offer education across multiple fields.

    What distinguishes multidisciplinary, cross-disciplinary, and interdisciplinary approaches in higher education?

    Approach Description Example (Eg)
    Multidisciplinary Involves multiple disciplines working together, but each maintains its own methods and boundaries. Eg: A team of economists, biologists, and engineers working on a project about climate change, but each discipline works separately within their own domain.
    Cross-disciplinary Encourages collaboration between disciplines but without integrating their knowledge. Eg: An educationist and an economist working together on a project, but they maintain their individual disciplinary perspectives without merging them.
    Interdisciplinary Integrates concepts, methods, and frameworks from different disciplines to create a unified approach. Eg: A course titled “Environmental Economics” combining economics, environmental science, and sociology to address climate change through an integrated perspective.

    Why must single-stream institutions be phased out under the National Education Policy?

    • Encouraging Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Single-stream institutions focus only on one discipline, limiting students’ exposure to other fields. Phasing them out encourages the integration of various disciplines, fostering collaboration. Eg: A single-stream commerce college could partner with a neighboring arts college, allowing students to explore subjects like economics and sociology alongside their commerce studies.
    • Expanding Knowledge and Skill Sets: Multidisciplinary institutions allow students to develop a broader skill set by learning from multiple disciplines, enhancing their adaptability and problem-solving abilities. Eg: A student in a multidisciplinary university could take courses in both computer science and environmental studies, enabling them to work on tech-driven solutions for environmental issues.
    • Meeting Global Educational Standards: Single-stream institutions limit the scope of education, whereas multidisciplinary campuses are more aligned with global trends in higher education that emphasize holistic, well-rounded learning. Eg: In top global universities, students often have the flexibility to take courses from diverse fields, making them more versatile and better prepared for complex, real-world challenges.

    How can Indian universities promote cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration?

    • Encouraging Joint Courses and Programs: Indian universities can create joint courses and programs that combine subjects from different disciplines, allowing students to explore connections between fields and work on collaborative projects. Eg: A course titled “Sustainability in Urban Planning” could combine inputs from urban studies, environmental science, and economics, encouraging students to approach problems from multiple perspectives.
    • Fostering Collaborative Research Projects: Universities should establish research centers and projects that bring together faculty and students from different disciplines to work on solving real-world challenges, promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration. Eg: A research project focused on public health could involve faculty from medicine, economics, sociology, and environmental science to address issues like the spread of infectious diseases in urban areas.

    Who plays a crucial role in fostering interdisciplinary thinking?

    • Faculty Members: Professors and researchers play a crucial role in fostering interdisciplinary thinking by encouraging students to approach problems from multiple disciplinary angles and by designing courses and projects that integrate knowledge from different fields. Eg: A professor from the economics department might collaborate with faculty from environmental science and sociology to create a course on “Environmental Economics,” encouraging students to consider both economic policies and environmental impacts in solving global challenges.
    • University Administration: University leaders and administrators can support interdisciplinary thinking by creating structures that promote cross-department collaboration, offering funding for interdisciplinary research, and ensuring that the curriculum encourages interaction across disciplines. Eg: A university may establish an “Interdisciplinary Research Fund” to support projects that involve multiple departments.

    What challenges do they face in current academic structures?

    • Rigid Departmental Boundaries: Traditional departments often have defined areas of focus, making collaboration difficult across disciplines. Eg: A physics department may not easily partner with a social sciences department on a project related to climate change impacts.
    • Lack of Incentives for Interdisciplinary Work: Faculty members are primarily rewarded for publishing in their specific discipline, not for interdisciplinary research. Eg: A researcher in environmental science might find it hard to get recognition for a joint paper with a computer science expert on climate modeling.
    • Limited Interdisciplinary Training for Faculty: Many professors are trained and specialize in a single discipline, which hinders their ability to teach or engage in interdisciplinary approaches. Eg: An economics professor may not have the skills to incorporate concepts from sociology or political science into their curriculum.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrating Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Universities should design flexible curricula that allow students and faculty to take courses and engage in research across disciplines, breaking traditional academic silos.
    • Incentivizing Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration: Establish funding programs and academic recognition for interdisciplinary research to motivate faculty and students to work across departmental boundaries.

    Mains PYQ: 

    [UPSC 2020] 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.

    Linkage: Multidisciplinary universities need to be established to reach the goal by 2030, aligning with the timeframe of SDG-4. This question directly talk about the NEP 2020’s intent to restructure and reorient the education system, which is central to the idea of shaping the university of the future.

  • 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.