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Type: Explained

  • What is the Justice Reddy Commission, against which KCR has moved Telangana High Court?

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Mains level: What has the Commission done on the PPAs so far?

    Why in the news? 

    On June 27, the Telangana High Court postponed the hearing on a petition filed by Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) president and former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao. The petition sought to halt all future proceedings of the Justice (retired) L Narasimha Reddy Commission until Friday.

    What is the Narasimha Reddy Commission?

    • Formation: Appointed by the Congress government of Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in March 2024.
    • Purpose: To investigate Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) made with Chhattisgarh in 2014-15 and construction of power projects at Yadadri and Bhadradri. Allegations of irregularities in the Kaleshwaram irrigation project.

    What is Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)? 

    • Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are long-term contracts between electricity producers (such as power plants) and purchasers (such as utilities, governments, or large industrial consumers).
    • These agreements stipulate the terms under which electricity is to be generated, delivered, and sold over a specified period.

    What has the Commission done on the PPAs so far?

    • Notice Issued: On June 11, the Commission issued a notice to K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) requesting a response by June 15 regarding the PPAs made during his tenure (2014-2023).
    • KCR’s Response: KCR accused the Commission of bias and political motivation, requesting Justice Reddy to recuse himself.
    • Legal Action: Anticipating a personal summons, KCR filed a petition in the Telangana High Court seeking a stay on all proceedings of the Commission.
    • Energy Minister Notice: G Jagdish Reddy, Energy Minister in KCR’s Cabinet, was also issued a notice to appear before the Commission to provide a statement regarding the PPAs.

    Allegations Regarding the Power Plants

    • Irregularities in Construction: The Narasimha Reddy Commission is investigating allegations of irregularities in the construction of the Bhadradri Thermal Power Plant at Manuguru and the Yadadri Thermal Power Plant at Damaracherla.Both projects were executed by the Telangana State Power Generation Corporation (TG GENCO).
    • Specific Concerns: The focus is on potential discrepancies and irregularities during the construction process, which may involve issues related to project execution, costs, and adherence to regulatory norms.

    Way forward: 

    • Fair and Transparent Investigation: The Narasimha Reddy Commission should ensure a fair and transparent investigation into the allegations concerning Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and the construction of power projects.
    • Collaboration and Accountability: Stakeholders, including former government officials and current authorities involved in the projects under scrutiny, should cooperate fully with the Commission.

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    What is the role of the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition?

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha

    Mains level: Significance of the Leader of Opposition

    Why in the news? 

    For a decade, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha remained vacant due to the absence of any party meeting the customary threshold of one-tenth of the House’s strength, now filled by Rae Bareli MP Rahul Gandhi.

    Leader of Opposition in the past:

     

    Who can serve as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

    • Legal Definition: According to The Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, the Leader of the Opposition is a member of the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha who leads the largest party in opposition to the government, recognised by the Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha).
    • Needed Strength: The leader must lead the party with the greatest numerical strength among the opposition parties in the respective House.
    • Recognition: The Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha) is mandated to recognize the leader of the largest opposition party as the Leader of the Opposition, irrespective of the party having a minimum threshold of 10% seats in the House.

    Significance of the positions and its significant role in Indian Political Democracy

    • Voice of the Opposition: The Leader of the Opposition serves as the primary spokesperson for the opposition in the House, articulating their views, criticisms, and alternative policies to those of the government.
    • Role in Committees: The Leader of Opposition plays a crucial role in high-powered committees responsible for appointments to key posts like the Director of CBI, Central Vigilance Commissioner, and others. This ensures a bipartisan approach in crucial appointments.
    • Ceremonial Role: The Leader of Opposition enjoys ceremonial privileges such as sitting in the front row during important occasions like the President’s Address to Parliament, symbolizing their role as a significant political figure.
    • Constitutional Checks and Balances: By providing an institutionalized position for the opposition, the Leader of Opposition ensures checks and balances on the ruling party’s power, fostering democratic accountability and oversight.
    • Precedence and Protocol: In the order of precedence, the Leader of Opposition ranks alongside Union Cabinet Ministers and other senior officials, reflecting their role in the functioning of the parliamentary democracy.

    Conclusion: The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, recognized per the 1977 Act, leads the largest opposition party, ensuring a vital role in governance oversight, committee appointments, and parliamentary protocol, crucial for democratic checks and balances.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The Indian Constitution has provisions for holding joint sessions of the two houses of the Parliament. Enumerate the occasions when this would normally happen and also the occasions when it cannot, with reasons thereof. (UPSC IAS/2017)

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  • Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

    Why govt must create a buffer stock of all main food items? 

    Explained | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: PDS, Buffer Stock & Food Security

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: NAFED, Open Market

    Mains level: How Buffer in Chana Helped

    Why in the news? 

    Sales of wheat and chana in the open market have effectively curbed soaring inflation in cereals and pulses.

    What is an Open Market?

    • An open market is an economic system with little to no barriers to free-market activity. An open market is characterized by the absence of tariffs, taxes, licensing requirements, subsidies, unionization, and any other regulations or practices that interfere with free-market activity. Open markets may have competitive barriers to entry, but never any regulatory barriers to entry.

    Present State of Inflation:

    • Overall CPI Inflation: Stood at 4.75% year-on-year in May, the lowest in 12 months, but food inflation remained elevated at 8.69%.
    • Cereals and Pulses: Inflation rates were 8.69% for cereals and 17.14% for pulses in May 2024.
    • Impact of Buffer Stocks: Buffer stocks of wheat and chana moderated inflation by ensuring sufficient supply during periods of price volatility.

    How Buffer in Gram(Chana) Helped:

    • NAFED Procurements: Procured large quantities of chana during surplus years at MSP, preventing prices from soaring during crop failures.
    • Distribution: Sold chana through various channels including open market e-auctions and ‘Bharat Dal’ at subsidized rates, stabilizing prices for consumers.
    • Current Stock Levels: Despite recent sales, NAFED still maintains a buffer stock of 4.01 lakh tonnes of chana as of now.

    Significant Role Played by FCI:

    • Wheat Offloading: FCI offloaded a record 100.88 lakh tonnes of wheat in fiscal 2023-24 through open market sales, stabilizing prices and reducing inflation.
    • Retail Price Management: Sales under schemes like ‘Bharat Atta’ ensured wheat and cereal inflation was reduced from peak levels earlier in 2023.
    • Buffer Management: Despite reduced stocks from previous years, FCI’s interventions have been crucial in managing price volatility in essential commodities.

    Need to Adopt Buffer Policy and Better Procurement:

    • Buffer Stock Strategy: Proposal to expand buffer stocks beyond rice, wheat, and select pulses to include oilseeds, vegetables, and even milk powder to mitigate price spikes.
    • Enhanced Procurement: Advocates for increased procurement during surplus years to build adequate buffer stocks for future market stabilization.
    • Policy Impact: Buffer stocking can moderate price volatility influenced by climate change-induced agricultural uncertainties, benefiting both consumers and producers.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Diversification of Buffer Stocks: There is a need to diversify buffer stocks beyond traditional items like rice and wheat to include a broader range of essential commodities such as oilseeds, vegetables, and milk powder. This expansion would help in better managing price spikes and supply shocks across various sectors.
    • Strengthened Procurement Mechanisms: Improving procurement strategies during surplus production years is crucial. This involves proactive measures to purchase larger quantities of commodities at minimum support prices (MSPs), ensuring adequate buffer stocks for future market stabilization and price moderation during scarcity periods.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Food Security Bill is expected to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India. Critically discuss various apprehensions in its effective implementation along with the concerns it has generated in WTO. (UPSC IAS/2013)

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  • Financial Inclusion in India and Its Challenges

    Interest rates on small savings schemes like PPF, SCSS, and NSC are under review by Modi 3.0 government 

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Small Savings Schemes

    Mains level: Impact of Stable Interest Rates on Small Savings Schemes

    Why in the news? 

    The central government of India is set to announce the interest rates for various small savings schemes, including the Public Provident Fund (PPF), Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS), National Savings Certificate (NSC), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), and Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS), for the July-September 2024 quarter by June 30, 2024.

    Current Interest Rates and Expected Changes

    1. Public Provident Fund (PPF)
    • Current Rate: 7.1%
    • Expected Rate: Despite the benchmark 10-year bond yield averaging 7.02% from March to May 2024, which would suggest a rate of 7.27% according to the formula, experts believe the government will likely maintain the status quo.
    • Reason: Factors such as controlled inflation, stable 10-year G-Sec yields, and historical precedence of the government not strictly following the recommended formula indicate a low probability of rate hikes.

    2. Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)

    • Current Rate: 8.2%
    • Expected Rate: Unlikely to see significant changes.
    • Reason: With a spread of 100 basis points, the SCSS offers a substantial return, and experts predict the government will maintain existing rates to manage fiscal policies effectively.

    3. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

    • Current Rate: 8.0%
    • Expected Rate: Expected to remain stable.
    • Reason: The SSY enjoys a spread of 75 basis points. Given the controlled inflation and fiscal policies, a rate hike is not anticipated.

    Factors Influencing Interest Rates

    • Benchmark Yields: The interest rates for small savings schemes are linked to the yields of 10-year government securities.
    • Market Conditions: Prevailing market yields and inflation rates play a crucial role in determining these rates.
    • Government Policy: The central government’s fiscal strategy and policies, such as those outlined in the Union Budget, impact decisions on interest rates.

    Impact of Stable Interest Rates on Small Savings Schemes

    • Investor Sentiment and Returns
      • PPF: Investors in PPF may feel disappointed due to the stagnation in interest rates despite a slight uptick in benchmark yields. However, PPF still offers tax-free returns under the Exempt-Exempt-Exempt (EEE) status, making it an attractive long-term investment.
      • SCSS and SSY: Stability in interest rates ensures a predictable income stream for senior citizens and parents of girl children, maintaining their trust in these schemes.
    • Government Fiscal Management: Maintaining the current interest rates helps the government manage its fiscal deficit more effectively. Higher rates would increase the interest burden on the government, especially for widely subscribed schemes like PPF.
    • Inflation Control: Stable interest rates reflect the government’s confidence in managing inflation. By not increasing rates, the government signals that it sees inflation as under control, thus aiming to keep borrowing costs stable for both the government and the public.
    • Market Stability: Consistent interest rates contribute to market stability. Predictable returns on small savings schemes help in the planning of household finances, ensuring steady savings and investments. This stability can also foster overall economic stability by maintaining consumer confidence.

    Conclusion: Investors in PPF, SCSS, and SSY should prepare for the possibility that interest rates will remain unchanged for the July-September 2024 quarter. While the formula indicates room for an increase in PPF rates, historical trends and expert opinions suggest that the government may maintain the current rates to balance fiscal control and market stability.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing the unbanked to the institutional fiancé fold. Do you agree with this for the financial inclusion of the poorer section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India – EU

    In great power rivalry across Eurasia, an opening for India 

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Eurasia; Government Initiatives;

    Mains level: Strategic dependence on Eurasian countries;

    Why in the News?

    The significant upheaval caused by the increasing interdependence of European and Asian theatres is accompanied by the rise of influential middle powers. India can seize this opportunity to enhance its national power.

    Complex and Deepening Interconnections between European and Asian Security:

    • Asia’s Active Role in European Geopolitics: Unlike the colonial era, Asian states now actively influence the balance of power in Europe. Both Russia and Western Europe are engaging Asia to shape the narrative on the Ukraine war.
    • Asian Arms Supply to Europe: Asia has emerged as a major supplier of arms in European conflicts, with North Korea supplying ammunition to Russia and South Korean arms flowing to Ukraine.
    • Asian Agency in Great Power Dynamics: Putin’s visit to North Korea and Vietnam highlights the increased agency of Asian states in leveraging great power rivalries for their own strategic benefits.
    • Impact on Western Alliances: The increasing agency of Asian countries like North Korea and South Korea affects the dynamics of Western alliances, with the US seeking stronger ties with South Korea and Japan in response to Russia’s actions.

    Scope for a Strategic Window:

    • Increased Asian Maneuverability: Countries like Vietnam are skillfully balancing their relationships with China, the US, and Russia, enhancing their strategic autonomy and influence in the region.
    • Western Dilemmas: The US is facing challenges in balancing its strategic focus between Europe and Asia, with debates on whether to prioritize the Ukraine conflict or the challenge posed by China.
    • Europe’s Defence Responsibilities: Both Biden and Trump agree on the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense, urging Eurasian nations to balance Russia and China.
    • Opportunities for Middle Powers: Middle powers like India have a unique opportunity to enhance their national power and military capabilities through strategic partnerships with the US and its allies. This includes modernizing India’s defense industrial base and expanding arms production, crucial for achieving strategic autonomy.

    Way forward: 

    • Engage with Key Allies: India should Deepen strategic partnerships with the US, Japan, Australia, and South Korea to enhance security cooperation and joint defense initiatives. 
      • These partnerships can provide India with access to advanced military technology and training, as well as opportunities for joint exercises and intelligence sharing.
    • Leverage International Platforms: India must actively participate in international platforms like the Quad and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) to strengthen India’s role in regional security and disaster resilience efforts.

    Mains question for practice: 

    Q Discuss the complex and deepening interconnections between European and Asian security in the current geopolitical landscape. How can India leverage these dynamics to enhance its national power?  15M 

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

    It’s time for India to reclaim its voice on Tibet

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: India-Tibet Relations; Neighbourhood first policy;

    Mains level: Challenges related to the Promotion of Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act;

    Why in the News? 

    A U.S. lawmaker delegation’s visit to Dharamshala closely followed the passage of the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act’ in Congress, awaiting Biden’s approval.

    About the delegation on ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act’ 

    • Legislative Background: The U.S. Congress passed the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act,’ emphasizing support for Tibetan autonomy and human rights. 
      • The delegation’s visit to Dharamshala, India, followed this legislative action to underscore U.S. commitment to Tibetan freedom.
    • Delegation Composition and Purpose: The delegation included bipartisan U.S. lawmakers who were co-authors of the Act, invited by the Central Tibetan Administration.
      • Their visit aimed to advocate for restarting dialogue between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and Beijing, stalled since 2010.
    • India’s Diplomatic Calculus: Hosting the U.S. delegation amidst ongoing tensions with China signals India’s nuanced diplomacy in managing its relations with both nations. 
      • It reflects India’s stance on Tibet as sensitive, balancing its traditional policy of non-interference with growing international scrutiny.
    • Geopolitical Implications: The delegation’s visit raises geopolitical questions about India’s sovereignty and diplomatic independence in the face of U.S.-China strategic competition.
      • It underscores India’s role in regional stability and global human rights discourse, impacting its strategic partnerships and international standing.

    Challenges and weaknesses involved        

    • Diplomatic Sensitivities: India faces challenges in balancing its historical support for Tibetan refugees with its current diplomatic relations with China, a crucial economic and strategic partner. 
      • Hosting U.S. lawmakers advocating for Tibetan autonomy could strain India-China relations, given Beijing’s sensitivity to international interference on Tibet-related issues.
    • Domestic Perception and Political Messaging: Allowing U.S. lawmakers to publicly advocate for Tibetan independence in India could be perceived domestically as compromising India’s stance on sovereignty and non-interference in internal matters. 
      • There is a risk of domestic backlash or political opposition questioning the government’s handling of sensitive foreign policy issues, particularly regarding Tibet and China.
    • Impact on Bilateral Relations: The visit and the Act may lead to diplomatic friction between India and China, potentially affecting bilateral cooperation in various domains, including trade, defense, and regional stability. 
      • China’s response to perceived foreign interference on Tibet could escalate tensions, impacting broader regional dynamics and India’s strategic autonomy.

    Future Scope (Way forward):

    • International Advocacy and Diplomatic Engagement: The U.S. delegation’s visit and advocacy for the Tibet-China Dispute Act highlight ongoing international interest and support for Tibetan autonomy. 
      • The future scope involves continued diplomatic engagement by global stakeholders to advocate for human rights and autonomy for Tibetans, potentially influencing China’s policies.
    • India’s Strategic Positioning: India may explore a nuanced approach to balance its historical support for Tibetan refugees with its current diplomatic relations with China. 
      • Future scope includes India asserting its stance on Tibet in international forums while managing bilateral relations with China to avoid escalation and maintain regional stability.

    Mains question for practice: 

    Q The recent visit of a delegation of U.S. lawmakers to Dharamshala, closely following the passage of the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act’ in the U.S. Congress, has brought forth significant diplomatic challenges and implications for India.15M

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC IAS/2021)

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  • Prolonged exposure to coal mining causes respiratory, skin diseases in workers: study  

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy,Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Coal production in India

    Mains level: Coal Mining and its challenges;

    Why in the News?

    A new study by the National Foundation of India (NFI) reveals that 75% of focus group participants have chronic respiratory and skin ailments due to prolonged exposure to coal mining pollutants.

    • The study report titled, “At the Crossroads: Marginalised Communities and the Just Transition Dilemma”, is a sequel to the 2021 study by NFI on the socio-economic impact of coal transitions in India.
    Key Highlights of the reports by the National Foundation for India:

      • The study covered two districts each from three central Indian states—Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha surveying 1209 households and conducting 20 Focused Group Discussions (FDGs).
    • Other key findings of the study are: 
      • Health Concerns: Prolonged exposure to coal mining pollutants has resulted in widespread respiratory and skin diseases among the local populations. At least 75% of participants in Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) reported issues such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, and various skin conditions.
      • Economic Impact/ Economic Dependency on Coal: The phasing down of coal is expected to result in significant job losses and economic downturns in coal-dependent regions. This will not only impact the coal miners and workers directly but also the broader local economy.
      • Caste-Based Inequities: Access to resources and opportunities is significantly skewed, with marginalized communities such as Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) being disproportionately affected.
    • The report identifies several challenges in achieving a just transition, including the need to upskill a largely under-educated workforce and the lack of alternative livelihoods. 
    • It underscores the importance of community-specific policies, robust institutional mechanisms, and coordinated efforts between government bodies.
    • The study offers a potential framework for safeguarding the interests of these communities through:
      • Alternative Livelihoods: Emphasizing the development of new economic opportunities beyond coal.
      • Ecological Restoration: Promoting environmental recovery to mitigate the health impacts of coal mining.
      • Inclusive Policies: Ensuring that the transition policies are inclusive and consider the needs of marginalized communities.

     

    Present Challenges of Medical Expenses and Shift from Coal:

    • Health Concerns: People living closer to coal mines face higher medical expenses due to increased incidence of lung and breathing-related diseases and skin infections.
    • Economic concerns: The global shift away from coal is expected to result in job losses and economic downturns in coal-dependent regions, affecting both coal miners and the broader local economy.
      • Economic disparities exist with varying income levels and irregular wage receipt patterns in coal-dependent districts.
      • Dhanbad and Koriya, solely reliant on coal production, reported lower incomes compared to diversified industrial districts.

    Way Forward:

    • Diversification of Local Economies: Develop alternative industries and economic activities in coal-dependent regions to reduce reliance on coal mining. Promote skill development programs to help coal workers transition to new employment opportunities in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, and services.
    • Investment in Health Infrastructure: Enhance healthcare facilities in coal mining regions to address the higher incidence of lung, and breathing-related diseases, and skin infections. Implement comprehensive health monitoring and support programs for communities living near coal mines.
    • Promotion of Renewable Energy: Accelerate the shift towards renewable energy sources, building on the recent trend of increased capacity addition in renewable energy. Invest in renewable energy infrastructure and create job opportunities in the renewable sector to offset job losses in coal mining.
    • Government and Policy Support: Implement policies and provide financial support for a ‘just transition’ to ensure that workers and communities dependent on coal mining are not left behind.
    • Community Engagement and Participation: Involve local communities in planning and decision-making processes related to the transition from coal.

    Mains question for practice : 

    Q Analyse the health and socioeconomic impacts of prolonged coal mining in India, as highlighted by the National Foundation for India’s survey. 10M

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for Development”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2017)

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  • Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.

    Why India needs to build disaster resilience in its critical infrastructure?

    Explained | | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Critical Infrastructure Sectors;

    Mains level: Resilience Mechanism

    Why in the News?
    The unprecedented surge in electricity demand offers a glimpse into the kind of stress that critical infrastructure endures during extreme weather events and resulting disasters.

    Present Challenges in India -> High Temperatures and Electricity Demand:

    • Record-breaking Electricity Demand: Delhi experienced record-breaking electricity demand due to persistently high temperatures.
    • Frequent Power Cuts: The high demand led to frequent power cuts in Delhi and neighbouring areas.
    • Worsening Conditions: Other regions in central and eastern India faced similar or worse situations, with high night temperatures exacerbating the situation.
    • Heat-related Deaths: The lack of electricity and high temperatures likely contributed to several heat-related deaths.

    Mounting Losses:

    • Increased Economic Losses: Despite early warnings and quick responses reducing human casualties, economic and other losses from extreme weather events and disasters have been rising due to their increasing frequency and intensity.
    • Government Expenditure: States spent over Rs 1.5 lakh crore between 2018 and 2023 on disaster and natural calamity aftermaths.
    • Long-term Costs: Long-term costs include livelihood losses and reduced agricultural land fertility, which are projected to worsen over time.
    • Job Losses: A 2022 World Bank report projected that heat-related stress could result in a loss of around 34 million jobs in India by 2030.
    • Food Wastage: Food wastage due to non-air-conditioned transportation is estimated at about $9 billion annually.
    • Uncounted Infrastructure Damage: Damage to critical infrastructure like transportation, telecommunications, and power supply is often uncounted in government figures, particularly for privately owned services, causing massive disruptions.

    Incorporating Resilience:

    • Disaster Management Plans: Infrastructure sectors have disaster management plans to prepare and respond to events, such as backup power supplies for hospitals, waterlogging prevention for airports and railways, and underground telecommunication lines.
    • Slow Progress: Despite plans, much of India’s infrastructure remains extremely vulnerable to disasters.
    • Future Infrastructure: India is still developing much of its infrastructure, and it is more cost-effective to incorporate disaster resilience during construction than to retrofit later. Upcoming projects need to be climate-smart, sustainable, energy-efficient, and disaster-resilient.
    A case study of Odisha:

    The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) studied Odisha’s electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure, revealing its extreme fragility. Over 30% of distribution substations are within 20 km of the coastline; 80% of electricity poles are susceptible to high wind speeds; over 75% of distribution lines are over 30 years old and not cyclone-resistant.

     

    Note: CDRI’s Created in 2019, CDRI aims to make critical infrastructure resilient to natural disasters. It serves as a knowledge hub and collaborates with over 30 countries, but only a few Indian states have engaged with CDRI.

    Way Forward:

    • Proactive Infrastructure Planning and Investment: Future infrastructure projects in India must integrate disaster resilience at the planning and construction stages. This approach ensures that new developments are sustainable, energy-efficient, and capable of withstanding extreme weather events, reducing the need for costly retrofits later.  
    • Collaboration with Expert Bodies and Adoption of Best Practices: States and infrastructure sectors should actively seek expertise and collaboration from organisations like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).  

    Mains question for practice: 

    Q Discuss the implications of extreme weather events on critical infrastructure in India, citing recent examples. What measures can be taken to enhance the resilience of infrastructure against such events? 15M

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)

     

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  • Indian Army Updates

    Will the Agnipath scheme be revamped? | Explained 

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Mains level: Issues Associated with the Scheme

    Why in the news?

    Following the 2024 election results, NDA allies Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) raised concerns about the Agnipath scheme and called for discussions on the matter.

    What is the Agnipath scheme?

    • The Agnipath scheme recruits soldiers, sailors, and airmen into the Indian armed forces for a four-year term, replacing the previous system of permanent recruitment. After completing their four-year tenure, up to 25% of Agniveers can be selected for permanent positions within the armed forces.
    • Agniveers can obtain educational certificates and skill certifications during their service. They receive a lump sum amount upon completing their tenure but are not eligible for a pension.

    Issues Associated with the Scheme

    • Personnel Shortage: There is a significant shortage of personnel in the ‘below officer’s rank’ cadres, exacerbated by the recruitment freeze during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Army retires around 60,000 soldiers annually but only recruits 40,000, leading to a growing shortfall.
    • Low Conversion Rate: The 25% conversion rate from Agniveers to regular soldiers is considered insufficient to address the personnel shortage.
    • Compressed Training: The four-year tenure necessitates a shorter training period, which may impact the quality of training.
    • Political and Social Opposition: The scheme has faced political opposition and led to violent protests in some parts of the country. Critics argue for a clause-by-clause review or complete scrapping of the scheme.

    Present Scenario

    As the Agnipath scheme marks two years since its implementation, the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) in the Defence Ministry is reviewing the scheme based on feedback from the armed forces.

    • Feedback Compilation: The Navy and Air Force have compiled their feedback, while the Army is still in the process.
    • Recommendations: Suggestions include increasing the intake numbers, raising the permanent recruitment rate from 25% to at least 50%, and extending the age limit for technical recruits from 21 to 23 years.
    • Review Process: The DMA will compile all recommendations and submit them to the Defence Ministry for potential adjustments to the scheme.

    Way forward:

    • Enhance Educational and Skill Development Opportunities: Partner with educational institutions to provide Agniveers with advanced degrees and certifications that are recognized nationwide. Offer vocational training and skill development programs that are aligned with industry standards, improving post-service employability.
    • Increase Permanent Induction Rate: Raise the conversion rate of Agniveers to permanent positions from 25% to at least 50% to address the personnel shortage effectively.

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  • Monsoon Updates

    Analyzing Maharashtra’s Water Crisis    

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Driest region in India

    Mains level: Why do different regions of Maharashtra experience varied levels of water stress?

    Why in the news?

    After last year’s deficient monsoon, the Maharashtra government declared several parts of the state as drought-hit.

    Why do different regions of Maharashtra experience varied levels of water stress?

    • Geographical Differences: Coastal areas receive excessive rainfall leading to flooding. Marathwada lies in the rain-shadow region, receiving significantly less rainfall (600-800 mm) compared to the western side of the Western Ghats (2,000-4,000 mm).
    • Topography and Soil: Marathwada has clayey black soil (regur) which retains moisture but has a low infiltration rate, leading to poor groundwater recharge. The region’s topography, with parallel tributaries and gently sloping hills, results in uneven water distribution, with valleys having perennial groundwater and upland areas facing acute water scarcity.
    • Impact of Climate Change: Increasing drought severity and frequency in central Maharashtra due to climate change, worsening water stress in regions like Marathwada and North Karnataka.

    Why is sugarcane production not suited for regions with less rainfall?

    • High Water Requirement: Sugarcane needs 1,500-2,500 mm of water during its growing season, which is much higher than the annual rainfall in low-rainfall areas like Marathwada.
    • Irrigation Demands: Sugarcane requires almost daily irrigation, consuming 61% of the region’s irrigation water while occupying only 4% of the cropped area. This heavy water usage restricts the irrigation of other crops that are more suitable for the region’s climate, such as pulses and millet.
    • Government Policies: Long-standing government support for sugarcane pricing and sales has encouraged its cultivation in unsuitable regions. The recent promotion of sugarcane-juice-based ethanol production exacerbates the issue, diverting water resources away from more sustainable agricultural practices.

    What is meant by the rain-shadow effect?

    • The rain-shadow effect occurs when moist winds from the Arabian Sea rise over the Western Ghats, causing heavy rainfall on the western side. By the time these winds descend on the eastern side (Western Maharashtra and Marathwada), they lose most of their moisture, resulting in significantly lower rainfall.
    • Impact on Marathwada: Marathwada, located in the rain-shadow region, receives only 600-800 mm of annual rainfall, contributing to its dry climate and water scarcity issues.

    Note: Marathwada and North Karnataka have emerged as the second driest regions in India after Rajasthan.

    How can supply-side solutions help the situation?

    • Watershed Management: Building water-conserving structures such as contour trenches, earthen bunds, and gully plugs to capture and store runoff. Designing silt-trapping mechanisms to prevent soil erosion and maintain water retention structures.
    • Rainwater Harvesting: Implementing measures to capture rainwater runoff from agricultural fields to recharge groundwater and reduce dependency on external water sources.
    • Utilizing Government Programs: Leveraging funds from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) for watershed management projects and training farmers in water conservation techniques.
    • Promoting Water-Efficient Practices: Encouraging the use of water-efficient irrigation methods, such as drip irrigation, to optimize water usage. Shifting to drought-resistant crops and high-value, low-water-using crops to reduce water demand and improve agricultural sustainability.

    Conclusion: The state government has announced a massive Rs 59,000 crore package to transform the Marathwada region, with a focus on tackling the water crisis. This includes reviving stalled irrigation projects worth Rs 13,677 crore to make the region drought-free through water linking and diverting floodwaters to the Godavari basin

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Elaborate the impact of National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production from waterstressed areas. (UPSC IAS/2019)

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