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Subject: Governance

Important aspects of Society

  • RTI and Political Parties: The Accountability Debate

    rti

    Central Idea

    • Chief Justice of India acknowledged the concerns raised by political parties regarding the potential disclosure of internal decisions under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
    • The case before the three-judge Bench seeks to determine whether national and regional political parties should be considered “public authorities” under the RTI Act.
    • The court will delve into the matter further to strike a balance between transparency and the confidentiality of parties’ internal functions.

    Facts for Prelims: Right to Information (RTI) Act

    Enactment June 15, 2005
    Objective Promote transparency and accountability
    Applicability All public authorities at central, state, local levels
    Scope Access to information on matters of public interest, government policies, budgets, etc.
    RTI Application Filed in writing with the concerned public authority
    Response Time Within 30 days (48 hours for life or liberty issues)
    Exemptions Some information exempted to protect national security, privacy, etc.

    Judiciary
    Fees Nominal fee varies based on state and information requested
    First Appellate Authority Filed if dissatisfied with the response
    Second Appeal Filed with the relevant Information Commission
    Whistleblower Protection Safeguards against victimization for exposing corruption
    Impact Promotes transparency, accountability, and good governance

    RTI Act and Political Parties

    • Petitions Seeking Declaration: A batch of petitions has been filed, urging that political parties should be classified as “public authorities” under the RTI Act. The Congress, BJP, and other parties are respondents in this case.
    • Concerns Raised: The Communist Party supports financial transparency but objects to revealing confidential information, such as candidate selection processes and internal discussions.
    • Judicial Observation: CJI acknowledged the concerns, indicating that parties may have a point in not disclosing internal candidate selection processes.

    Arguments Presented

    • Benefits and Governance Role: Petitioners argue that political parties receive considerable benefits from the government, including bungalows, and play a role in governance through legislator control.
    • CIC’s Ruling: The Central Information Commission (CIC) had previously declared political parties as public authorities in 2013 and 2015.
    • Parties’ Response: Political parties have expressed reservations, stating that RTI disclosure may intrude on confidential discussions, affect their stance towards the government, and hinder their ability to organize protests against government policies.
    • Union Government’s Stand: The government opposes the petitions, contending that parties’ internal functioning and financial information should not be compelled under the RTI Act, as this could be misused by political rivals.

    CIC’s Interpretation

    • Liberal Interpretation of RTI Act: The CIC’s interpretation of Section 2(h) of the RTI Act, classifying political parties as public authorities, has been disputed.
    • Political Parties Not Government Bodies: The Centre argues that political parties are not government bodies established by the Constitution or any parliamentary law.
    • Existing Transparency Provisions: The Income Tax Act and the Representation of the People Act already require necessary transparency regarding financial aspects of political parties.

    Conclusion

    • The case raises essential questions about transparency versus confidentiality in their internal operations of a political party.
    • Striking a balance between citizens’ right to information and parties’ right to maintain confidentiality will be crucial in the court’s deliberation.
    • The judgment could set a precedent for how political parties are held accountable to the public while safeguarding their internal processes.

  • How are films Certified in India?

    Central Idea

    • Union Information & Broadcasting Minister has expressed displeasure with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over its approval of the Hollywood film “Oppenheimer.”
    • The Minister has reportedly asked officials to remove a particular scene from the movie that has generated controversy on social media.

    Understanding the CBFC

    films

    • Role: The Central Board of Film Certification is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, responsible for regulating the public exhibition of films in India under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
    • Certification Requirement: Films can be screened in India only after receiving certification from the Board.
    • Composition: The CBFC comprises a Chairperson and members appointed by the Central Government. There are nine Regional Offices with Advisory Panels to assist in the examination of films.

    Film Certification Process

    • Examining Committee: After submitting all film materials and requisite fees, a regional officer forms an Examining Committee to view the film. For short films (shorter than 72 minutes), the committee includes a CBFC officer and one advisory panel member, with at least one being a woman. For long films (longer than 72 minutes), at least two committee members must be women.
    • Certification Recommendations: Each committee member provides a written report with their recommendations for modifications and classification of the film.
    • CBFC Decision: The Chairperson reviews the committee’s reports and initiates further procedures based on their recommendations.

    Types of Certifications:

    1. Unrestricted Public Exhibition (U)
    2. Parental Guidance for children below age 12 (U/A)
    3. Adult (A)
    4. Viewing by specialized groups (S)

    Controversies and Appeals

    • Suggested Changes: CBFC may suggest modifications or excisions in the film before granting certification. Applicants dissatisfied with the certification or suggested changes can apply to the Revising Committee.
    • Revising Committee: The Revising Committee consists of the Chairperson and up to nine members from the board and advisory panel.
    • Appellate Tribunal: If disagreements persist, the Appellate Tribunal, an independent body, can be approached.

  • Excision and Merger of Civil Areas in Cantonments

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has put forward a proposal to excise civil areas in 58 cantonments across the country, intending to merge them with State municipalities.
    • Earlier in May, the centre kicked off a plan to abolish the 62 cantonments around the country as “archaic colonial legacies”.

    What are Cantonments?

    • Definition: Cantonments are permanent military stations where a group of military personnel are stationed for administrative purposes. They are governed by the Cantonments Act, 2006, which provides for municipal administration and control of these areas.
    • Number and Locations: India currently has 62 cantonments spread across various states, with some areas known for their better infrastructure and facilities compared to other parts of the country.
    • Cantonment Boards: Cantonments are managed by Cantonment Boards, which are democratic bodies comprising elected and nominated members. The Station Commander of the Cantonment serves as the ex-officio President of the Board.

    Historical Background

    • The Cantonments Act, 1924, was enacted by the British to regulate the municipal administration of cantonments.
    • After India’s independence, the Cantonments Act was modified to suit the democratic setup of the country.
    • The current Cantonments Act, 2006, replaced the previous version, aiming to provide greater autonomy and accountability to the Cantonment Boards.

    Categories of the erstwhile Cantonments

    Cantonments are categorized based on the population size residing within them:

    1. Category I: Cantonments with a population of over 50,000.
    2. Category II: Cantonments with a population of 10,000 to 50,000.
    3. Category III: Cantonments with a population of less than 10,000.
    4. Category IV: Industrial or training Cantonments, irrespective of their population size.

    Broader plan

    • Conversion to Exclusive Military Stations: Under the plan, military areas within all cantonments will be carved out and designated as “exclusive military stations.” The Army will exercise “absolute control” over these areas, streamlining their administration and operations.
    • Merger with Local Municipalities: The civilian areas of cantonments will be integrated with the respective local municipalities. These municipalities will take up the responsibility of maintaining these areas, along with providing essential services and infrastructure.
    • Move Away from Traditional Cantonment Concept: Post-independence, the Indian Army moved away from the traditional cantonment concept, primarily due to friction between military and civilian authorities. However, certain major cantonments continued to exist, such as Pune Cantonment and Agra Cantonment.

  • Centre withdraws DNA Bill

    dna

    Central Idea

    • The Union government recently withdrew the DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2019, from the Lok Sabha.

    DNA Bill, 2019: Highlights

    • The Bill, first proposed in 2003, aims to establish a regulatory framework for obtaining, storing, and testing DNA samples of individuals, primarily for criminal investigations and establishing identity.
    • Over the years, the Bill has undergone changes and was referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee in 2019.
    • The committee raised concerns about potential misuse based on religion, caste, or political views.

    Key Features

    • Objective: The Bill sought to create a regulatory framework for DNA sample collection, testing, and storage, primarily for criminal investigations and establishing a person’s identity.
    • Existing Uses of DNA Technology: DNA testing is already employed for criminal investigations, parentage establishment, and locating missing individuals.
    • Proposed Institutional Structures: The Bill aimed to establish a DNA regulatory board and a DNA data bank at the national level, with the possibility of regional centers at the state level.
    • Role of the DNA Regulatory Board: The board would frame guidelines and rules for DNA collection, testing, and storage.
    • DNA Data Bank: The data bank would store all DNA samples collected under specified rules.
    • Restricted Testing: DNA sample testing would be allowed only at laboratories authorized by the regulatory board.
    • Handling of DNA Samples: The Bill specified the circumstances under which individuals could be asked to submit DNA samples, the purposes for such requests, and the exact procedures for handling, storing, and accessing these samples.

    Controversies and Objections against the Bill:

    • Reliability of DNA Technology: Critics raised concerns about the foolproof nature of DNA technology and its potential for error.
    • Risk of Misuse: The main debate centered on the possibility of abuse of DNA information. Detractors feared that intrusive DNA data collection and storage could lead to misuse and violations of individual privacy.
    • Privacy Concerns: DNA information reveals not only a person’s identity but also physical and biological attributes such as eye, hair, or skin color, susceptibility to diseases, and possible medical history. Critics argued that storing such personal information could compromise privacy rights.

    Standing Committee’s Concerns

    • Technical and Sensitive Nature: The Standing Committee’s report acknowledged that the Bill was technical, complex, and sensitive.
    • Addressing Fears: The report recognized and addressed concerns expressed by several members about the potential misuse of DNA technology based on factors like religion, caste, or political views.

    Government’s Defense of the Bill

    • International Precedents: The government argued that nearly 60 countries have enacted similar legislation, justifying the need for such a law in India.
    • Limited Information Storage: The government contended that only a limited set of numbers, just 17 out of the billions that DNA samples can reveal, would be stored in the indices. This information would act as a unique identifier and not reveal any personal details.

    Conclusion

    • The withdrawal of the Bill marks a pause in the government’s efforts to create a regulatory framework for DNA technology usage.
    • The controversies and objections raised highlight the need for a balanced approach.
    • The Centre must address concerns over misuse and privacy while harnessing the potential benefits of DNA technology for criminal investigations and other purposes.

    Back2Basics: DNA

    • DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries the genetic instructions necessary for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses.
    • It is often referred to as the “building blocks of life.”

    Key features of DNA include:

    1. Molecular Structure: DNA is a double-stranded molecule, consisting of two long chains of nucleotides that form a double helix. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
    2. Base Pairing: The two DNA strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs. Adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always pairs with guanine (G).
    3. Genetic Code: The sequence of nucleotide bases along the DNA strand constitutes the genetic code, which determines the specific traits and characteristics of an organism.
    4. Genes: DNA is organized into specific segments called genes, which are responsible for encoding proteins or functional RNA molecules. Proteins play a crucial role in various biological processes, while RNA molecules contribute to gene expression and protein synthesis.
    5. Replication: DNA has the unique ability to replicate itself through a process called DNA replication. During cell division, the DNA unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical DNA molecules.
    6. Inheritance: DNA is passed from one generation to the next through reproduction, ensuring the transmission of genetic information from parents to offspring.
    7. Role in Protein Synthesis: DNA provides the instructions for protein synthesis through a two-step process. First, the information in a gene is transcribed into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. Then, the mRNA is translated by ribosomes in the cell to produce specific proteins.
    8. Genetic Variation: Mutations, or changes in the DNA sequence, can lead to genetic variation within a species. These variations are essential for evolution and adaptation to changing environments.

  • Is there a Rural Bias in National Surveys?

    survey

    Central Idea

    • The Centre has appointed a panel to review the methodology of the National Statistical Organisation (NSO).
    • This step comes amid discussions regarding the accuracy of national surveys such as the National Sample Survey (NSS), National Family Health Survey (NFHS), and Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS).

    About National Statistical Office (NSO)

    Historical Background:

    • The NSO was established in 1950 as the Central Statistical Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Planning.
    • It was later renamed the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 1970 and subsequently became the NSO in 2019.
    • Over the years, it has evolved to become the primary statistical agency in India.

    Organizational Structure:

    • The NSO consists of several divisions and units responsible for different statistical functions.
    • These include the Survey Design and Research Division, Field Operations Division, Data Processing Division, National Accounts Division, Price Statistics Division, and Social Statistics Division, among others.

    Key organizations under NSO: Central Statistical Office (CSO)

    • The CSO is a part of the NSO and focuses on macroeconomic statistics and national income accounting.
    • It is responsible for producing key economic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Wholesale Price Index (WPI).

    Important Surveys Conducted:

    1. Population Census: The NSO conducts a decennial Population Census in collaboration with the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. The census collects data on population size, composition, and other demographic characteristics.
    2. National Sample Survey (NSS): The NSS is a large-scale household survey conducted by the NSO to collect data on various socio-economic aspects. It provides valuable information on employment, consumer expenditure, poverty, education, health, and other important indicators.
    3. Economic Census: The NSO conducts the Economic Census periodically to collect data on the number of business establishments, their distribution across sectors and regions, employment, and other relevant economic variables.
    4. Annual Survey of Industries (ASI): The ASI is conducted by the NSO to collect data on the performance and structure of the industrial sector in India. It covers various aspects such as employment, wages, production, and financial indicators.
    5. Agricultural Census: The NSO conducts the Agricultural Census periodically to collect comprehensive data on agricultural holdings, cropping patterns, land use, irrigation, livestock, and other relevant agricultural variables.
    6. Health and Morbidity Survey: The NSO conducts surveys on health and morbidity to gather data on healthcare utilization, access to healthcare services, prevalence of diseases, and other health-related indicators.

    Why under review?

    • Concerns about Methodology: Experts argue that the usage of outdated survey methodology in national surveys may have systematically underestimated India’s development.
    • Narrower capture of data: The dynamic nature of the Indian economy over the last 30 years might not be adequately captured.
    • Different Perspectives: While some experts believe there is no systematic underestimation of development by these surveys, they acknowledge the presence of errors that should be minimized.
    • Role of National Data: Accurate national-level data is crucial for research, policymaking, and development planning.

    Focus on NFHS Data

    • Crucial development data: The National Family Health Survey provides vital data on health and family welfare indicators.
    • Claims of Bias: Some experts suggest that national surveys, including NFHS, may exhibit a “rural bias” in representation, leading to an underestimation of India’s development.
    • Issue of Error and Random Bias: While errors in population estimations have occurred in some rounds, they appear to be random rather than systematic.

    Minimizing Errors in Data Collection

    • Improving Response Rates: Efforts to increase response rates in both rural and urban areas can lead to more accurate data.
    • Importance of Sample Weights: Proper assignment of sample weights can significantly improve the accuracy of estimations and correct any underrepresentation of rural or urban populations.

    Recommendations for the Review Panel:

    • Addressing Concerns: The review panel should focus on ensuring that the samples are adequately representative rather than proposing a complete overhaul of survey methodologies.
    • Correcting Bias Where It Exists: While addressing any perceived biases, the panel should aim to eliminate bias where it genuinely exists without introducing new biases in policymaking and planning.

    Conclusion

    • Accurate data serves as the bedrock of progress and development in the country.
    • Reviewing the methodology of national surveys is vital to ensure accurate and representative data for India’s development.
    • Striking the right balance between addressing concerns and minimizing errors will lead to more informed decision-making and policy formulation.

  • Tele-MANAS counsels 2 Lakh distressed people

    manas

    Central Idea: The government-run national tele-mental health programme, Tele MANAS, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving over 2,00,000 calls from individuals across India since its launch in October 2022.

    What is Tele-MANAS?

    • Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative has been launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2022.
    • It aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas.

    Implementation of the scheme

    • Counselling: The programme includes a network of 38 tele-mental health centres of excellence spread across 27 States and UTs working in over 20 languages.
    • Helpline: A toll-free, 24/7 helpline number (14416) has been set up across the country allowing callers to select the language of choice for availing services. Service is also accessible at 1-800-91-4416.

    Two-tier working

    • Tele-MANAS will be organised in a two-tier system; Tier 1 comprises state Tele-MANAS cells which include trained counsellors and mental health specialists.
    • Tier 2 will comprise specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e-Sanjeevani for audio-visual consultation.

    Call Demographics and Concerns

    • Age Group: Two-thirds of the callers fall in the 18-45 years age group, while 12.5% belong to the 46-64 years age group, and 8% are below 18 years of age.
    • Gender Distribution: Of the two lakh calls, 59.6% were made by male callers, and 40% by female callers.
    • Top Concerns: The most common reasons for seeking help were general feelings of sadness (28.8%), sleep-related problems (27.6%), anxiety (20.4%), relationship issues (10%), aggression (9.2%), and low interest in activities (9.7%).

    Expansion of the scheme

    • The initial rollout providing basic support and counselling through a centralized Interactive Voice Response system (IVRS) is being customized for use across all States and UTs.
    • It is being linked with other services like National teleconsultation, e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat, mental health professionals, health centres, and emergency psychiatric facilities for specialized care.
    • This will not only help in providing immediate mental healthcare services but also facilitate a continuum of care.
    • Eventually, this will include the entire spectrum of mental wellness and illness, and integrate all systems that provide mental health care.

    Back2Basics: National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP)

    • The Indian Government announced the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the Union Budget 2022-23.
    • The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru is the nodal centre for the programme.
    • The programme sought to establish a digital mental health network that can address the mental health crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • The pandemic has brought forth challenges to mental health, and the NTMHP aims to provide accessible and affordable mental health services to all.
    • The programme will involve the use of digital platforms such as teleconsultations, chatbots, and mobile applications to deliver mental health services.
    • The NTMHP will integrate with existing mental health services to provide a comprehensive and coordinated approach to mental healthcare.

  • Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023

    cinema

    Central Idea

    • Union Information and Broadcasting Minister has introduced the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha, with the goal of addressing piracy concerns in the film industry.
    • It seeks to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

    What is the Cinematograph Act, 1952?

    • The Cinematograph Act of 1952, was enacted by the Parliament to ensure that films are shown in accordance with the limits of tolerance of society.
    • The Act establishes the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC, or the censor board) to certify films.
    • Under the Act, the Board scrutinizes the films following the procedure laid down in the Act and can either reject or grant a certificate, valid for ten years.
    • The Act authorizes the police to perform search and seizure actions if the film is being exhibited in contravention of any of the provisions of the Act.

    Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023

    Amendment The bill proposes to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952
    Harsher Penalty The act has provisions for harsher penal provisions for film piracy
    New Age Categories It introduces new sub-age categories for films to bring about uniformity in categorisation across platforms
    Perpetual Certification The certification once given will be perpetual
    New Sub-age based Certification UA-7+’, ‘UA-13+’, and ‘UA-16+’ in place for 12 years
    Alignment The act will be aligned with Supreme Court judgments
    Recertification Recertification of the edited film for television broadcast
    Public Exhibition Only Unrestricted Public Exhibition category films can be shown on television
    Uniformity It will make the act provisions in line with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 to maintain uniformity

    Stringent Laws against Piracy

    Details
    Imprisonment and Penalty It includes imprisonment for three years and a Rs 10 lakh penalty for those found involved in piracy
    Legal Offence The act of piracy will be a legal offense, and even transmitting pirated content will be punishable

    Indian Cinema: A Backgrounder

    • The history of Indian cinema dates back to the late 19th century, with the screening of the Lumiere Brothers’ short films in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1896.
    • Dadasaheb Phalke is considered to be the father of Indian cinema.
    • The first Indian-made film, Raja Harishchandra, was released by him in 1913 and marked the beginning of Indian cinema.
    • The first Indian talkie, Alam Ara, was released in 1931, marking a new era in Indian cinema.

    Contribution of Indian Cinema

    (1) Economic contribution

    • Revenue Source: The film industry contributes significantly to the country’s economy, generating substantial revenue through production, distribution, and exhibition.
    • Employment Generation: The film sector offers employment opportunities to millions of people in various related fields.
    • Allied Sectors: The film industry provides a boost to other industries like advertising, hospitality, tourism, and fashion.
    • Entertainment Economy: Cinema houses and multiplexes generate revenue through ticket sales, concessions, and merchandise sales.

    (2) Societal Contribution

    • Social Cause: Movies have addressed crucial social issues, raising awareness and encouraging discussions.
    • Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Strong female characters in films challenge traditional gender roles, positively impacting women’s status.
    • Accessible Entertainment: Cinema breaks social barriers by providing affordable and accessible entertainment.
    • Inspirational Aspects: Movies inspire the youth, leading them to look up to their favorite stars as role models.

    (3) Nation Building

    • Promotion of Social Harmony: Indian cinema showcases diversity and cultural richness, promoting social harmony and unity.
    • Inculcation of Moral Values: Films play a crucial role in imparting moral values and social responsibilities.
    • Creating Awareness about Social Issues: Movies raise awareness about various social issues, breaking taboos and addressing important topics.

    Issues with Indian Cinema

    • Portrayal of Violence and Sexuality: Some films depict violence and sexual content, impacting younger viewers negatively.
    • Reinforcement of Stereotypes: Certain films reinforce gender, caste, and religious stereotypes, perpetuating prejudice.
    • Promotion of Materialism: Movies that promote materialism can lead to unrealistic expectations and values.
    • Lack of Diversity: The lack of diversity in mainstream films needs to be addressed to ensure equal representation.
    • Undue Commercialization: Excessive commercialization may overshadow the importance of quality content.
    • Nepotism: The practice of nepotism can hinder deserving talent from entering the industry.

    Way Forward

    • Revising the Certification Process: Ensure transparency and accountability in the certification process.
    • Protecting Artistic Freedom: Safeguard artistic freedom and creativity in filmmaking.
    • Encouraging Regional Cinema: Promote and support regional cinema through incentives and subsidies.
    • Promoting Cultural Diversity: Encourage filmmakers to explore diverse cultures and promote intercultural dialogue.
    • Combating Piracy: Take effective measures to combat film piracy and protect revenues.
    • Developing Film Infrastructure: Invest in developing film infrastructure and educational facilities.

  • Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) to curb Land-Linked Illegal Activities

    land ulpin

    Central Idea

    • President Murmu emphasized the importance of implementing a Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN).

    What is ULPIN?

    • ULPIN or Bhu-Aadhaar is a 14-digit Alpha–Numeric Unique ID for each land parcel.
    • This is the next step in the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP) which began in 2008.
    • The identification will be based on the longitude and latitude coordinates of the land parcel, and is dependent on detailed surveys and geo-referenced cadastral maps.
    • ULPIN is generated using the Electronic Commerce Code Management Association (ECCMA) standards during the importing of the geo-referenced shape file into BhuNaksha, a cadastral mapping solution of NIC.

    Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP)

    • DILRMP is a central sector scheme implemented by the Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development.
    • Erstwhile National Land Record Modernization Programme, it was revamped and converted as a Central Sector Scheme with effect from 1st April, 2016 with 100% funding by the Centre.
    • The program aims to develop an Integrated Land Information Management System (ILIMS) across the country by leveraging the commonalities in land records systems in different states.
    • It integrates land records processes and databases with financial institutions, banks, circle rates, registration offices, and other sectors.
    • The program includes the computerization of land records, survey/re-survey activities, and digitization of registration processes.

     

    Benefits of ULPIN

    • Curbing malpractices: The implementation of ULPIN and digitization of land records can significantly reduce unethical and illegal activities related to land. The transparency brought about by digitization enhances accountability and curbs malpractices.
    • Efficient Land Use: ULPIN will facilitate proper utilization of land parcels and aid in the formulation and implementation of new schemes.
    • Linkage with E-Courts: Connecting E-Courts with land records and registration databases offers multiple benefits, including improved accessibility to information and streamlined legal processes related to land disputes.
    • Indestructible documentation: Digitization of land records proves valuable in times of calamities such as floods and fires, as it helps in preventing loss of documents and expedites the recovery process.

    Impacts on Development and Welfare

    • Development Catalyst: By providing transparent and accessible land information, digitization supports informed decision-making and effective resource management.
    • Proper Scheme Implementation: Linking land records with various government departments facilitates the efficient implementation of welfare schemes ex. PM Awas Yojana.
    • Beneficiary targeting: Accurate and up-to-date land data helps identify beneficiaries and ensures the targeted delivery of benefits and services.

  • Fostering India’s demographic dividend by upskilling

    demographic

    What’s the news?

    • India has a unique window of opportunity to unlock the potential of its youth with 1.1 billion people estimated to be in the working age group (15-64) by 2047.

    Central idea

    • World Youth Skills Day, observed annually since 2014, highlights the importance of investing in the skills of youth to foster future employment and entrepreneurial spirit. With a significant youth population, India stands poised to unlock the potential of working-age individuals. However, without sufficient opportunities, the youth bulge could transform into a demographic bomb.

    What is demographic dividend?

    • Demographic dividend, as defined by the United Nations Population Fund, is the economic growth potential that can result from shifts in a population’s age structure, mainly when the share of the working-age population is larger than the non-working-age share of the population

    India’s robust youth skills program

    • The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) operates its umbrella scheme, the Skill India Mission launched in 2015- objective to develop a skilful youth workforce of the future- Providing proper skillset training to over 400 million young people by the year 2022
    • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)– a skill certification scheme of the MSDE implemented by- National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)- aims to mobilise and equip the youth population with the necessary skill sets training.
    • National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF)- to enable candidates to acquire desired competency levels
    • Recognition of Prior Learning Learning (RPL)—skill certification for youth, especially in the unregulated sectors
    • Kaushal—a hands-on awareness-based approach with the intention of attracting potential candidates for skill training
    • Rozgar Mela—a career placement fair for young jobs seekers.
    • PMKVY 2.0, which ran from 2016 to 2020, aimed to equip 10 million young people with demand-driven skill sets through short-term training and Recognition of Prior Learning.
    • PMKVY 3.0, launched in 2020-21, provided training to over 7.36 lakh candidates, including a specialized crash course for COVID warriors.
    • Skill Hub Initiative was introduced to align vocational training with the National Education Policy 2020 and create a skilled workforce aligned with industry needs.
    • PMKVY 4.0 will be launched soon to take skill development to a wider young segment- it will also cover niche new age technologies such as coding, Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, mechanotrics, Internet of Things (IOT), 3D-printing, drones, and developing other soft skills.
    • The NAPS launched in 2016 has been promoting Apprenticeship in the country through financial incentives, technology, and advocacy support.
    • PM-YUVA was launched in 2016 as an all-India scheme to promote business studies, and facilitate access to entrepreneurship support networks and start-ups ideas for the youth.
    • Project AMBER strives to provide holistic skilling to foster quality jobs, improved employment opportunities and retention methods.
    • The Skill Loan Scheme was launched in July 2015 to provide finance to the youth for enrolment in skill development courses

    Challenges regarding India’s youth skills enabling journey

    • According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), India is projected to face a significant skill deficit of 29 million by 2030.
    • Skill development programs have suffered from underutilization of funds and high dropout rates.
    • Gender disparity in India’s workforce, with a female labor participation rate of only 22
    • Only a fraction of certified individuals has found jobs through the skill development programs.

    Way forward

    • Enhance the effectiveness of basic education– incorporating relevant and practical skills training, updating curricula– align with industry needs, and promoting experiential learning approaches.
    • Foster closer collaboration between skill development initiatives and industries to ensure the relevance of training programs.
    • Promote gender equality in skill development programs– encouraging more women to participate in training, providing support systems tailored to their needs, and creating opportunities for women to enter non-traditional sectors.
    • Address the funding gap and ensure effective utilization of resources in skill development initiatives.
    • Develop robust job placement and retention strategies, including establishing strong linkages with industries, facilitating internships and apprenticeships.
    • Regularly assess labor market needs and trends to update skill training programs.
    • Conduct public awareness campaigns to promote vocational skills as aspirational career choices

    Conclusion

    • India’s journey towards youth skill development has witnessed commendable efforts. However, addressing the skill deficit and unlocking the true potential of the youth requires continued investment, policy enhancements, and stakeholder collaboration. Through concerted efforts, India can maximize its demographic dividend for the workforce of the future.

    Also read:

    India’s Population Growth: Dividend or a Disaster?

  • India achieves record DPT3 vaccination coverage in 2022: WHO

    dpt3

    Central Idea

    • The coverage rate for DPT3 vaccines (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) in India reached an all-time high of 93% in 2022, surpassing the pre-pandemic record of 91% in 2019.
    • This significant increase from the 85% coverage in 2021 was reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).

    What is DPT3?

    • DPT3 vaccines refer to a combination vaccine that provides protection against three infectious diseases: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus.
    • The “DPT” in DPT3 stands for the initials of these three diseases:
    1. Diphtheria: It is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It can cause severe throat and nose congestion, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, it can lead to heart and nerve damage.
    2. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): It is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound when gasping for breath. Pertussis can be particularly dangerous for infants and young children.
    3. Tetanus: Also known as lockjaw, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It enters the body through wounds or cuts and produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles.

    WHO records on immunization

    • DPT3 Coverage Recovery: The WHO South-East Asia Region saw the DPT3 coverage recover to pre-pandemic levels of 91% in 2022, a significant increase from 82% in 2021.
    • Measles Vaccine Coverage: The region also witnessed a six percent improvement in measles vaccine coverage, rising to 92% in 2022 from 86% in 2021.
    • Zero-Dose Children: The number of zero-dose children (those who have not received even the first dose of the DPT vaccine) halved from 4.6 million in 2021 to 2.3 million in 2022.
    • Partially Vaccinated Children: The number of partially vaccinated children (those who received at least one dose but not the complete three-dose series) decreased from 1.3 million in 2021 to 650,000 in 2022.