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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

  • New criminal laws in effect; amendments soon

    bns

    Why in the news? 

    Despite objections from the Opposition-ruled States, three new criminal laws took effect nationwide. Union officials emphasized States’ autonomy to amend certain provisions of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)

    New Laws Introduced:

    • Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) replaces the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
    • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) replaces the Indian Penal Code, 1860.
    • Bharatiya Sakshya (BS) replaces the Indian Evidence Act, 1872.

    Procedural and Evidence Reforms:

    • Cognisable Offences: From July 1, cognisable offences will be registered under Section 173 of BNSS instead of Section 154 of CrPC.
    • Audio-Video Recording: Mandatory audio-video recording of search and seizure operations and compulsory forensic examinations for offences with punishments of seven years or more, with electronic submission of evidence to the court.

    Some provisions of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) that replace the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.PC.)

    • Procedure for Arrest and Custody: BNSS prescribes new procedures and conditions for arrest, including bail provisions and custody arrangements.
    • Evidence Handling: Mandatory audio-video recording of search and seizure operations in all criminal cases, ensuring transparency and accountability. Compulsory forensic examinations in cases where the offence attracts a punishment of seven years or more.
    • Electronic Submission: All recordings and forensic evidence must be submitted electronically to the court without delay, enhancing efficiency and reducing paperwork.

    About handholding and electronic evidence

    • Training and Support: The Union government has provided comprehensive training and hand-holding for all States to facilitate the transition to the new criminal justice system under BNSS, BNS, and BS.
    • Crime and Criminal Tracking Network Systems (CCTNS): Upgrades to CCTNS enable the filing of e-FIRs and zero FIRs, allowing for remote registration of complaints without the need to visit a police station. CCTNS software has been modified to support FIR registrations in languages other than English and Hindi, ensuring accessibility across linguistic barriers.
    • eSakshya Mobile Application: Under testing, the eSakshya app assists police in recording crime scenes, search operations, and gathering evidence. It facilitates the secure uploading of recorded data to a cloud-based platform hosted by the National Informatics Centre, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
    • State-Level Preparations: States like Delhi have developed specific applications, such as e-pramaan, to aid in the recording of crime scenes and the generation of digital certificates under the new laws. Some states have distributed necessary equipment like tablets and mobile devices to police stations to ensure compliance with recording and evidence collection requirements.
    • Forensic Capability Timeline: While the BNSS mandates forensic examinations for offences punishable by over seven years imprisonment, states have been given until June 2029 to enhance their forensic capabilities. This includes training police officials in proper evidence collection methods and the use of available resources until full upgrades are completed.

    Way Forward: 

    • Continued Collaboration and Feedback Mechanism: Establish a structured feedback mechanism between the Union government and States to address implementation challenges and refine the new criminal laws, ensuring effective collaboration.
    • Enhanced Public Awareness and Training: Conduct extensive public awareness campaigns and provide ongoing training sessions for law enforcement personnel on the use of new technologies and procedures introduced under BNSS, BNS, and BS.

  • IMF | Overlords of the developing world

    Why in the news?

    Once again, mass protests in Kenya, where at least 30 people were fatally shot by police, highlight opposition to an IMF-supported finance Bill proposing essential goods tax hikes.

    Bretton Woods Conference of 1944

    • The Bretton Woods Conference was held in 1944 in New Hampshire, USA. It established the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
    • The IMF was designed to aid economic development and promote monetary cooperation and stability globally.
    • Criticism: It has been criticized for reflecting and perpetuating power dynamics favouring Western financial interests, with voting rights disproportionately allocated based on financial contributions rather than equal representation.

    Functions of IMF and Recent Challenges Faced by Developing Countries

    • Functions: The IMF aims to provide financial assistance and policy advice to member countries facing balance of payments problems.

    Challenges:

    • Austerity Measures: IMF loans often come with conditions such as austerity measures (like tax hikes and spending cuts) that can be unpopular and detrimental to social services and economic stability.
    • Dependency: Many developing countries face criticism for being overly dependent on IMF loans, which come with stringent conditions that may not always align with local priorities.
    • Public Backlash: There is often a public and political backlash against IMF policies perceived as imposing Western economic ideologies without adequate consideration for local contexts.

    SAP (Structural Adjustment Programs) and Its Impacts

    • Definition: SAPs are economic policies imposed by the IMF and World Bank on developing countries in exchange for loans.

    Impacts:

    • Economic Restructuring: SAPs typically involve privatization, deregulation, and liberalization policies aimed at restructuring national economies towards export-led growth.
    • Social Consequences: They often lead to job losses, reduced public spending on health and education, and increased poverty and inequality.
    • Criticism of SAPs: SAPs have been criticized for exacerbating social inequalities and benefiting Western financial interests over local populations.

    Way forward: 

    • Policy Transparency: The IMF could enhance transparency in its loan conditions and negotiations, ensuring that the terms and impacts of loans are clearly communicated to the public and local stakeholders.
    • Local Consultation: Before implementing major policy changes or austerity measures, the IMF could mandate extensive consultation with local governments, civil society organizations, and affected communities to ensure that proposed measures align with local economic priorities and social needs.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The World Bank and the IMF, collectively known as the Bretton Woods Institutions, are the two inter-governmental pillars supporting the structure of the world’s economic and financial order. Superficially, the World Bank and the IMF exhibit many common characteristics, yet their role, functions and mandates are distinctly different. Elucidate. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • India lacks diagnostic tests for emerging infectious diseases

    Why in the news?

    The detection of a Zika virus infection in Pune has once again raised concerns regarding India’s readiness to diagnose emerging infectious diseases.

    Recent Outbreaks in Various Regions of India

    • Zika Virus: Recent cases of Zika virus in Pune and previous outbreaks in Kerala and Uttar Pradesh highlight sporadic but concerning outbreaks across India.
    • Avian Influenza: Ongoing outbreaks affecting poultry, with occasional human cases reported, indicating challenges in surveillance and testing.
    • Nipah Virus: Multiple outbreaks in Kerala and sporadic cases in West Bengal underscore the recurrent nature of Nipah virus outbreaks in India.

    India’s Lack of Significant Zika Surveillance and Other Diseases

    • Limited Diagnostic Capabilities: India faces challenges with the absence of approved diagnostic tests for the Zika virus, relying on clinical symptoms and selective testing, which may lead to underreporting.
    • Surveillance Gaps: There is a notable gap in systematic surveillance systems specifically tailored for Zika and other emerging infectious diseases, hampering early detection and containment efforts.
    • Infrastructure Deficiencies: The country’s diagnostic infrastructure outside major institutes is inadequate, affecting the timely identification and response to outbreaks of diseases like Zika, Nipah, and avian influenza.
    • Dependency on Apex Institutes: Diagnostic facilities are largely concentrated in apex national institutes, limiting accessibility and delaying the implementation of crucial public health measures during outbreaks.

    Impacts of Unavailability of Infrastructure

    • Delayed Response: Lack of accessible diagnostics delays the identification and isolation of cases, contact tracing, and implementation of containment measures during outbreaks.
    • Loss of Time: Delays in releasing genomic sequences and validating diagnostic tests impede the rapid development and deployment of effective diagnostics.

    Way Forward (Role of ICMR)

    • Enhanced Surveillance: ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) should lead efforts to decentralize testing facilities, ensuring availability at district and sub-district levels.
    • Capacity Building: Develop accessible and affordable diagnostic tests for Zika, Nipah, and avian influenza, leveraging lessons from COVID-19 testing infrastructure expansion.
    • Genomic Surveillance: Establish a system for the rapid release of whole genome sequences into public repositories like GISAID to enhance understanding and response capabilities.
    • Collaboration: Foster collaboration with industry and research institutions to streamline diagnostic test approvals and improve preparedness for future outbreaks.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid the management of the pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Climate change forces Panama islanders to relocate

    Why in the news? 

    In early June, approximately 300 families were relocated from the island of Gardi Sugdub in Panama’s Guna Yala province due to concerns about rising sea levels.

    What is happening in Gardi Sugdub?

    • Location and Community: Gardi Sugdub, home to about 1,300 members of the Guna community, is an island in Panama’s Guna Yala province.
    • Sea Level Rise: The Caribbean region, where Panama is situated, is experiencing sea level rise at an average rate of 3 to 4 millimetres per year. This rate is expected to accelerate to 1 centimetre per year or more by 2100.
    • Flooding: Annually, particularly in November and December, seawater floods houses and streets on Gardi Sugdub, despite efforts to fortify the island.
    • Relocation: The Panamanian government constructed 300 new houses on the mainland in a development called Nuevo Cartí to relocate affected families.

    How are other island nations affected by sea level rise?

    • Small island developing states (SIDS) are particularly vulnerable due to their low elevation and reliance on marine resources. SIDS in the Caribbean, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea face existential threats from rising sea levels.
    • Examples of Impact: Islands such as Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands, and Kiribati are experiencing significant land loss and threats to their culture and economies.
    • Consequences: Coastal erosion, salinization of freshwater resources, and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events due to rising sea levels, storm surges, and ‘king tides.’

    How fast is the global sea level rising?

    • Since 1880, global sea levels have risen by approximately 21–24 centimeters. The rate of increase has accelerated in recent decades.
    • Causes: The primary drivers are global warming, thermal expansion of seawater, and the melting of land-based ice such as glaciers and ice sheets.
    • Due to the Global Temperature Increase: The global average temperature has increased by at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1880, contributing to rising sea levels.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Coastal and Environmental Defenses: Construct seawalls, breakwaters, and other barriers to protect against storm surges and coastal erosion. Restore and preserve natural coastal barriers such as mangroves, coral reefs, and wetlands to enhance natural protection.
    • Develop and Implement Climate Adaptation Strategies: Create comprehensive climate adaptation plans that include relocation strategies for vulnerable communities.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What are the available coastal management techniques for combating the hazard? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Why Denmark has taxed cattle burps and farts?    

    Why in the news?

    Denmark will impose a tax on its livestock farmers for the greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted by their cows, sheep, and pigs from 2030.

    What is it?

    Denmark plans to impose a tax on livestock farmers for greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted by their cows, sheep, and pigs starting in 2030.

    • Tax Rates: Farmers would initially pay about $43 per metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent produced by their livestock, increasing to around $108 by 2035.
    • Actual Cost: Due to a 60% income tax deduction, the actual cost per ton will start at 120 kroner ($17.3) and rise to 300 kroner ($43) by 2035.
    • Use of Tax Collection: The funds collected from the tax between 2030 and 2031 will be returned to the industry to support its green transition. The handling of proceeds will be revisited in 2032. The proposal includes the development of over 600,000 acres of new forest areas.

    How Do Cows and Sheep Produce Methane?

    • Ruminants like cows, sheep, goats, and buffaloes have a specialized digestive system with four stomach compartments, including the rumen. In the rumen, partially digested food ferments, producing methane.
    • Methane is released primarily through burping and farting as the animals regurgitate and chew cud to complete the digestive process. Ruminant digestive systems are responsible for 27% of all methane emissions from human activity.

    Why Are Methane Emissions a Problem?

    • Climate Impact: Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, responsible for 30% of warming since preindustrial times, second only to carbon dioxide. Over a 20-year period, methane is 80 times more potent at warming than carbon dioxide.
    • Ground-Level Ozone: Methane is the primary contributor to ground-level ozone formation, a highly irritating gas just above the Earth’s surface, contributing to 1 million premature deaths annually.
    • Rising Levels: Atmospheric methane levels have dramatically increased in recent years, with the NOAA reporting a record 17 parts per billion increase in 2021, surpassing the previous record set in 2020.

    Way forward: 

    • Dietary Adjustments: Introduce feed additives, such as seaweed or other natural supplements, that can reduce methane emissions during digestion in ruminants. This approach can significantly lower methane production without negatively impacting livestock health or productivity.
    • Improved Manure Management: Utilize advanced manure management practices, such as anaerobic digestion, to capture and convert methane emissions from decomposing animal waste into biogas. This not only reduces methane emissions but also provides a renewable energy source.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • China’s ‘Five Principles’ of Foreign Policy

    Why in the News? 

    China is set to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, a foreign policy concept initially outlined in a 1954 agreement with India, with special events scheduled for Friday, June 28th.

    How it started?

    • Historical Context: India attained independence from British rule in 1947, and the People’s Republic of China was established in 1949 after a civil war victory by the Chinese communists. Nehru aimed to establish good relations with China based on trust and mutual respect, a sentiment reciprocated by China initially.
    • Origins and Proposal: The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, known as Panchsheel in India, were proposed by Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during bilateral talks with India over Tibet in 1954. This initiative was favored by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
    • Panchsheel Agreement: The agreement, formally titled “The Agreement on Trade and Intercourse with Tibet Region,” was signed on April 29, 1954. It was intended to enhance trade and cooperation, establishing trade centers and pilgrimage routes while recognizing Tibet as part of China.
    • Principles: The five guiding principles laid out in the agreement were mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, mutual non-aggression, mutual non-interference, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence.
    • Bandung Conference: The Five Principles featured prominently in the 1955 Bandung Conference in Indonesia, which included 29 Asian and African countries. The principles were co-opted into a 10-point declaration and later became central to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

    Present Scenario:

    • After the India-China War of 1962: The principles of Panchsheel were severely undermined by the Sino-Indian War in 1962, leading to criticism of Nehru for misjudging Chinese intentions.
    • China’s Foreign Policy Shift: Over the past three decades, especially under President Xi Jinping, China has adopted a more aggressive foreign policy. This includes territorial claims in the South China Sea and hostile situations with neighbouring countries.
    • China’s Relations with the U.S: China’s relationship with the United States has been marked by hostility, characterized by trade and diplomatic challenges to American dominance globally.
    • India-China Relations Today: Since 2020, Indian and Chinese forces have been in a standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, with repeated but unsuccessful attempts to resolve the conflict.
    • Commemoration of 5 Principles by China: Despite the current strained relations, China commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles with a forward-looking theme, emphasizing building a community with a shared future for mankind.

    Way forward: (What can India do?)

    • Engage in Diplomatic Dialogue: Despite historical tensions, maintaining open lines of diplomatic communication with China is crucial. India can continue efforts to engage in dialogue at multiple levels to manage and resolve bilateral disputes, including the ongoing situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh.
    • Strengthen Regional Alliances: Enhancing partnerships with other countries in the region and beyond can provide India with strategic leverage. Strengthening alliances through economic cooperation, military partnerships, and cultural exchanges can help counterbalance China’s influence and foster stability in the region.
    • Focus on Economic and Technological Development: Investing in economic growth and technological advancement can bolster India’s position on the global stage. Developing robust infrastructure, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and advancing sustainable development goals can strengthen India’s resilience and competitiveness in the face of geopolitical challenges.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Why Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams is stuck in space?  

    Why in the News?

    The scheduled return of the Starliner spacecraft, which transported NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this month, has been delayed.

    What is the Starliner mission?

    • Objective: The Starliner Crew Flight Test mission aimed to transport NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station (ISS) and demonstrate the spacecraft’s capability to safely ferry crew to and from low-Earth orbit (LEO).
    • Craft Description: CST-100 Starliner, developed by Boeing in collaboration with NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, is designed to accommodate up to seven passengers or a mix of crew and cargo for LEO missions. It is reusable up to 10 times with a turnaround time of six months.
    • Significance: Marks Boeing’s contribution to NASA’s efforts since the retirement of the Space Shuttle Program in 2011, alongside SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, which first delivered cargo in 2012 and transported astronauts in 2020.

    What has caused the delay?

    • Technical Issues: Multiple setbacks delayed the mission, including a faulty pressure valve on the Atlas V upper stage, engineering problems with other mechanisms, and issues with a spacecraft valve regulating oxidisers.
    • Specific Challenges: Post-launch, Starliner encountered five helium leaks, malfunctioning maneuvering thrusters, and a propellant valve failure, necessitating mid-mission fixes and assessments.

    What would happen to the astronauts?

    • Current Status: Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore remain aboard the ISS, where they are conducting research and experiments. The spacecraft can stay docked for up to 45 days, and the ISS has sufficient supplies for extended periods.
    • Contingency Plan: If safety concerns persist or the Starliner issues cannot be resolved in time, the astronauts may return to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, currently also docked at the ISS.

    Way forward ( what can NASA do?) 

    • Thorough Technical Review: NASA should conduct a comprehensive technical review of the Starliner spacecraft’s systems and components to identify the root causes of the multiple issues encountered during the mission.
    • Enhanced Mission Preparedness: NASA should prioritise enhancing mission preparedness protocols for commercial crew missions, including stricter pre-launch checks, contingency planning for mid-mission anomalies, and robust communication and coordination between mission control and astronauts aboard the ISS. This proactive approach can mitigate risks and ensure smoother operations in future missions.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (UPSC IAS/2019)

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

    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.

  • What is the role of the Lok Sabha 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)

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

    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)