💥Mains Ready By December. Smash Mains & Smash PYQ Admissions Open
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • Supreme Court upholds ICAI Rule on Tax Audit Assignments

    Why in the News?

    • The Supreme Court upheld a rule issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) that limits Chartered Accountants to accepting no more than 60 tax audit assignments in a financial year.
      • The court found that the rule does NOT violate the fundamental right to practice a profession under Article 19(1) (g) of the Constitution (apart from also being violative of the right to equality under Article 14).

    Tax Audit Regime: A Quick Backgrounder

    • The mandatory tax audit regime was initiated in 1984 with Section 44AB in the Income Tax Act, of 1961 which required certain businesses and professionals to get their accounts audited.
      • Tax Audit aims to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961, and detect and prevent tax evasion and fraud.
    • In 1988, the ICAI limited Chartered Accountants to a specified number of tax audit assignments to ensure quality and reduce the risk of misconduct.
    • This limit was part of the guidelines issued in 2008, which replaced previous notifications and were challenged in various High Courts.

    About the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI):

    Details
    Establishment The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament, viz. The Chartered Accountants Act, 1949.
    Regulatory Body The second largest professional body of chartered accountants in the world after the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

    Only licensing authority for chartered accountants in India
    Headquarters New Delhi, India, with 5 regional offices and 163 branches across the country.
    Functions Regulates education, training, and examinations for Chartered Accountants. Formulates accounting and auditing standards.
    Membership Granted to individuals who complete prescribed education and training and pass final examinations.
    Powers of ICAI
    • Involves theoretical education and practical training under a practising Chartered Accountant.
    • Conducted at Foundation, Intermediate, and Final levels, held twice a year in May and November.
    • Formulates Accounting Standards (AS), Auditing Standards (SA), and other guidance notes.
    • Investigates complaints of professional misconduct against members and takes disciplinary actions.
    International Affiliations Member of international accounting bodies including-

    1. International Federation of Accountants (IFAC),
    2. Confederation of Asian and Pacific Accountants (CAPA), and
    3. South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to India’s decision to levy an equalization tax of 6% on online advertisement services offered by non- resident entities, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is introduced as a part of the Income Tax Act.
    2. Non-resident entities that offer advertisement services in India can claim a tax credit in their home country under the “Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements”.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Radical Democracy: why is it still relevant today?

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing socio-political and economic crises highlight the need for societal reorganization.

    • Manabendra Nath Roy and colleagues proposed a theory reconciling Freedom with justice, countering the failures of Liberal democracy and modern dictatorship.
    • They highlighted crises on the following grounds:
      • 19th Century Liberal Democracy and Capitalist Exploitation.
      • Degeneration of Communism and Rise of Fascism.
      • World Wars and Global Conflict.

    What is Radical Democracy?

    • Radical democracy is a form of democracy that advocates for an extensive expansion of equality and liberty. It views democracy as an ongoing, inclusive, and reflexive process.
    • Radical democracy differs from traditional democracy’s approach to equality, liberty, and the democratic process.
    • Traditional democracy typically focuses on established structures and procedures, aiming for consensus and stability.

    The key principles of radical democracy in India (by M. N. Roy):

    • Decentralized Democracy: Radical democracy advocates for a highly decentralized democracy based on a network of people’s committees, enabling citizens to exercise democratic control over the state.
    • Economic Reorganization: It emphasizes the progressive satisfaction of material needs as a prerequisite for individuals to unfold their intellectual potential, with economic liberation being essential for advancing toward freedom.
    • Collective Efforts for Freedom: It envisions a world of freedom achieved through the collective efforts of intellectually free individuals who act as guides and friends of the people, promoting rational and ethical political practices.
    • Social Renaissance: Radical democracies stressed the importance of educating people on freedom and rational cooperative living to achieve social revolution, requiring an increasing number of individuals committed to freedom, reason, and social harmony.
    • Party-less Democracy Critique: Roy’s advocacy for party-less democracy is critiqued for potentially contradicting the fundamental democratic freedom of association, as political parties play a crucial role in democratic processes.

    Significance of Radical Approach towards Elections:

    • Empowerment of Citizens: Radical democracy emphasizes empowering citizens beyond mere voting, focusing on raising individuals’ dignity and enabling active participation in decision-making processes.
    • Critique of Traditional Democracy: Challenges the limitations of traditional liberal democracy, highlighting how parliamentary systems can lead to demagoguery and a loss of civil liberties, especially for economically disadvantaged individuals.
    • Decentralization and Local Participation: Advocates for decentralization of legislative power to local councils, promoting direct participation and accountability at the grassroots level, ensuring a more inclusive and responsive democratic process.
    • Protection Against Authoritarianism: Seeks to safeguard against authoritarianism and dictatorship by dispersing power and preventing monopolization by political parties or their leaders, fostering a more pluralistic and accountable political landscape.
    • Enhanced Democratic Culture: Promotes a vibrant democratic culture that goes beyond institutional arrangements, emphasizing citizen empowerment through critical thinking, and participatory politics, and cultivating a public ethos that values democratic principles and practices.

    How does a Radical Democracy provide a Humanist Economy?

    • Roy criticizes Capitalist and Nationalized economies for their centralization and failure to prioritize human needs.
      • He advocates for the modernization of agriculture through better irrigation, fertility improvement, and infrastructure development, emphasizing the cooperative organization of rural economies.
      • Economic policies should focus on social security, unemployment insurance, old age pensions, and improving health, housing, and education.
    • Roy argues for a balanced approach to industrialization that addresses immediate needs and promotes social and economic justice, warning against rapid industrialization that benefits only a small fraction of the population.

    Significance of Radical Democracy:

    • Achieve true freedom and social justice: Radical democracy, according to Roy, is essential for achieving true freedom and social justice. Democracy should be viewed as a product of civilization, possible only in advanced societies where individual freedom is recognized as interconnected with the freedom of others.
    • Prevent totalitarianism:  Roy emphasizes that economic deprivation and social oppression pave the way for totalitarianism. To prevent this, democracy must be grounded in individual creativity, rationality, and collective efforts to transform society.
    • Humanism and moral radicalism: He advocates for a philosophy rooted in humanism and moral radicalism, asserting that humans are the creators of their world and emphasizing the need for a rational and scientific approach to societal development.

    Conclusion: Radical democracy, rooted in humanism and moral radicalism, is crucial for true freedom and social justice, requiring a rational, creative, and collective effort to transform society and prevent totalitarianism.

    Manabendra Nath Roy, better known as M. N. Roy, was a prominent 20th-century Indian revolutionary, philosopher, radical activist, and political theorist. He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and was the founder of the Mexican Communist Party and the Communist Party of India. Roy’s political career was marked by his involvement in various revolutionary activities, his advocacy for radical humanism, and his contributions to Marxist philosophy.

     

     

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy. (UPSC IAS/2014)

    Prelims PYQs

    Who among the following were the founders of the “Hind Mazdoor Sabha” established in 1948?

    a)     Krishna Pillai, E.M.S. Namboodiripad and K.C . George

    b)     Jayaprakash Narayan, Deen Day al Upadhyay and M.N. Roy

    c)       C .P. Ramaswamy Iyer, K. Kamaraj and Veeresalingam Pantulu

    d)     Ashok Mehta, T.S. Ramanujam and G.G. Mehta

     

  • An Overview of the Smart Cities Mission | Explained

    Why in the news? 

    The Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a key initiative of the previous NDA-1 government, has received less emphasis in this year’s lineup of electoral pledges and accomplishments.

    How are smart cities defined by the government? 

    • Since 2009, following the significant financial crash, the term ‘Smart City’ has gained widespread usage.
    • Urban practitioners have defined smart cities as innovative urban hubs akin to new Silicon Valleys, characterized by robust integration of transportation networks, including airports, highways, and various communication infrastructures, thereby fostering intellectual environments enhanced by advanced information and communication technologies (ICT).
    • The Smart Cities Mission is a key urban renewal and retrofitting program launched by the Government of India in 2015 to develop 100 cities across the country, making them citizen-friendly and sustainable.

    The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) comprises two primary components:

    1. Area-Based Development:

    This aspect focuses on three components:

    • Redevelopment (city renewal): Revitalizing existing urban areas to improve infrastructure, amenities, and quality of life.
    • Retrofitting (city improvement): Upgrading infrastructure and services in already developed areas to meet contemporary urban needs and standards.
    • Greenfield projects (city extension): Developing new urban areas or expanding existing cities with sustainable and modern infrastructure.
    1. Pan-City Solutions based on ICT:

    This facet involves implementing integrated solutions across various sectors using Information and Communication Technology (ICT). These solutions typically fall under six categories:

    • E-governance: Utilizing digital platforms for efficient and transparent governance processes.
    • Waste management: Implementing systems for effective waste collection, segregation, and disposal.
    • Water management: Enhancing water supply infrastructure and promoting conservation measures.
    • Energy management: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and promoting renewable energy sources.
    • Urban mobility: Improving transportation systems to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion.
    • Skill development: Promoting programs to enhance the skills and employability of the urban workforce.

    Why is the Smart Cities Mission (SCM) considered exclusionary to many?

    • Limited Geographical Scope: Only a small portion of a city’s area, often not more than 1%, was selected for development under the SCM. For example, in Chandigarh, the funds were concentrated in sector 43, focusing on projects like smart water meters and Wi-Fi zones, leaving other areas untouched.
    • Mismatch with Urban Realities: The competitive selection process did not account for the diverse and dynamic nature of urbanization in India. The approach was more suitable for static urban environments found in the West, not the evolving urban landscapes of Indian cities.
    • Displacement and Disruption: Implementation of smart city projects often led to the displacement of people living in poorer localities and street vendors.
    • Inadequate Funding: The total funding allocated for the SCM was significantly less than the estimated requirement for making Indian cities livable. Reports suggested a capital expenditure need of $1.2 trillion by 2030, while the SCM’s allocation was less than $20 billion over nine years.

    Did the SCM override the 74th Constitutional Amendment?

    • Reduced Role of Elected Councils: The governance structure under the SCM limited the role of elected municipal councils.This was seen as bypassing the decentralized, participatory governance model envisaged by the 74th Constitutional Amendment, which aimed to empower local urban bodies.
    • Top-Down Approach: Critics argued that the SCM’s design was too top-down, not aligning with the bottom-up approach promoted by the 74th Constitutional Amendment.

    Way forward:

    • Contextual Planning: Develop flexible and adaptive plans that consider the unique and dynamic nature of Indian urbanization, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.
    • Community Involvement: Engage local communities in the planning process to ensure that projects reflect the needs and realities of different urban areas.

    Mains PYQ:

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

  • Giving primacy to Human Development

    Why in the News?

    Two recent reports reveal some important facets of India’s Development.

    • The Human Development Report 2023-24, published by the UNDP, takes a comparative perspective and maps the achievements in the area of human development.
    • A paper published by the World Inequality Lab in March 2024 provides long-term trends in income and wealth inequality in India between 1922 and 2023.

    About HDI:

    The Human Development Index (HDI) is a measurement system used by the United Nations to evaluate the level of individual human development in each country. It was introduced by the U.N. in 1990.

    How is the HDI measured?

    The HDI is the geometric mean of the three dimensions above, with indices calculated separately for each country using data on life expectancy, schooling and per capita income. The final result always gives a value between 0 and 1 which defines, according to the UNDP, the four degrees of human development detailed below:

    • Very high: countries with a HDI above 0.80.
    • High: countries with a HDI between 0.70 and 0.80.
    • Medium: countries with a HDI between 0.55 and 0.70. (India is here)
    • Low: countries with a HDI below 0.55.

    India’s poor ranking in HDI:

    • Regional Trends: India’s HDI ranking has improved marginally over the years, but it still lags behind several countries, including Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and China. In 2022, India ranked 134 out of 193 countries.
    • Low HDI Value: Despite the incremental improvement in ranking, India’s HDI value remains relatively low. The HDI value increased from 0.633 in 2021 to 0.644 in 2022.
    • Gender Inequality Index (GII): While India showed improvement in its GII ranking in 2022, moving from 122 out of 191 countries in 2021 to 108 out of 193 countries in 2022, significant gender disparities persist. Notably, India faces one of the largest gender gaps in labor force participation rates, with a substantial difference between men (76.1%) and women (28.3%).
    • Medium Human Development Categories: India’s HDI ranking places it within the medium human development category alongside countries like Myanmar, Ghana, Kenya, Congo, and Angola.

    Key concerns related to Human Development:

    • Increasing Disparity Between Countries: The report underscores a concerning trend of growing inequality between countries, particularly between those at the upper and lower ends of the Human Development Index (HDI).
    • Economic Concentration: The concentration of economic power in a few countries is exacerbating global inequality. Nearly 40% of the global trade in goods is controlled by just three or fewer countries
    • Tech Company Dominance: The dominance of large technology companies further exacerbates inequality, with the market capitalization of the top three companies surpassing the GDP of the majority of countries.

    Widening inequality:

    • Income Disparities in India: The study from the World Inequality Lab reveals stark income disparities in India, with the bottom 50% of the population receiving only 15% of the national income.
      • Conversely, the top 1% earns on average 23 times more than the average Indian, and the top 10,000 individuals earn 2,069 times the average Indian.
    • Reduction of Middle-Class size: During the period from 2014 to 2022, the incomes of the middle 40% of the income distribution have grown slower than the bottom 50%. This trend suggests a potential reduction in the size of the ‘middle class.
    • High Household Debt and Low Savings: Household debt levels in India have reached a record high of 40% of GDP, while net financial savings have plunged to 5.2% of GDP.

    Way Forward: 

    • Promote Inclusive Growth Policies: Implement policies that prioritize inclusive growth, focusing on reducing income disparities, and enhancing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all segments of society.
    • Enhance Social Safety Nets: Strengthen social safety nets to provide support to vulnerable populations, including targeted welfare programs, universal healthcare coverage, and unemployment benefits.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Despite the consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.(UPSC IAS/2019)

  • The government’s new PhD guidelines will make Universities more Elite

    Why in the news?

    The UGC chairperson announced that students with four-year undergraduate degrees can now appear for the National Eligibility Test (NET), an exam that certifies eligibility for lectureship in colleges and universities in India, and PhD programs.

    Key Implication of this Announcement:

    • Lowering of Standards: Allowing students with four-year undergraduate degrees to appear for the National Eligibility Test (NET) and pursue PhD programs without a Master’s degree may lead to concerns about the lowering of academic standards.
    • Quality of Teaching: Concerns arise regarding the quality of teaching in universities and colleges if fresh undergraduate students are recruited to teach other undergraduate students.
    • Impact on University Rankings: The decision may have implications for the rankings and reputation of Indian universities, particularly those with prestigious tags like the Institution of Eminence and high NAAC ratings.
    • Dilutes the perception: Allowing candidates to pursue a PhD in a subject unrelated raises concerns about the diversity and interdisciplinary nature of research.
      • The decision to broaden access to PhD programs may be aimed at dismantling the perception of PhD as an elite qualification.
      • However, critics may argue that diluting the entry requirements for PhD programs could undermine the rigor and prestige associated with earning a doctorate.
    • Impact on Research Culture: Lowering the barriers to entry for PhD programs may have implications for the research culture and scholarly integrity within academic institutions.

    Measures to maintain standards for the National Eligibility Test (NET):

    • Retain Postgraduate Degree Requirement: Maintain the requirement of a postgraduate degree for appearing in the NET to ensure that candidates have a solid foundation in their respective fields of study.
    • Reintroduce MPhil Programs: Reinstate MPhil programs to provide an intermediary step between postgraduate and doctoral studies. MPhil programs offer an opportunity for students to further develop their research skills and prepare for doctoral-level research.
    • Enhanced Mentoring and Preparation Period: Implement a structured mentoring program for NET aspirants to help them transition from undergraduate to postgraduate and eventually doctoral-level research.
    • Specialized Entrance Exams for PhD Programs: Instead of eliminating separate entrance exams for PhD programs, consider introducing specialized entrance exams that assess candidates’ research aptitude, subject knowledge, and suitability for doctoral-level research

    Way Forward: 

    • Promote Interdisciplinary Research: Encourage interdisciplinary research by providing opportunities for collaboration and exchange across different academic disciplines.
    • Maintain Research Standards: Uphold rigorous standards for doctoral research and teaching positions to ensure the quality and integrity of academic programs. Implement quality assurance mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the standards of the NET and PhD programs.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss.(UPSC IAS/2015).

  • [pib] National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA)

    Why in the news?

    • The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), India, recently concluded its #PlayTrue Campaign, commemorating WADA’s Play True Day.
    • The campaign aimed to raise awareness about clean sport and anti-doping practices across India.

    National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA):

    • Established in November 2005 by the Government of India with the objective of ensuring dope-free sports.
    • Formed as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.
    • Functions as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
    • It follows the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC) and the Prohibited List published annually by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
    • Primary functions include:
    1. Conducting In-Competition and Out-of-Competition dope testing of athletes across various sports disciplines.
    2. Educating athletes, coaches, and support personnel about the dangers of doping and the importance of clean sports through awareness programs and workshops.
    3. Implementing a robust anti-doping policy framework in line with international standards.
    4. Investigating and prosecuting anti-doping rule violations in accordance with the WADA Code.
    5. Collaborating with international anti-doping organizations and agencies to ensure harmonization of anti-doping efforts globally.
    6. Providing support and guidance to National Sports Federations (NSFs), State Sports Associations (SSAs), and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective anti-doping measures.

    Key Function: Dope Testing

    • NADA conducts both in-competition and out-of-competition dope testing of athletes participating in various national and international sports events.
    • NADA employs trained Doping Control Officers (DCOs) who are responsible for conducting dope testing at sports events and collecting samples from athletes.
    • These officers are trained to adhere to international standards and protocols during sample collection.
    • NADA works towards ensuring compliance with the WADA Code and the National Anti-Doping Rules by all stakeholders involved in Indian sports, including athletes, coaches, NSFs, and SSAs.

    Allowed Substances and Methods:

    • Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs): Athletes can apply for TUEs to use otherwise prohibited substances for legitimate medical reasons. TUEs are granted based on the assessment of medical documentation by anti-doping authorities.
    • Specified Substances: Some substances, such as certain beta-2 agonists and glucocorticoids, are permitted in specific dosages or routes of administration and may require a TUE depending on the circumstances.
    • PROHIBITED:  Prohibited substances and methods include anabolic agents, peptide hormones, beta-2 agonists, hormone and metabolic modulators, diuretics, stimulants, narcotics, cannabinoids, glucocorticoids, beta blockers, blood doping, and gene doping.

    Back2Basics: World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)

    • WADA was established in 1999 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
    • It was set up as a foundation under the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
    • It was formed pursuant to the terms of the Lausanne Declaration (1999), which provided for the creation of an independent international anti-doping
    • WADA is responsible for the World Anti-Doping Code, adopted by more than 650 sports organizations, including international sports federations, national anti-doping organizations, the IOC, and the International Paralympic Committee

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements in respect of the Laureus World Sports Award which was instituted in the year 2000:​

    1. American golfer Tiger Woods was the first winner of this award.​

    2. The award was received mostly by ‘Formula One’ players so far.​

    3. Roger Federer received this award maximum number of times compared to others.​

    Which of the above statements are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Analyzing labor on a warming planet

    Why in the News?

    The International Labour Organization’s (ILO) latest report, ‘Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate’, is an urgent call to ensure the future of labour is climate proofed and to address the constantly evolving work environment as the planet warms.

    What are the Emerging Hazards? (The ILO has identified six key impacts of climate change)

    • Solar Ultraviolet Radiation: Increased exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation due to climate change can have adverse effects on outdoor workers, potentially leading to skin damage and cancer.
    • Extreme Weather Events: Climate change is contributing to the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, which pose significant risks to workers in various sectors.
    • Workplace Air Pollution: Climate change can exacerbate air pollution in workplaces, particularly in industrial settings, leading to respiratory illnesses and other health problems among workers.
    • Vector-Borne Diseases: Changing climate patterns can influence the distribution and prevalence of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus, posing risks to workers in affected regions.
    • Agrochemicals: Agricultural workers may face increased exposure to agrochemicals due to changes in pest and disease patterns resulting from climate change, potentially leading to health issues such as pesticide poisoning.
    • Gig Economy Workers: The rise of gig employment, particularly in heat-susceptible sectors such as transportation and delivery services, exposes workers to additional risks related to heat stress and other climate-related hazards.

    Most affected Sectors of the Economy:

    • Agriculture: Despite a decline in the proportion of the workforce engaged in agriculture over the past few decades, it remains the most heat-susceptible sector, particularly in the developing world like India.
      • The NSSO data of July 2018-June 2019 reveal that almost 90% of Indian farmers own less than two hectares of land, and earn an average monthly income of a little over ₹10,000
    • Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs): India’s vast MSME sector, employing over 123 million workers, contributes significantly to the country’s economy. However, the sector’s informalization poses challenges in ensuring worker safety and health.
      • Lack of oversight by state Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) departments makes workers highly vulnerable to heat hazards, despite the sector’s substantial contribution to exports and manufacturing output.
    • Building and Construction: With approximately 70 million workers, the construction sector in India faces the urban heat island effect, especially in rapidly growing cities. Workers in this sector are exposed to physical injuries and health hazards such as asthma due to air pollution, as many Indian cities rank among the most polluted globally as per World Air Quality Report 2023 by IQAir.

    About Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSH Code, 2020): 

    • This is a comprehensive law, enacted in September 2020.
    • It consolidates and amends more than 13 central laws related to workplace safety, including the Factories Act, 1948, the Workmen Compensation Act, 1923, the Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996, the Plantations Labour Act, 1951, the Mines Act, 1952, and the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979.
    • However, the enforcement of this law is yet to be officially notified by the Union government.

     

    Way forward:

    • Enhanced Regulations and Enforcement: Implement and enforce the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, 2020 to ensure comprehensive protection for workers across all sectors. This includes setting clear standards for workplace safety, regular inspections, and penalties for non-compliance.
    • Heat Stress Management: Implement measures to manage heat stress in workplaces, especially in heat-susceptible sectors like agriculture and construction. This can include providing access to shaded rest areas, increasing hydration facilities, adjusting work schedules to avoid peak heat hours.
    • Healthcare Access: Ensure access to healthcare services for workers, including regular health check-ups and treatment for heat-related illnesses and other occupational health issues. This may involve setting up medical facilities near worksites or providing transportation to nearby healthcare facilities.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q ‘Climate change’ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • 10 Years of Street Vendors Act, 2014

    Why in the news?

    • It has been a decade since the enactment of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act on May 1, 2014.
    • It marks a significant milestone in the recognition of the rights and contributions of street vendors across India.

    About Street Vendors Act, 2014

      • The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, was enacted
        • Objective: To regulate street vendors in public areas and protect their rights.
      • It was introduced in the Lok Sabha (Lower House of the Parliament of India) on 6 September 2012 by then Union Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, Kumari Selja.
      • The Act came into force from 1 May 2014.
    • History:
      • 2004: The bill aimed at providing social security and livelihood rights to street vendors, has its origins in the ‘National Policy for Urban Street Vendors’ introduced in 2004.
      • 2009: It was later revised as ‘National Policy on Urban Street Vendors’ in 2009.
    • 3 Recognized categories of street vending:

    Key Provisions of the Bill:

    Details
    Town Vending Committee
    • Responsible for conducting surveys of all vendors, issuance of certificates of vending, and designation of vending zones.
    • Surveys to be conducted every 5 years.
    • No eviction until certificates are issued.
    • TVCs to have 40% representation of street vendor representatives and 33% of women street vendors.
    Designated Vending Zones
    • All street vendors to be accommodated in designated vending zones.
    • Allocation of space by drawing lots if necessary.
    • Those unable to secure space in the same zone to be accommodated in adjoining zones.
    Certificate of Vending
    • Granted to street vendors above 14 years of age.
    • Can be transferred to family members in certain circumstances.
    • Can be cancelled if conditions are breached.
    No-Vending Zones
    • Prohibits vending activities in designated no-vending zones.
    • Relocation provisions for affected vendors.
    • Notice period of at least 30 days for relocation.
    • Failure to vacate may result in penalties.
    Dispute Resolution Body Consists of a Chairperson (civil judge or judicial magistrate) and two other professionals.
    Responsibility of Local Authorities for Implementation Responsibility for creating schemes and implementation delegated to local municipalities.
    Role of Town Vending Committee Each zone or ward of the local authority to have a Town Vending Committee.
    Relocation and Penalties Vendors failing to relocate from no-vending zones after notice may face penalties, including fines.
    Representation and Legal Ambiguities Criticisms include lack of adequate representation of street vendors in decision-making bodies and legal ambiguities.

     

    Also read about: PM SVANidhi Scheme

    PYQ:

    [2016] How has globalization led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?

  • [1 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Make EPI an ‘Essential Programme on Immunization’

    Mains PYQ Relevance: 

    Q) Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health.Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same. (UPSC  IAS/2013)

    Q) “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. (UPSC  IAS/2021)

    Prelims:
    ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to   (UPSC  IAS/2016)

    a) Immunization of children and pregnant women
    b) Construction of smart cities across the country
    c) India’s search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
    d) New Educational Policy

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Government Schemes and Policies;

    Mains: Health Care System in India; Immunization Programme;

    Mentor comments: The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) initiative by WHO was crucial as it coincided with the near eradication of smallpox, prompting the need to expand immunization efforts globally. Following this, most countries, including India, established their national immunization programs. India’s EPI was later renamed the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in 1985.  Universal health coverage means that all people can benefit from quality health services, where and when they need them, without suffering financial hardship.

    Let’s learn

    —

    Why in the News?

    Year 2024 marks the completion of 50 years of the Global and Indian Immunization Programs since the launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) by the World Health Organization in 1974. 

    • This year also marks the completion of 20 years since India’s last nationwide independent field evaluation of the  Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), highlighting the need to assess progress and plan for the future.
    Present Status of Immunization in India:

    In 1974, there were vaccines to prevent only six diseases. But after five decades, there are now vaccines for 13 diseases that are universally recommended.There are also vaccines against 17 additional diseases for a context-specific situation. 

    Ongoing research aims to develop vaccines for around 125 pathogens, with a focus on diseases prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. 

    This progress underscores the importance of continuous evaluation, innovation, and collaboration in advancing immunization efforts for better public health outcomes.

    Initiatives and Success stories by governments:

    • Low and Middle-Income countries: In the early 1970s, around 5% of children in low- and middle-income countries had received three doses of DPT, which increased to 84% in 2022 at the global level. 
    • Disease Eradication: Smallpox has been eradicated, polio eliminated from all but two countries and many vaccine-preventable diseases have nearly disappeared.
      • India launched a pilot initiative of adult BCG vaccination as part of efforts to ‘end TB’ in India.
    • Vaccination Coverage: In India, the coverage has increased every passing year, and in 2019-21, 76% of children received the recommended vaccines.
      • Vaccines have been instrumental in saving lives and reducing hospitalizations, with a high cost-effectiveness ratio. 
    • Built Health Infrastructure: In Public-private health systems, immunization often remains the only health intervention with greater utilization from the government sector.
      • For instance, in India, the share of the private sector in overall health services is nearly two-thirds; however, almost 85% to 90% of all vaccines are delivered from government facilities. 

    Challenges faced by Immunization Programs:

    • Issue with Coverage: In early 2023, UNICEF’s ‘The State of the World’s Children’ report revealed a concerning trend: for the first time in more than a decade, childhood immunization coverage had declined in 2021. 
    • Issue with Recommendations: In 2022, globally, an estimated 14.3 million children were zero doses (did not receive any recommended vaccine) while another 6.2 million children were partially immunized.
    • Issue of Inequities: Over the years, vaccination coverage in India has increased, both nationally and State-wise. However, there are persisting inequities in coverage by geography, socio-economic strata, and other parameters, which demand urgent interventions.

    Need to shift focus from Child vaccination to Adult Vaccination:

    • Vaccines have historically been available for all age groups, not just children. While children were prioritized due to limited resources, adult vaccination is now crucial as vaccine-preventable diseases are becoming more common in the adult population. 
    • Governments should focus on expanding adult vaccination coverage, learning from the success of childhood immunization programs

    What can be done?

    • Need for Better Policies: Considering that vaccines are highly cost-effective, once recommended by the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), vaccines for all age groups should be made available as free at government facilities.
    • Technical expansion of the Program: The recent announcement on HPV vaccines for teenage girls is a good start. However, we need to remember that once a vaccine is recommended by the government body, the coverage is likely to be far greater than if the vaccines are not recommended by the government.
    • Generating Awareness: The government must consider the help of professional communication agencies to dispel myths (and in a layperson’s language and with the use of social media).
      • Medical colleges and research institutions should generate evidence on the burden of diseases in the adult population in India.

    Conclusion: In the 50 years of the EPI, it is time for another expansion of the program with a focus on zero-dose children, addressing inequities in vaccine coverage, and offering vaccines to adults and the elderly. It is time to make EPI an ‘Essential Program on Immunization’. 

  • Implementing the Street Vendors Act

    Why in the News? 

    The Street Vendors Act was celebrated as a progressive legislation, but the law now faces numerous challenges in its implementation.

    The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014:

    Details
    Introduction and Objective
    • Introduced in Lok Sabha on 6 September 2012 by Kumari Selja, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation.
    • Objective: Regulate street vendors and protect their livelihoods.
    Enactment and Implementation
    • Came into force on 1 May 2014.
    • Aims to legalize vending rights and establish mechanisms for protection and regulation.
    • State-level rules and schemes are developed for execution.
    Roles and Responsibilities
    • Delineates roles of street vendors and government.
    • Commits to accommodating existing vendors in vending zones and issuing vending certificates.
    Participatory Governance
    • Establishes Town Vending Committees (TVCs).
    • Representation: 40% of TVC members, with 33% for women SVs.
    • TVCs tasked with including all existing vendors in zones.
    Grievance Redressal
    • Mechanisms for addressing grievances and
    • Establishes Grievance Redressal Committee chaired by civil judge or judicial magistrate.
    Survey and Identification States/ULBs conduct surveys to identify vendors at least once every five years.
    Certificate of Vending
    • Granted to vendors above 14 years.
    • Can be transferred to family members.
    • Can be cancelled

    Significance of street vendors 

    • Role of Street Vendors: Street vendors constitute about 2.5% of any city’s population and play multifaceted roles in city life, providing essential services, modest income for migrants and the urban poor, and affordable goods for others.
    • Integral to Urban Life: Street vendors are essential for maintaining affordability and accessibility to food, nutrition, and goods distribution, and they are integral to the cultural fabric of cities like Mumbai and Chennai.

    Challenges faced during the implementation:

    • Administrative Challenges: Increase in harassment and evictions of street vendors despite the Act’s emphasis on protection and regulation.Outdated bureaucratic mindset viewing vendors as illegal entities.
      • Lack of awareness and sensitization about the Act among state authorities, the public, and vendors.
      • Limited influence of street vendor representatives in Town Vending Committees (TVCs), often remaining under the control of local city authorities.Tokenistic representation of women vendors in TVCs.
    • Governance Challenges: Weak existing urban governance mechanisms.
      • Lack of integration of the Act with the framework established by the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act for urban governance.
      • Insufficient powers and capacities of ULBs.
      • Focus on top-down policies like the Smart Cities Mission on infrastructure development, ignoring provisions for the inclusion of street vendors in city planning.
    • Societal Challenges: The prevailing image of the ‘world-class city’ tends to be exclusionary.Marginalization and stigmatization of street vendors as obstacles to urban development rather than legitimate contributors to the urban economy.
      • Reflection of these challenges in city designs, urban policies, and public perceptions of neighborhoods.

    Way forward 

    • Decentralization of Interventions: There’s a need to decentralize interventions and enhance the capacities of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to plan for street vending in cities.
    • Shift from Department-led Actions to Deliberative Processes: Moving away from high-handed department-led actions towards actual deliberative processes at the Town Vending Committee (TVC) level is crucial.
    • Amendments to Urban Schemes and Policies: Urban schemes, city planning guidelines, and policies need to be amended to include provisions for street vending.
    • Need-based Welfare Provisions: Broad welfare provisions of the Act should be used creatively to meet the emerging needs of street vendors, such as addressing the impact of climate change, competition from e-commerce, and reduced incomes.
    • Adaptation in National Urban Livelihood Mission: The sub-component of street vendors in the National Urban Livelihood Mission should acknowledge changed realities and facilitate innovative measures to address needs.

    Mains PYQ

    Q To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots?