From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hema Commission Report on Women Safety
Why in the News?
A single bench of the Kerala High Court has stayed the release of the Justice Hema Commission report.
The report investigated women’s working conditions in the Malayalam film industry.
About the Assault that Exposed the Deep Gender Divide
On February 17, 2017, a leading Malayalam film actress was abducted and sexually assaulted in her car while traveling from Thrissur to Kochi.
The incident caused shock and outrage across Kerala as disturbing details emerged, including a video purportedly intended for blackmail.
Six of the ten accused were arrested quickly, and popular actor Dileep was named an accused and remanded to judicial custody in July. He is currently out on bail, with the trial ongoing since 2020.
Formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC)
The incident highlighted the discriminatory treatment faced by women in the film industry.
The Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) was formed in response, submitting a petition to the Chief Minister demanding an inquiry into gender issues in the industry.
The Hema Commission
In July 2017, five months after the incident, the state government formed a 3-member committee headed by retired Kerala High Court judge, Justice K Hema.
The committee’s objective was to investigate issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry.
In December 2019, a 300-page report was submitted to the CM Pinarayi Vijayan, including documents, audio, and video evidence.
Findings and Recommendations
The commission consulted multiple women professionals in the industry, recording detailed accounts of sexual harassment, wages earned, and possible blacklisting.
The report highlighted the existence of a casting couch, and the presence of alcohol and drugs on film sets.
The commission recommended forming a tribunal to investigate these allegations.
Other recommendations included making job contracts mandatory, ensuring wage parity across genders for the same job, banning drugs and liquor on shooting locations, and ensuring safe working conditions for women.
PYQ:
[2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:
Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-STIAC, CCUS
Why in the News?
The 25th Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) meeting was recently held at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe in New Delhi.
Highlights of the 25th PM-STIAC Meet
The meeting was aimed to discuss robust policy formulation for effective Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in India.
Focus was on India’s carbon market, carbon credit scheme, and strategies to achieve a 45% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070.
About PM-STIAC
Details
Objective
Provide advice on STI policies and oversee implementation of the government’s STI vision
Establishment
2018
Chairperson
Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India
Composition
Eminent scientists, technologists, and innovators from various fields
Key Roles and Functions
Policy Advice
Inter-Ministerial Coordination
Project Oversight
Innovation Ecosystem Promotion
Global Collaboration
Public Engagement
Policy and Program Development
Major Initiatives and Missions
NM-ICPS: Cyber-Physical Systems Innovation Hubs
Quantum Frontier Mission: Quantum Technologies
AI Mission: AI for Inclusive Growth
Electric Mobility Mission: Promote EVs
Waste to Wealth Mission: Sustainable Waste Management
Health and Well-being Mission: Improve Healthcare Delivery
AGNIi: Accelerating Growth of New India’s Innovations
Deep Ocean Exploration
What isCarbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)?
Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a technology aimed at reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial processes and power generation.
It involves three main steps:
Capture:
CO₂ is separated and captured from industrial emissions or directly from the air.
Capture technologies include pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxy-fuel combustion.
Utilization:
Captured CO₂ is converted into useful products such as chemicals, fuels, and building materials.
Utilization helps in creating economic value from CO₂ and can support the development of a circular carbon economy.
Storage:
CO₂ is transported and stored in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, or basalt formations.
This prevents CO₂ from entering the atmosphere, thereby mitigating climate change.
Significance:
Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to meet climate targets.
Energy Transition: Supports the transition to low-carbon energy systems.
Economic Benefits: Generates new economic opportunities through the creation of new markets for CO₂-derived products.
Policy Initiatives for CCUS in India
National Hydrogen Energy Mission (2021):
Launched in 2021, the mission aims to promote the production and use of green hydrogen, with CCUS being a crucial component for producing blue hydrogen from natural gas.
Department of Science and Technology (DST) Initiatives:
DST has funded various research projects focusing on developing CCUS technologies since the early 2000s.
Projects include capturing CO₂ from industrial sources and converting it into valuable products like methanol and synthetic fuels.
National Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage Policy Framework and Its Deployment Mechanism (2020):
Established in 2020, the framework aims to create a roadmap for deploying CCUS technologies across various sectors.
It focuses on enhancing research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) activities and creating enabling regulatory and policy environments.
Industry Collaborations:
Collaborations with industries such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for pilot projects on CCUS.
Public-private partnerships to foster innovation and scale up CCUS technologies have been ongoing since the 2010s.
International Collaborations (CSLF, 2003):
India joined the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum (CSLF) in 2003, which promotes international collaboration on CCUS technology development.
Collaborations with countries like the United States and the United Kingdom for knowledge sharing and technical support.
Green Energy Corridors (2015):
Integration of CCUS with renewable energy initiatives to ensure a sustainable and low-carbon energy mix.
Established in 2015, this initiative supports developing infrastructure for transporting and storing captured CO₂.
PYQ:
[2020] Which one of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon’?
(a) It is a measure, in monetary value, of the long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.
(b) Requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.
(c) Efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live-in a new place.
(d) Contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key stats mentioned in the newscard; National Statistical Office (NSO)
Why in the News?
The National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), has released the ‘Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors 2024’.
Data Collection Strategies by NSO:
Crops are divided into 12 groups: Cereals, pulses, oilseeds, sugars, fibres, indigo, dyes and tanning material, drugs and narcotics, condiments & spices, fruits & vegetables, other crops, by-products, and kitchen garden.
Livestock products are divided into 7 groups: milk, meat, eggs, wool and hair, dung, silk worm cocoons & honey, and increment in livestock.
About the National Statistical Office (NSO)
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.
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).
Key Reports released by NSO:
Household Consumption Expenditure Survey
EnviStats India 2024: Environment Statistics
Energy Statistics India 2024
National Accounts Statistics 2024
Quarterly Estimates of GDP
Sector-wise share of Value of Output
Salient Features and Summary Results
India’s Agricultural Rankings: India ranks second worldwide in arable land, third in cereal production, and is a leading producer of groundnut, fruits, vegetables, sugarcane, tea, and jute. It is also the largest producer of milk, second in egg production, and fifth in meat production.
GVA Contribution: The shares of Crop, Livestock, Forestry and Fishing sub-sectors in value of output of Agriculture and allied sector were 54.3%, 30.9%, 7.9% and 6.9% respectively in 2022-23.
Crop Sub-sector Trends: The crop sub-sector remains the largest contributor to the Gross Value of Output (GVO) but has seen its share decline from 62.4% in 2011-12 to 54.3% in 2022-23. Fruits and vegetables’ output has significantly increased, highlighting the growing importance of horticulture.
Livestock Sub-sector Growth: The livestock sub-sector has seen an increase in the output of milk, meat, and eggs, indicating a steady growth in this area.
Forestry and Fishing: The forestry sector has diversified its output sources, and the fishing and aquaculture sector has seen significant growth, especially in Andhra Pradesh.
State-wise Details from 2011-12 to 2022-23
State-wise Value of Output of Crop
Highest Output: Uttar Pradesh leading in cereals and sugarcane production.
Lowest Output: Lakshadweep:
State-wise Value of Output of Livestock
Highest Output:
Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan together accounted for about a quarter of the livestock sub-sector’s output.
Lowest Output:
Goa: Output remained at ₹0 lakh throughout the period.
Key Trends:
Madhya Pradesh: Significant increase in livestock output, particularly in milk and meat production.
West Bengal: Steady growth in egg production.
State-wise Value of Output of Forestry and Logging
Major products: Industrial wood (68%), Fuelwood (20%), and Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) (12%) in 2022-23.
Top States in 2022-23:Maharashtra: 16.4% share, Rajasthan: 10.6% share,Uttar Pradesh: 8.7% share, Madhya Pradesh: 7.7% share and Odisha: 5.3% share.
State-wise Value of Output of Fishing and Aquaculture
Highest Output: Andhra Pradesh: Share increased from 17.7% in 2011-12 to almost 40.9% in 2022-23, leading in fish and prawn farming.
Lowest Output: Arunachal Pradesh: Output increased from ₹0 lakh (2011-12) to ₹3 lakh (2022-23).
All India Item-wise Value of Output from Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, and Fishing
Cereals: Paddy and wheat are the top contributors to the cereals sub-sector. Paddy output in 2022-23 was ₹220,200 crore, while wheat output was ₹137,300 crore.
Pulses: Gram and Arhar together accounted for nearly 59% of the pulses output. Madhya Pradesh led in pulses production with a 22% share in 2022-23.
Oilseeds: Groundnut and Rapeseed & Mustard are the highest contributors within the oilseeds group. Gujarat and Rajasthan are the leading states in oilseeds production.
Sugar Crops: Uttar Pradesh remains the largest producer of sugarcane, increasing its share from 41% in 2011-12 to 54.5% in 2022-23.
Livestock Products: Milk, meat, and eggs are the major contributors within the livestock sub-sector. The share of milk, meat, and eggs in the livestock sub-sector was 66.5%, 23.6%, and 3.7% respectively in 2022-23.
Forestry Products: The forestry sector’s output is mainly driven by industrial wood, fuelwood, and NTFP. The share of industrial wood increased to 68% in 2022-23.
Fishing and Aquaculture: The fishing and aquaculture sector has seen a significant increase in output, with Andhra Pradesh leading the production. The output of fishing and aquaculture increased from ₹80 thousand crore in 2011-12 to ₹195 thousand crore in 2022-23.
PYQ:
[2011] A state in India has the following characteristics:
Its northern part is arid and semiarid.
Its central part produces cotton.
Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.
Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forest Fires as per FSI report
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
Last week, three instances of forest fire were reported from the major forest belts in Uttarakhand.
The severity of the situation has prompted the deployment of Indian Air Force personnel and Mi-17 choppers, engaged in the critical operation of dousing the flames using the Bambi Bucket Method.
Causes of Wildfire:
Firstly, the general major causes of forest fires in Uttarakhand are continued dry weather and lack of moisture in the forests.
Secondly, according to the Forest Research Institute (FRI, 2019), 95% of forest fires are attributed to human activities.
The common human-induced causes include – Grazers setting fire to dry grass, Slash-and-burn agriculture, Unattended campfires, and Intentional arson.
Uttarakhand’s Forest Vulnerability:
As per the latest report from the Forest Survey of India (FSI), the Recorded Forest Area (RFA) in the State is 38,000 sq km of which 26,547 sq km is Reserved Forest, 9,885 sq km is Protected Forest, and 1,568 sq km is Unclassed Forests.
Highly flammable Chir Pine trees, covering extensive areas, increase the fire risk.
This risk is compounded by prolongeddry spells and excess biomass accumulation.
Additionally, the proximity of villages facilitates anthropogenic activities such as forest clearance and grazing.
Forest Fires in India: Recent Statistics
Odisha recorded 4,237 forest fires as compared to 1,499 between April 20 and 27 in 2023. Similarly, Chhattisgarh recorded 757 fires last year as compared to 2,116 this year, Jharkhand 633 as against 1,926 and Andhra Pradesh 527 as compared to 1,126 in 2023.
However, Uttarakhand has recorded the highest number of large forest fires in the country in the last seven days since April 28, according to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) data.
Mitigation Strategies
Localized Initiatives:
Effective measures to mitigate forest fire risks include controlled burning, biomass removal, prescribed burns, and enhanced surveillance using drones.
Community engagement and proactive involvement, as demonstrated in Kerala, provide valuable insights for forest fire management.
Government Initiatives:
The government has introduced measures such as a satellite-based fire alert system by the Forest Survey of India, aiding in early detection and response efforts.
Forest staff utilize various techniques, including counter-fires and fire beaters, to contain and manage forest fires effectively.
Wildfires Mitigating Strategies:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) outlines four strategies to prevent and manage forest fires:
Erecting watch towers for early detection,
Deploying fire watchers,
Engaging local communities, and
Establishing and maintaining fire lines.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) website distinguishes between two types of fire lines:
Kachha fire lines involve clearing undergrowth and shrubs while preserving trees to decrease the amount of available fuel.
Pucca fire lines are clear-cut areas that create a barrier between forest compartments or blocks to contain potential fire spread.
PYQ:
[2020] Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Monetary Policy
Mains level: The impact of climate shock and extreme weather events
Why in the news?
Extreme weather conditions may pose a risk to inflation, along with prolonged geopolitical tensions that could keep crude oil prices volatile, the Reserve Bank’s April Bulletin said on April 23.
RBI’s Monetary Policy Report on the impact of climate shock and extreme weather events on food inflation:
Effects of Food Inflation: The report highlights the significance of extreme weather events and climate shocks in affecting not only food inflation but also the broader impact on the natural Rate of Interest and Financial Stability.
Broader Economic Impact: Climate shocks and extreme weather events are mentioned to have a broader impact on the economy’s financial stability, indicating that disruptions in food production and supply chains due to these events can lead to inflationary pressures beyond just the food sector.
Use of Economic Modeling: The report mentions the utilization of a New-Keynesian model incorporating a physical climate risk damage function to estimate the macroeconomic impact of climate change. This likely includes projections on how climate shocks affect food production and subsequently food inflation.
Warning on Long-Term Output Reduction: The report warns that without climate mitigation policies, the long-term economic output could be lower by around 9% by 2050. This suggests that climate shocks and extreme weather events could have lasting effects on food production and inflation.
Potential for Inflation Hysteresis: There’s a warning about the potential for inflation hysteresis to become entrenched, which could lead to a de-anchoring of inflation expectations. This implies that persistent disruptions caused by climate shocks could lead to sustained increases in food inflation.
Way Forward:
Need Investment in Climate Resilience: Governments and businesses can invest in climate-resilient agriculture practices and infrastructure to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme weather events on food production.
Need Diversification of Food Sources: Diversifying food sources can help reduce reliance on regions prone to climate-related disruptions. This could involve promoting local food production, supporting small-scale farmers, and investing in alternative food production methods such as vertical farming or hydroponics.
Mains PYQ
Q What policy instruments were deployed to contain the great economic depression?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Antimicrobial resistance
Mains level: Read the attached story
In the news
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) jointly published the surveillance data of the Indian Network for Fishery and Animal Antimicrobial Resistance (INFAAR) for 2019-22.
This report marks the first comprehensive analysis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) trends in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.
About INFAAR
Network Formation: INFAAR, established under ICAR, comprises 20 laboratories, including 17 ICAR Research Institute Laboratories, one Central Agriculture University Laboratory, one State Agriculture University Laboratory, and one State Veterinary University.
Collaborative Support: Technical assistance from FAO and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) enhances INFAAR’s capabilities for data collection and analysis.
Expansion Goals: INFAAR aims for further expansion to encompass more laboratories and enhance surveillance coverage.
Antibiotic Use and AMR Trends
Impact of Antibiotics: Antibiotic usage in food animal production contributes to AMR development, necessitating surveillance to inform policy decisions.
Production Systems: Three key aquaculture systems—freshwater, brackish-water, and marine—were surveyed, covering diverse environments.
Panel of Antibiotics: Antibiotics tested included amikacin, ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, aztreonam, cefotaxime, cefepime, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, chloramphenicol, co-trimoxazole, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, imipenem, meropenem, and tetracycline.
Surveillance Methodology
Sample Collection: Samples collected from 3,087 farms spanning 42 districts in 12 states of India, including fish or shrimp tissues and pond or seawater samples.
Bacterial Isolates: A total of 6,789 bacterial isolates were analyzed, including 4,523 freshwater, 1,809 shrimp, and 457 mariculture isolates.
Resistance Profiles: Resistance profiles were analyzed for Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (CONS), Escherichia coli, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio sp., and Aeromonas species.
Key Findings:
(1) Resistance Patterns in Fisheries Sector
Species Specific Resistance: Isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species exhibited high resistance against penicillin across all systems.
Variation across Environments: Freshwater fish showed notable resistance to ciprofloxacin, while marine samples demonstrated higher resistance to cefotaxime.
Shrimp Aquaculture: Notable resistance against ampicillin and cefotaxime was observed in shrimp samples, indicating a concerning trend.
(2) Resistance Patterns in Livestock Sector
Animal Origins: E. coli and Staphylococcus isolates from cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, pig, and poultry were characterized for AMR profiles.
Poultry Resistance: Poultry-origin isolates exhibited higher resistance rates across various antibiotics compared to other food animals.
(3) Multidrug Resistance Analysis
Emergence of MDR: Approximately 39% of aquaculture-origin E. coli isolates and 15.8% of poultry isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR).
ESBL and AmpC Producers: Detection of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC type β-lactamase producers underscores the complexity of AMR challenges.
Key Recommendations by the Study
Baseline Data: The report provides foundational data for understanding AMR trends and evaluating intervention effectiveness.
Judicious Use: High resistance to critical antibiotics underscores the importance of prudent antibiotic use in food animal production.
Policy Implications: The findings will inform policy and decision-making for AMR containment in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.
Conclusion
The INFAAR surveillance report sheds light on the evolving landscape of antimicrobial resistance in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.
By highlighting resistance patterns and advocating for responsible antibiotic usage, this initiative paves the way for effective AMR containment strategies and sustainable agricultural practices.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CREA
Mains level: Air pollution woes
In the news
The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) recently released data shedding light on air pollution levels across urban centers in India during February 2024.
Surprisingly, Meghalaya’s Byrnihat emerged as the most polluted ‘city’ in the nation, sparking concerns about air quality in the otherwise cleaner Northeast region.
About Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA)
CREA is a non-profit think tank researching energy and air pollution based in Helsinki (Finland).
It was established in 2019 with the goal of tracking the impacts of air pollution by providing data-backed research products.
Key Insights
(1) Alarming Pollution Levels in NE
Pollution Pinnacle: Byrnihat, an industrial town near the Assam border, recorded the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution in India, with a monthly average concentration of 183 µg/m3.
Byrnihat vs. National Averages: Byrnihat’s PM2.5 levels were significantly higher than those in Bihar’s Araria, the second-most polluted city, highlighting the severity of pollution in the former.
Northeastern Representation: Other northeastern cities such as Nalbari, Agartala, Guwahati, and Nagaon also featured among the 30 most polluted cities in India, indicating a broader regional trend of worsening pollution levels.
(2) Cleanest Cities and Regional Disparities
Positive Performers: Sivasagar, Silchar, Aizawl, and Imphal emerged as the cleanest cities in the region, with PM2.5 concentrations below the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).
National Rankings: Sivasagar secured the second position nationally, underscoring its exemplary air quality standards.
(3) Silver Lining: Improvements and Opportunities
Positive Trends: February witnessed a notable improvement in air quality, with 36 cities classified under the ‘good’ category, reflecting positive strides in pollution mitigation efforts.
Opportunities for Progress: The data signals opportunities for collaborative action and policy interventions to address environmental challenges and safeguard public health.
Implications and Recommendations
Monitoring Imperative: The data underscores the urgent need to enhance air quality monitoring infrastructure in the northeastern states to effectively track pollution levels.
Environmental Concerns: Unregulated industrial operations, inadequate public transportation, rampant construction, and other factors contribute to the deteriorating air quality in the region, necessitating stringent regulatory measures.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women, Business and Law Index
Mains level: NA
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)
Former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar has been appointed as the chairperson of Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman of India.
Justice Khanwilkar retired from the Supreme Court in July 2022, bringing a wealth of judicial experience to his new role.
About Lokpal
Establishment: Lokpal is a statutory body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act of 2013.
Mandate: It is tasked with investigating allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and related matters.
Organisational Structure:
The Lokpal comprises a chairperson and a maximum of 8 members.
The chairperson must be a former Chief Justice of India, a former Supreme Court judge, or an eminent person meeting eligibility criteria.
Half of the members must be judicial members, either former Supreme Court judges or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
At least 50% members must be from SC / ST / OBC / Minorities and women.
Members serve a term of 5 years or until they turn 70, whichever is earlier.
Perks and Benefits: The salary, allowances, and other conditions of service for the chairperson are equivalent to those of the CJI, while members receive benefits similar to Supreme Court judges.
Appointment Process:
The President of India appoints the chairperson and members based on the recommendation of a selection committee.
The selection committee includes the PM as Chairperson, the Speaker of Lok Sabha, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a nominated judge, and one eminent jurist.
Jurisdiction:
Lokpal has jurisdiction to investigate allegations of corruption against Prime Ministers, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials of the Union Government.
It extends to individuals associated with government-funded entities and those receiving substantial foreign contributions.
Exceptions for Prime Minister:
Lokpal cannot probe allegations against the PM related to certain sensitive areas like international relations, security, public order, atomic energy, and space without the approval of at least 2/3rds of its members.
A full Lokpal bench must consider initiating inquiries into complaints against the PM.
Powers of Lokpal:
Lokpal exercises superintendence over and provides directions to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)in corruption cases.
It can authorize the CBIfor search and seizure operations linked to such cases.
The Lokpal’s Inquiry Wing possessespowers akin to a civil court.
It can recommend the transfer or suspension of public servantsimplicated in corruption allegations.
Lokpal is empowered to prevent the destruction of records during preliminary inquiries and confiscate assets obtained through corruption.
Reporting and Accountability
Annually, Lokpal submits a report on its activities to the President, which is then presented to both Houses of Parliament for scrutiny.
Try this PYQ from CS Mains 2013
Q.‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Criminality of Politicians, Vote Bank Dynamics
In the news
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and the National Election Watch has found that 36% of the newly elected Rajya Sabha candidates have declared criminal cases against themselves.
Context:
Increase in Serious Crimes: 17% of total candidates face serious criminal charges, including with cases related to attempted murder, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Biased Representation: Approximately 21% of the candidates are billionaires, with assets exceeding Rs 100 crore, reflecting the significant wealth amassed by certain individuals in the political arena.
Prevailing disparities: The majority (76%) of candidates belong to the 51-70 age group, with only 19% being women, reflecting gender disparities in political representation.
Why does Criminality persist in Indian politics?
Political Patronage: Criminals seek political backing to sustain their illicit activities, while politicians rely on criminals for funding, muscle power, and electoral support.
Protracted Legal Processes: Lengthy court proceedings, averaging around 15 years, coupled with declining conviction rates, allow criminals to evade justice and continue their political careers.
Legal Ambiguity: Pending cases become a shield for tainted candidates, who exploit the “law will take its own course” narrative to deflect scrutiny.
Electoral Advantage: Candidates with criminal records may have higher chances of winning elections, incentivizing parties to field them despite ethical concerns.
Limited Scrutiny: Despite legal mandates for candidates to disclose criminal cases, voters often lack the awareness or resources to scrutinize this information effectively.
Vote Bank Dynamics: Parties exploit caste, religious, or regional loyalties, prioritizing short-term gains over candidate integrity.
Impacts of Criminality in Indian politics:
Corrosive Effects: The fusion of crime and politics has corrosive effects on the governance. The nexus between crime and politics can exacerbate corruption and weaken governance structures. When politicians with criminal backgrounds hold office, there is a higher likelihood of corruption, misuse of power, and a lack of transparency in decision-making processes, all of which can have detrimental effects on the economy.
Undermining Democracy: Allowing criminals in politics undermines the development of a healthy democracy that India’s freedom fighters fought for. The impact extends to the provision of public goods. Research findings suggest that the effects are concentrated in less developed and more corrupt Indian states, indicating that the presence of criminal politicians hinders the effective delivery of public goods and services to constituents.
Economic Growth: While criminal candidates may win elections in the short term, their presence can hinder the long-term development of a robust democracy. The election of criminally accused politicians leads to lower economic growth in their constituencies. Studies show a 22% point lower yearly growth in the intensity of night-time lights, which serves as a proxy for economic activity, following the election of such politicians.
Measures Taken to Address Criminalization in Politics
[A] Legislative Interventions
Representation of the People Act, 1951: Sections 8(1), 8(2), and 8(3) establish grounds for disqualification of individuals convicted of certain offenses, barring them from contesting elections.
Conduct of Election Rules, 1961: Mandates candidates to file affidavits disclosing pending criminal cases and convictions, enhancing transparency in electoral processes.
Chapter IX A of Indian Penal Code: Defines and penalizes electoral offenses such as bribery and undue influence, deterring criminal activities in elections.
[B] Establishment of Special Courts
Judicial Mechanisms: Special courts dedicated to expediting criminal cases against legislators and parliamentarians help ensure timely justice and accountability.
Tackling Impunity: Targeted prosecution of political figures accused of criminal activities reduces impunity and strengthens the rule of law.
[C] Vohra Committee Report (1993)
Comprehensive Analysis: The Vohra Committee investigated the political-criminal nexus, highlighting its extent and proposing strategies to combat this menace.
Policy Recommendations: Recommendations from the report informed policy decisions aimed at disrupting criminal networks operating within political structures.
[D] Election Commission Initiatives
Affidavit Reforms: Election Commission directives mandate candidates to declare criminal records, financial assets, and educational qualifications, empowering voters with crucial information.
Moral Code of Conduct: Effective enforcement of ethical standards during elections minimizes the influence of criminal elements and promotes fair electoral practices.
Major Judicial Interventions
Background
Key Outcome
Significance
Union of India vs. Association for Democratic Reforms (2002)
Challenged lack of transparency in electoral processes regarding candidates’ records.
Supreme Court mandated Election Commission to compel candidates to disclose criminal, financial, and educational details.
Empowered voters with vital information for informed choices, fostering accountability in elections.
Ramesh Dalal vs. Union of India (2005)
Imposed disqualification criteria for convicted candidates.
Supreme Court ruled sitting MPs/MLAs would be disqualified if convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for two years or more.
Established stringent disqualification criteria to deter candidates with criminal backgrounds, enhancing integrity of elected representatives.
Lily Thomas vs. Union of India (2013)
Addressed interpretation of Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Supreme Court declared Section 8(4) unconstitutional, disqualifying legislators convicted and sentenced to two years or more.
Closed loopholes allowing convicted legislators to retain seats, reinforcing accountability and integrity in the political system.
People’s Union for Civil Liberties vs. Union of India (2013)
Addressed voters’ rights to reject candidates with criminal backgrounds through NOTA.
Supreme Court ruled voters could reject all candidates using NOTA in electronic voting machines (EVMs).
Introduced NOTA as a voting option, empowering voters to express dissatisfaction with criminalized politics, and promoting cleaner elections.
Way Forward
Decriminalization Legislation: Enact laws to prevent individuals facing serious criminal charges from contesting elections, ensuring that those with criminal backgrounds are barred from political office.
State Funding of Elections: Introduce state funding of elections to reduce the influence of money and muscle power, thereby minimizing the role of criminals in financing political campaigns.
Enhanced Voter Awareness: Educate voters about the detrimental effects of criminalization in politics and provide easily accessible information about candidates’ backgrounds to enable informed decision-making.
Empowering Election Commission: Grant Election Commission broader regulatory powers to enforce inner-party democracy, regulate party finances, and curb the influence of criminals in political parties.
Continued Judicial Oversight: Uphold the judiciary’s role in safeguarding electoral integrity by delivering landmark judgments that reinforce accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct among elected representatives.
Strict Enforcement of Disqualification Criteria: Ensure strict implementation of disqualification criteria for convicted politicians, irrespective of their appeals or legal maneuvers.
Try this question from CS Mains 2017:
Q. Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward. (150 Words, 10)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: All India Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (CES)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Why in the News?
Recently, the government has disclosed the broad findings of the All India Household Consumption Expenditure Survey conducted between August 2022 and July 2023.
About All India Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (CES):
The CES is a quinquennial (recurring every five years) survey conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
It is designed to collect information on the consumption spending patterns of households across the country, both urban and rural.
The data gathered in this exercise reveals the average expenditure on goods (food and non-food) and services.
It helps generate estimates of household Monthly Per Capita Consumer Expenditure (MPCE) as well as the distribution of households and persons over the MPCE classes.
Key Findings of the recent Survey:
Rise in Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure:
Urban: Witnessed a 33.5% increase to ₹3,510.
Rural: Marked a 40.42% surge to ₹2,008 since 2011-12.
Shift in Spending Pattern:
Food Expenditure: Decreased from 52.9% to 46.4% in rural households and from 42.6% to 39.2% in urban households since 2011-12.
Implications: Potential impact on retail inflation calculations due to reduced weightage of food prices.
Inclusion of Social Welfare Benefits:
Separate calculation for items received through schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana.
Items Included: Computers, mobile phones, bicycles, and clothing.
Adjusted Monthly Per Capita Expenditure:
Rural: ₹2,054;
Urban: ₹3,544 (excluding free education and healthcare sops).
Rural-Urban Dynamics: B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of Niti Aayog, highlights that India’s growth story is “broad-based,” with rural incomes and expenditures outpacing those in urban areas.
Narrowing Divide: The urban-rural consumption gap has decreased from 91% in 2004-05 to 71% in 2022-23, indicating diminishing inequality.
Shifts in Consumption Patterns:
Food Expenditure: Rural households’ spending on food has fallen below 50% of their total expenditure for the first time. Lower spending on staples like pulses and cereals is accompanied by increased expenditure on consumer durables and services.
Income Growth: Rising expenditures on items such as TVs, fridges, and mobile phones suggest improved incomes and evolving lifestyles.
Changing Poverty Metrics:
Poverty Estimates: Based on MPCE averages, poverty levels are projected to be below 5%, according to Mr. Subrahmanyam. Informal estimates indicate a decline in poverty, with destitution nearly eradicated due to various welfare schemes.
Inclusive Growth: Government initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat and free education have contributed to lifting millions out of poverty, reflecting a multi-dimensional approach to poverty alleviation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Economics behind Indian Agriculture
Introduction
Amidst the ongoing farmer protests, the demand for a legal assurance backing Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) has taken center stage, sparking debates and polarizing opinions.
Delving into the intricacies of MSPs is crucial to grasp the gravity of this contentious issue.
Deciphering MSPs: A Primer
Fundamental Concept: MSPs, or Minimum Support Prices, signify the price floor set by the government for various crops, serving as a safety net to safeguard farmers’ incomes.
Ramifications: The significance of MSPs transcends mere agricultural economics, influencing farmers’ livelihoods, consumer prices, and even governmental budgetary allocations.
Backdrop of Farmer Protests
Escalating Tensions: The introduction and subsequent repeal of three farm laws by the current Union government in 2020 have catalysed widespread farmer protests, drawing attention to the MSP debate.
Polarized Discourse: The discourse surrounding farmer protests has veered into a realm of political polarization, overshadowing the substantive issues at hand.
Key Insights into India’s Agricultural Landscape
[1] Shift in Economic Dynamics
Historical Perspective: Post-Independence, agriculture commanded a significant share of India’s workforce and economic output, with around 70% of the workforce engaged in the sector.
Contemporary Scenario: Despite a decline in agriculture’s contribution to GDP, the proportion of the agricultural workforce remains relatively high, signaling a skewed economic paradigm. In 2011, approximately 6% of the workforce was engaged in agriculture.
[2] Transition in Farming Patterns
Rising Labour Dependency: The shift from cultivators to agricultural laborers underscores the evolving nature of farming practices, reflecting growing challenges in sustaining agricultural livelihoods. In 1951, 72% of allfarm workers were cultivators, whereas by 2011, this proportion decreased to 45%.
Small Holdings and Indebtedness: Small and marginal landholdings coupled with high levels of indebtedness paint a grim picture of the financial vulnerability faced by Indian farmers. According to a 2019 survey, around 70% of all agricultural households have a land holding size of less than 1 hectare, and almost 50% are indebted.
[3] Income Disparities and Debt Burdens
Regional Disparities: Regional variations in farm incomes and indebtedness highlight the multifaceted nature of agrarian distress. In 2019, the average monthly income per household was Rs 10,218, while 50% of all farm households were indebted.
Terms of Trade Dynamics: Fluctuating terms of trade between farmers and non-farmers further exacerbate farmers’ financial woes, reflecting structural imbalances in the agricultural sector. The Terms of Trade (ToT) between farmers and non-farmers have remained stagnant or negative since 2010-11.
[4] Global Perspectives on Agricultural Support
Comparative Analysis: India’s standing in terms of producer protection and agricultural support reveals stark disparities, challenging misconceptions about excessive financial assistance to Indian farmers.
India is Lagging: India ranks last among the countries compared by the OECD on producer protection and lags in terms of the “total support estimate” (TSE) relative to other countries and regions.
Navigating the Complexities
Beyond MSPs: While MSPs occupy a prominent position in the discourse, addressing India’s agricultural woes requires a holistic approach encompassing structural reforms, income augmentation, and infrastructural development.
Long-standing Challenges: Structural deficiencies within the agricultural sector necessitate comprehensive interventions, transcending short-term fixes and political rhetoric.
Conclusion
As India grapples with the intricacies of farmer protests and MSP demands, a nuanced understanding of agricultural dynamics is imperative to devise sustainable solutions.
Addressing the root causes of agrarian distress demands concerted efforts aimed at bolstering farmers’ resilience, fostering equitable economic growth, and ushering in transformative reforms to ensure the viability of India’s agricultural ecosystem.
Try this question from CS Mains (2018)
What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue the farmers from the low-income trap? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Gender Gaps in Healthcare
Introduction
Despite comprising nearly half of India’s health workforce, women face significant barriers in reaching leadership positions within the healthcare sector, highlighting deep-rooted gender disparities in health policy and decision-making.
Understanding the Gender Gap
Data revelations: Official data reveals that while women make up almost 50% of health workers in India, only 18% occupy leadership roles across various health panels, committees, hospitals, and ministries.
Impact of Gender Disparity: The over-representation of men at the top of the health pyramid perpetuates inequalities in decision-making and policymaking, leading to skewed health systems that fail to address the diverse needs of the population.
Insights from Research
Diversity Gaps: Recent research highlights the prevalence of diversity gaps in India’s National Health Committees, with an “over-concentration” of men, doctors, individuals from urban areas, and bureaucrats. This centralization of power risks excluding diverse perspectives and experiences, hindering the development of inclusive health policies.
Impact on Policy Formulation: The lack of gender diversity in health committees affects policy outcomes, as decisions are often made from a narrow lens, overlooking the nuanced needs of marginalized groups. For instance, the absence of women in decision-making bodies may lead to inadequate consideration of gender-specific health issues such as access to nutritious food for women.
Challenges Faced by Women
Professional Barriers: Women encounter various obstacles in advancing their careers in the health sector, including limited opportunities for promotion, unequal pay, and cultural expectations regarding gender roles.
Underrepresentation in Leadership: Women are significantly underrepresented in medical leadership positions, both within health committees and healthcare institutions, further perpetuating gender disparities in decision-making and policy formulation.
Recommendations for Change
Policy Interventions: Affirmative policies, such as reserving seats for women and marginalized groups in health committees, can help address gender disparities and promote inclusive decision-making.
Structural Reforms: Structural changes within healthcare institutions, such as promoting flexible working arrangements and providing dedicated resources for women leaders, are essential to breaking down barriers to gender equality in leadership.
Community Engagement: Involving directly affected communities in policy-making processes can ensure that health policies are responsive to the needs and priorities of the population, fostering greater inclusivity and accountability.
Conclusion
Achieving gender equality in health leadership requires concerted efforts to address systemic barriers and promote inclusive decision-making.
By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in health policy, India can build more responsive and equitable health systems that serve the needs of all its citizens.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Mental Healthcare in India
Introduction
Recent studies, including one by researchers from IIT Jodhpur, indicate alarmingly low rates of self-reporting for mental health problems in India.
Mental Health Under-Reporting in India
NSS 2017-2018 Findings: The NSS data, based on self-reporting by over 550000 individuals, revealed mental illness self-reporting rates of less than 1%.
Scale of Mental Illness: The 2017 NMHS conducted by NIMHANS estimated around 150 million individuals requiring treatment for mental illness in India.
WHO Estimates: India bears a heavy burden with 2443 DALYs per 10,000 population and an age-adjusted suicide rate of 21.1 per 100,000.
Suicide Trends: India’s contribution to global suicide deaths surged to 36% in 2016, with a concerning rise reported in 2021, especially among youth and middle-aged adults.
National Mental Health Survey: Alarming rates of depression among teenagers and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) prevalence of 22.4% among adults highlight the gravity of the situation.
Key Challenges
Stigma and Awareness: Social stigma and poor awareness impede access to mental healthcare, leading to delayed treatment-seeking and social isolation.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: The IIT Jodhpur study highlighted significant out-of-pocket expenses, particularly in the private sector, for mental health services.
Vulnerability Factors: Individuals with lower income and education levels are more vulnerable to mental disorders, exacerbating their socioeconomic challenges.
Socioeconomic Divide: Individuals with higher incomes were more likely to report health problems, indicating a socioeconomic disparity.
Budget and Infrastructure: Inadequate budget allocation, lack of insurance coverage, and insufficient infrastructure pose hurdles to mental healthcare delivery.
Shortage of Professionals: India grapples with a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only 3 psychiatrists per million people.
Government Initiatives
Mental Healthcare Act, 2016: Aims to safeguard the rights of individuals with mental illnesses, enhance access to mental healthcare, and decriminalize suicide attempts.
National Mental Health Policy, 2014: Prioritizes universal access to mental healthcare and endeavors to mitigate risk factors linked to mental health issues.
Way Forward
Combat Stigma: Launch nationwide campaigns to shift societal attitudes towards mental illness.
Enhance Awareness: Integrate mental health education into curricula and disseminate resources in local languages.
Improve Coordination: Strengthen collaboration between central and state governments for effective policy implementation.
Innovative Solutions: Explore tele-mental health services, bolster support for NGOs, and foster community engagement to address resource shortages.
Multisectoral Approach: Embrace a life-course perspective on mental health promotion and enforce legal frameworks.
Enhance Mental Health Ecosystem: Define quality metrics, recognize mental health advocates, and ensure affordability and accessibility of care.
Embrace Traditional Healing: Explore complementary medicines like Yoga and Ayurveda for mental health treatment.
Conclusion
By prioritizing mental healthcare and fostering collaboration across sectors, India can build a resilient mental health ecosystem that promotes well-being and supports individuals in need.
Embracing traditional healing practices alongside modern interventions can offer holistic solutions, paving the way for a mentally healthier nation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Not Much
Mains level: Key essence of the White Paper, Broader relfection at micro-economic level
Introduction
The recent presentation of a “white paper” on the Indian economy by Finance Minister in Parliament has sparked debates regarding the country’s economic performance over the past two decades.
This document, prepared by the Ministry of Finance, offers a comparative analysis of the economic governance under the Congress-led UPA governments and the BJP-led NDA governments.
Objectives of the White Paper
The white paper on the Indian economy outlines four key objectives:
[A] Informing Governance Challenges
It aims to elucidate the economic and fiscal crises inherited by the NDA government from the preceding UPA administration.
For instance, data reveals that the fiscal deficit during the UPA era surged from 2.5% in 2004-05 to 6.5% in 2013-14.
[B] Highlighting Policy Interventions
It seeks to elucidate the policies and measures implemented by the NDA government to address economic challenges and restore fiscal health.
Notably, the white paper cites the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) as significant reforms contributing to economic stability.
[C] Fostering Informed Debate
By presenting a comprehensive analysis, the white paper aims to stimulate a wider and more informed discussion on matters of national interest and fiscal responsibility.
For instance, it provides detailed insights into the impact of corruption scandals during the UPA regime on economic governance and public trust.
[D] Emphasizing National Development
It echoes PM Narendra Modi’s call to commit to national development, urging a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and inclusive development.
The document emphasizes the importance of fiscal prudence and efficient governance in achieving sustainable economic growth.
Contents and Claims
[A]Pre-2014 Economic Condition
Fragile Economy: Upon taking office in 2014, the government encountered a fragile economic situation marked by mismanagement, financial indiscipline, and widespread corruption. The economy was in crisis, necessitating substantial reforms and governance overhaul to restore its fundamentals to sound health.
Twin Balance Sheet Problem: The economy faced significant challenges, including a ‘twin balance sheet problem’, which hindered the capacity of companies and the banking sector to invest, extend credit, and generate employment.
High Inflation and Fiscal Deficits: The period witnessed double-digit inflation, with fiscal and revenue deficits spiralling out of control, exacerbating the economic woes of ordinary and poorer households.
Policy Paralysis and Infrastructure Neglect: A lack of decisive policy-making and investment in infrastructure further dented India’s business climate and global image.
Scams and Corruption: Numerous scams brought colossal revenue losses to the exchequer, with mismanagement leading to a loss of investor confidence and a slowdown in economic growth.
[B] Post-2014 Economic Reforms and Achievements
Economic Stability and Growth: The government implemented various reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and promoting growth. This includes transitioning from a ‘twin balance sheet problem’ to a ‘twin balance sheet advantage’, significantly reducing inflation, and building record foreign exchange reserves.
Infrastructure and Digital Revolution: There was a focused effort on infrastructure development and digitalization, leading to the world’s fastest rollout of 5G in 2023 and extensive 4G coverage.
Transparent Governance: Measures were taken to ensure transparent and objective auctions for natural resources, establishing systems that boost the economy and public finances.
Global Recognition and Investment Climate: The reformative measures and stable policy environment have restored confidence among investors, both domestic and foreign. India’s transition from being among the ‘fragile five’ to among the ‘top five’ global economies underscores its significant contribution to global growth.
Major Interventions: NDA’s Gamechanger
[A] Transformative Governance Reforms
Digital Revolution: Spearheading a digital revolution to streamline governance processes, ensuring transparency, and enabling ease of access to government services.
Participatory Governance: Engaging citizens directly in the policymaking process and implementation of policies to foster a more inclusive governance model.
[B] Social Welfare Schemes
Jan Dhan Yojana: A financial inclusion initiative that aims to provide affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, credit, insurance, and pensions.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: A nationwide campaign to clean up the streets, roads, and infrastructure of India’s cities, towns, and rural areas.
Ujjwala Scheme: A scheme to distribute LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households to reduce health hazards associated with cooking based on fossil fuels.
Digital India: A campaign launched to ensure government services are made available to citizens electronically by improving online infrastructure and by increasing Internet connectivity.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Aimed at providing affordable housing to the urban poor by the year 2022.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): An insurance service for farmers for their yields. It aims to reduce the premium burden on farmers and ensure early settlement of crop assurance claim.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: A project to provide LPG connections to women from BPL households to encourage the use of clean fuel.
Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY): The world’s largest health insurance/assurance scheme fully financed by the government, providing a health cover of ₹5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Providing income support to all landholding farmers’ families in the country to supplement their financial needs.
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Aims to make “India a global knowledge superpower”. The NEP 2020 emphasizes making education more holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary, aligned to the needs of the 21st century and aims for a significant overhaul of the existing education system.
Mudra Yojana: A scheme to provide easy access to credit for MSMEs and entrepreneurs.
Critical Analysis
While the white paper offers valuable insights into India’s economic trajectory, some critics point out its limitations and omissions:
[A] Selective Emphasis:
The document primarily focuses on successes under the NDA regime, overlooking persistent challenges such as unemployment and poverty.
Data from the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) reveals that unemployment rates remained elevated during the NDA era, averaging around 6% compared to 3.8% during the UPA period.
[B] Lack of Comprehensive Analysis:
Critics argue that a holistic assessment of the economy requires a nuanced understanding of diverse factors, including social indicators and long-term structural reforms.
For instance, the white paper does not adequately address the challenges of agrarian distress and rural unemployment, which continue to affect large segments of the population.
[C] Omissions:
Key issues such as unemployment and poverty alleviation are conspicuously absent from the analysis, raising questions about the document’s comprehensiveness.
Moreover, the white paper does not provide a detailed assessment of the impact of recent policy initiatives such as demonetization and the implementation of the GST on economic growth and employment generation.
Conclusion
The presentation of the white paper on the Indian economy underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
However, its selective focus and limited scope warrant cautious interpretation.
Moving forward, a more inclusive and evidence-based approach to economic analysis is essential to inform policy decisions and foster sustainable development in India.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tax-to-GDP Ratio
Mains level: NA
Introduction
India’s tax landscape is anticipated to witness significant growth in the coming fiscal year, with the tax-to-GDP ratio expected to reach a historic high of 11.7%.
Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra highlights the role of direct taxes in driving this uptick and emphasizes the government’s commitment to streamlining the tax regime for enhanced efficiency and reduced disputes.
Why ‘Tax-to-GDP’ Ratio matters?
The tax-to-GDP ratio measures a nation’s tax revenue relative to the size of its economy.
This ratio is used with other metrics to determine how well a nation’s government directs its economic resources via taxation.
Developed nations typically have higher tax-to-GDP ratios than developing nations.
Higher tax revenues mean a country can spend more on improving infrastructure, health, and education—keys to the long-term prospects for a country’s economy and people.
According to the World Bank, tax revenues above 15% of a country’s gross domestic product (GDP) are a key ingredient for economic growth and poverty reduction.
Forecasted Rise in Tax-to-GDP Ratio
Expected Surge: India’s tax-to-GDP ratio is projected to hit 11.7% in 2024-25, showcasing a steady increase from 11.6% in the preceding year and 11.2% in 2022-23.
Dominance of Direct Taxes: The surge in the tax ratio is primarily attributed to the growth of direct taxes, which are deemed more equitable.
What led to this growth?
[A] Direct Tax Collection
Optimistic Outlook: Revenue Secretary anticipates a rise in the adoption of the new tax regime, characterized by simplified tax structures and a higher tax-free income threshold.
Growth in Personal Income Tax: Personal income tax collections have witnessed a substantial 28% growth, with a projected moderation to 20%-22% by the fiscal year-end.
[B] Rationalizing GST Rates
Ongoing Review: A Group of Ministers (GoM) appointed by the GST Council is reviewing the rate structure, aiming to rationalize GST rates on various items.
Quarterly Meetings: The GST Council is expected to convene regularly to address rate rationalization, although no fixed date has been announced yet.
[C] Projected Revenue Growth
Modest Projections: Despite a buoyant revenue growth of 1.4% this year, projections for the following fiscal year aim for a 1.1% buoyancy, aligning with an anticipated nominal GDP growth of 10.5%.
Corporate Tax Dynamics: The deadline for availing the reduced corporate tax rate ends in March 2023, with a significant proportion of companies already benefitting from it.
Enforcement Measures: While the Department of Revenue focuses on tax administration, the Enforcement Directorate intervenes in cases related to money laundering, ensuring comprehensive enforcement mechanisms.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GST Appellate Tribunal
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Appellate Tribunals, eagerly anticipated to address taxpayer disputes within the six-and-a-half-year-old indirect tax regime, are set to commence operations around July or August.
What is GST Appellate Tribunal?
The GST Appellate Tribunal is a quasi-judicial body proposed to be established to resolve disputes related to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India.
It will function as an independent body to hear appeals against orders passed by the GST authorities or the Appellate Authority.
The tribunal will be composed of a national bench and various regional benches, headed by a chairperson appointed by the central government.
The proposed tribunal is expected to help expedite the resolution of disputes related to GST and reduce the burden on the judiciary.
Under GST, if a person is not satisfied with the decision passed by any lower court, an appeal can be raised to a higher court, the hierarchy for the same is as follows (from low to high):
Adjudicating Authority
Appellate Authority
Appellate Tribunal
High Court
Supreme Court
Need for such Tribunal
Unburden judiciary: GST Appellate Tribunal will help resolve the rising number of disputes under the 68-month-old indirect tax regime that are now clogging High Courts and other judicial fora.
Improve efficiency of GST System: Overall, the establishment of the GST Appellate Tribunal is expected to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the GST system in India.
Independent mechanism: The proposed Tribunal will provide an independent and efficient mechanism for resolving disputes related to GST.
Avoid tax evasion: It will help to expedite the resolution of disputes, reduce the burden on the judiciary, and promote greater certainty and predictability in the GST system.
Issues with present litigation
Compliance issues: The GST system is relatively new in India, having been implemented in 2017, and there have been several issues with compliance and interpretation of rules and regulations.
Complex adjudication hierarchy: The current dispute resolution mechanism involves multiple layers of adjudication, starting with the GST officer and as mentioned above.
Time-consuming process: This process can be time-consuming, costly, and burdensome for taxpayers, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.
Significance
The creation of these tribunals had been in the pipeline since the implementation of the GST regime on July 1, 2017.
The number of pending appeals by taxpayers related to central GST levies had surged to over 14,000 (June 2023).
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Multidimensional Poverty
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in her Interim Budget speech that 25 crore Indians were lifted out of poverty over the past decade.
This remarkable achievement reflects the government’s commitment to inclusivity.
Data from NITI Aayog’s Discussion Paper
NITI Aayog’s Insight: The data comes from a discussion paper titled “Multidimensional Poverty in India Since 2005-06,” authored by Ramesh Chand and Yogesh Suri from NITI Aayog, with inputs from the UNDP and OPHI.
Decline in Multidimensional Poverty: The paper reveals that multidimensional poverty in India reduced from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23, with around 24.82 crore individuals escaping poverty during this period.
State-Level Impact: Uttar Pradesh topped the list with 5.94 crore individuals escaping poverty, followed by Bihar at 3.77 crore and Madhya Pradesh at 2.30 crore.
Understanding the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
A Novel Approach: MPI differs from traditional poverty measures, incorporating health, education, and living standards. These three dimensions each hold one-third weight in the index.
Indicators: MPI uses 10 indicators, including nutrition, child mortality, education, housing, and access to basic amenities, offering a comprehensive view of poverty.
India’s Unique MPI: India’s MPI includes additional indicators focusing on maternal health and access to bank accounts, aligning it with national priorities.
Calculating MPI
Identifying “MPI Poor”: If an individual is deprived in at least one-third of the 10 weighted indicators, they are considered “MPI poor.”
Three Key Calculations: MPI requires three calculations:
Incidence of Multidimensional Poverty (H): The proportion of MPI poor individuals in the population.
Intensity of Poverty (A): The average proportion of deprivation experienced by MPI poor individuals.
MPI Value: Obtained by multiplying H and A, revealing the share of weighted deprivations faced by MPI poor individuals.
Data Sources and Estimations
Health Metrics: Data for health indicators relies on the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), conducted every five years. The last round covered the 2019-21 period.
Calculating MPI for 2012-13 and 2022-23: The paper used interpolation for 2013-14 estimates and extrapolation for 2022-23, enabling a comparison of poverty and deprivation trends.
Conclusion
The reduction in multidimensional poverty over the last decade signifies the government’s dedication to inclusive development, improving the lives of millions of Indians.
DOMR | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Criminal Defamation, Law Commission
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
The 22nd Law Commission has recommended retaining criminal defamation as an offence in the new legal framework of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The Law Commission’s report highlights the importance of protecting an individual’s reputation, grounded in Article 21 of the Constitution, which safeguards the right to life and personal liberty.
Key Recommendations: Upholding Reputation
Invisible Asset: Reputation, a valuable asset, cannot be seen but is diligently built over a lifetime and can be tarnished in an instant.
Essence of Protection: The jurisprudence around criminal defamation laws is rooted in the essence of safeguarding one’s reputation.
Balancing Act: While acknowledging that criminal defamation might seem contradictory to freedom of speech and expression, the Law Commission suggests treading carefully.
Harmful Speech: The Commission advises that speech should only be deemed illegal when it intends substantial harm, and when such harm becomes a reality.
What is Criminal Defamation?
Defamation: Defamation entails the act of publishing damaging content that diminishes an individual’s or entity’s reputation, from the viewpoint of an ordinary person. In India, defamation is both a civil and criminal offense.
Sections 499 and 500: These sections in the Indian Penal Code address criminal defamation. Section 499 defines the offense, while Section 500 outlines the associated punishment.
Arguments in Favor of Retaining Criminal Defamation
Protection of Reputation: An individual’s reputation, an integral part of Article 21, is as vital as free speech.
Balancing Act: The right to free speech (Article 19(1)(a)) must be balanced against the right to reputation (Article 21).
Inadequate Compensation: Monetary compensation in civil defamation may not proportionately compensate for reputation harm.
Editorial Responsibility: Editors bear the responsibility for published content, with significant consequences for individuals and the nation.
Counteracting Online Defamation: In the absence of an effective internet censorship mechanism, criminalizing defamation is a necessary safeguard.
State’s Interest: Criminalizing defamation is part of the state’s compelling interest to protect citizens’ dignity and reputation.
Arguments against Retaining
Chilling Effect: Criminal defamation may have a chilling effect on free speech, with a lower threshold for prosecution than civil damages.
Media Freedom: Freedom of speech and media expression is crucial for vibrant democracies, and the threat of prosecution can stifle truth.
Misinterpretation of Dissent: Dissent may be misconstrued as unpalatable criticism, leading to imprisonment under Sections 499 and 500 of IPC.
Collective Reputation: The right to reputation cannot extend to collectives like the government, which can rectify reputational damage.
Redundancy: Since civil defamation remedies exist, retaining criminal defamation may serve little purpose except coercion and harassment.
Global Trend: Many nations, including neighbouring Sri Lanka and the UK, have decriminalized defamation.
International Perspective: The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights urges states to abolish criminal defamation as it intimidates citizens and deters exposing wrongdoing.
Conclusion
Criminal defamation cases have been used to suppress investigative journalism, hindering democratic accountability.
Criminal defamation should not be misused by the state, especially as the Code of Criminal Procedure gives public servants an advantage.
Interim measures can ensure fair proceedings and prevent excessive penalties.
Back2Basics: Law Commission of India
Details
Establishment
An executive body established by the Government of India, with the first commission established in 1955.
Tenure
Each Law Commission serves a term of three years.
Function
Acts as an advisory body to the Ministry of Law and Justice for legal reforms in India.
Recommendations
The recommendations made by the Law Commission are not binding.
Historical Background
The first Law Commission was established during the British Raj in 1834 by the Charter Act of 1833.
First Chairman
The first Chairman of the Law Commission was Macaulay, who recommended the codification of laws.
Composition
Typically consists of a full-time Chairperson, full-time Members, ex-officio Members, and part-time Members.
Terms of Reference
Undertakes research and reviews of existing laws, recommends reforms, and studies justice delivery systems.
Major Reforms
The Law Commission played a pivotal role in suggesting key enactments like the Indian Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code.
Role in Legal Reforms
Serves as both an advisory and critical body, with its recommendations often influencing legal reforms in India.
Supreme Court References
The Supreme Court has referred to the work of the Law Commission and followed its recommendations in various cases.
Promotion of Accountability
Aims to promote an accountable and citizen-friendly government, transparency, and the right to information.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AISHE Survey
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) captures student enrollment across eight levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, MPhil, diploma, PG diploma, certificate, and integrated programs.
The survey received responses from 10,576 standalone institutions, 42,825 colleges, and 1,162 universities/university-level institutions.
About AISHE
AISHE is a report published by the Ministry of Education since 2011.
Aim: Portray the status of higher education in the country.
Survey covers all institutions in India providing higher education.
Data collected on parameters like teachers, student enrollment, programs, exam results, education finance, and infrastructure.
Higher Education defined as education obtained after completing 12 years of schooling or equivalent.
Key Takeaways:
[1] Enrollment Trends: Female Dominance
Rising Female Enrollment: The AISHE report reveals a consistent increase in female enrollment in higher education institutions.
2014-15 to 2021-22: Female enrollment grew by 32%, from 1.5 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crores in 2021-22. In the last five years, it increased by 18.7% from 1.74 crore in 2017-18.
PhD Enrollment Surge: The most significant growth was observed at the PhD level, with 98,636 women enrolled in 2021-22, compared to only 47,717 eight years ago.
Proportion of Women: Among the additional 91 lakh students joining higher education in 2021-22 compared to 2014-15, 55% were women. The postgraduate level saw the highest proportion of female students, with 55.4%.
[2] Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) and Gender Parity
GER Insights: The estimated GER for the age group 18-23 years in India is 28.4, based on 2011 census data.
State-wise GER: States with the highest GER include Chandigarh (64.8%), Puducherry (61.5%), Delhi (49%), and Tamil Nadu (47%).
Gender Parity Index (GPI): GPI measures the ratio of female GER to male GER. In 26 states and Union Territories, GER favors women. At the national level, the GPI is 1.01, and for SC and ST categories, it is 1.01 and 0.98, respectively.
[3] Academic Discipline Enrollment
UG Enrollment by Discipline: The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program holds the highest enrollment with 1.13 crore students, constituting 34.2% of total undergraduate enrollment. Overall, 3.41 crore students are enrolled in UG programs.
UG Discipline Preferences: UG enrollment distribution in 2021-22 is led by Arts (34.2%), followed by Science (14.8%), Commerce (13.3%), and Engineering & Technology (11.8%). BA(Hons) accounts for 6.2%.
PG Enrollment: Social science has the highest number of postgraduate students with 10.8 lakh. The Master of Arts (MA) program leads with 20.9 lakh students, constituting 40.7% of total postgraduate enrollment.
PhD Discipline: In the PhD category, social sciences rank third after engineering and science. While 52,748 students pursue a PhD in engineering and 45,324 in science, 26,057 opt for PhD in social sciences.
[4] Preference for Government Institutions
Government vs. Private: Surprisingly, 73.7% of all students attend government universities, which constitute only 58.6% of all universities.
Government Sector Enrollment: State public universities hold the largest share of enrolment, accounting for around 31% of total university enrolment.
Private Universities: In terms of numbers, government-owned universities enroll 71.06 lakh students, while privately managed universities enroll 25.32 lakh students. Students show a preference for government educational institutions.
[5] Demographics of Graduates
Graduation Statistics: In the 2021-22 academic year, an estimated 1.07 crore students graduated from various programs, with 50.8% being women.
Category-wise Graduates: Approximately 35% of graduates belong to Other Backward Classes (OBC), 13% are from Scheduled Caste (SC), and 5.7% are from Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
Stream-wise Graduation: Arts and social sciences streams exhibit higher graduation rates. At the undergraduate level, BA degrees top the list with 24.16 lakh graduates. MA degrees dominate at the postgraduate level with 7.02 lakh graduates. In PhD programs, science leads with 7,408 graduates, followed by engineering and technology with 6,270 graduates.
