💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • WHO Report on Tobacco Control

    Central Idea

    • The WHO has released a report on the progress made in global tobacco control in the last 15 years.
    • The report highlights the impact of the MPOWER measures, introduced by WHO, to combat tobacco use and protect public health.

    What are MPOWER measures by WHO?

    • The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a set of global health targets known as “MPOWER measures” to address the global tobacco epidemic.
    • These measures are evidence-based strategies aimed at reducing tobacco use and its associated health risks.
    • The MPOWER measures were developed to assist countries in implementing effective tobacco control policies and interventions.
    • The term “MPOWER” is an acronym, with each letter representing a specific area of focus:
    1. M – Monitor tobacco use and prevention policies
    2. P – Protect people from tobacco smoke
    3. O– Offer help to quit tobacco use
    4. W – Warn about the dangers of tobacco
    5. E – Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship
    6. R – Raise taxes on tobacco products

    Key Findings of the Report

    • Reduction in Smoking: Globally, there are 300 million fewer smokers today, with smoking prevalence declining from 22.8% in 2007 to 17% in 2021. In a city-specific example, hundreds of enforcement drives and awareness campaigns resulted in a 27% reduction in smoking in public places.
    • Impact of MPOWER Measures: The MPOWER measures have positively impacted tobacco control efforts worldwide. 71% of the global population, or 5.6 billion people, are protected by at least one MPOWER measure, up from 5% in 2008. The number of countries implementing at least one measure has increased from 44 to 151.
    • Global Challenges: Despite progress, 44 countries still do not implement any MPOWER measure, and there are shortcomings in enforcing smoke-free policies in healthcare facilities and restaurants.
    • Focus on Second-Hand Smoke: The report emphasizes the importance of curbing second-hand smoke, which causes significant health risks, including 1.3 million tobacco-related deaths among non-smokers annually. India is among the countries making efforts to control this aspect.

    India’s Achievements and Areas for Improvement

    • Health Warning Labels: India ranks among the top 10 countries for having health warning labels on cigarette packs, with 85% of packs carrying warnings on both sides.
    • Ban on E-cigarettes: India has implemented a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes, which WHO recognizes as an essential step in curbing the tobacco epidemic.
    • Smoking Bans: India has banned smoking in healthcare facilities and educational institutions, although there is scope for improvement in terms of enforcement.
    • Warnings on OTT Platforms: India is taking significant steps to implement warnings on over-the-top (OTT) platform content showing tobacco use, making it the first country to do so. This move is crucial, given the increased subscriptions to OTT platforms during the pandemic.

    Expert Perspectives

    • Experts suggest the need for further amendments to India’s comprehensive tobacco control laws, with specific attention to banning the loose sale of cigarettes.
    • Implementing warnings on OTT platforms is seen as a necessary measure to reach a broader audience, especially young viewers.

    Conclusion

    • The WHO report highlights the global progress in reducing smoking prevalence and implementing tobacco control measures.
    • While India has made significant strides in certain aspects of tobacco control, there are areas that require continued attention and action.

  • Data Protection Bill 2023: What the law must do for children online

    online

    What’s the news?

    • As a reworked version of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022 (DPDP Bill) reaches Parliament, it is prudent to talk about one demographic that often receives less attention in the conversation on data privacy — children

    Central idea

    • With children constituting over 15 per cent of active internet users in the country and their online activities evolving rapidly, protecting their safety and privacy online has become a critical concern.

    Vulnerability of children online

    • Limited Understanding: Children often have limited understanding of the potential risks and consequences associated with sharing personal information online. They may not fully grasp the permanence and public nature of their digital footprint.
    • Trust and Naivety: Due to their trusting nature, children can be easily deceived by online predators or malicious individuals who take advantage of their naivety.
    • Lack of Experience: Many children lack the experience to recognize scams, phishing attempts, or deceptive content, making them more susceptible to online fraud and misinformation.
    • Cyberbullying and Harassment: Children can become victims of cyberbullying, harassment, or online abuse, which can have severe psychological and emotional effects on their well-being.
    • Inappropriate Content Exposure: Without proper supervision, children may stumble upon inappropriate or harmful content online, impacting their mental health and development.
    • Social Media Pressure: Children may face pressure to conform to certain social media standards, leading to self-esteem issues and the desire to share personal information or engage in risky behaviors to fit in.
    • Data Privacy Concerns: Children may unknowingly share sensitive data, such as location information, contact details, or pictures, making them potential targets for privacy breaches or data misuse.
    • Lack of Parental Guidance: In some cases, parents may be less tech-savvy or unaware of their children’s online activities, leaving them exposed to online risks without proper guidance

    How DPDP Bill ensures online safety for children?

    • Definition of Minors: The DPDP Bill defines individuals under the age of 18 as minors. This definition acknowledges that children are particularly vulnerable and deserve additional safeguards for their personal data.
    • Data Processing Obligations: The bill places three specific conditions on data processing entities when handling children’s data:
    1. Obtaining verifiable parental consent: As mentioned above, entities must ensure they have proper consent from a parent or guardian before processing a child’s data.
    2. Not causing harm to children: Data processing activities should not harm or exploit children in any way.
    3. Not tracking or targeting ads at children: Entities are prohibited from tracking children’s online behavior for targeted advertising purposes.
    • Exemptions: The bill allows the government to exempt certain entities from the requirement of parental consent and tracking and targeting ads for specific purposes. However, such exemptions must be for the best interests of a child.

    Why a graded approach is necessary?

    • Age Diversity and Developmental Stages: Children’s maturity levels vary across different age groups. A rigid age requirement may not consider the developmental stages of children, leading to over- or under-protection of their data.
    • Balancing Access and Protection: A graded approach allows for a balance between age-appropriate access to digital services and data protection. It enables children to access educational platforms while imposing stricter age-gating for services with higher privacy risks.
    • Promoting Digital Literacy: Gradually exposing children to digital platforms with age-appropriate content fosters digital literacy and responsible online behavior from an early age.
    • Preventing Misrepresentation: A strict age-gating requirement might encourage children to misrepresent their age to access certain services, defeating the purpose of data protection measures.
    • Adapting to Technological Advancements: The digital landscape is dynamic, with new services constantly emerging. A graded approach allows for flexibility in adjusting age requirements as technology evolves.

    Way forward

    • Graded Approach Implementation: Adopt a graded and risk-based approach to age-gating for accessing different digital services. This approach allows the government to set varied age thresholds based on privacy risks, ensuring age-appropriate access while protecting children’s data.
    • Clear Guidelines for Age Verification and Consent: Provide clear and reliable mechanisms for age verification and obtaining parental consent. Ensure that these mechanisms adhere to data protection principles like data minimization and purpose limitation to prevent unintended data collection.
    • Defining Verifiably Safe Manner: Articulate core principles of what qualifies as a verifiably safe manner for processing children’s data to avoid ambiguity. This will guide data processing entities in ensuring children’s safety and privacy.
    • Promoting Digital Literacy: Develop and implement digital literacy programs that educate children about online risks and responsible behavior. These initiatives should be integrated into school curricula, and awareness campaigns for parents and guardians should be conducted.
    • Parental Guidance and Involvement: Encourage active parental involvement in their children’s online activities. Provide resources and workshops to help parents understand the digital world and support their children in using digital services safely.
    • Collaboration with Tech Companies: Engage with technology companies to develop age-appropriate interfaces, privacy settings, and content filters. Prioritize child safety in the design and features of digital platforms.
    • Robust Reporting Mechanisms: Establish accessible and user-friendly reporting mechanisms for inappropriate content, cyberbullying, or any other online harm targeting children. Promptly address reported issues and take appropriate actions.

    Conclusion

    • As India deliberates on various laws and policies to regulate the internet, it is crucial to prioritize the needs and interests of children. Protecting children’s data privacy will not only secure their online experiences but also foster responsible digital citizenship from an early age

    Also read:

    [Sureshot]Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill, 2022

  • IIM bill 2023

    What’s the news?

    • A new amendment bill introduced by the Centre in the Lok Sabha has sparked a debate on the autonomy of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). The bill proposes to make the President of India the Visitor to IIMs with powers to audit their functioning, order probes, and appoint as well as remove directors.

    Central idea

    • In 2017, the Parliament passed the IIM Act, significantly expanding the autonomy of IIMs and giving them greater control over their affairs. One crucial provision mandated an independent review of the institutes every three years, with the report to be made public. However, after six years, only a few IIMs have complied with this requirement, leading the government to table the IIM (Amendment) Bill in 2023.

    The proposed provisions in the Bill

    • Creation of the Post of Visitor: The Bill proposes the creation of the post of Visitor, who will be the President of India. The Visitor will play a crucial role in overseeing the functioning of the IIMs and ensuring proper governance.
    • Appointment Powers: The Visitor will have the authority to appoint the chairperson of the Board of Governors (BoG) of the IIMs. This move grants the President of India a significant say in the leadership of the institutes.
    • Involvement in Director Appointments: The Bill empowers the Visitor to have a say in the appointment process for directors of IIMs. The Visitor will have representation on the selection committee for the appointment of directors, allowing them to influence the choice of institute heads.
    • Review and Inquiry Initiation: The Visitor will have the power to initiate reviews or inquiries into the affairs of any IIM. This provision allows for greater oversight and scrutiny of the institutes’ functioning.
    • Director Removal: The Visitor will be granted the authority to remove a director of an IIM if deemed necessary. This move gives the President the power to take action against directors who may not be performing their duties effectively or who are involved in any misconduct.

    Issues with the Current Governance

    • Lack of Accountability: The current governance structure in IIMs lacks adequate accountability due to the significant autonomy granted by the 2017 IIM Act. This has led to a governance vacuum with limited checks and balances on directors’ actions, potentially resulting in mismanagement.
    • Absence of Norms on Key Matters: The IIM Act’s failure to establish clear norms on crucial matters, such as the appointment of key positions, has led to a lack of transparency and objectivity in decision-making.
    • Turmoil and Protests: Some IIMs have experienced internal turmoil and protests against administrative decisions, indicating a disconnect between management and stakeholders.
    • For instance, at IIM Ahmedabad, faculty and alumni protested against changes to the institute’s logo and the decision to demolish architecturally significant structures on the campus.
    • Rising MBA Course Fees: An additional concern with the current governance is the relentless rise in the fee for MBA courses, which is not necessarily related to the actual costs of the course.
    • Unresponsive to Queries and Suggestions: There have been reports that some IIMs have been unresponsive to queries and suggestions from various stakeholders, including the government.
    • Uneven Governance Practices: The level of governance and accountability might vary across different IIMs. Some of the lower-ranked IIMs have been accused of operating as petty tyrannies, with directors holding unchecked power.

    Importance of Government Control

    • Ensuring Accountability: Government control is crucial to ensuring accountability in the functioning of educational institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It helps prevent misuse of power, financial irregularities, and a lack of transparency.
    • Preserving the Public Interest: As public institutions, IIMs have a responsibility to serve the public interest. Government control ensures that the institutes remain focused on their core mission of providing quality education and contributing to socio-economic development.
    • Academic Integrity: Government oversight safeguards academic integrity by promoting fairness in faculty appointments, curriculum design, and research activities.
    • Addressing Societal Needs: Government involvement allows IIMs to align their objectives with societal demands, producing graduates with relevant skills to address the country’s evolving challenges.
    • Equitable Access and Affordability: Government control promotes inclusivity by implementing policies that ensure equal access to quality education, irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds.
    • Quality Assurance: Government oversight allows the establishment of quality assurance mechanisms, ensuring that the IIMs maintain their reputation as world-class institutions adhering to global standards.

    Concerns Regarding the IIM Amendment Bill 2023

    • Potential Government Control: Critics and some directors of IIMs are concerned about increased government control over the institutions through the designation of the President of India as the Visitor with powers to appoint and remove directors.
    • Autonomy Erosion: The bill has raised fears that it may undermine the autonomy granted to IIMs in 2017, potentially leading to a dilution of their independence and decision-making authority.
    • Lack of Stakeholder Involvement: Stakeholders, including directors of IIMs, are apprehensive about insufficient consultation during the bill’s drafting, which they believe could impact the institutes’ governance.
    • Apprehensions About the Independent Board Model: Critics argue that the existing independent board model governing B-schools has been successful globally and could continue to be effective in India without introducing a Visitor.
    • Potential for Ideological Influence: The critiques allege that the bill may be used to enforce ideological conformity, raising concerns about the Visitor’s influence over the institutes’ academic pursuits.
    • Impact on Institutional Reputation: Uncertainty surrounding the bill could affect IIMs’ reputation, leading stakeholders to question their stability and governance.

    Way Forward

    • Inclusive Consultation: The government should engage in inclusive consultations with IIMs, education experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to address concerns and ensure broad consensus on the bill’s provisions.
    • Amendment Refinements: Based on feedback received during consultations, the government should consider refining the bill’s provisions to strike an appropriate balance between accountability and autonomy.
    • Codifying Norms: Clear norms and guidelines should be incorporated into the bill to provide a framework for responsible governance while allowing flexibility in decision-making.
    • Promote Transparency: The bill should emphasize transparency in decision-making processes and overall governance to build trust among stakeholders.
    • Continuous Evaluation: Implementing a system of continuous evaluation and feedback will help gauge the effectiveness of the bill’s provisions.
    • Focus on Quality Education: The primary focus should remain on maintaining and improving the quality of education in IIMs while fostering greater accountability.

    Conclusion

    • The Bill reflects the government’s efforts to restore accountability and democratic oversight in the IIM system. Striking the right balance between autonomy and accountability is vital to maintaining the IIMs’ esteemed position in the Indian education landscape.

  • What is Zero FIR?

    zero FIR

    Central Idea

    • Recent incidents of violence and crime in Manipur have brought the concept of the ‘Zero First Information Report (FIR)’ into the spotlight.
    • The Supreme Court has sought for all data regarding such FIRs in Manipur Gangrape Incidence.

    What is Zero FIR?

    • Provision and Purpose: Zero FIR allows any police station to register an FIR for a cognisable offence without assigning a regular FIR number initially.
    • No diary: Whereas FIRs have serial numbers assigned to them, zero FIRs are assigned the number ‘0’. Hence the name.
    • Swift Action: The relevant police station subsequently registers a fresh FIR and commences the investigation.
    • Focus on Victims: It is designed to expedite complaint lodging, particularly for serious crimes involving women and children, without the need to approach multiple police stations.
    • Preserving Evidence: Early registration helps prevent the loss or tampering of crucial evidence and witnesses.
    • Transferred Jurisdiction: The Zero FIR is later transferred to the relevant police station where the offence occurred or where the investigation should be conducted.

    How does it work?

    • After a police station registers a zero FIR, it has to transfer the complaint to a police station that has the jurisdiction to investigate the alleged offence.
    • Once a zero FIR is transferred, the police station with the appropriate jurisdiction assigns it a serial number, thereby converting it into a regular FIR.

    Legal Provisions for Zero FIR

    The provision of Zero FIR finds support in various judgments and recommendations.

    • Satvinder Kaur vs. State (1999): The Delhi High Court held that a woman has the right to lodge her complaint from any place other than where the incident occurred.
    • Justice Verma Committee (2012): The introduction of Zero FIR was based on the recommendation of the Justice Verma Committee, which was formed in response to the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case.
    • Lalita Kumari vs. Govt. of UP (2014): The Supreme Court ruled that registration of an FIR is mandatory when information discloses the commission of a cognizable offence.

    Back2Basics: First Information Report (FIR)

    • Essential Document: An FIR is a written document prepared by the police upon receiving information about a cognisable offence.
    • What is a cognisable offences? It is when an officer can arrest a suspect without a court’s warrant if/she has “reason to believe” that the person committed the offence and arrest is necessary based on certain factors.
    • Triggering Investigation: It serves as the first step towards initiating the investigation process and subsequent police actions.
    • Registration for Cognizable Offences: Section 154(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) empowers the police to register an FIR for cognizable offences.
    • Punishment for Non-Registration: Section 166A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) provides punishment for public servants failing to record information related to a cognizable offence, with imprisonment of up to two years and a fine.

  • LPG consumption in Indian households saw an absolute reduction in 2023

    What’s the news?

    • For the first time, LPG consumption in Indian households saw an absolute reduction in 2023 (minus 0.5% versus FY22) after years of steady growth.

    Central idea

    • Over the past 15 years, the Government of India has endeavored to replicate the urban success of LPG adoption in rural and poorer households. The Grameen Vitrak Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) have significantly expanded the rural distributor base from 18% to 60%. However, the recent decline in LPG consumption raised questions about its sustainability and highlighted the need for a transition.

    Significant growth in the LPG sector

    • Share Increase: The share of Indian households using LPG as their primary cooking fuel rose from 33% in 2011 to 71% in 2020, according to the India Residential Energy Consumption Survey (IRES) conducted by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW).
    • Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): The successful implementation of PMUY, launched in May 2016, played a pivotal role in promoting LPG adoption. Over 8 crore (80 million) free LPG connections were provided to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households by March 2021.
    • Reduction of Health and Environmental Hazards: The increased adoption of LPG has led to a reduction in health hazards caused by traditional cooking fuels like firewood, crop residues, and dung cakes. Indoor air pollution, particularly affecting women who spent long hours cooking in smoky kitchens, has decreased.
    • Government Initiatives: Government policies and initiatives aimed at promoting clean cooking solutions have contributed to the growing awareness among Indian households about the benefits of LPG as a clean fuel for cooking

    Challenges faced by the LPG sector

    • Financial Barriers: The withdrawal of LPG subsidies for all consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 created financial barriers for many households, affecting their ability to afford LPG refills.
    • Underutilization of Subsidies: Despite providing three free cylinders to all PMUY consumers in FY21 as part of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, only 14.1 crore out of the possible 24 crore free cylinders were consumed, indicating challenges in reaching the intended beneficiaries and ensuring full utilization of the provided benefits.
    • Distribution and Logistics: Despite significant efforts, home delivery and distribution channel issues persisted, particularly affecting non-PMUY consumers, leading to slow refill rates and hindering the seamless supply of LPG.
    • Price Volatility: Indian households have experienced a near-doubling in LPG prices since May 2020 in nominal terms due to volatile international prices, especially since the Russian war against Ukraine. This price volatility affects the affordability and accessibility of LPG for consumers.
    • Import Dependency: India’s dependence on imported LPG (the refined commodity) has steadily increased to over 64% in FY23, compared to 46% in the pre-PMUY phase. This import dependency exposes the country to international market risks and supply disruptions.
    • Budgetary Constraints: Given the domestic budget’s reliance on petroleum taxation and uncertain international prices, it is unlikely that India can return to a regime where a subsidy of approximately INR 20,000 crore (2011–12 prices) was provided each year for LPG consumption over the first two decades of the 21st century.

    Steps and a data-driven approach for India’s clean cooking transition

    • Promote Electric Cooking: India should actively promote electric cooking, including induction cook-tops, to offset the reliance on flame-based cooking. The IRES conducted by CEEW showed that even at a high tariff of ₹8 per unit of electricity, electric cooking remains cheaper than LPG cooking at current prices.
    • Leverage Electricity Access in Rural Areas: With near-universal access to electricity connections in rural areas, specific cooking needs can be shifted to electricity. This approach can effectively reduce the reliance on LPG in rural households.
    • Incentivize Transition to Electric Cooking: Policymakers can use a telescopically increasing LPG prices beyond a threshold, such as seven cylinders per average household.
    • Support Domestic Manufacturing Ecosystem: Demand from early adopters of electric cooking can spur the domestic manufacturing ecosystem for electric cooking technologies.
    • Monetize Avoided Emissions: By transitioning from traditional chulhas to electric cooking, India can avoid climate pollutant release. This can be monetized through the newly launched carbon market, providing financial resources to support the adoption of electric cooking by poorer rural communities.
    • Shift the Policy Focus: Policymakers need to move beyond LPG subsidies alone and focus on fostering a bouquet of solutions for India’s clean cooking goals.

    Conclusion

    • While LPG subsidies have played a crucial role in improving adoption, it is time for India’s clean cooking policy to diversify and embrace a range of clean-cooking technologies. By nurturing a bouquet of clean cooking solutions, India can pave the way for a sustainable and healthier future.

  • A new national foundation and the ease of doing research

    What’s the news?

    • The Union Cabinet recently cleared a bill enabling the setting up of the National Research Foundation (NRF), with a corpus of Rs 50,000 crore, to be placed in Parliament in the Monsoon Session.

    “There is no single factor more important to the intellectual, social, and economic progress of a nation and to the enhanced well-being of its citizens than the continuous creation and acquisition of new knowledge.”

    Central Idea

    • The NRF has sparked enthusiasm among researchers and academics, who are eagerly awaiting a boost in research and development (R&D) expenditures by the government. The NRF’s vision, as outlined in the Draft National Education Policy (DNEP) 2019 and the detailed project report (DPR) 2019, is founded on the principle that progress and well-being depend on generating new scientific and social knowledge.

    What is the NRF?

    • The NRF is a proposed autonomous institution in India, aimed at promoting and funding research and development activities across various disciplines.
    • The NRF is founded on the belief that the advancement of human well-being and progress relies on the creation of new scientific and social knowledge.
    • It is inspired by the successful model of the National Science Foundation (NSF) of the United States, which has been a major driver of research and innovation in the US.

    Functioning and Governance

    • The NRF will be established as the highest governing body for scientific research, in accordance with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).
    • The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will serve as the administrative department of the NRF, with a Governing Board consisting of eminent researchers and professionals from various disciplines.
    • The PM will be the ex-officio President of the Board, while the Union Minister of Science and Technology and the Union Minister of Education will be the ex-officio Vice-Presidents.
    • The Principal Scientific Adviser will chair the Executive Council responsible for the NRF’s functioning.

    Mission and Objectives

    • Capacity Building: The NRF will focus on enhancing research capabilities at universities and colleges. It will establish doctoral and postdoctoral programs, set up “Centres of Excellence” at universities, and provide funding for shared infrastructure. Mentorship programs will be initiated to empower faculty members and students in higher education institutions.
    • Nurturing Excellence in Cutting-Edge Research: The NRF will support curiosity-driven research across disciplines, creating a repository of knowledge for potential future applications and independent work within the country. It will encourage international collaborations and participation in mega-science projects to strengthen research capacity.
    • Research for Societal Impact: The NRF will fund competitive peer-reviewed grant proposals across all disciplines, including interdisciplinary research, and across various institutions. It will play a vital role in supporting research with tangible societal impact, recognizing outstanding research through awards and national seminars.

    Financial Autonomy and Flexibility of the NRF

    • Autonomy in Decision-Making: As an autonomous institution, the NRF will have the authority to make independent decisions related to financial matters, including budget allocation, funding priorities, and research project support. This autonomy enables the NRF to align its financial strategies with its research objectives effectively.
    • Block Grant Funding: The NRF will receive financial support from the government in the form of a block grant. The NRF’s governing board will have the discretion to allocate these funds based on the organization’s needs and priorities.
    • Flexibility in Allocation: To sustain and enhance the NRF’s activities in the long run, the DPR had proposed an annual grant that would eventually aim to reach at least 0.1% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), approximately Rs 20,000 crore in current terms
    • Remuneration Structure: The NRF will have the flexibility to determine the remuneration structure for fellowships, projects, and other financial support mechanisms. This ensures that researchers are adequately incentivized and compensated, attracting top talent and promoting quality research.
    • Transparent Financial Management: While enjoying financial autonomy and flexibility, the NRF will be accountable for its financial decisions. The NRF’s governing board will establish transparent financial rules and guidelines to ensure proper budget management, reporting, and accountability.
    • Corpus Creation: In the initial years, any unspent funds will be held to create a corpus. This corpus will be professionally managed to generate steady returns, which can be utilized to support future research funding and initiatives.

    Conclusion

    • The establishment of the NRF marks a pivotal moment in India’s research landscape. With its ambitious missions, commitment to excellence, and focus on societal impact, the NRF is poised to transform India into a research and innovation powerhouse. By fostering a culture of inquiry, providing support to cutting-edge research, and promoting collaborations, the NRF has the potential to propel India to a position of global leadership.

    Also read:

    Where India lags in science, research fields, and can National Research Foundation help fix it?

  • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023 passed in Rajya Sabha: What new provisions say on piracy, certifying movies

    What’s the news

    • The Rajya Sabha on July 27 passed the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, that introduces stringent anti-piracy provisions, expanding the scope of the law from censorship to also cover copyright.

    Central idea

    • The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeks to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952, which authorises the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to require cuts in films and clear them for exhibition in cinemas and on television. It also empowers the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to give separate certificates for a film’s exhibition on television or other media.

    What is meant by film piracy?

    • Film piracy refers to the unauthorized copying, distribution, exhibition, or downloading of films without the consent of the copyright owner or the film’s creators. It involves the illegal duplication and dissemination of copyrighted movies through various means.
    • Film piracy is a significant concern for the film industry, as it undermines the economic viability of films and negatively impacts the revenue generated from legitimate sources.

    What is the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)?

    • The CBFC, commonly known as the Censor Board, is a statutory body in India responsible for certifying films for public exhibition.
    • It operates under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
    • The CBFC’s primary role is to review and rate films based on their content and to ensure that films adhere to the guidelines and principles laid down in the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the rules framed thereunder.

    Key provisions of the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023

    • Crackdown on Film Piracy: The bill aims to address the issue of film piracy by imposing strict penalties on those involved in making pirated copies of movies. It prescribes a three-year jail term and a fine of up to 5% of a movie’s production cost for offenders.
    • Introduction of New Certifications: The bill proposes three new certifications under the ‘UA’ (Parental Guidance) category: UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+. These certifications indicate that children younger than the specified age limits can watch such movies with parental guidance.
    • Empowerment of the CBFC: The bill grants enhanced powers to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue separate certificates for films to be exhibited on television or other media platforms. It also clarifies that the CBFC certificates will be valid perpetually and that the Centre will not have any revisional powers over them.
    • Harmonization with Existing Laws: The bill aims to harmonize the Cinematograph Act, 1952 with other laws that tangentially address piracy, such as the Copyright Act, 1957, and the Information Technology Act, 2000.

    The journey of the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill

    • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2019: The first version of the bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha in 2019. It was primarily focused on addressing film piracy. The bill aimed to introduce measures to tackle the unauthorized recording and exhibition of films, which had been causing significant financial losses to the film industry.
    • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2021: In response to the recommendations made by the Standing Committee on Information Technology and the feedback received from stakeholders and the public, a revised version of the bill was released.
    • Public Feedback and Consultations: The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2021, was made available for public comments and feedback. This step allowed individuals and organizations to provide their views on the proposed amendments, ensuring a more inclusive and participatory legislative process.
    • Industry Stakeholder Consultations: In 2022, consultations were held with industry stakeholders, including representatives from the film industry and related sectors. The input and concerns raised during these consultations were taken into account to further refine and finalize the provisions of the bill.
    • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023: Based on the inputs gathered from public feedback and industry stakeholders, the final version of the bill, now known as the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was prepared. This version included all the proposed changes and updates aimed at addressing film piracy, enhancing film certification, and aligning the Cinematograph Act with other relevant laws.

    Significance of the Bill

    • Curbing Film Piracy: The bill introduces stringent penalties to deter film piracy, addressing a significant concern for the film industry and protecting intellectual property rights.
    • Age-Appropriate Film Viewing: The introduction of new age-based certifications ensures that films are categorized appropriately, allowing parents to make informed decisions about their children’s film choices.
    • Modernizing Film Certification: The bill empowers the CBFC to issue separate certificates for films shown on various media platforms and provides perpetual validity to CBFC certificates, streamlining the film certification process.
    • Aligning with Existing Laws: The amendment harmonizes the Cinematograph Act, 1952, with other relevant laws, ensuring consistency and coherence in the legal framework governing the film industry.
    • Addressing Industry Demands: The bill responds to the film industry’s demand to combat unauthorized film exhibition and recording, protecting the industry’s interests and fostering a thriving creative environment.
    • Strengthening the Film Industry: By curbing piracy and protecting intellectual property, the bill aims to strengthen the film industry, attract investments, and contribute to India’s cultural and economic landscape.

    Conclusion

    • The passage of the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, is a significant step towards protecting the film industry from piracy and streamlining the film certification process. By embracing the necessary amendments, India reaffirms its commitment to nurturing a vibrant and thriving film industry while safeguarding creative content from piracy-related challenges.

  • Ayushman Bharat expose: How to nudge India’s public health infrastructure

    What’s the news?

    • A recent report has revealed disturbing incidents of deception against poor patients at Safdarjung Hospital (‘Bypassing Ayushman Bharat, doctor at a top government hospital duped patients and made killings on implants).

    Central Idea

    • Designing a government-sponsored health insurance scheme for the poor presents significant challenges, including the issue of information asymmetry between doctors and patients, which may lead to the denial of benefits for the disadvantaged.

    What is Ayushman Bharat?

    • Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat or the National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS), is a flagship government-sponsored health insurance scheme launched by the Government of India in September 2018. The primary aim of PMJAY is to provide financial protection and access to quality healthcare to economically vulnerable sections of society.

    Key features

    • Health Insurance Coverage: PMJAY provides health insurance coverage to eligible beneficiaries, especially those belonging to economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income families. It aims to cover around 10 crore (100 million) families across India.
    • Cashless and Paperless Treatment: Under PMJAY, eligible beneficiaries can avail of cashless and paperless treatment in empaneled public and private hospitals across the country. The scheme ensures that beneficiaries are not required to pay for the treatment at the time of hospitalization.
    • Pre-Defined Medical Packages: The scheme offers a comprehensive set of pre-defined medical packages covering various medical and surgical treatments. These packages are designed to provide essential healthcare services, including diagnostics, medicines, and other treatments.
    • Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: PMJAY provides coverage for pre-existing illnesses and health conditions from the date of enrollment. This ensures that beneficiaries with existing health conditions can also access healthcare services under the scheme.
    • No Cap on Family Size: There is no restriction on the family size covered under PMJAY. All eligible family members can avail of the benefits of the scheme.
    • Portability: PMJAY is portable across the country, meaning beneficiaries can avail of treatment in any empaneled hospital in any state or Union Territory, irrespective of their place of origin
    • Identification of Beneficiaries: Beneficiaries under PMJAY are identified through the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data and are issued the Ayushman Bharat – PMJAY Golden Card, which serves as proof of eligibility.
    • Online Verification: The scheme employs an online verification process to ensure seamless and efficient identification and validation of beneficiaries.
    • Collaborative Effort: PMJAY is a joint collaboration between the central and state governments, and each state has the flexibility to implement the scheme based on its specific requirements.

    The Incident of deceptive practices at Safdarjung Hospital

    • Misleading Patients: The report reveals that certain doctors deceive patients by providing false information about delays in Ayushman Bharat Clearance. This deceptive tactic aims to divert patients towards private alternatives rather than enrolling them in the PMJAY scheme.
    • Influence of Treating Doctors: The incident highlights the significant role of treating doctors in determining the medical package for patients and whether they are enrolled under the PMJAY scheme.

    Concerns raised over the implementation of government-sponsored health insurance schemes

    • Deceptive Practices: Misinformation about Ayushman Bharat Clearance delays is used as a tactic to divert patients towards private alternatives instead of enrolling them in the PMJAY. Such practices can deprive eligible patients of government-sponsored health insurance benefits and lead to potential financial exploitation.
    • Doctor’s Influence: The treating doctors wield significant influence in determining the medical package for patients and their enrollment in the PMJAY scheme. This discretionary power can create an environment where some doctors prioritize their personal interests, such as financial gains from private channels, over the best interests of their patients.
    • Lack of Active Interest: Although the time taken to settle claims was reasonable, the proportion of settled claims in public facilities was lower compared to private facilities. This points to potential issues in operational dynamics that may hinder the effective implementation of the scheme and limit its benefits for the poor.
    • Inadequate Incentives: The financial incentives provided to doctors in public facilities under PMJAY may not be sufficiently attractive to encourage them to actively participate in the scheme. Some doctors may find greater financial gains through rent-seeking practices with private players, leading to a preference for private alternatives over the government-sponsored scheme.
    • Limited Supporting Staff: The presence of limited supporting staff, such as Arogyamitras, responsible for registering patients under PMJAY, may impact the smooth implementation of the scheme. The Arogyamitras’ remuneration being linked to pre-authorizations rather than claim settlement may result in less emphasis on claim follow-up and documentation.

    Way forward: Steps to improve operational dynamics

    • Enhancing Doctor Incentives: Reviewing and revising the financial incentives provided to treating doctors could make the PMJAY scheme more attractive and encourage greater participation.
    • Strengthening Arogyamitras’ Role: Linking the remuneration of Arogyamitras to the successful claim settlement and providing necessary support staff can incentivize them to be more proactive in claim documentation and follow-up.
    • Streamlining the Claim Settlement Process: Simplifying and expediting the claim settlement process can encourage public facilities to actively participate in PMJAY, ensuring timely reimbursements and improving their financial viability.
    • Increased Oversight: Implementing regular audits and stringent penalties for fraudulent practices can help curb deceptive activities and enhance transparency and accountability within public facilities.

    Conclusion

    • While the potential of PMJAY has been extensively discussed in the context of private hospitals, the operational dynamics within public facilities have received less attention. A collaborative effort involving doctors, Arogyamitras, and state governments can unleash the true potential of these schemes, contributing to improved health outcomes and greater inclusivity in healthcare services.

    ALso read:

    Digital Birth Certificates to streamline Official Documentation

  • Digital Birth Certificates to streamline Official Documentation

    birth

    Central Idea

    • India has tabled Registration of Births and Deaths (RBD) Amendment Bill, 2023 to introduce digital birth certificates that will serve as comprehensive documents for various essential purposes.

    About RBD Bill, 2023

    • It amends the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.
    • The Act provides for the regulation of registration of births and deaths.

    Key Points from the Bill

    • National Database: The Bill mandates the appointment of a Registrar General of India to maintain a national database of registered births and deaths. State-level databases will also be maintained by Chief Registrars, connected to the national database.
    • Aadhaar Integration: Specified persons reporting births must provide Aadhaar details of parents and informants, expanding to include adoptive parents, biological parents in surrogacy cases, and single parents or unwed mothers.
    • Digital Registration: The proposed Bill aims to introduce digital registration and electronic delivery of birth and death certificates, streamlining services for the public.
    • Mandatory Death Certificates: Medical institutions must provide certificates regarding the cause of death for deaths occurring within their premises.
    • Quick disbursal of Certificates: The Registrar must provide birth and death certificates to the person who registered the event within 7 days of registration.
    • Appeal Process: Individuals dissatisfied with the actions or orders of the Registrar or District Registrar may appeal to the District Registrar or Chief Registrar, respectively, within 30 days of receipt. The decision on the appeal must be given within 90 days.
    • Child adoption ease: The Bill seeks to collect Aadhaar details to facilitate registration for adopted, orphaned, abandoned, surrendered, surrogate, and children of single parents or unwed mothers.
    • Integration with National Population Register (NPR): The database generated through the CRS will also be used to update the NPR, ration cards, and property registration records, enhancing the effectiveness of the NPR and laying the groundwork for the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

    Conclusion

    • India’s move towards digital birth certificates marks a significant milestone in streamlining administrative processes and public services.
    • By adopting a centralized system for registration and digital delivery of certificates, the country aims to improve efficiency and transparency in accessing various essential services.

  • UNESCO endorses Banning Smartphones from Schools

    smartphone

    Central Idea

    • The UNESCO has released Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report 2023.
    • The report warned against the negative impacts of excessive screen time on children’s well-being and academic performance.

    What is UNESCO?
    Full Name United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
    Established November 16, 1945
    Headquarters Paris, France
    Director-General Audrey Azoulay
    Purpose To promote peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.
    Functions – Promoting education for all

    – Supporting scientific research

    – Safeguarding cultural heritage

    – Fostering freedom of expression

    – Promoting media development
    Membership Over 190 member states
    World Heritage Sites Over 1,100 designated sites worldwide
    Languages Official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish

    Working languages: English, French

    About Global Education Monitoring Report 2023

    • Established in 2002, the GEM Report is an editorially independent report, hosted and published by UNESCO.
    • At the 2015 World Education Forum, it received a mandate from 160 governments to monitor and report on progress on education SDG 4.0.
    • The report provides in-depth analysis and assessment of key education issues and challenges worldwide.
    • It also offers evidence-based insights and policy recommendations to improve education systems and outcomes.

    Concerns raised in the report

    • Ills of digital learning: The report highlights that learning benefits diminish if technology is used excessively or without qualified teachers’ involvement.
    • Equitable Learning: The report reveals that inequities in learning emerge when instruction becomes exclusively remote, affecting vulnerable students, especially in rural areas.
    • Evidence-based Approach: The report urges for sound, impartial evidence on technology’s impact in education, as most available evidence originates from technology companies and may be biased.
    • Long-term Costs and Sustainability: Countries need to consider the long-term costs of digital learning and connectivity. The expansion of the Edtech market should not overshadow unmet basic education needs.
    • Threats posed by AI: The growth of generative AI and technology necessitates digital literacy and critical thinking skills.
    • Protecting Children’s Rights: During the pandemic, many online education initiatives risked infringing on children’s rights.

    Key endorsements: Banning smartphones in schools

    • The report endorses banning smartphones in schools if technology integration does not improve learning or negatively affects student well-being.
    • Research indicates that banning mobile phones from schools can lead to better academic performance, especially among low-performing students.