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Subject: Indian Society

  • [19 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Violence, homelessness, and women’s mental health

    [19 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Violence, homelessness, and women’s mental health

    Note4Students: 

    PYQ Relevance: Mains: 

    Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your view. [UPSC 2018]“

    Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women’s education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?[UPSC 2021].

    Prelims: Constitutional Provisions for Women;

    Mains: Women Issues; Government Schemes and Initiatives for Minorities;

    Mentor comments: Recently, there were some observations by the 5th NFHS Survey for all of India highlighting the new trends and observations that encircle violence against women. Once upon a time, Robert Sapolsky contended that our inclinations, actions, and choices were not products of an autonomous, conscious process of free will but rather shaped by biological factors such as our genes, neural circuitry, and brain chemistry. Therefore, to develop comprehensive solutions based on violence against women, recognizing and compensating women for their unpaid labor and creating the space for women to find supportive networks can offer them security and refuge.  

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The recent observations presented by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) focus on a sobering picture of the pervasive violence against women in India.

    • Almost 30% of women between the ages of 18-49 years have experienced physical violence beginning at age 15; 6% reported sexual violence. 

    What are the recent findings that relate to Women’s Mental Health Issues in India?

    • On Relational Disruptions: According to the Survey, the disruptions are often linked to violence, predicted homelessness among women, and access to mental health care. Reports highlighted discrepancies between women’s experiences of trauma and standard diagnostic frameworks.
    • A feeling of homelessness: A woman living with mental health conditions (including child sexual abuse and intimate partner violence) showed how homelessness can be both an escape from violence and a result of repeated trauma.
    • Survival challenges: The major challenge was that handicapped women due to domestic violence faced issues in finding food and safe spaces even on the streets.
    • Child Sexual Abuse: A recurrent theme that emerged was the impact of child sexual abuse prevalent in minority and uneducated areas.
    • On Poverty: Structural barriers like poverty and caste contribute to the breakdown of traditional support systems, leading to homelessness as a means of seeking safety and agency.
      • Experience of alienation and shame were the major cause as compared to poverty which did not entirely match with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders conceptualizations of trauma.

    What are the challenging factors that are held under an umbrella?

    • Age-old ‘labelled’ assumptions: The label of madness has been used to discredit, subjugate, and silence women who are seen as demonstrating undesirable traits — intellectual curiosity, assertiveness, and autonomy.
      • From the witch trials in the Middle Ages to the incarceration in asylums, resistance to oppression and refusal to comply with expected norms were labelled as missteps.
    • Patriarchal prevalence in society: The social construct of womanhood continues to be carefully curated and enforced, confining women and their value within reproductive roles and docile submission to various forms of violence, routinely normalized and justified.
    • Health-care Gaps: Many of the manifestations of mental ill-health are embedded in the reality of adverse life events. In this context, investments cannot be confined to increasing proximal access to mental health care without collective action that can substantively address deep-rooted violence.

    What are the Impacts on Women’s Health?

    • At the Individual level: Due to above mentioned two major reasons there has been a mainstream discourse on women’s mental health, which is dominated by a narrow focus on higher prevalence rates of depression, anxiety or eating disorders, or mental health needs.
    • At the Societal level: Women are often viewed through a reductionist biomedicine-dominated lens, neglecting the insidious impact of violence that women endure.
      • Navigating mental health and social care systems that mirror these biases, in the background of poverty and caste-based marginalization, takes a profound toll elevating the risks of homelessness.
    Government Measures for the Protection of Women in India:

    1) Constitutional Provisions:

    Articles 14, 15, 15(3), 16, 39(a), 39(b), 39(c), and Article 42 emphasize equality before the law, prohibition of discrimination based on gender, equal opportunity in employment, and measures to secure livelihood and maternity welfare.
    Through Article 243, the Constitution of India mandates reservations for women in local self-government bodies to enhance their representation and involvement in decision-making processes.

    2) Legislative measures Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005:

    This act aims to counter crimes against women, including rape, dowry deaths, and domestic violence.

    Mission Shakti and Swadhar Greh Scheme: This initiative focuses on women’s empowerment, safety, and security through skill development, economic empowerment, and support services.

    One-Stop Centres and Legal Services: The Government Authorities offer integrated services, legal aid, and support to women affected by violence.

    The Bhartiya Nyaya Samvidhan, 2023: The government has implemented various measures like the Criminal Law (Amendment) Acts, Safe City Projects, and cyber-crime portals to enhance women’s safety and combat crimes against women.

    Way Forward: Adoption of a multifaceted approach

    • Building a two-way relationship: The intricate relationship between homelessness and mental illness requires a deeper examination, emphasizing nuances like violence against women.
    • Building Independence:
      • Education: Embedding in the education environment, a curriculum that helps growing adolescents interrogate and challenge harmful gendered norms may help foster them with egalitarian values that reject all forms of violence against women.
      • Finance: Ensuring access to basic income, housing, and land ownership may offer economic independence and reduce vulnerability to homelessness.
    • Need to Explore Mental Health Care: The number of adults with mental illness has risen, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic; leading to a growing crisis in youth mental health hence a thorough exploration of the multifaceted aspects of mental health is crucial.
    • Need for a skilled Approach: Involving diverse professionals, innovative research, and meaningful engagement of individuals with lived experiences is essential.
    • Need for Robust Mechanism in Healthcare System: Prioritizing a variety of strong responses is key to addressing diverse needs, especially focusing on high-priority groups like homeless women.
      • A comprehensive response involves exploring phenomena, understanding their impact on mental health, considering intersectionality, and power dynamics, and utilizing feminist standpoint theory to advance knowledge.

    https://mospi.gov.in/sites/default/files/reports_and_publication/cso_social_statices_division/Constitutional%26Legal_Rights.pdf

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/violence-homelessness-and-womens-mental-health/article67965726.ece

  • Understanding dialysis outcome patterns in India through a nationwide study 

    Why in the News? 

    Recently, there are some findings from a nationwide private haemodialysis network’, the Lancet Regional Health-Southeast Asia, on the survival of patients receiving haemodialysis in India

    Context:

    • India has amongst the highest number of patients receiving chronic dialysis, globally estimated at around 1,75,000 people in 2018. Daily, the number of patients on dialysis has been increasing.
    • The launch of the National Dialysis Service in 2016 to improve access, and ongoing efforts to develop affordable dialysis systems, are all underlined by the rising incidence of end-stage renal disease in the country.

    What is Hemodialysis?

    A machine filters wastes, salts and fluid from your blood when your kidneys are no longer healthy enough to do this work adequately.

     

    Key Highlights as per study:

    • Survival with Centre- and Patient-Level: The study found that both centre- and patient-level characteristics are associated with survival rates among patients undergoing haemodialysis.
    • Unexplained Variation Between Centres: Despite considering various centre-based characteristics, there remained unexplained variations in survival rates between dialysis centres across India. This suggests that factors beyond those accounted for in the study may influence patient outcomes.
    • Large Sample Size: The study included a substantial sample size of over 23,600 patients undergoing haemodialysis at any centre in the NephroPlus network between April 2014 and June 2019. This large sample size enhances the robustness of the study’s findings.
    • Primary Outcome: The primary outcome of the study was all-cause mortality, measured from 90 days after patients joined a center. This outcome measure provides valuable insights into patient survival rates over time following the initiation of haemodialysis treatment.
    • Consideration of Individual-Level Variables: The study accounted for various individual-level variables such as sex, smoking status, medical history (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, hepatitis B, hepatitis C), education level, monthly household income, dialysis frequency, and vascular access. These variables offer comprehensive insights into patient characteristics and their impact on survival rates.
    • Evaluation of Centre-Level Variables: Centre-level variables, including the frequency of nephrologist visits, number of beds, number of staff, and number of patients, were also considered. These variables help assess the influence of center resources and practices on patient outcomes.

    What were the measuring differences?

    • Limited Data: The only significant study conducted previously in Andhra Pradesh used claims data from a publicly-funded insurance scheme between 2008 and 2012. It included 13,118 beneficiaries and reported a 10.2% mortality rate within six months of starting hemodialysis.
    • Absence of Centre-Level Effects: The previous study did not consider center-level effects on survival, limiting the understanding of differences in survival rates between dialysis centers, as observed in other countries.
    • Gaps in Understanding: Major gaps existed in understanding dialysis outcome patterns in India due to the absence of comprehensive studies, hindering efforts to improve patient care.
    • Lack of National Benchmark: There was no established national benchmark for survival rates among patients undergoing dialysis in India at the time of the study.
    • Need for Further Research: The study highlighted the importance of conducting more extensive research to fill the gaps in knowledge and establish benchmarks for dialysis outcomes in India.

    What is the recent issue related to the Mortality rate? 

      • Administrative challenges associated with Mortality:
        • Impact of Centre-Level Factors: Including center-level factors such as staffing, care processes, and patient volume in the analysis reduced the variability in survival rates across dialysis centers by 31%. This suggests that center-level characteristics play a significant role in influencing patient outcomes and survival rates.
        • Survival Range: After adjusting for multi-level factors, the estimated 180-day survival among patients undergoing hemodialysis ranged between 83% and 97%. This variability indicates differences in survival outcomes across dialysis centers in India.
      • Urban-Rural Divide: Patients attending rural dialysis centers experienced a 32% higher mortality rate compared to those at urban centers. This disparity underscores the unique challenges faced by rural healthcare facilities in providing hemodialysis services.
    • Patient Characteristics Associated with Mortality:
      • Catheter-Based Vascular Access: Patients using catheter-based vascular access had a higher mortality rate compared to those using arteriovenous fistula or graft access.
      • Financial Support: Patients receiving financial support for dialysis treatment through government panel schemes or private insurance had a lower mortality rate compared to those paying out-of-pocket.
      • Dialysis Vintage: There was an inverse relationship between mortality rate and dialysis vintage, with patients receiving dialysis for at least a year before joining a center experiencing a 17% lower mortality rate than those starting dialysis less than 30 days before joining.
      • Presence of Diabetes: The presence of diabetes was associated with a higher mortality rate among hemodialysis patients.

    Way Forward:

    • Establishment of National Benchmark: The study proposes the first national benchmark for survival among dialysis patients in India. This benchmark will serve as a reference point for evaluating the quality of care and outcomes across dialysis centres in the country.
    • Ongoing Quality Improvement Programs: As dialysis access continues to expand in India, ongoing quality improvement programs are crucial for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and experience optimal outcomes at the point of care.
    • Collaborative Quality Improvement System: The authors emphasize the need for a collaborative quality improvement system across the country to address the increasing demand for dialysis services. This system should involve stakeholders at various levels of healthcare delivery to enhance standards of care and patient outcomes.
    • Understanding Multilevel Effects: It is essential to understand the multilevel effects of both centre- and patient-level characteristics on dialysis outcomes. Establishing national standards for dialysis outcomes in India requires comprehensive insights into these factors to drive improvements in care delivery.
    • Comparison and Monitoring: Establishing national benchmarks enables comparison and monitoring of dialysis centres’ performances over time. This approach facilitates the identification of variations in practice patterns and outcomes, paving the way for targeted interventions and improvements in healthcare delivery.

    Conclusion: The nationwide study on haemodialysis outcomes in India highlights disparities and the need for standardized care. Establishing national benchmarks, ongoing quality improvement, and collaborative efforts are essential for enhancing dialysis care and patient outcomes.

    Mains PYQ-

    Q- Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • No major change in employment status or wages in 10 years

    Why in the news? 

    Recently, a report by Bahutva Karnataka shows that the share of self-employed workers increased, while the share of those in formal employment remained low

    What does the Report say?

    • The stagnation in economic growth in India is evident in the share of households earning less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW) of â‚č375 a day, with approximately 34% falling below this threshold.
      • Additionally, wage inequality has exacerbated the gap between the rich and the poor.
    • In 2022, the top 1% and 10% of the population held 22% and 57% of the national income, respectively, while the bottom 50% held a significantly lower share at 12.7%, as per data from the World Inequality Database.

    Key Highlights:

     

    The Report compares the share of Employment across various employment categories in 2011-12 and 2022-23 for men and women- 

    • Low Formal Employment: The share of formal sector employment remained below 25%. Majority of employment (above 50%) was in the self-employed category.
    • Increase in Self-Employment: Self-employment remained predominant, with over 50% of the workforce engaged in this sector. Self-employment saw a notable increase in the share of women, rising by 8% points from 56.5% in 2011-12 to 64.3% in 2022-23.
    • Rise in Women’s Self-Employment: Women constituted the highest share of self-employed individuals. The share of self-employed women saw significant growth, indicating a rising trend of women engaging in entrepreneurial activities.
    • Unpaid Labor: The report highlights an increase in the number of women engaged in unpaid labor within family businesses or farming. This rise reflects the lack of other remunerative employment opportunities and stagnant household earnings.
    • Gender Disparities Persist: Despite increased participation in self-employment, gender disparities persist, with women often engaging in unpaid labor or informal work due to limited opportunities in the formal sector.
    • Economic Stagnation Impact: economic stagnation has led to limited growth in formal sector employment, pushing more individuals, especially women, towards self-employment and unpaid labor as alternative sources of livelihood.

    The major observation in India: Many households still earn less than the NFLMW:

    • Stagnant Income Growth: There has been no significant growth in income over the past five years across different employment categories.
    • Low Earnings Below NFLMW: Many households still earn less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW). In 2019, an expert committee recommended the NFLMW to be at least â‚č375 per day and â‚č3,050 per week.
    • Regional Disparities: Analysis of 34 States and Union Territories (UTs) revealed that in about 19 of them, more than 20% of households earned less than â‚č375 a day or â‚č3,050 a week in 2022-23.
      • In states like Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh, over 50% of households earned less than the recommended minimum wage.
    • Large Number of Low-Income Workers: The report highlights that nearly 30 crore workers earn less than the minimum wage, indicating a significant portion of the workforce struggling with low earnings.

    The year-wise wealth share of the top 10% and the bottom 50% of the population-

    • Stagnant Income Growth vs. GDP Per Capita: Despite an increase in GDP per capita over the last decade, income growth among the majority of the population has remained stagnant.
    • GDP Per Capita Increase: Over the past 10 years, GDP per capita in India has risen by 60%, indicating overall economic growth and prosperity.
    • Low Earnings Below NFLMW: Despite GDP growth, close to 35% of total households still earn less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW).
    • Increase in Wealth Disparity: The share of national wealth held by the wealthiest 10% of the population has increased from 63% in 2012 to 64.5% in 2022. Conversely, the share of wealth held by the poorest 50% of the population has decreased from 6.1% in 2012 to 5.6% in 2022.

    What are the measures to resolve these issues?

    • Promote Formal Employment: Encourage policies and initiatives to boost formal sector employment, providing stable income and social security benefits. Offer incentives to businesses to create more formal job opportunities.
      • Focus on promoting vocational training and entrepreneurship among women to enhance their participation in formal sectors.
    • Ensure Equal Pay and Opportunities: Enforce laws to ensure equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender. Implement policies to eliminate gender discrimination in hiring practices and promotion opportunities.
    • Improve Minimum Wage Standards: Review and revise minimum wage standards regularly to ensure they are in line with the cost of living and provide a decent standard of living.
    • Invest in Rural Development: Promote rural development initiatives to create alternative sources of livelihood and reduce dependency on agriculture, especially for women engaged in unpaid labor.
    • Address Regional Disparities: Implement targeted interventions to address rural-urban disparities in income and employment opportunities. Focus on infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and investment promotion in economically backward regions.
    • Enhance Social Safety Nets: Strengthen social safety net programs such as Universal Basic Income (UBI), healthcare, and education to provide a buffer against income volatility and support vulnerable households.

    Conclusion:

    Stagnant income growth and rising self-employment underscore economic challenges, with many households earning below the proposed minimum wage. Resolving issues requires promoting formal employment, equal pay, rural development, and progressive taxation.

    PYQ Mains-

    Q- Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.

  • [13 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Intra-group caste variances, equality and the Court’s gaze

    [13 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Intra-group caste variances, equality and the Court’s gaze

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:
    1. Whether the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine (2018)

    2. What are the two major legal initiatives by state since Independence, addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (ST)? (2017)

    3. Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. (2016)

    Prelims:
    Under the Indian Constitution, the Concentration of Wealth violates​ (2021)
    a) the Right to Equality​
    b) the Directive Principles of State Policy​
    c) the Right to Freedom​
    d) the Concept of Welfare
    From The Hindu

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Minority sections of the society and their Empowerment; Judiciary; State government;

    Prelims: Fundamental rights; Important judgements by SC; State government;

    Mentor comments: Recently, the case of ‘State of Punjab vs Davinder Singh’ revolves around the question of whether State governments can make sub-classifications within Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes for public employment. The Supreme Court is set to deliver a judgment on this matter, addressing the issue of intra-group variances and the power of States to recognize them. We need to analyze this issue as it is sub-classified SC reservations which are leading to legal challenges and subsequent legislative actions.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The SC is set to deliver a judgment on whether State governments can make sub-classifications within SCs and STs, addressing the varying levels of development and discrimination within these groups. 

    Context:

    • The ongoing case of State of Punjab v Davinder Singh has brought to light the complexities surrounding sub-classification within reserved categories.
    • The central question revolves around whether a group within a reserved category can be further sub-classified and granted reservations.
    • Proponents argue that sub-classification is necessary to ensure adequate representation of the most disadvantaged groups, addressing the issue of backwardness within backwardness.
    • On the other hand, opponents contend that the existing reservation scheme already ensures adequate representation for historically disadvantaged groups, making sub-classification unnecessary.
    JUDICIARY ON SUB-CATEGORIZATION WITHIN RESERVED CATEGORIES:

    1) State of Punjab vs Davinder Singh case (1975):

    – In 1975, the Government of Punjab issued a circular that reserved 50% of SC seats for Balmikis and Mazhabi Sikhs, leading to legal challenges culminating in the Supreme Court’s involvement.

    – The case questions whether sub-classifications are constitutionally permissible within SCs and STs, challenging the notion that these groups are homogenous.

    – The debate involves revisiting past judgments like E.V. Chinnaiah vs State of Andhra Pradesh, which prohibited sub-classifications within SCs but recognized such distinctions within Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

    2) Indra Sawhney vs Union of India Case (1992):

    – The SC cited its judgment which arose out of the Mandal Commission’s report. There, a nine-judge Bench had held that sub-classifications within socially and educationally backward classes (OBCs) for services under the government was permissible.

    – The case introduced the concept of the “creamy layer,” excluding affluent sections within backward classes (limited it to not exceed 50%) from reservation benefits.

    – The genesis of this debate dates back to 1980 when the Second Backward Classes Committee, chaired by BP Mandal, recommended 27% reservation for OBCs and 22.5% for Scheduled Castes.

    3) About E.V. Chinnaiah vs State of Andhra Pradesh Case (2004):

    – A five-judge Bench quashed the Andhra Pradesh Scheduled Castes (Rationalization of Reservations) Act, 2000. The Act was challenged before the High Court and later the Supreme Court, which declared it ‘ultra vires the Constitution’ as it offended Article 341 of the Constitution.

    – This provision allows the President of India to notify a list of SCs for each State, and stipulates that the list can only be modified by Parliament.

    – The case prohibited sub-classifications within SCs as it was found to violate constitutional provisions but recognized such distinctions within Other Backward Classes (OBCs). It emphasized that SCs and STs are homogeneous groups incapable of further regrouping or classification.

    – The Court found that the State government had no power to tinker with the list because it was clear on a bare reading of Article 341 that such authority vested only with Parliament.

    What is the difference between a homogenous class and a sub-classification within reserved categories?

    • A homogenous class refers to a group that is considered uniform or undifferentiated, where all individuals within the group are treated equally.
    • The Sub-classification within reserved categories involves categorizing a larger group into smaller sub-groups based on specific criteria, allowing for differential treatment or preferences within the overall category.
    • The distinction lies in how individuals within a larger reserved category are treated – either uniformly as a single homogenous group or with differentiated preferences based on sub-classifications.

    What are the arguments for and against sub-classification within reserved categories?

    Arguments for Sub-classification:

    • Ensuring Adequate Representation: Proponents argue that sub-classification is necessary to ensure adequate representation of the most disadvantaged groups within reserved categories.
    • Tailoring Criteria for Sub-classification: The court needs to tailor criteria for sub-classification to prevent leaving out certain groups while granting benefits to the most backward.
    • State’s Ability to Identify Backwardness: The states needs to be best positioned to judge the backwardness of communities and should have the authority to create sub-classifications within reserved categories without violating constitutional provisions.

    Arguments against Sub-classification:

    • Presumption of Backwardness: Opponents argue that while there is a presumption of backwardness with Scheduled Castes (SCs), individual castes within SCs cannot be considered separate classes under Article 16(4), suggesting that making laws for specific castes within SC lists could violate Article 16(2).
    • Violation of Equality Principle: Critics assert that sub-classification would violate the right to equality by treating communities within the category differently, potentially leading to discrimination based on caste, which is prohibited under Article 16(2).
    • Stigma and Exclusion: Those against sub-classification argue that if certain Scheduled Castes do not receive reservation benefits, they may be left with the stigma of being a Scheduled Caste without access to affirmative action measures, highlighting concerns about exclusion and inequality.

    What are the challenges faced by Sub-Classifications within Reserved Categories in India?

    • Lack of Equal Opportunities: Articles 14 to 16 of the Constitution promises of substantive equality. The absence of sub-classification perpetuates inequality within reserved categories, hinders the framing of appropriate government policies.
    • Legal and Constitutional Complexities: The states face challenges as they lack legislative competence to create sub-classifications within reserved categories, raising questions about the constitutionality of such measures.
    • Addressing Backwardness: The issue of “backwardness within backwardness” has been acknowledged, emphasizing the need to address the most disadvantaged communities effectively.

    Way Forward

    Considering the above challenges, they highlight the complexities and nuances involved in addressing sub-classifications within reserved categories in India. Hence it is necessary to emphasize on careful consideration and legal clarity in policy-making and implementation. The SC’s decision in cases like ‘State of Punjab vs Davinder Singh’ will play a crucial role in shaping affirmative action discourse and addressing issues of social justice within reserved categories

  • [11 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: France’s exceptional women, their imprint on diplomacy

    [11 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: France’s exceptional women, their imprint on diplomacy

    PYQ Relevance:
    Mains:
    1. Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (UPSC CSE 2021)

    2. ‘Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your view. (UPSC CSE 2018)nt in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country? [UPSC CSE 2016]
    From The Hindu

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Social Issues and Justice; Women Issues;

    Prelims: Women’s rights in the Indian Constitution;

    Mentor comments: France became the first country to enshrine the freedom of women to voluntarily terminate a pregnancy in its Constitution. This decision is rooted in the groundbreaking work of French feminist icon Simone de Beauvoir, who in 1949 published “The Second Sex,” a philosophical work advocating for women’s right to choose and challenging societal norms around motherhood and abortion. Secondly, France’s commitment to women’s rights is reflected in its feminist foreign policy, advocating for gender equality globally. Through this Article, we need to study the collaboration between France and India that holds great potential to further advance women’s rights on a global scale, building on their shared commitments to gender equality and empowerment.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    On March 4, 2024, France became the first country to enshrine the “freedom of women to voluntarily terminate a pregnancy” in its Constitution, marking a historic moment that sends a universal message of solidarity to women worldwide.

    What is the recent groundbreaking Work on Women’s Rights in France?

    Legalization of Abortion in France: The constitutional amendment aims to safeguard abortion access amidst global threats and challenges to reproductive health rights. This step is crucial for ensuring autonomy and informed decision-making regarding sexual and reproductive health care, including abortion.

    • Women’s right to choose: Simone de Beauvoir (1949), in her “The Second Sex,”(seminal work in feminist philosophy) challenged traditional views of women as solely mothers and caregivers, advocating for women’s right to choose.
    • Right to abortion: Simone de Beauvoir highlighted the need for free, safe, and legal abortion services to empower women in controlling their destinies. On this background, France recently enshrined the right to abortion in its constitution, a historic move to protect reproductive rights.

    What are the major two criticisms and challenges ahead?

    • Prevalent inequalities: Despite progress, France still faces barriers to abortion care and other women’s rights issues like violence and discrimination.
    • On setting priorities: The move has sparked debates about the government’s priorities and the actual accessibility of abortion services for all French women.
    What other rights are protected by the French constitution?
    The French Constitution protects a range of rights beyond the recent inclusion of the right to abortion.

    1. Safeguarding individual liberties: The Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen, a foundational document in French constitutional history, outlines key rights and principles.
    – These include the recognition that all men are born free and equal in rights, with social distinctions based only on public utility.
    – The aim of political associations is to preserve the natural and inalienable rights of man, which encompass liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression

    2. Promoting equality: The French Constitution emphasizes equality before the law for all citizens without distinction and guarantees fundamental freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion, and opinion.

    3. Ensuring accountability: It establishes the right to property as inviolable unless public necessity requires its deprivation with just compensation.

    Additionally, the Constitution ensures that public taxes are equally apportioned among citizens according to their means and that society has the right to hold public agents accountable for their actions.

    What is France’s Commitment on feminist foreign policy?

    • France champions a feminist foreign policy, prioritizing gender equality and women’s rights in its diplomatic efforts.
    • The country integrates gender perspectives into bilateral relations, development aid, and advocacy at international forums.
    • France’s co-chairing of the Generation Equality Forum in 2021 underscores its dedication to advancing women’s rights globally.

    Impacts of such decisions:

    • Global Impact and Scenario:
      • France’s decision sets a precedent globally, emphasizing the importance of securing reproductive rights as fundamental freedoms.
      • The amendment reflects a broader international focus on advancing women’s rights and addressing gender disparities worldwide.
    • Indian Scenario:
      • India has a history of supporting women’s rights internationally, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 5 and participating in initiatives for Gender Equality.
      • India’s recent membership in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women highlights its commitment to promoting gender equality on a global scale.

    Conclusion

    At a moment when women’s rights are under threat in many regions of the world, this decision also sends out a universal message of solidarity to women across the globe.

    • Learnings and Collaborative Potential:
      • There is significant potential for France and India to collaborate on advancing women’s rights worldwide through joint initiatives and partnerships.
      • By leveraging their shared values and commitments to gender equality, France and India can amplify their impact on promoting women’s empowerment and rights internationally.

    References

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/frances-exceptional-women-their-imprint-on-diplomacy/article67936231.ece

    https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/03/05/france-protects-abortion-guaranteed-freedom-constitution

    https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/france-abortion-right-constitution-international-womens-day-rcna142406

    https://www.thecollector.com/simone-de-beauvoir-and-feminism-contributions-and-controversies/

  • [9 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: India’s suboptimal use of its labor power

    [9 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: India’s suboptimal use of its labor power

    PYQ Relevance:

    Prelims:
    Disguised unemployment generally means (UPSC CSE 2013)
    a) A large number of people remain unemployed
    b) Alternative employment is not available
    c) Marginal productivity of labor is zero
    d) Productivity of workers is low

    Mains:
    1. Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labor-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labor-intensive rather than capital-intensive exports. [UPSC CSE 2017]

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

    3. The nature of economic growth in India in recent times is often described as jobless growth. Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in favor of your answer. [UPSC CSE 2015]

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Sectors of Indian Economy; Employment;

    Prelims: Types of Employment;

    Mentor comments: India’s labor market is grappling with issues such as underemployment, low-quality jobs, and high unemployment rates. In such a scenario, we need to focus on creating high-wage jobs and improving the quality of employment opportunities to tackle rising unemployment rates and disparities across regions, gender, and generations. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on creating better job opportunities across various sectors while preparing the workforce for the future.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    According to the recent Labour Force Participation Rate, India’s labor market faces challenges with a vast majority of the population earning income through informal employment, lacking job security and benefits. 

    What is the current state of the Indian Labor market?

    • According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), the labor force participation rate is 50%, with a lower female participation rate of 23% compared to 67% for males.
    • In 2017–18, 90.7% of employment was in the informal sector, marked by low productivity and underemployment. Self-employment accounts for 52% of workers, while only 23% are regular salaried workers.

    Context:

    • Although the recent data shows an increase in labor force participation and a decrease in unemployment rates in the Indian Market, the growth is primarily driven by self-employment and unpaid family workers.
    • There has been stagnation in real earnings for wage/salaried workers and the self-employed. The dominance of low-quality work in India’s labor market poses macroeconomic growth concerns and highlights the need for creating better job opportunities.

    What are the current major shifts in the Indian Labor Market?

    • Dynamics of job creation and loss: India’s job market is characterized by a scarcity of good jobs, with a large portion of the workforce employed in informal, low-wage, and insecure sectors like agriculture.
      • Services sector: It contributes significantly to both job creation and loss, with wholesale and retail trade playing a substantial role.
      • Construction sector: It is known for insecure working conditions and low pay, generates a significant number of new jobs, raising concerns about job quality. Unemployment rates have been high even before the pandemic, with challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis.
    • Improvements in Labour Market:
      • Labour Force Participation and Unemployment Rates: LFPR increased steadily from 52.35% in 2017-18 to 58.35% in 2021-22, driven notably by rural women. Overall unemployment rate decreased from 6.2% in 2017-18 to 4.2% in 2021-22, with a similar downward trend for youth unemployment.
      • Self-Employment Dynamics: LFPR and unemployment rate improvements largely attributed to self-employment. Rise in unpaid family workers and own-account workers reflect a decline in job quality within the workforce.
    • Earnings:
      • Earning Trends:
        • Aggregate Earnings: All-India average real daily earnings increased by around â‚č10 between 2017-18 and 2021-22, a 4% increase.
        • Rural and Urban Earnings: Both rural and urban daily earnings increased by an average of â‚č10 to â‚č14.
        • Earnings Disparities: Wage and salaried workers had the highest earnings, followed by self-employed and casual workers. Salaried and self-employed earnings stagnated, while casual workers saw a 20% increase.
      • Employment Trends:
        • Self-Employment Growth: Self-employed workers saw the highest growth in employment between 2017-18 and 2021-22. The subcategory of unpaid family workers experienced significant growth in numbers.
        • Earnings Disparities: Top 20% of salaried workers experienced a drop in real daily average earnings.
      • Structural Transformation:
        • Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) rose, but closer examination reveals disparities in employment types.
        • Notable rise Female Workforce Participation driven by self-employment in agriculture.
        • Sectoral Shifts: Movement from agriculture to construction observed among male workers

    How can the challenges faced by the Indian Labor Market can be addressed?

    • Building Quality over Quantity: Government needs to explore innovative solutions to generate demand and create employment opportunities. Secondly, it also needs to support skill development initiatives, by bridging the skill gap by enhancing the industry-academia linkages, fostering internships, and encouraging entrepreneurship for better absorption of skilled labor.
    • Need for Labor Reforms: Advocate for rational and progressive labor reforms that consider the interests of both workers and employers.
    • Building good Work Culture: Promoting transparency, responsible business practices, and fair labor market operations through effective leadership and employee engagement initiatives is the need of the hour.
    • Need for constructive work: Strive for constructive dialogue, collaborative decision-making, and a cooperative environment to address disguised unemployment, seasonal unemployment, and educated unemployment through policies promoting job creation.

    Conclusion: According to NITI Aayog, India has potential to grow at 8% as the country is labor-rich with enough institutional maturity of a functioning democracy. In simpler terms, the Investment to GDP ratio is the area where we need to focus as it plays a crucial role in the demand-side of the economy.

    References

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/indias-suboptimal-use-of-its-labour-power/article67929725.ece

    8 Major Problems Faced by Labour Market in India

    https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4609381

    https://www.adb.org/publications/demographic-dividends-india-evidence-and-implications-based-national-transfer-accounts

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9848021/

    https://www.theindiaforum.in/economy/quantity-vs-quality-long-term-trends-job-creation-indian-labour-market

    https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/india-is-a-labour-rich-country-with-enough-institutional-maturity-can-get-to-8-growth-niti-aayog-vice-chairman/article67613743.ece

  • Remembering the Forgotten Women of Science in India

    women

    In the news

    • As Women’s Day (8th March) approaches, the spotlight turns to women scientists throughout history who shattered glass ceilings and left indelible marks on the scientific landscape.
    • Their stories advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and equality within the realm of science.
    • Celebrating Women Scientists: Initiatives like Vigyan Prasar’s resource book profiling Indian women scientists and anthologies like “Lilavati’s Daughters” and “Gutsy Girls of Science” highlight the achievements and struggles of women in science, providing inspiration for future generations.
    • Biographical Works: Books like “Janaki Ammal: Life and Scientific Contributions” and “Chromosome Woman, Nomad Scientist” delve into the extraordinary lives of pioneering women like E.K. Janaki Ammal, offering insights into their groundbreaking research and battles against sexism, casteism, and racism.

     Gender Disparity in Indian Science

    • Underrepresentation in Leadership: The Indian Academy of Sciences, founded by Nobel Laureate C.V. Raman in 1934, has never been led by a woman scientist. Statistics reveal that women comprise only 14% of India’s working scientists, with a meager 15% representation among faculty members in research institutes nationwide.
    • Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize: Over 65 years, only 20 women scientists have been honoured with India’s prestigious SSB Prize for Science & Technology, despite 571 total recipients.

    Status of Women in STEM: A Global Perspective

    • Global Gender Gap: India’s STEM workforce comprises only 27% women, compared to 32% in non-STEM fields, highlighting disparities in gender representation.
    • Research Participation: Worldwide, women constitute only 33% of researchers, with even lower representation in engineering and technology sectors.
    • Educational Disparity: A gender gap persists in STEM education, with only 18% of girls pursuing higher-level STEM studies, compared to 35% of boys.

    List of Notable Women Scientists mentioned in the News Article

     

    1. Gagandeep Kang: Known for her work in the field of microbiology and vaccine development, particularly in studying the epidemiology of rotavirus and other infectious diseases prevalent in India.
    2. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw: A prominent figure in the biotechnology industry, she founded Biocon, one of India’s leading biotechnology companies, and has contributed significantly to the development of affordable biopharmaceuticals and healthcare solutions.
    3. Rohini Godbole: Renowned theoretical physicist known for her research in high-energy physics, particularly in the field of particle phenomenology and collider physics. She has also been actively involved in promoting science education and gender equality in STEM fields.
    4. Prajval Shastri Majumdar: Notable astrophysicist known for her research on the formation and evolution of galaxies, active galactic nuclei, and black holes. She has made significant contributions to understanding the dynamics of the universe through her work in observational astronomy.
    5. Kamala Sohonie: A pioneering biochemist, she was the first Indian woman to receive a Ph.D. in the field of science. Her research focused on enzymology and biochemistry, particularly in understanding the metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds in bacteria.
    6. Lilavati (referred to in “Lilavati’s Daughters: The Women Scientists of India” anthology): Lilavati is a legendary figure in Indian mathematics, known for her contributions to algebra and arithmetic. Her legacy has inspired generations of mathematicians and scientists.
    7. Archana Sharma: A renowned cytogeneticist known for her research in understanding chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. She has contributed significantly to the field of genetics and genetic counseling.
    8. E.K. Janaki Ammal: An eminent botanist known for her research on plant breeding, genetics, and taxonomy. She made significant contributions to understanding the diversity of plant species in India and played a crucial role in the conservation of plant biodiversity.
    9. Bibha Chowdhuri: A pioneering physicist known for her research in cosmic ray physics and particle physics. She made significant contributions to understanding the properties of cosmic rays and their interactions with matter.

    Significance of Women’s Participation in STEM

    • Economic Growth: Women’s involvement in STEM fields can catalyze economic growth, with potential GDP gains of up to 10% reported in studies.
    • Gender Diversity: Enhancing female representation fosters diversity and inclusivity, enriching scientific discourse and innovation.
    • Targeted Interventions: Involving women in research ensures the relevance and applicability of scientific outcomes to diverse communities.
    • Inclusive Decision Making: Women’s perspectives contribute valuable insights to scientific research, leading to more informed decision-making processes.
    • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): STEM empowerment aligns with SDG 5, promoting gender equality and women’s access to transformative technologies.

    Challenges Faced by Women

    • Implicit and Explicit Biases: Women scientists encounter biases suggesting their unsuitability for scientific pursuits, perpetuating the Matilda Effect wherein their achievements are undervalued, leading to discrimination in perks, promotions, and opportunities.
    • Societal Stereotypes: Deep-rooted stereotypes perpetuate the notion that certain STEM fields are inherently male-dominated, discouraging women from pursuing these careers.
    • Lack of Role Models: Limited visibility of female role models hinders aspiring women scientists from envisioning themselves in STEM leadership roles.
    • Self-Efficacy Gap: Gender disparities in self-efficacy beliefs create barriers for women, affecting their confidence to pursue STEM disciplines.
    • Work-Life Balance: Dual responsibilities and societal expectations impede women’s career progression in STEM, necessitating flexible policies and support systems.
    • Systemic Discrimination: Bias and discrimination in educational institutions and workplaces perpetuate the underrepresentation of women in STEM.

    Government Initiatives for Women in STEM

    • STI Policy by DST: The Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy aims to achieve 30% women’s participation in science and technology by 2030, with significant strides in women’s leadership roles.
    • Indo-US Fellowship: International collaborative research opportunities empower women scientists to expand their horizons and contribute to global scientific endeavors.
    • Vigyan Jyoti: Initiatives like Vigyan Jyoti encourage young girls to pursue STEM education, addressing gender disparities from an early age.
    • Gender Advancement Programs: GATI and KIRAN initiatives focus on creating gender-sensitive institutions and providing career opportunities for women in S&T.
    • CURIE Initiative: The CURIE program supports the development of research infrastructure in women’s universities, fostering a conducive environment for women’s participation in R&D.
    • SWATI Portal: It is aimed at creating a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM. It is a complete interactive database.

    Way Forward

    • Continued Advocacy: Initiatives and publications spotlighting women scientists serve as reminders of the ongoing need for advocacy and support to address gender inequality in the scientific community.
    • Redefining the Culture in STEM: Mandating women’s representation in boards, implementing women-centric mentoring programs, and providing flexible work setups and childcare support.
    • Investment in Women-Only Institutions: Establishing women’s technology parks and institutions to address specific challenges faced by women in STEM.
    • Paid Internships: Encouraging states to offer paid internships to girl science students, particularly in rural areas, to enhance their participation in STEM.
    • Positive Parenting: Fostering supportive environments at home to challenge stereotypical perceptions and inspire young girls to pursue careers in STEM.

    Conclusion

    • As Women’s Day approaches, reflections on the contributions and struggles of women scientists underscore the importance of fostering inclusivity, diversity, and equality within the scientific community.
    • By celebrating their achievements and advocating for systemic changes, we pave the way for a more equitable and empowering future for women in science.

     

  • The Hindu Op-ed: Green jobs and the problem of gender disparity

    The Hindu Op-ed: Green jobs and the problem of gender disparity

    PYQ Relevance:

    Prelims:
    Which of the following gives ‘Global Gender Gap Index’ ranking to the countries of the world? (UPSC CSE 2017)
    a) World Economic Forum
    b)  UN Human Rights Council
    c)   UN Women
    d)  World Health Organization only


    Mains:
    1. Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context? (UPSC CSE 2016)

    2. Explain intragenerational and intergenerational issues of equity from the perspective of inclusive growth and sustainable development. (UPSC CSE 2020)

    Note4Students:

    Mains: Social Justice; Women empowerment; Sustainable/Inclusive development

    Prelims: Global Gender Gap Index;

    Mentor comments: Increasing women’s representation in green jobs can lead to benefits such as boosting a low-carbon and environmentally sustainable economy. Only a third of leadership positions in climate-change negotiations are held by women, despite women being the most vulnerable to climate impacts. To overcome these challenges faced by women, several strategies can be studied and analyzed based on dimensions considering the Social Justice or Sustainable development aspect.

    Let’s learn.

    Why in the News?

    The transition to low-carbon development has the potential to add about 35 million green jobs in India by 2047.

    What is the Present Scenario of Indian women’s participation in Green jobs?

    • As India increased its renewable energy capacity by 250% (2015-21), women comprised merely 11% of workers in the solar rooftop sector. Women workers are mostly concentrated in industries such as apparel, textile, leather, food, and tobacco.
    • Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) 2019 report shows that men comprise 85% of the workforce in sectors such as infrastructure, transport, construction, and manufacturing.

    What are the challenges faced by Indian women?

    • Rigid Social Norms: According to the Skill Council (2023) for Green Jobs, 85% of the training for green skills was imparted to men while over 90% of women believed that social norms limited their participation in training for green jobs.
    • Underrepresentation: Women are often underrepresented in climate-related decision-making processes, leading to a lack of consideration for their specific needs and contributions.
    • Lack of Opportunities: Women are unsuitable for certain technical roles, safety concerns, lower representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects, and familial constraints.

    Significance of Green Jobs for Indian Women:

    • As India transitions towards a low-carbon economy, increasing women’s representation in green jobs can lead to several benefits:
      • Addressing Gender Biases: Green jobs can help address gender biases in the Indian labor market and improve women’s labor force participation rates.
      • Long-term Empowerment: Over time, this can contribute to improving women’s agency and empowerment by creating economic, technical, and social opportunities

    What are some strategies to overcome the challenges faced by women? (Way Forward)

    • Addressing the gaps in data:
      • Create a Supportive Ecosystem: To address this disparity and empower women in green jobs, it is essential to challenge social norms that limit women’s participation in technical roles, and provide training opportunities tailored to women’s needs for their advancement.
      • Mapping Emerging Areas: Initiatives such as collecting sex-disaggregated data on green jobs, conducting gender analysis, and mobilizing resources to encourage women’s role in the green transition are crucial steps towards achieving gender equity in the workforce.
    • Supporting women entrepreneurs:
      • Incorporating Gender-focused Policies: Supporting women entrepreneurs through gender-focused financial policies, mentorship programs, financial literacy training, and access to credit can enhance their participation in the green economy.
      • Promoting women’s leadership: Encouraging women to take on leadership roles in decision-making processes concerning low-carbon development strategies is crucial for integrating gender-specific requirements and guaranteeing fair job opportunities.

    Conclusion

    An inclusive approach focusing on employment, social protection, skill development, and reducing care work burden is vital for a gender-equitable transition. Secondly, collaborating government, private sector, and stakeholders is crucial to utilize innovation, technology, and finance for the advancement of women entrepreneurs and workers.

    Practice Question:
    Green jobs can enhance women’s labor force prospects thereby reducing gender disparity. Identify the obstacles to their representation and the significance of green jobs for Indian women. Suggest measures to boost their presence in green jobs and support women entrepreneurs.

    Approach for the Answer:

    1. Introduction: 
    Theme: Define green jobs and provide data related to women’s participation in it.

    2. Body:
    Demand 1: Factors that form the obstacles to women’s representation in green jobs
    Demand 2: Significance of green jobs for Indian women
    Demand 3: Measures to support women in increasing their representation

    3. Conclusion:
    Summarize your answer along with highlighting the benefit of equitable job opportunities for everyone.

    References:

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/green-jobs-and-the-problem-of-gender-disparity/article67917596.ece

    https://www.undp.org/india/publications/green-jobs-and-eco-entrepreneurship-opportunities-women-india

    https://unglobalcompact.org/academy/how-to-advance-womens-leadership-in-climate-action

    https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/more-women-needed-in-climate-policymaking-leadership-by-laura-chinchilla-and-maria-fernanda-espinosa-2022-03

    https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/11/8491

    https://www.ucdavis.edu/climate/blog/womens-leadership-can-help-drive-climate-solutions

  • Holistic Progress Card (HPC): Revolutionizing Student Assessment

    Holistic Progress Card

    In the news

    • The traditional report cards of students are undergoing a transformation with the introduction of the Holistic Progress Card (HPC) by the National Council for Educational and Research Training (NCERT).
    • This innovative approach aims to evaluate not just academic performance but also various aspects of a child’s holistic development.

    What is the Holistic Progress Card (HPC)?

    • 360-Degree Evaluation: Departing from the conventional marks or grades-based assessment, the HPC adopts a comprehensive evaluation approach.
    • Student-Centric Assessment: Students are actively engaged in the assessment process through class activities, allowing them to demonstrate diverse skills and competencies.
    • Peer and Self-Assessment: Students participate in evaluating their own and their classmates’ performance, fostering self-awareness and peer collaboration.

    Key Features of the HPC

    • Classes Involved: The HPC was created for the foundational stage (Classes 1 and 2), preparatory stage (Classes 3 to 5), and middle stage (Classes 6 to 8). Efforts are currently underway to develop a similar framework for the secondary stage.
    • Parameters of Evaluation: Besides academics, students are evaluated on self-awareness, relationships, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and creativity. Students reflect on their progress after each activity by circling statements like “I learned something new,” “I expressed creativity,” or “I helped others.”
    • Method of Evaluation:
      1. Self-Assessment: Included in the HPC for all students from Class 1 to Class 8. In middle school (Classes 6 to 8), students set academic and personal goals with specific timelines at the start of the year. The middle stage HPC also involves an “ambition card” where students list their goals for the year and areas for improvement, along with the skills and habits needed to achieve them.
      2. Parental Involvement: Parents provide feedback on homework completion, classroom engagement, and the child’s ability to balance screen time with extracurricular activities at home, thus connecting home and school.
      3. Peer Evaluation: Students evaluate their classmates’ participation in learning and engagement after each classroom activity.

    Implementation and Adoption

    • Rollout across States: The HPC has been sent to all states and Union Territories, with several already adopting it for Classes 1 to 8.
    • Regional Customization: States have the flexibility to modify the HPC to suit their regional requirements while adhering to the overarching principles.

    Rationale behind the Change

    • Focus on Higher-Order Skills: The shift from rote memorization to higher-order skills evaluation aligns with the objectives of NEP 2020 and NCF SE.
    • Promotion of Holistic Development: The HPC aims to communicate students’ strengths and areas of improvement, fostering self-esteem and self-awareness.

    Benefits and Implications

    • Comprehensive Evaluation: The HPC promotes a holistic assessment approach, encompassing academic achievements and critical skill development.
    • Shift to Formative Assessment: By emphasizing formative assessment, the HPC encourages competency-based evaluation and continuous improvement.
    • Insights for Teachers and Parents: Teachers and parents gain valuable insights into each student’s learning journey, enabling personalized support and guidance.

    Conclusion

    • The introduction of the Holistic Progress Card marks a significant step towards redefining student assessment in India.
    • By prioritizing holistic development and competency-based evaluation, the HPC aims to nurture well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in a rapidly evolving world.

  • India ranks 113 out of 190 countries in Women, Business and Law Index by World Bank

    In the news

    • India’s ranking in the World Bank’s Women, Business and Law index saw a significant improvement, climbing to 113 out of 190 countries in the latest edition of the report.
    • It is intriguing to know that none of the countries globally achieved a full score in the new index, indicating pervasive gender disparities in legal rights worldwide.

    About Women, Business and Law Index

    • The Women, Business and Law Index is a World Bank initiative aimed at measuring how laws and regulations impact women’s economic opportunity.
    •  The index provides objective and measurable benchmarks for evaluating global progress towards legal gender equality.
    •  Range from 0 to 100, where 100 denotes equal legal rights for men and women.
    •  The report assesses eight critical areas: mobility, workplace, pay, marriage, parenthood, entrepreneurship, assets, and pension.
    • The 2024 edition marks the 10th iteration of the report.

    India’s Performance

    • Legal Rights Gap: Indian women now enjoy 60% of the legal rights granted to men, slightly below the global average of 64.2%.
    • Regional Comparison: India outperformed its South Asian counterparts, where women typically have access to only 45.9% of the legal protections compared to men.
    • Supportive Frameworks: India’s performance in establishing supportive frameworks fell short, with only 54.2% of the necessary frameworks in place.
    • Policy Efforts: India aims to increase female labour force participation, which stood at 37% in 2022-23, significantly lower than many advanced economies.
    • OECD Comparison: The female labour force participation rate in OECD countries exceeded 50% in 2022, highlighting the gap India seeks to bridge.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2015:

    ‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is released by which organisation?

    (a) Organization for Economic Cooperation and development (OECD)

    (b) World Economic Forum

    (c) World Bank

    (d) World trade Organization (WTO)

     

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