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  • What is the Hema Commission Report?

    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:

    1. 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.
    2. 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.

  • [pib] 25th PM-STIAC Meeting

    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
      1. NM-ICPS: Cyber-Physical Systems Innovation Hubs
      2. Quantum Frontier Mission: Quantum Technologies
      3. AI Mission: AI for Inclusive Growth
      4. Electric Mobility Mission: Promote EVs
      5. Waste to Wealth Mission: Sustainable Waste Management
      6. Health and Well-being Mission: Improve Healthcare Delivery
      7. AGNIi: Accelerating Growth of New India’s Innovations
    • Deep Ocean Exploration

    What is Carbon 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:

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.

  • [pib] Release of Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors, 2024

    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:

    1. Its northern part is arid and semiarid.
    2. Its central part produces cotton.
    3. Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.

    Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Gujarat

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Tamil Nadu

  • Uttarakhand Forest Fires

    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 prolonged dry 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

    1. 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.
    1. 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:
    1. Erecting watch towers for early detection,
    2. Deploying fire watchers,
    3. Engaging local communities, and
    4. Establishing and maintaining fire lines.

    The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) website distinguishes between two types of fire lines:

    1. Kachha fire lines involve clearing undergrowth and shrubs while preserving trees to decrease the amount of available fuel.
    2. 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.

  • Towards a Green Growth: On the RBI and a Green Taxonomy

    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?

  • FAO publishes first national report on AMR Surveillance in India’s fisheries, livestock sectors

    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.

  • Meghalaya’s Byrnihat Most Polluted ‘City’ in India

    meghalaya

    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.

  • 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)

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”k8i0fixnya” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Ex-SC Judge Justice A M Khanwilkar appointed Lokpal Chairperson

    In the news

    • 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:
    1. The Lokpal comprises a chairperson and a maximum of 8 members.
    2. The chairperson must be a former Chief Justice of India, a former Supreme Court judge, or an eminent person meeting eligibility criteria.
    3. Half of the members must be judicial members, either former Supreme Court judges or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
    4. At least 50% members must be from SC / ST / OBC / Minorities and women.
    5. 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 CBI for search and seizure operations linked to such cases.
    • The Lokpal’s Inquiry Wing possesses powers akin to a civil court.
    • It can recommend the transfer or suspension of public servants implicated 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.

  • Criminals of Politics: Analysis of Rajya Sabha Candidates by ADR

    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)

     

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