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Type: Explained

These Newscards correspond to the explained section of various newspapers. They become immensely important for both prelims and mains and special attention needs to be paid to them

  • Indigenous HPV vaccine, the rhetoric and the reality

    Why in the news?

    Recent discourse suggests HPV vaccination prevents cervical cancer, but evidence linking HPV to cancer is inconclusive and most infected individuals don’t develop cancer, raising doubts about vaccine necessity.

    What is Cervical Cancer?

    Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells lining the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is usually a slow-growing cancer that may not have symptoms in its early stages.

    Present  trends of cervical cancer prevalence in India and the Globe                

    • Global Trends: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths reported in 2020. 
      • Mortality rates vary widely by region, with the highest rates observed in low- and middle-income countries due to limited access to screening and treatment.
    • Trends in India: In India, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15-44 years. It accounts for approximately 17% of all female cancer deaths in the country, with over 97,000 new cases reported annually.

     

    Recent debate – How does vaccination against HPV prevent cervical cancer and consequent death?                                                       

    • Efficacy Against HPV Infection and Cervical Cancer: HPV vaccines target high-risk HPV types, notably types 16 and 18, which are responsible for a significant proportion of cervical cancer cases worldwide. 
      • Clinical trials and real-world data consistently demonstrate the effectiveness of HPV vaccines in reducing HPV infection rates and preventing cervical cancer.
    • Public Health Impact and Benefits: Countries with high HPV vaccination coverage have observed significant declines in HPV infection rates and cervical cancer incidence among vaccinated populations. 
      • Vaccination programs aim to achieve herd immunity, thereby reducing overall transmission of HPV and protecting unvaccinated individuals.
    • Debate and Challenges: Debate surrounds the universal versus selective vaccination strategies, with considerations on cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and cultural acceptance.
      • Challenges include vaccine hesitancy, particularly in some regions, as well as affordability and logistical barriers to widespread vaccination coverage.

    Challenges Prevalent in Vaccine Manufacturing    

    • Complex Manufacturing Processes: Vaccine manufacturing involves complex biological processes and stringent quality control measures. 
      • Developing and scaling up production requires specialized facilities and skilled personnel, which can be costly and time-consuming to establish.
    • High Regulatory Standards: Vaccines are subject to rigorous regulatory scrutiny to ensure safety, efficacy, and consistency. 
      • Meeting regulatory requirements in multiple jurisdictions adds complexity and may delay the approval and market entry of new vaccines.
    • Supply Chain and Distribution: Maintaining a reliable supply chain for vaccine components and ensuring cold chain storage and distribution are critical challenges. 
      • This becomes even more pronounced in resource-constrained settings or during global health emergencies where demand surges.

    Its Impact on India                     

    • Delayed Access to Affordable Vaccines: India’s capability to produce vaccines at scale is hindered by stringent patent laws and complex regulatory requirements. 
      • This delays the availability of affordable vaccines domestically, impacting public health initiatives and access for vulnerable populations.
    • Economic and Health Implications: High costs associated with vaccine development and production limit affordability and accessibility, exacerbating healthcare inequalities. 
      • This affects India’s ability to address preventable diseases effectively, impacting public health outcomes and economic productivity.

    Unavailability of Competing Vaccines and Future Scope

    • Lack of Market Competition: Despite the expiration of earlier patents, there is a notable absence of competing HPV vaccines from domestic manufacturers in India. 
      • This limits options for consumers and healthcare providers, potentially leading to higher prices and reduced accessibility, particularly in the private market.
    • Potential for Future Development: Several Indian biotech companies had announced plans to develop HPV vaccines, indicating a future scope for competition and potentially lower prices. 
      • However, these initiatives have not materialized into market-ready products, highlighting challenges in vaccine development and commercialization in India’s regulatory and economic environment.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Research and Development Incentives: Encourage and support Indian biotech companies through research grants, tax incentives, and streamlined regulatory pathways for HPV vaccine development.  
    • Enhance Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government entities, academic institutions, and private-sector vaccine manufacturers to improve vaccine accessibility and affordability. 

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • The share of women in the unincorporated sector is highest in the south   

    Why in the News? 

    Recently the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector 2022-23 revealed higher shares of women owners and workers in southern and some eastern states, and lower in western, northern, and central states.

    Gender disparity in India concerning working-owners and unpaid family workers:

    • Prevalence of Women in Unpaid Family Worker Roles: Data from the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector 2022-23 reveals that women are predominantly represented as unpaid family workers.
      • For instance, in Telangana, while 43% of working owners are women, a substantial 59% are unpaid family workers, illustrating a significant gender disparity.
    • Lower Representation of Women as Working Owners: Across India, the proportion of women in working-owner roles is considerably lower compared to men. 
      • For example, in Telangana, women constitute 43% of working owners, reflecting a gender gap where men are more likely to own and operate businesses.
    • Regional Trends Highlighting Gender Disparities: The southern states, such as Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, display a relatively higher share of women in both working-owner and unpaid family worker roles. 
      • Despite this, the overall pattern shows more men in ownership positions and more women in unpaid roles, reinforcing the gender imbalance.
    • Sector-Specific Disparities: In the manufacturing sector, women’s representation as working-owners and hired workers is lower than in unpaid family roles. 
      • For example, in Telangana, women constitute 52% of formal hired workers but only 26% of informal hired workers, indicating a disparity in employment types and compensation.
    • National Overview of Gender Roles: On a national level, the survey indicates that the share of women in unincorporated enterprises varies by state and job type. 
      • While women play a significant role in unpaid family work, their representation as working owners remains limited. 
      • This trend is consistent across different regions, with southern states showing relatively better but still imbalanced gender representation in the workforce.

    The reason behind these issues: 

    • Cultural and Societal Norms: Traditional gender roles in India often assign women the responsibility of unpaid domestic and family work, limiting their opportunities for paid employment and entrepreneurship.
    • Access to Resources and Opportunities: Women often have less access to financial resources, credit, and capital needed to start and run businesses compared to men. This financial barrier restricts their ability to become working-owners.
    • Work-Life Balance and Family Responsibilities: Women typically bear a disproportionate share of caregiving and household responsibilities, limiting their availability for formal employment and entrepreneurial activities.
    • Network and Mentorship Gaps: Women often have fewer professional networks and mentorship opportunities, which are crucial for business growth and career advancement.

    Steps taken by the Indian Government: 

    Scheme/Initiative Year Objective Key Features
    Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) 2015 Address declining child sex ratio and empower girls through education ·         Awareness and advocacy campaigns

    ·         Enforcement of PC&PNDT Act

    ·         Improving enrolment of girls in schools
    One Stop Centres (OSC) 2015 Provide integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence ·         Medical aid

    ·         Police assistance

    ·         Legal aid

    ·         Psycho-social counseling

    ·         Temporary shelter
    Ujjwala Yojana 2016 Provide LPG connections to women from BPL households to safeguard their health ·         Clean cooking fuel

    ·         Reduce health hazards associated with unclean fuels
    Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK) 2017 Empower rural women through community participation ·         Interface for rural women to approach government

    ·         Skill development training at grassroots level
    Nari Shakti Puraskar 2015 Recognize exceptional work in empowering women and promoting gender equality ·         Highest civilian honors for women

    ·         Conferred by the President of India on International Women’s Day

     

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Access to Financial Resources and Training: Implement targeted financial programs to provide women with easier access to credit, grants, and capital needed to start and grow businesses. This can include microfinance initiatives, low-interest loans, and financial literacy training.
    • Strengthen Legal and Social Support Systems: Enforce and improve existing gender equality laws and policies to ensure women’s rights in the workforce and in business ownership. This includes better implementation of anti-discrimination laws and providing legal support to women entrepreneurs.

    Mains question for practice: 

    Q Despite various government initiatives and policies aimed at promoting gender equality, significant gender disparities persist in the ownership and workforce participation in unincorporated enterprises across different regions of India. Discuss the reasons behind these disparities and suggest measures to address them.15M

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • What are the new provisions for Police Officers?  

    Why in the News? 

    The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to assist police officers in implementing these new provisions in the criminal laws.      

    With the new criminal laws coming into effect, how have the basic duties of police officers changed?

    • Registration of FIRs: The officer in charge cannot refuse to register an FIR due to jurisdiction issues. They must register a zero FIR and transfer it to the respective station. Non-registration can attract penal action.
    • Electronic Filing of FIRs: Information for FIRs can be given electronically, which must be signed within three days.
    • Mandatory Videography: Videography is now required during searches, crime scene documentation, and property possession processes. This is to ensure transparency and integrity in investigations.
    • Display of Arrest Information: Information about arrested individuals must be displayed prominently in police stations, ensuring transparency and accountability.

    What are some of the changed provisions concerning arrests of elderly and infirm people?

      • Permission from an officer not below the rank of DySP is required to arrest individuals above 60 years or those who are infirm for offenses punishable by less than three years.
      • Handcuffing is restricted and can only be used if there is a possibility of the person escaping custody or causing harm. This aligns with the Supreme Court guidelines.
    • What about preserving electronic evidence?
      • The new laws emphasize maintaining the sequence of custody for electronic devices to ensure the integrity of evidence.
      • The investigating officer must inform the informant or victim about the progress of the investigation within 90 days.

    How can electronic evidence be stored?

    • Use of eSakshya App: A cloud-based mobile app, eSakshya, allows police to capture photos and videos, ensuring they are geo-tagged and time-stamped.
    • Integration with ICJS: The data captured via eSakshya is part of the Inter-operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS), making it accessible to the judiciary, prosecution, and forensic experts.
    • Training and Equipment: Investigating officers must be provided with electronic devices and proper training to handle and preserve electronic evidence effectively.

    Challenges and Implementation Issues: 

    • Implementation and Training: The transition to new protocols, such as mandatory videography and electronic filing of FIRs, requires extensive training for police officers. 
      • Ensuring that all officers are proficient with the new technology and understand the updated procedures can be a significant logistical and financial challenge.  
    • Infrastructure and Connectivity: Effective implementation of electronic evidence preservation and zero FIR registration demands robust digital infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity, especially in remote or rural areas. 
      • Many police stations may lack the necessary resources or face frequent connectivity issues, potentially hindering the timely and accurate processing of electronic evidence and FIRs.  

    Way forward:

    • Need Enhanced Training Programs: Implement comprehensive training programs for police officers nationwide to familiarize them with the new criminal laws and technological advancements.
    • Need Improved Digital Infrastructure: Invest in upgrading digital infrastructure and ensuring reliable internet connectivity across all police stations, especially in rural and remote areas.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular State is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. (UPSC IAS/2021)

     

  • Hepatitis A vaccination will be cost-effective in Kerala: study

    Why in the News? 

    • Hepatitis A infection in Kerala is shifting from early childhood to adolescents and young adults due to better sanitation and hygiene practices.
      • The inclusion of hepatitis A vaccination into the mainstream immunization program for both one-year-old children and 15-year-old individuals in Kerala shows cost-effectiveness and success.

    Present State in Kerala and Overall India:

    • At the Regional level (Kerala): Kerala has been experiencing regular hepatitis A outbreaks, with the 2024 outbreak being particularly severe.
      • As of May 30, over 2,400 cases and 18 deaths have been reported, mainly in districts like Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur, and Ernakulam.
    • At the National Level: Severity in Different Age Groups: Almost 50% of children aged 1-5 years in India were found to be susceptible to the hepatitis A virus.
      • However, the hepatitis A vaccine is currently only available for those who can afford it, and is not part of the national immunization program.

    About Hepatitis A infection:

    • The infection is usually mild or asymptomatic in children under six years but can be symptomatic and severe in older children, adolescents, and adults, occasionally leading to liver injury and fatalities.
    • India has recently launched its first indigenously developed hepatitis A vaccine, called Havisure:
      • Havisure was launched in January 2024 by Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board.
      • IIL plans to manufacture up to 1 million doses of Havisure per year initially, focusing on the domestic market first.
    Types of Hepatitis Cause Vaccine
    Hepatitis A (HAV) Spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis A vaccine (e.g., Havrix, Vaqta)
    Hepatitis B (HBV) Spread through contact with infectious body fluids (blood, semen, etc.) Hepatitis B vaccine (e.g., Engerix-B, Recombivax HB)
    Hepatitis C (HCV)  Spread primarily through blood-to-blood contact, often via injection drug use or unsafe medical procedures. No vaccine is available currently. Treatment focuses on antiviral medications
    Hepatitis D (HDV) Requires HBV as a co-infection to cause illness. No specific vaccine for HDV. Prevention relies on hepatitis B vaccination.
    Hepatitis E (HEV) Spread through ingestion of contaminated water, similar to HAV A vaccine is available in some regions (e.g., Hecolin in China), but not widely used. Prevention mainly involves improving sanitation and safe drinking water

    Benefits of Hepatitis A Vaccination in Kerala:

    • Lifelong Immunity: Vaccination provides lifelong immunity against the hepatitis A virus, protecting individuals from severe infections and health complications later in life.
    • Less Out-of-Pocket Expenditure: Studies have shown that vaccinating children aged one year and adolescents aged 15 years in Kerala using either live attenuated or inactivated vaccines is cost-effective.
      • Vaccination prevents future healthcare expenditures associated with treating hepatitis A infections.
    • Increase in Household savings: Implementing vaccination for adolescents could save Kerala ₹5,872 million to ₹10,553 million over five years, depending on the type of vaccine used.
    • Equal and Universal Accessibility: Due to the inclusion in the universal immunization program, these vaccines are accessible throughout all sections of society, whether rich or poor.

    Government Initiatives:

    • National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP): The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the NVHCP in July 2018 to prevent and control viral hepatitis in India.
      • The program aims to combat hepatitis and achieve country-wide elimination of hepatitis C by 2030, reduce morbidity and mortality associated with hepatitis B and C, and reduce the risk, morbidity, and mortality due to hepatitis A and E.
    • State-Level Initiatives: Some states like Punjab, Assam, Manipur, Tripura, and Haryana have started free or subsidized hepatitis C treatment programs.
      • Haryana launched its own Hepatitis Control Program in 2013 at PGIMS Rohtak, which was later expanded to all district civil hospitals in the state in 2017.

    What is the Prime challenge?

    • Achieving high vaccination coverage among adolescents, who are not covered under the universal immunization program, remains a challenge. Strategies such as school-based vaccination campaigns are proposed to enhance this kind of coverage.

    Conclusion:  Implement targeted vaccination campaigns in schools and communities to ensure high coverage among adolescents aged 15 years, who are not currently included in Kerala’s universal immunization program. This can be achieved through collaboration with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to raise awareness and facilitate easy access to vaccinations.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • On expunction powers in Parliament   

    Why in the News? 

    The 18th Lok Sabha’s special session featured intense debates on the ‘Motion of Thanks’ to the President’s address, culminating in disputes over expunged remarks by Opposition leaders.

    What are expunged remarks?

    Expunged remarks in Parliament refer to the words deemed defamatory, indecent, or unparliamentary by the presiding officer and are deleted from the official record.

    What is a ‘Motion of Thanks’?

    • A Motion of Thanks is moved in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha after the President’s address (Article 87) by an MP of the ruling party, following which it is debated in both the Houses.
    • It is a customary practice, adopted from the British Parliament. The Indian Constitution does not provide for any such motion, except direction that each House shall discuss the matters contained in the address.
    • In most cases, three days are set aside for a discussion of the Motion of Thanks and the members are at liberty to speak on any matter of national or international importance and other issues.

    Why did the Opposition engage in a war of words with the government over expunging certain remarks?

    • The expunging of critical remarks escalated tensions between the Opposition and the government, leading to a verbal clash during the parliamentary session.
    • There were concerns about transparency in the expunction process, with accusations of biased decisions by the presiding officers.
      • The opposition alleged that there were different standards for expunging remarks made by their leaders compared to those made by ruling party members.
      • Opposition members argued that their remarks critical of the Prime Minister and the ruling party were unfairly expunged, infringing on their Parliamentary Privilege of Free speech.

    What is the process for ‘expunging remarks’ in Parliament?

    • Presiding Officer’s Discretion: Under Rule 261 in Rajya Sabha and Rules 380 and 381 in Lok Sabha, the Chairman or Speaker can order expunction if words are deemed defamatory, indecent, unparliamentary, or undignified.
      • If objectionable words are used, the Chair may request their withdrawal; if not complied with, the words are expunged immediately.
    • Recording Changes: Expunged portions are marked with asterisks and a footnote explaining that they were expunged as ordered by the Chair.
    • Publication Restrictions: Media are provided with a list of expunged words/phrases and are prohibited from publishing them to avoid a breach of parliamentary privilege.

    Can a member of the Lok Sabha direct a remark against a Minister?

    • Parliamentary Privilege: Members of Parliament (MPs) have the privilege of ‘Freedom of Speech and Expression’ within the House.
      • This includes the right to question the conduct, policies, or actions of Ministers during parliamentary debates without fear of legal repercussions.
    • Procedural Requirements: According to parliamentary rules (Rule 353 in Lok Sabha), if an MP wishes to make an allegation against a Minister, they are required to provide advance notice.
      • This notice allows the Minister in question to prepare a response or provide facts to address the allegation during the debate.
    • Government Accountability: MPs play a crucial role in holding the government accountable to Parliament and the public. Allegations made against Ministers are part of this oversight function, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
      • However, these allegations must be made in adherence to parliamentary decorum and procedural rules to maintain fairness and order in debates.

    What do the various rules state?

    • Rajya Sabha (Rule 261): Allows the Chairman to expunge defamatory, indecent, unparliamentary, or undignified words from proceedings.
    • Lok Sabha (Rules 380 and 381): Similar provisions for the Speaker to expunge objectionable remarks from parliamentary records.
    • Scope of Expunction: Rules also cover situations where remarks are detrimental to the national interest, offensive to dignitaries, or likely to affect religious or communal sensitivities.
    • Digital Age Challenges: Despite expunction, digital recordings and social media can perpetuate expunged remarks, challenging the effectiveness of traditional expunction practices.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Monitoring and Control: Implement advanced monitoring tools that can detect and automatically blur or mute expunged remarks in live broadcasts and recordings of parliamentary proceedings. This can help prevent the inadvertent spread of expunged content on digital platforms.
    • Public Awareness and Education: Encourage responsible reporting and sharing practices to uphold the integrity of expunctions in parliamentary records.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q ‘Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (UPSC IAS/2020)

     

  • The ANRF plan has got off on the wrong foot  

    Why in the News? 

    In 2023, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament, heralding a significant new initiative aimed at promoting and advancing research in India, particularly within the country’s universities and colleges.

    About 2019 National Research Foundation (NRF) Project Report

    • Objective: The 2019 NRF project report emphasized the goal of seeding, growing, and facilitating research in India, particularly within universities and colleges.
    • Aim: The project aimed to create an environment where research could thrive free from bureaucratic constraints, providing a funding boost and fostering collaboration with industry partners.
    • Scope and Structure: NRF will have five major divisions: Sciences, Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts
    • Priority: A top priority mentioned in the report was “growing outstanding research cells already existing at State Universities.”

     

    Lack of Industry Representation in India:

    • Governing Bodies Composition: The ANRF Governing Board and Executive Council lack representation from key organizations, such as Central and State universities or colleges.
    • Current Members: Members primarily include Secretaries from various government science departments, directors of top research institutions, and international figures, but not from Indian industry or local academia.
    • Industry and Academia Input: There is a critical need for representatives who understand the practical challenges and bottlenecks of the current university system and have ground-level experience.
    • Diversity Issues: There is minimal representation from the industry and a lack of diversity, with the sole industry representative being an Indian-American based in Silicon Valley and the only woman representative being the Secretary of the DSIR.

    R&D underfunding:

    • Current Funding Levels: India significantly underfunds research and development, allocating less than 1% of GDP to R&D. There is a pressing need to increase this to at least 4% to make Indian innovation globally competitive.
    • Systemic Overhaul: The current funding system requires a significant overhaul to boost research. This includes implementing a robust grant management system, ensuring timely disbursal of funds, and minimizing bureaucratic hurdles at both the funding body and grantee institutions.
    • Grant and Fellowship Disbursal: Timely disbursal of research grants and student fellowships is crucial. The aim should be a quick turnaround time of less than six months between application and fund disbursal to maintain the momentum of research activities.
    • Flexibility in Spending: Researchers need flexibility in spending research funds. The current system’s stringent general financial rules (GFR) and the requirement to use the Government e-marketplace (GeM) portal can hinder efficient resource utilization.
    • Diverse and Competent Leadership: The ANRF should be staffed with diverse representatives from practising natural and social scientists, young entrepreneurs, and women.

    Other steps taken by the Government: 

    • Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): It is a flagship initiative to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. It aims to create an ecosystem for innovation and provide support to startups through incubators, accelerators, and mentorship programs.
    • Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) Program: IMPRINT is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science and Technology to promote translational research.
    • Uchhatar Avishkar Yojana (UAY): UAY is a scheme to promote industry-specific need-based research in premier institutions.

     

    Conclusion: The ANRF should actively involve representatives from both Indian industry and academia in its Governing Board and Executive Council. This inclusion will ensure that decision-making processes are informed by practical insights and ground-level experiences.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as are business professions, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • What does the Karnataka Bill promise gig workers?    

    Why in the News?

    The Karnataka government released the draft of the Karnataka Platform-based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, becoming the second Indian state to take such an initiative, following Rajasthan.

    Who are the Gig workers?

    Gig workers are independent contractors, freelancers, or temporary workers who are hired for specific projects or tasks, often through online platforms, rather than being employed in traditional long-term employer-employee relationships.

    Key highlight of the Bill proposed for the welfare of gig workers:

    • Social Security and Welfare Fund: Establishment of a welfare boards, social security and welfare fund for gig workers, funded by a welfare fee on transactions or company turnover, and contributions from the Union and State governments.
    • Grievance Redressal Mechanism: Introduction of a two-level grievance redressal mechanism to address workers’ complaints and ensure transparency in the automated monitoring and decision-making systems used by platforms.
    • Fair Termination Procedures: Requirement for contracts to list exhaustive grounds for termination, with a 14-day prior notice and valid reasons in writing needed before terminating a worker.
    • Payment and Deductions: Mandate weekly payments to workers, with clear communication regarding any payment deductions, and the right for workers to refuse a specified number of gigs per week without adverse consequences.
    • Safe Working Conditions and Contract Transparency: Obligation for aggregators to provide reasonable and safe working conditions, registration of all gig workers, and contracts to be written in simple language with a 14-day notice for any changes, allowing workers to terminate the contract without losing existing entitlements.

    What are the impacts of the labour market in a larger domain, and why are safeguards necessary? 

    • Lack of Basic Rights and Social Security: Gig workers are often classified as “partners” rather than employees, leaving them security outside the purview of labour protection laws and without access to basic rights and social benefits.
    • Arbitrary Terminations and Lack of Grievance Redressal: Instances of arbitrary terminations, blacklisting, and dismissals without hearing the worker’s side are common in the absence of regulatory laws. Automated monitoring and decision-making systems often make these decisions, leaving no room for grievance redressal.
    • Reduced Payments and Exploitation: Over the years, gig workers have faced reduced payments, arbitrary deductions, and exploitation due to the lack of regulatory laws governing the gig economy.
      • The wide gap between the purchasing power of these workers and the affluent consumers they serve raises questions about the long-term sustainability of this model.
    • Need for Transparency and Fair Contracts: The absence of transparency in automated monitoring systems and decision-making by platforms, as well as the lack of fair contracts, has led to the exploitation of gig workers.
      • There is a need for the state to review contract templates and ensure fair contracts with gig workers.
    • Lack of Access to Credit and Skill Development: Gig workers often lack access to credit and skill development opportunities, hindering their growth and formalization.
      • There is a need for enabling platforms to provide these benefits to gig workers.

    State-level and National level Initiatives taken previously: 

    • Code on Social Security, 2020: At the national level, the Code on Social Security, 2020 recognized those who freelance or work under short-term contracts. It mandated employers to provide benefits similar to those of regular employees to gig workers.
    • Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act: Rajasthan became the first state to introduce a bill for the welfare of gig workers in 2023.
      • The bill, which became an Act in September 2023, sought to establish a welfare board and fund for gig workers.
      • However, the Act has gone into cold storage after the changed government in November 2023.
    • Haryana Gig Workers Welfare Board Bill: The bill aims to establish a state-level board dedicated to the social and economic security of gig workers involved in delivering goods, services, and food at doorsteps.

    Case study: 

    • In California (USA), the Proposition 22 ballot measure allows app-based transportation and delivery companies to classify drivers as independent contractors while providing them with some benefits like a health insurance subsidy and minimum earnings guarantee.
    • New York City (USA)  has passed legislation requiring food delivery apps to provide workers with benefits like paid sick leave and minimum pay.

    Way forward: 

    • Unified Legislation: Introduce a comprehensive national-level legal framework specifically addressing the rights and welfare of gig workers. This legislation should encompass social security, fair wages, occupational safety, and grievance redressal mechanisms.
    • Strict Enforcement: Ensure robust enforcement of these laws through dedicated government bodies and regular audits of gig economy platforms. Penalties for non-compliance should be substantial enough to deter exploitative practices.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Amidst politicians’ new reverence for the Constitution, one thing to remember 

    Why in the news? 

    Voters have cleverly embraced the idea of constitutional principles to protect their freedoms. It’s now everyone’s responsibility, including elected officials, citizens, and the judiciary, to ensure that there’s no overreach.

    Constitutional Provisions:

    • Article 99: Mandates that every member of Parliament must take an oath or affirmation to uphold the Constitution.
    • Third Schedule: Specifies the form of oath or affirmation that members of Parliament, judges of the Supreme Court, and High Courts must take.
    • Part III (Fundamental Rights): Guarantees civil liberties, such as the rights to equality, freedom of speech, and right to life.
    • Part IV (Directive Principles of State Policy): Provides guidelines for governance, directing the state in certain policy matters for the welfare of citizens.

    Basic Structure and Foundational Principles:

    • Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): Established the doctrine that certain features of the Constitution are beyond the amending power of Parliament if they violate its “Basic Structure”, ensuring that fundamental principles like democracy, secularism, judicial review, and federalism cannot be altered.
    • Foundational Principles: Include the rule of law, separation of powers, judicial independence, and protection of fundamental rights.

    Basic Structure and foundational principles should never be allowed to be eclipsed                                     

    • Protection of Fundamental Rights: The Basic Structure doctrine protects fundamental rights and core principles like democracy, secularism, judicial independence, and federalism in India.
    • Preservation of Constitutional Balance: Eclipsing the Basic Structure and foundational principles could upset the delicate balance of powers among the legislature, executive, and judiciary. These principles ensure that no single branch of government becomes disproportionately powerful, thereby maintaining the checks and balances essential for democratic governance.
    • Upholding the Rule of Law: The Basic Structure doctrine reinforces the supremacy of the Constitution as the supreme law of the land. By preventing its core principles from being undermined or diluted through constitutional amendments or legislative actions, it ensures that all state actions, including laws passed by Parliament, are consistent with constitutional norms and the rule of law.

    Significance of “Judicial Overreach”:

    • Protection of Rights: Judicial overreach often arises when courts intervene to protect fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, especially when legislative or executive actions are perceived to violate these rights.
    • Checks and Balances: It serves as a crucial check on the powers of the legislature and executive, ensuring that their actions conform to constitutional principles and do not exceed their authority.
    • Defending the Constitution: Courts may intervene to uphold the supremacy of the Constitution, ensuring that laws and actions comply with its provisions, including the Basic Structure doctrine established in the Kesavananda Bharati case.

    Criticisms of judicial overreach:

    • Interference with the Separation of Powers: Critics argue that judicial overreach interferes with the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
    • Lack of Accountability: Another criticism of judicial overreach is that the judiciary is not accountable to the people in the same way that elected representatives are. Because Judges are appointed, not elected 
    • Dilution of Democracy: Some critics argue that judicial overreach can undermine the democratic process by taking important decisions out of the hands of elected officials and placing them in the hands of judges.  

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • India’s Fintech funding plummets amid global slowdown, shows report    

    Why in the news? 

    Despite achieving a significant milestone in H1 2024, the fintech sector has encountered notable funding difficulties.

    What is the Fintech Sector?

    • The fintech sector encompasses technologies and innovations that aim to compete with traditional financial methods in the delivery of financial services. This includes a wide range of applications like mobile banking, online payments, digital lending, and blockchain technology.

    Present Report Insights

    • Funding Decline: The Indian fintech sector recorded $795 million in funding in H1 2024, a decrease of 11% from H2 2023 and 59% from H1 2023.
    • Global Ranking: Despite the decline, the Indian fintech ecosystem ranked among the top three globally funded sectors alongside the US and UK in H1 2024.
    • Major Transactions: Only two funding rounds exceeded $100 million in 2024, with Perfios becoming the only unicorn. Bengaluru led the funding, followed by Mumbai and Pune.
    • Segment Performance: Alternative Lending, RegTech, and BankingTech were the top-performing segments, with Alternative Lending securing $646 million, making up 81% of the total funding.
    • Acquisitions and IPOs: There were six acquisitions and five IPOs in H1 2024, marking significant activity despite the overall funding challenges.

    Significance of Fintech Sector

    • Financial Inclusion: Fintech innovations enhance financial inclusion by providing access to financial services to unbanked and underbanked populations.
    • Economic Growth: The sector contributes significantly to economic growth by fostering innovation, creating jobs, and boosting consumer spending.
    • Efficiency and Transparency: Fintech solutions improve efficiency and transparency in financial transactions, reducing costs and fraud.
    • Support for Startups: The sector offers numerous opportunities for startups, driving entrepreneurship and competition.

    Challenges 

    • Data Security: Fintech companies must implement strong security measures to protect sensitive customer data from cyber-attacks and data breaches. For example, Acko, a leading Indian fintech startup, has faced issues with data breaches in the past, highlighting the importance of robust data security protocols in the industry.
    • Regulatory Compliance: The fintech industry is highly regulated, requiring companies to stay updated on the latest government policies and ensure compliance to avoid penalties. For example, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued guidelines to protect consumers from predatory lending practices by digital lenders, underscoring the need for fintech firms to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
    • Customer Acquisition and Retention: Attracting and retaining customers is critical for fintech firms. For example, BharatPe, a prominent Indian fintech company, has faced challenges in customer retention due to its focus on merchant acquisition.
    • Funding and Investment: Securing adequate funding and investments remains a challenge for many fintech startups.  For example, Paytm, one of India’s largest fintech companies, has faced scrutiny from investors due to its inability to achieve profitability

    How India Can Improve Its Fintech Sector

    • Supportive Regulatory Environment: Create a regulatory framework that encourages innovation while ensuring consumer protection and systemic stability, facilitating a balanced growth of the fintech ecosystem.
    • Infrastructure Development: Invest in digital infrastructure, such as high-speed internet and mobile connectivity, to support the widespread adoption and efficient functioning of fintech applications across the country.
    • Focus on Cybersecurity: Ensure robust cybersecurity measures to protect against fraud and cyber-attacks, building trust among users and maintaining the integrity of fintech services.
    Steps taken by the government: 

    • Regulatory Sandbox: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced a framework for regulatory sandbox in 2020 to allow fintech companies to experiment with new products and services in a controlled environment.
    • Digital Personal Data Protection Bill: Introduced in 2022, this bill aims to create a framework for the protection of personal data collected by fintech companies.
    • Guidelines on Digital Lending: In 2022, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued guidelines to protect consumers from predatory lending practices by digital lenders.
    • Promoting Financial Inclusion: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has helped in enrolling over 523.9 million beneficiaries for new bank accounts, enabling fintech startups to reach a large consumer base.
    • Aadhar and UPI: The unique biometric identification system Aadhar and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) have improved transparency and delivery of financial service

    Conclusion: Fintech companies in India face challenges including data security, regulatory compliance, customer acquisition, and securing investments. Addressing these ensures sustainable growth and trust in a competitive market environment.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with a lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • The spectre of neo-fascism that is haunting Europe 

    Why in the news?

    Before France’s UEFA Euro 2024 opener, Kylian Mbappé warned against extremist power, saying he doesn’t want to represent a country that opposes his values. Marcus Thuram urged against supporting Marine Le Pen’s party.

    Who is Kylian Mbappé?

    Kylian Mbappé is a French professional footballer who plays as a forward for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the French national team. 

    Differences between Neo-Fascism and Ultra-Right

    • Neo-Fascism revives fascist principles, emphasising extreme nationalism, authoritarianism, and racial supremacy. 
    • Ultra-Right encompasses broader right-wing ideologies, focusing on nationalism, conservatism, and anti-immigration without necessarily adhering to fascist roots. 
    • Neo-fascists often seek to mainstream their image, while ultra-right movements vary widely in intensity and focus on cultural and economic issues.

    Key characteristics of Neofascism:

    • Ultra-nationalism: Extreme patriotism and loyalty to one’s country
    • Racial supremacy: Belief in the superiority of certain races over others
    • Populism: Appealing to the interests and concerns of ordinary people, especially against a perceived elite establishment
    • Authoritarianism: Favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom
    • Nativism: Promoting the interests of native inhabitants against those of immigrants
    • Xenophobia: Intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries
    • Opposition to liberal democracy: Rejecting the principles of liberal democracy such as individual rights, political pluralism and the rule of law

    The spectre of the Ultra-Right and Neo-Fascism   

    • Rise of the Ultra-Right in Europe: The ultra-right and neo-fascism are gaining significant traction across Europe. The recent European Union (EU) elections saw substantial gains for ultra-right parties, indicating a shift in political dynamics.
    • Impact on French Politics: Kylian Mbappé and Marcus Thuram’s comments highlight the concerns about the rise of extremist parties in France. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (RN) party has seen increasing support, posing a challenge to traditional political structures. Emmanuel Macron called for a snap parliamentary election in response to RN’s success, hoping to rally moderate and progressive voters.
    • European Context: The spectre of nationalism and fascism is reminiscent of pre-World War II Europe. Timothy Garton Ash noted the irony of Europe celebrating liberation from fascism while facing a resurgence of similar ideologies.

    Effect of the Growth of the Far Right Over the African and Asian Region

    • Anti-Immigration Sentiment: The far-right’s rise is partly driven by opposition to immigration from Africa and Asia. This sentiment is a legacy of colonialism and has been exacerbated by recent socio-economic challenges.
    • Integration Challenges: Prominent French footballers of African and Arab descent, like Kylian Mbappé and Karim Benzema, symbolize the integration issues within French society. Benzema’s quote, “If I score, I’m French… if I don’t, I’m an Arab,” underscores the conditional acceptance faced by immigrants and their descendants.
    • Policy Implications: Far-right governments may implement stricter immigration policies, affecting migrants and refugees from Africa and Asia. These policies could lead to increased xenophobia and social divisions.

    How French Elections Could Turn Out to Be a Change Point in Both French and European History

    • Potential Shift in Political Power: The success of the RN in the French elections could signify a major shift in political power. If the RN wins the upcoming elections, it could lead to a reconfiguration of French politics, with far-reaching implications for Europe.
    • Influence on European Politics: A far-right victory in France could embolden similar movements across Europe. The trend seen in Italy, Sweden, Germany, Spain, and other countries suggests a broader European shift towards the far-right.
    • Long-Term Implications: The rise of the ultra-right could lead to significant changes in EU policies, particularly regarding immigration, national sovereignty, and international relations. Historical patterns suggest that while such political waves eventually stabilize, the impacts of this shift could be long-lasting and transformative for Europe.

    Conclusion: Need to Implement policies to reduce socio-economic disparities, focusing on marginalized communities, and creating opportunities for employment, education, and social mobility. Invest in social welfare programs to alleviate poverty and economic insecurity, which are often exploited by far-right movements to garner support.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  ‘In the context of the neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost-effective and remove many implementation blockages.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)