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Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • Global Internet Freedom Decline in 2023

    internet freedom

    Central Idea

    • Freedom House’s latest report highlights the 13th consecutive year of declining global Internet freedom.
    • This decline has seen deteriorations in the human rights online situation in 29 countries, with only 20 countries registering improvements.

    Report: ‘Freedom on the Net 2023: The Repressive Power of Artificial Intelligence’

    • Key Concerns: The report underscores the escalating use of artificial intelligence (AI) by governments worldwide, emphasizing its role in censorship and the dissemination of disinformation.
    • Scope: Covering events from June 2022 to May 2023, the 13th edition evaluates Internet freedom in 70 countries, collectively accounting for 88% of global Internet users.

    Regional Findings

    • Iran’s Sharp Rise in Digital Repression: Iran witnessed the sharpest escalation in digital repression. Authorities resorted to Internet shutdowns, blocked WhatsApp and Instagram, and intensified surveillance to quell anti-government protests.
    • China’s Perennial Status: For the ninth consecutive year, China retained its position as the world’s worst environment for Internet freedom, followed by Myanmar, the second most repressive nation concerning online freedoms.

    Legal Repercussions and Arrests

    • Global Crackdown on Expression: The report highlights that individuals faced legal consequences for online expression in a record 55 countries this year.
    • Widespread Arrests: The number of countries conducting widespread arrests and imposing multi-year prison terms for online activities has surged, growing from 18 in 2014 to 31 in 2023.
    • Elections as Triggers: Elections emerged as triggers for digital repression. Ahead of elections, incumbent leaders in various countries criminalized speech, restricted access to independent news sites, and imposed information controls to influence the electoral outcome in their favor.

    AI-Enabled Repression in India

    • Censorship in Legal Framework: The report spotlights India’s inclusion of censorship, including AI-based systems, within its legal framework. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules mandate large social media platforms to employ AI-based moderation tools for diverse types of content.
    • Example – BBC Documentary: The report cites the Indian government’s directive to YouTube and Twitter to restrict access to a BBC documentary on communal violence. The IT Rules compel these platforms to use automated scanning tools to remove related content.

    Censorship Methods in India

    • 5 Censorship Methods: The report evaluates countries on five censorship methods:
    1. Internet connectivity restrictions,
    2. Blocks on social media platforms,
    3. Blocks on websites,
    4. Blocks on VPNs, and
    5. Forced content removal.
    • Further Censorship Actions: India has also been involved in blocking websites featuring political, social, or religious content, disrupting ICT networks, deploying pro-government commentators to manipulate online discussions, and conducting technical attacks against government critics and human rights organizations.
    • Digital Freedom Index: On a scale of 1 to 100, where ‘100’ represents the highest digital freedom and ‘1’ signifies the worst repression, India received a score of 50. In contrast, Iceland emerged as the leader with a score of 94, boasting the best climate for Internet freedom.

    Implications for India

    • Uneven Playing Field: As India prepares for general elections in 2024, the government’s expanding censorship regime is highlighted as a threat to Indian democracy.
    • Curb on free speech: It suppresses criticism and independent reporting on the ruling party.

    Conclusion

    • The report’s findings underscore the global decline in Internet freedom, driven partly by the increasing use of AI for censorship and disinformation campaigns.
    • The implications of this trend on freedom of expression, privacy, and democracy necessitate vigilant monitoring and international action to protect digital rights in an increasingly interconnected world.

  • Counting rural women’s labour

    What’s the news?

    • In a concerning revelation, India grapples with one of the world’s lowest female labor force participation rates, while rural women face widening gender wage gaps and continue to make substantial, often unpaid, contributions to the economy.

    Central idea

    • As the International Day of Rural Women approaches, it is essential to shed light on the grim reality that India is grappling with. India not only records one of the lowest female labor force participation rates (LFPR) globally, but also ranks lower than most South Asian nations, trailing only Afghanistan and Pakistan.

    Rural Women’s Employment Landscape

    • India has one of the lowest female LFPRs globally. The LFPR for women in the working-age group (15–59 years) is just 35.6 percent, and this figure varies significantly between rural and urban areas.
    • In rural regions, the LFPR is comparatively higher at 39.3 percent, while in urban areas, it is much lower at 26.5 percent, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data for 2021–22.
    • Self-Employment and Agriculture:
    • A significant portion of rural women in India are engaged in self-employment, particularly in agriculture and allied activities.
    • Nearly three-fourths of rural working women are involved in these sectors, which include crop cultivation, livestock rearing, and related tasks.
    • Agriculture remains a crucial source of livelihood for many rural women.

    Gender Wage Gap in Rural India

    • Higher Gender Wage Gap in Rural Areas: Rural women working as regular and casual wage laborers face a more pronounced gender wage gap compared to their urban counterparts. This wage disparity is particularly significant in the rural employment sector.
    • Self-Employed Women’s Earnings: Self-employed rural women, particularly those engaged in agriculture and related activities, earn significantly less than self-employed men in similar roles. The self-employed rural women earn less than half of what self-employed men earn, indicating a substantial gender earning gap.
    • Worsening of the Gender Wage Gap: The gender wage gap for self-employed women has deteriorated from 2017 to 2021. This means that the income divide between rural men and women is widening over time.

    Unpaid and underpaid labor

    • Unpaid Domestic Chores: A significant portion of rural women’s work involves unpaid domestic chores. While there has been a decline in the proportion of women engaged in these chores from 60 percent in 2017–18 to 46 percent in 2021–22, one-third of rural women will still remain involved in unpaid domestic chores in 2021–22.
    • Time Allocation: The Time Use Survey conducted in 2019 reveals that, on average, rural women spend over five hours daily in unpaid domestic services and more than two hours in unpaid caregiving services. This is substantially more than the time men spend on these activities, highlighting the unequal distribution of domestic and caregiving responsibilities.
    • Contribution to Agriculture: Rural women also make substantial unpaid contributions to agriculture. They spend over seven hours daily growing crops for both household use and the market in 2019, which is a critical but unpaid aspect of their work.

    Land Ownership Disparity

    • Women face a substantial gender disparity in land ownership in rural areas.
    • The agriculture census of 2015–16 revealed that only 14.7 percent of operational landholdings were owned by women.
    • Moreover, women’s landownership is concentrated in the marginal and small holding categories.

    Government Initiatives in the Context of Rural Women’s Employment

    • MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act): MGNREGA is a significant government initiative aimed at providing rural women with income-generating opportunities. It guarantees 100 days of wage employment per year to rural households, helping increase the labor force participation of rural women.
    • PM-SYM (Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan): This scheme is designed to offer financial security to unorganized sector workers, including rural women. It encourages them to save for retirement by providing a pension after the age of 60, thereby ensuring economic well-being in their later years.
    • PMJDY (Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana): PMJDY promotes financial inclusion among rural women by encouraging them to open bank accounts. This initiative allows women to save money, receive government benefits directly, and access credit facilities for income-generating activities.
    • PMKVY (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana): PMKVY focuses on skill development for rural youth, including women, to enhance employability. It offers training programs in various sectors to equip them with the necessary skills for job opportunities.
    • Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao: This campaign encourages the education and welfare of girls in rural areas, indirectly empowering rural women by reducing gender disparities and promoting education among girls.
    • National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM): NRLM aims to reduce poverty among rural women by promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship. It provides training, financial support, and market access, empowering women to start and run their own businesses.
    • Support for Training and Employment Programs for Women (STEP): STEP is another initiative focused on skill development and employment for disadvantaged women in rural areas. It offers training in various trades to enhance their employability.

    Addressing the issue of unpaid labor in rural India requires a multi-faceted approach

    • Recognition: There is a need to recognize and value the significant contributions of rural women to unpaid domestic chores and agriculture. Acknowledging this work is crucial for appreciating its economic and societal importance.
    • Gender Equity: Promoting gender equity in domestic and caregiving responsibilities is essential to reducing the burden on rural women. Encouraging men to share these responsibilities can free up women’s time for productive activities.
    • Economic Empowerment: Empowering rural women through education, skill development, and access to income-generating opportunities can help them transition from unpaid to paid work, improving their economic status.
    • Policy Support: Government policies should be designed to address the gender disparities in unpaid labor and provide support mechanisms, such as access to affordable childcare and elderly care facilities, to reduce the time spent on unpaid caregiving.

    Conclusion

    • The contributions of rural women in India, whether unpaid, unaccounted, or underpaid, are the backbone of the country’s rural economy. Only by acknowledging the hidden work of rural women and bridging the gender gap in land ownership and access to support schemes can we truly empower the rural women of India and pave the way for a more equitable future.

    Also read:

    Women and India’s Labour force: Bridging the Gap

  • India’s diabetes crisis

    What’s the news?

    • In June 2023, a study conducted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation in collaboration with the ICMR and the Union Health Ministry revealed alarming statistics about India’s diabetes crisis.

    Central idea

    • According to the study, 11.4% of India’s population, approximately 10.13 crore people, are living with diabetes. According to the WHO, a major reason for this is the consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods and beverages. These statistics demand immediate attention and concrete actions to address the root causes of this public health crisis.

    Key findings of the study

    • Living with diabetes: 4% of India’s population, or 10.13 crore people, are living with diabetes.
    • Pre-diabetic: 3% of the population, or an additional 13.6 crore people, are pre-diabetic.
    • Obese Population: 6% of the population would be considered obese as per the BMI measure.

    The consumption of ultra-processed foods: a significant contributor

    • Contents of Ultra-Processed Foods:
    • Ultra-processed foods encompass a wide range of products, including carbonated drinks, instant cereals, chips, fruit-flavored drinks, instant noodles, cookies, ice cream, bakery items, energy bars, sweetened yogurts, pizzas, processed meat products, and powdered infant formulas.
    • These items are often characterized by their convenience and long shelf life.
    • Increased Risk of Diabetes with Scientific Evidence:
    • A concerning statistic reveals that a mere 10% increase in daily consumption of ultra-processed food is associated with a 15% higher risk of type-2 diabetes among adults.
    • These foods are often high in sugar, fat, and salt, all of which contribute to insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels.
    • Impact on Weight Gain:
    • Ultra-processed foods are engineered to be hyper-palatable. They often contain combinations of sugars, fats, and artificial additives that stimulate the appetite and lead to overconsumption.
    • This excessive calorie intake can result in weight gain, a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
    • Structural Alteration:
    • When food undergoes extensive processing, its original structure is often destroyed. Cosmetic additives, colors, and flavors are added to enhance taste and appeal.
    • This altered structure and excessive processing can disrupt the body’s natural regulation of hunger and satiety, leading individuals to eat more and gain weight.
    • Association with Cardiovascular Risks:
    • The negative effects of ultra-processed foods extend beyond diabetes. Obesity and diabetes are key risk factors for heart disease and premature mortality.
    • Research indicates that those who consume more than four servings of ultra-processed foods per day face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to those who consume fewer than two servings per day.
    • A similar trend is observed for all-cause mortality.

    Exploitative marketing practices

    • Shifting Focus to Low- and Middle-Income Countries:
    • In many high-income countries, the sale of sugar-sweetened beverages has declined over the past two decades due to growing awareness of their health impacts.
    • To compensate for this loss of sales, food companies have shifted their attention to low- and middle-income countries, where there may be less stringent regulations and a growing consumer base.
    • Aggressive Marketing and Advertising:
    • These companies invest substantial amounts of money in marketing and advertising ultra-processed food and beverages in countries like India.
    • These aggressive marketing campaigns often target vulnerable populations, including children and the emerging middle class.
    • Techniques like the use of cartoon characters, incentives, gifts, and celebrity endorsements are employed to make these products more appealing.
    • Blaming Individuals vs. Addressing Systemic Issues:
    • The food industry tends to place blame on individuals, suggesting that personal choices are responsible for unhealthy dietary habits.
    • However, the environment created by aggressive marketing and the easy accessibility of ultra-processed foods play a significant role in shaping these choices.
    • Impact on Public Health:
    • The consequences of these marketing strategies are severe. They contribute to a deepening public health crisis, with diabetes being a ticking time bomb.
    • Sugar-sweetened beverages, in particular, are highlighted as a major source of added sugar in diets, putting people at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and other health issues.

    The need for regulatory intervention

    • Industry Opposition: The food industry resists marketing restrictions, citing economic concerns and portraying themselves as stakeholders.
    • False Promises: Some industry initiatives, like ‘Eat Right,’ may appear health-focused but could divert attention from unhealthy product impacts.
    • Impact on Regulation: Industry partnerships can hinder strong regulatory policies aimed at reducing ultra-processed food consumption.
    • Role of Regulatory Authorities: Lackluster responses and industry dominance in regulatory bodies may impede effective public health regulations.
    • Complementary Efforts: While exercise is essential, it should complement regulatory policies addressing marketing and warning labels on unhealthy foods.
    • Balancing Interests: Governments must prioritize citizens’ health, striking a balance between industry interests and public well-being when implementing evidence-based, transparent regulations.

    Strategy to safeguard: Mandatory Provisions

    • To protect the public from the manipulative strategies of the food industry, the government must establish a legal framework or even an ordinance under Article 123 of the Constitution.
    • This framework should focus on reducing or halting the consumption of ultra-processed foods and could include:
    1. Defining ‘healthy food’
    2. Implementing warning labels on unhealthy food
    3. Imposing restrictions on the promotion and marketing tactics of unhealthy food and beverages
    4. Raising public awareness about the risks associated with consuming such foods

    Global Examples

    • Several countries, including South Africa, Norway, and Mexico, have recently taken similar actions to regulate food labeling and marketing.
    • The Indian government has the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to public health by enacting similar laws.
    • Much like the Infant Milk Substitutes, Feeding Bottles, and Infant Foods Act, which successfully regulated commercial baby food, this proposed legislation could make significant strides in curbing the consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages.

    Conclusion

    • India stands at a critical juncture in its battle against diabetes and a food industry that prioritizes profits over public health. The time has come for the government to implement robust regulations. By taking decisive action, India can protect the well-being of its citizens and set a precedent for responsible food regulation in the global context.

    Also read:

    Is India a Diabetes capital of the world?

  • The impact of the Bihar caste survey

    What’s the news?

    • The Bihar government’s recent release of the ‘Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022’ has brought to light some crucial insights into the state’s demographic landscape.

    Central idea

    • The Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022 survey reveals that extremely backward classes (EBCs) and other backward classes (OBCs) together constitute nearly 63% of Bihar’s 13-crore population, making them the largest caste group in the state. The implications of this survey are far-reaching, affecting politics, reservation quotas, and welfare schemes.

    Background

    • The demand for a caste-based survey in Bihar was first raised by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, an OBC Kurmi caste member, in 2019.
    • The Bihar legislature passed resolutions in 2019 and 2020 unanimously supporting a caste census.
    • However, when the Union government declined to conduct a caste-wise census, Bihar proceeded with its own survey in June 2022, allocating ₹500 crore from its contingency fund for the exercise.
    • The two-phase survey involved 2.64 lakh enumerators, documenting the details of 29 million registered households.

    Key Findings

    • EBCs, comprising 112 castes, represent 36.01% of the population.
    • OBCs, with 29 castes, constitute 27.12% of the population.
    • The Yadavs, within the OBC group, dominate with a 14.26% share.
    • Scheduled castes account for 19.65% of the population.
    • The general unreserved population stands at 15.52%.

    The impact of the Survey on reservation quotas in Bihar

    • Adjustment Based on Population Share: The ruling coalition alliance party, RJD, has asserted that reservation quotas should be increased in line with the population proportions revealed in the survey. This means that communities with larger populations, such as EBCs and OBCs, may see an increase in their share of reserved seats and government jobs.
    • Reevaluation of Reservation Ceiling: The survey’s results could potentially lead to a reevaluation of the 50% ceiling on reservation imposed by the Supreme Court. If the population data suggests that certain communities deserve a larger share of reservations, it may prompt legal and political discussions on whether the reservation limit should be revised.
    • Political Divisions: The impact of the survey on reservation quotas has created divisions among political parties. While the RJD and other alliance parties support increasing reservations, the BJP, which initially supported the caste survey, has raised concerns about its accuracy and potential consequences.
    • Electoral Implications: With general elections on the horizon, the debate over reservation quotas and their adjustment based on the survey’s findings is likely to play a crucial role in political campaigns. Parties may need to tailor their promises and platforms to address the expectations of various caste groups.

    Potential impact on welfare initiatives in the state

    • Increased Focus on Marginalized Communities: The survey’s findings reveal that a significant portion of Bihar’s population belongs to marginalized communities, including EBCs, OBCs, SCs, and STs, constituting 85% of the total population. This data is likely to compel political parties and the government to pay greater attention to the welfare needs of these communities.
    • Competitive Welfare Announcements: In anticipation of elections and to secure the support of these marginalized communities, political parties may engage in competitive welfare scheme announcements. This competition could lead to a wave of promises and initiatives aimed at improving the living conditions and opportunities for these groups.
    • Review of Existing Schemes: The government may also undertake a review of existing welfare schemes to ensure that they are effectively reaching the intended beneficiaries. There could be a reallocation of resources and a reassessment of the impact of ongoing programs.
    • Data-Driven Policy Formulation: The survey provides valuable data on the socio-economic profile of various caste groups in Bihar. This data can serve as a basis for evidence-based policy formulation, ensuring that welfare initiatives are targeted and effective.
    • Potential for Inclusivity: The survey has the potential to foster inclusivity in policy planning, ensuring that the most marginalized and underprivileged sections of society receive the attention and support they need for their socio-economic development.

    Conclusion

    • The ‘Bihar Caste-based Survey 2022’ has set the stage for significant changes in Bihar’s political landscape, reservation policies, and welfare programs. Its findings underscore the importance of addressing the needs of marginalized communities and could redefine the political discourse in the state.

    Also read:

    Takeaways from Bihar caste survey

  • Andhra Pradesh’s Guaranteed Pension System

    pension

    Central Idea

    • Andhra Pradesh’s Guaranteed Pension System (GPS) blends elements from both old and new pension schemes, offering the advantages of a guaranteed pension while not overly straining the state’s finances.
    • This innovative system holds the potential to preserve India’s hard-won pension reforms.

    What is the Andhra Pension System?

    • A Hybrid Approach: The Andhra Pradesh Guaranteed Pension System Bill, 2023, recently approved by the state assembly, introduces a unique blend of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and the New Pension Scheme (NPS) implemented in 2004.
    • Contributory Guarantee: This system ensures government employees a monthly pension equivalent to 50% of their last-drawn salary, including dearness allowance relief.
    • Reason for Introduction: Andhra Pradesh introduced GPS as a response to resistance against NPS, which was viewed by many as inferior to the earlier scheme. The return to OPS was considered fiscally unsustainable, with the potential to drive the state’s fiscal deficit to 8% by 2050.

    Breakthrough created

    • Long-standing Pension Reforms: India struggled for over a decade to implement pension reforms that led to the introduction of NPS in 2004.
    • Growing Discontent: Over time, public sentiment favored those receiving pensions under the old scheme, leading to discontent.
    • Political Promises: Political parties capitalized on this discontent, pledging to return to the old scheme if elected.
    • Andhra’s Middle Path: Andhra Pradesh’s GPS offers a middle ground, preventing a regressive return to the old scheme while addressing concerns about NPS.

    How does the Andhra System work?

    • Enhancing Attractiveness: The contributory system guarantees a pension equivalent to 50% of the last drawn salary.
    • Balancing Financial Burden: Any shortfall in NPS returns is covered by the government.
    • Current NPS Pensions: Presently, NPS pensions amount to around 40% of an employee’s last drawn salary. Therefore, the government only has to fund the remaining balance.

    Alternative to NPS

    • Contributory Nature: NPS is a contributory scheme, with both employees and employers contributing to a corpus invested for returns.
    • Uncertainty: In NPS, the pension amount is not guaranteed, as it depends on corpus returns influenced by market conditions.
    • Ignoring Inflation: NPS does not consider inflation or pay commission recommendations.
    • Market Dependency: Opposition to NPS is fueled by fears of further reductions in pension due to adverse market conditions.

    Why not revert to the Old Pension Scheme?

    • Budgetary Constraints: Under OPS, pensions were financed through the budget.
    • Unsustainable Growth: Pension liabilities for all states saw a compound annual growth rate of 34% for a 12-year period ending in 2021-22.
    • Budgetary Impact: In 2020-21, pension outgo accounted for 29.7% of states’ revenues.
    • Development Challenges: A return to OPS would strain government funds, hindering development efforts and operational financing.
    • Competitiveness Concerns: Such a shift could negatively impact India’s ease of doing business and overall competitiveness.

  • Circular migration

    What’s the news?

    • Circular migration gained prominence in the wake of globalization and technological advancements, facilitating easier mobility. As the world grapples with migration challenges, circular migration emerges as a balanced approach.

    Central idea

    • Circular migration, characterized by the cyclical movement of people between their country of origin and a destination country in search of seasonal employment, has gained significance in the global context. It offers unique opportunities and challenges in the realm of migration policy and development.

    Defining Circular Migration

    • Philippe Fargues defines circular migration based on specific criteria, including temporary residence, multiple entries into the destination country, freedom of movement between origin and destination, legal rights for migrants, protection of their rights, and a demand for temporary labor in the destination country.
    • A key aspect is the completion of at least two loops between two countries, signifying repeated movement.
    • For instance, if a migrant moves from country A to B and back to A, they are considered a return migrant. However, if they continue to country B again, they have completed two loops, earning them the label of a circular migrant.

    Circular Migration as Public Policy

    • For countries of origin: Remittances from circular migrants boost the domestic economy, fostering infrastructure development and improving living standards. However, it also poses the risk of losing skilled individuals to other nations.
    • For destination countries: Circular migration provides a source of low-skilled labor while minimizing permanent population growth

    The Advantages of Circular Migration in India

    • Rural to Urban Migration:
    • The growth of jobs in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and services has driven a substantial flow of migrants from rural areas to urban cities.
    • This trend has been particularly pronounced between 2004–2005 and 2011–2012 when the construction sector witnessed a significant increase in employment, especially for rural males.
    • This movement has provided rural populations with access to urban employment opportunities.
    • Inter-State Migration:
    • Uneven development following liberalization policies has led to inter-State migration. States like West Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar have witnessed high rates of out-migration.
    • While Delhi was historically a prominent destination, recent trends indicate an increased flow of migrants to southern States as well.
    • Economic Benefits:
    • Migrants often transition from agricultural jobs in their home states to low-skill jobs in destination states.
    • This shift typically results in increased income, with daily wage laborers in Kerala earning substantially more compared to their counterparts in states like West Bengal.
    • Household Welfare: Circular migration contributes to better household welfare through remittances sent back by migrants. These funds support improved nutrition, enhanced access to education and healthcare, and an overall increase in the standard of living for migrant families.
    • Empowerment of Women: The absence of male family members due to migration often leads to increased autonomy and decision-making power for women in migrant households. This shift in gender dynamics can have positive social and cultural implications.

    Challenges

    • Exploitation and Unsafe Conditions: Migrants, especially in southern States, often find themselves vulnerable to exploitation by middlemen or brokers. They may be subjected to unhygienic and unsafe working conditions, often without protective equipment.
    • Language Barriers: Language differences pose a significant obstacle for migrants, particularly when migrating to regions where the local language differs from their native tongue.
    • Resentment and Wage Disputes: Indigenous wage groups and labor unions may resent circular migrants, viewing them as competitors willing to work for lower wages. This can lead to wage disputes and conflicts.
    • Subsistence Migration: Many circular migrants engage in subsistence-level employment, with limited opportunities for savings or asset creation. Jobs are often seasonal and irregular, contributing to economic precarity.
    • Return Migration during Crises: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of circular migrants. When a lockdown was imposed in 2020, many migrants embarked on long journeys back to their hometowns due to the lack of job opportunities in the host States.

    The Way Forward: Measures to fully unlock the potential of circular migration

    • Ensuring Migrant Rights: Robust protection of migrant rights is crucial to address exploitation and abuse.
    • Skills Training: Providing migrants with skills training and language proficiency programs can enhance their employability and integration into host communities.
    • Safety Nets: Establishing social safety nets for circular migrants during times of crisis, such as the pandemic, is essential to prevent humanitarian disasters.
    • Integration Efforts: Encouraging integration initiatives in destination areas can help migrants feel more included and less marginalized.
    • Data Collection and Research: Governments should invest in data collection and research to better understand the extent and dynamics of circular migration.

    Conclusion

    • Circular migration presents a viable pathway to balance the needs of development and individual economic advancement. As circular migration continues to shape the global landscape, it is imperative that governments and policymakers adapt their strategies to harness its potential for the greater good.

  • Using AI for audit techniques

    What’s the news?

    • The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), Girish Chandra Murmu, who chairs the Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of the G20, has raised a crucial concern regarding the increasing reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for auditing purposes

    Central idea

    • The CAG has warned that the absolute dependence on AI may result in inaccurate audit findings and emphasized the significance of ethics as the foundation of responsible AI. In the realm of auditing, where transparency, objectivity, fairness, and bias avoidance are paramount, addressing these challenges is imperative.

    The Imperative of Responsible and Ethical AI

    • Credibility and Trust in Auditing: The credibility and trustworthiness of audit findings hinge on responsible AI practices. Without ethical AI, there is a risk of generating inaccurate audit results, which could undermine trust in the auditing process.
    • Data Integrity: The utmost importance is placed on data integrity in AI auditing. Responsible AI dictates that audit data must be complete, accurate, and relevant. Ensuring data integrity is paramount to prevent potentially misleading audit findings.
    • Ethical Data Usage: Responsible AI practices demand the use of data only from authorized and reputable sources. Leveraging data from unverified or unauthorized sources, such as social media, introduces biases and threatens the audit process’s integrity.
    • Regulation in India: It is imperative to address the need for AI regulation in India, drawing inspiration from the European Union’s AI Act as a pioneering example. Such regulations are seen as essential for promoting responsible and ethical AI use across various domains, including auditing.
    • Challenges for Auditors: Auditors at the CAG face an array of challenges when auditing AI systems. These include the imperative for data standardization, regulatory compliance, and the development of auditor expertise. These challenges underscore the significance of adhering to ethical AI practices.
    • International Audit Framework: The establishment of a common international audit framework for AI is deemed crucial. Such a framework would provide auditors with guidance on navigating the complexities of AI auditing while ensuring ethical standards are upheld.
    EU AI Act as a Pioneering Example

    The approval of the EU AI Act by the European Parliament serves as a pioneering example of comprehensive AI regulation.

    It introduces stringent restrictions and scrutiny for generative AI tools, like ChatGPT.

    India can learn from the EU’s approach to regulate AI technologies effectively.

    Challenges faced by the CAG in auditing AI systems

    • AI Regulation and Data Standardization: Establishing effective AI regulations and data standardization for consistent and accurate AI audits.
    • Data Source Authentication: Verifying the authenticity and reliability of data sources, especially those from unauthorized origins, impacting audit accuracy.
    • Data Integration and Cross-Referencing: Managing the complexity of integrating and cross-referencing data from diverse government sources and platforms, affecting audit efficiency.
    • Data Platform Synchronization: Achieving synchronization of data platforms across government entities through IT policies to streamline the audit process.
    • Digitalization Challenges: Addressing security concerns associated with digitalization initiatives, particularly in defense audits.
    • Lack of Precedents for AI Audits: Adapting existing IT frameworks and regulations for AI audits due to the absence of established precedents, adding complexity to the process.

    Compliance Issues in Auditing AI Systems

    • Variety of AI Auditing Frameworks: Global organizations have developed multiple AI auditing frameworks, including the COBIT framework for AI audit, the US Government Accountability Office framework, and the COSO ERM Framework. These diverse frameworks can lead to challenges in standardization and consistency in AI auditing practices.
    • Draft Guidance from the U.K.’s Information Commissioner’s Office: The U.K.’s Information Commissioner’s Office has published draft guidance on the AI auditing framework. While this guidance is a step forward, it may not provide comprehensive and universally accepted standards, leading to potential inconsistencies in AI audits.
    • Data Protection Impact Assessments: Organizations are legally required to conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments when using AI systems that process personal data. Ensuring compliance with these assessments adds complexity to AI audits, particularly regarding data privacy and security.

    Measures to Address these Challenges

    • Establish Clear AI Regulations and Data Standards: Advocate for the development and implementation of clear and comprehensive AI regulations and data standards to ensure audit consistency.
    • Implement Robust Data Verification Procedures: Implement robust data verification procedures and protocols, emphasizing the use of reliable and authorized data sources.
    • Develop Standardized Data Integration Methods: Develop standardized data integration methods and tools to simplify the process of cross-referencing data from various sources.
    • Enforce Data Platform Synchronization: Prioritize the synchronization of data platforms across government entities through the formulation and enforcement of IT policies.
    • Enhance Security Measures for Digitalization: Continuously assess and enhance security measures for digitalization initiatives, especially when dealing with sensitive data in defense audits.
    • Engage with Stakeholders to Develop AI-Specific Frameworks: Engage with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies and AI experts, to develop AI-specific auditing frameworks and standards, adapting existing IT frameworks as needed.

    The Need for AI Regulation in India

    • Ensuring Accuracy and Fair Use of Data: AI-generated content may raise issues related to copyright infringement and intellectual property rights. Regulatory frameworks can address these concerns and establish guidelines for the ethical and lawful use of data and content generated by AI systems.
    • Mitigating AI Bias: AI bias, which often stems from human bias in training data, poses inherent risks. Regulations can stipulate measures to mitigate bias and promote fairness in AI algorithms and decision-making processes.
    • Protection of Privacy: As AI technologies increasingly interact with personal data, privacy concerns arise. Regulatory frameworks can establish clear guidelines for data protection and privacy, safeguarding individuals’ personal information.
    • Consumer Protection: Regulations can protect consumers from AI-driven practices that may be deceptive or harmful. This includes measures to ensure transparency and fairness in AI-powered products and services.
    • Harmonious Fusion of Technology and Ethics: Achieving a harmonious fusion of technological progress and ethical considerations, as envisioned by Elon Musk, requires a multifaceted approach. Regulations can provide a structured framework for achieving this balance.

    What else?

    • Innovations in Ethical AI: Innovations like Elon Musk’s “Truth GPT,” aimed at creating a “maximum truth-seeking AI,” underscore the need for ethical AI development. Regulations can encourage and guide such innovations to align with ethical considerations and safety standards.
    • Global Trend Towards AI Regulation: Prominent global leaders, including the U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, are actively pursuing AI safety regulation. India can follow suit to ensure that it remains aligned with international AI standards and fosters collaboration in AI safety measures.

    Conclusion

    • As AI continues to play an increasingly significant role in auditing, the CAG must navigate complex challenges to ensure the credibility and accuracy of audit findings. India, too, needs to consider robust AI regulation while upholding ethics and data integrity to safeguard the integrity of the audit process and maintain public trust.

  • Bihar Caste Survey: Key Highlights

    bihar

    Central Idea

    • The Bihar government recently released the results of its caste survey, shedding light on the state’s demographic composition and caste dynamics.
    • This survey, the first of its kind since 1931, carries significant implications for politics, reservations, and electoral strategies in Bihar.

    Bihar Caste Survey

    • Caste Demographics: The survey reveals the following caste composition in Bihar:
      1. Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) – 36.01%.
      2. Other Backward Classes (OBCs) – 27.12%.
      3. Scheduled Castes (SCs) – 19.65%.
      4. Scheduled Tribes (STs) – 1.68% (most STs are part of Jharkhand since 2000).
      5. “Unreserved” (Forward Castes) – 15.52%.
    • Population Increase: Bihar’s population, according to the survey, is 13,07,25,310, compared to 10.41 crores recorded in the 2011 census. Hindus make up 81.99%, while Muslims constitute 17.72%. Other religious denominations have minuscule populations.

    Survey Process

    • Political Consensus: The decision to conduct the caste survey was made following an all-party meeting in June 2022, with a budget allocation of Rs 500 crore from the contingency fund.
    • Survey Phases: The survey occurred in two phases:
      1. The first phase involved counting households in January.
      2. The second phase, starting in April, aimed to collect caste, religion, economic, and family data.
    • Legal Challenge: The Patna High Court initially halted the survey, but it later resumed after the state clarified it was a “survey” and ensured data privacy.

    Significance

    • Changing Political Landscape: The politics of identity tied to reservations and backward caste assertion has evolved. The BJP’s appeal to OBCs has transformed the political landscape.
    • Opportunities for Backward Classes: Survey results may provide an opening for parties like JD(U) and RJD to mobilize backward classes. The Opposition alliance could use this data to push for a nationwide caste census.
    • Increased Quotas: The survey could fuel demands for expanding OBC quotas beyond 27% and creating sub-quotas for EBCs. The recommendations of the Justice Rohini Commission are expected to influence this debate.
    • Reservation Ceiling Debate: The data may reignite discussions on the 50% reservation ceiling imposed by the Supreme Court in 1992, a contentious issue in various states.

    Electoral Impact

    • Vote Bank Dynamics: EBCs, OBCs, and SCs, constituting over 82% of Bihar’s population, will be a crucial vote bank in upcoming elections.
    • Leadership Dynamics: Leaders like Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar have historically represented OBCs, EBCs, and Dalits. The BJP’s electoral strategy in Bihar will likely emphasize the Prime Minister’s OBC background.
    • Electoral Battles: Political parties will fiercely compete for the support of these influential caste groups, making Bihar a battleground state with complex caste dynamics.

    Why discuss this?

    • Caste Data in Census: Since India’s independence in 1947, every census until 2011 has published data on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Caste data was available in censuses before 1931.
    • 1941 Exception: In 1941, caste-based data was collected but not published due to World War II, as per M.W.M. Yeats, the Census Commissioner at that time.

    Demand for a Caste Census

    • Recurring Demand: The demand for a caste census surfaces before almost every census, primarily driven by groups belonging to Other Backward Classes (OBC) and other deprived sections, while it faces opposition from upper-caste sections.
    • Contemporary Demand: In recent times, opposition parties, especially during Census 2021 delays, have vociferously called for a caste census, focusing on “social justice” as a common rallying point.
    • Political Support: Many politicians have advocated for the release of data from the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011. They also called for a caste census and the removal of the 50% cap on SC/ST/OBC reservations.

    Centre’s Stand

    • Government Policy: The Indian government has consistently decided not to enumerate caste-wise populations, except for SCs and STs, as a matter of policy.
    • Policy Shift: However, in August 2018, following a meeting chaired by then-Home Minister, it was stated that data on OBCs would be collected during Census 2021.
    • RTI Response: When questioned about the meeting’s minutes, the Office of Registrar General of India (ORGI) claimed they did not maintain records of deliberations on this matter before the Ministry of Home Affairs’ announcement.

    Conclusion

    • A caste-based census is against the idea of a casteless society envisaged by leaders like Babasaheb Ambedkar in the Constitution and will weaken ongoing efforts to create social harmony.
    • While proponents argue for better representation and targeted policies, opponents emphasize the importance of moving towards a casteless society.

  • Takeaways from Bihar caste survey

    caste

    What’s the news?

    • The Bihar caste survey was released by the state government on October 2.

    Central idea

    • The recent release of the Bihar caste survey results has unveiled a complex tapestry of demographics in the state, bringing to the forefront the intricate interplay of caste politics. With EBCs and OBCs cumulatively constituting more than 63% of the population, the dynamics of political representation and reservation are poised for transformation.

    What is a caste-based survey?

    • A caste-based survey is a comprehensive data collection initiative launched by the Bihar state government in India.
    • The primary objective is to gain a deeper understanding of the living conditions and economic status of different communities, especially those that have historically faced marginalization and socio-economic disadvantage.

    Key Findings of the Survey

    • Demographic Breakdown:
    • The survey reveals a diverse demographic landscape in Bihar.
    • The EBCs, comprising 36.01% of the population, emerge as the largest social group,
    • Followed by OBCs at 27.12% and
    • Scheduled Castes (SCs) at 19.65%.
    • Scheduled Tribes (STs) account for a mere 1.68%, primarily due to the bifurcation of Jharkhand in 2000.
    • The unreserved category constitutes 15.52% of the population.
    • Religious Composition:
    • Bihar’s population, according to the survey, stands at 13,07,25,310, compared to the 10.41 crore recorded in the 2011 census.
    • Hindus make up 81.99% of the population, while Muslims account for 17.72%. Other religious denominations have minuscule populations.

    Survey Execution

    • The survey was undertaken following unanimous agreement among political parties in Bihar.
    • It was conducted in two phases.
    1. The first phase involved a household count from January 7 to 21.
    2. The second phase, initiated on April 15, aimed to collect data on castes, religions, economic backgrounds, and family size.
    • The survey faced legal challenges initially but was allowed to proceed after being labeled a survey rather than a census.

    Significance of Survey Findings

    • Changing Political Landscape: The survey highlights the evolving political landscape, where identity politics based on reservation and backward caste assertion is losing its grip. This shift has been influenced by the BJP’s outreach to OBCs through Hindutva and welfare measures.
    • Opportunity for Opposition: The survey results could provide an opportunity for the JD(U)-RJD alliance and other opposition parties to mobilize backward classes, potentially pressuring the BJP to conduct a nationwide caste census.
    • Demand for Quotas: The survey data may fuel demands to increase the OBC quota beyond 27% and introduce a quota within a quota for EBCs, especially in light of the Justice Rohini Commission’s pending recommendations.
    • Reservation Ceiling Debate: The survey’s findings could reignite the long-standing debate over the 50% reservation ceiling imposed by the Supreme Court, which has hindered states from expanding reservations.

    Impact on Upcoming Elections

    • The caste survey findings are likely to have a significant impact on the upcoming Lok Sabha and Bihar Assembly elections.
    • With EBCs, OBCs, and SCs representing over 82% of Bihar’s population, these groups will be key electoral battlegrounds.
    • Leaders like Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar are still seen as primary representatives of these communities, while the BJP faces the challenge of navigating Bihar’s complex caste dynamics.

    Rationale Behind a Caste Census

    • Incomplete Data: The standard Census focuses solely on SC and ST data, leaving a substantial void in comprehending the socio-economic aspects of OBCs and their subdivisions.
    • Targeted Policies: A lack of comprehensive data obstructs the creation of effective policies tailored to the distinct requirements of different caste groups.
    • Equitable Development: The caste census has the potential to reveal disparities within various castes, enabling customized development strategies for historically marginalized communities.
    • Historical and Contemporary Insights: With deep historical roots, the caste system’s evolution can be better understood through a comprehensive census that captures both historical and contemporary dynamics.
    • Constitutional Clarification: Legal scrutiny over caste surveys provides clarity on the authority to conduct such initiatives, delineating roles between state and central governments.
    • Evidence-Based Decision-Making: In a data-centric era, decisions grounded in concrete socio-economic data hold greater potential for equitable and effective governance.

    Conclusion

    • The Bihar caste survey has unveiled a complex web of caste demographics that will shape the state’s political landscape. It has the potential to rekindle debates on reservation policies, mobilize backward classes, and influence electoral outcomes. As Bihar prepares for crucial elections, the survey’s impact on political strategies and alliances remains to be seen.

    Also read:

    The Caste Census and Mandal Politics: Analysis

  • Challenges with MGNREGA’s Social Audit Mechanism

    Central Idea

    What is MGNREGS?

    Enacted Under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act of 2005
    Objective To guarantee the ‘Right to Work’ by providing employment opportunities for unskilled workers in rural areas.
    Origin Proposed in 1991 by V. Narasimha Rao and later enacted in 2005.
    Duration of Employment At least 100 days of employment is guaranteed to willing unskilled workers.
    Enforceable Commitment The scheme ensures an enforceable commitment on the implementing machinery, which is the State Governments, providing bargaining power to the laborers.
    Unemployment Allowance If employment is not provided within 15 days of receiving a job application from a prospective household, an unemployment allowance is paid to the job seekers.
    Eligibility Criteria Any Indian citizen above the age of 18 years residing in rural India can apply for the MGNREGS scheme. Applicants should be willing to engage in unskilled work.
    Geographical Proximity Employment is to be provided within 5 km of an applicant’s residence.
    Minimum Wages Minimum wages are to be paid for the work done under MGNREGS.
    Legal Entitlement Employment under MGNREGS is considered a legal entitlement.

    Issue of Inadequate Fund Recovery

    • Current Recovery Rates: Statistics from the Union Rural Development Ministry for the ongoing financial year indicate that less than 14% of the amount flagged by auditors has been successfully recovered.
    • Past Years’ Performance: The recovery figures for previous financial years paint a similarly bleak picture, with poor outcomes:
      1. 2022-23: ₹86.2 crore was identified as recoverable, but only ₹18 crore (20.8%) was retrieved.
      2. 2021-22: ₹171 crore misappropriation was flagged, but only ₹26 crore (15%) was recovered.
    • Social Audit Unit Independence: Section 17 of the MGNREGA Act mandates gram sabhas to monitor work execution, with independent social audit units in each state responsible for uncovering malpractice. However, their scope is limited to flagging issues, leaving recovery actions to state governments.

    Fund-Starved Audit Units

    • Seminar Insights: A recent Ministry seminar revealed a concerning scenario of underfunded social audit units lacking adequate training and personnel. These units play a crucial role in identifying cases of malpractice.
    • Funding Delay Issues: While the Union government funds these audit units to maintain their independence from state authorities, units in some states, such as Karnataka and Bihar, have faced funding delays for nearly two years.

    Poor Monitoring and Recovery

    • Consistent State Trends: Over the past three years, certain states consistently report “zero number of cases” and “zero recoveries,” casting doubt on the effectiveness of monitoring efforts.
    • Examples of Poor Recovery: States like Telangana have active social audit units flagging numerous cases, yet the recovery rates remain dismal. For instance, in the ongoing financial year, auditors identified ₹6.6 crore for recovery, but only ₹2,087 has been recuperated so far.
    • Vigilance and Pressure: While the Centre’s vigilance and pressure on states to recover misappropriated funds are appreciated, there are concerns regarding states that identify multiple cases but struggle with recovery. Furthermore, states reporting no cases indicate a lack of effective monitoring.

    Conclusion

    • Challenging Recovery Landscape: The MGNREGA scheme’s social audit units serve as a crucial mechanism to combat corruption, but the inadequate recovery of embezzled funds threatens their credibility.
    • Need for Adequate Resources: To make the audit process effective, it is imperative to ensure that social audit units are adequately funded, trained, and staffed.
    • Balancing Act: Balancing scrutiny with recovery actions is vital to enhance the transparency and integrity of the MGNREGA scheme, which plays a pivotal role in rural employment and development.