Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: VVPATs, EVM
Mains level: Limitation and significance of EVM
Why in the news?
The Supreme Court has decided to hear petitions seeking 100% cross-verification of the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with the vote count as per Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
What is the history of the Voting Process?
- First two General Elections: In the Elections of 1952 and 1957, a separate box was placed for each candidate with their election symbol. Voters had to drop a blank ballot paper into the box of the candidate whom they wanted to vote for.
- Third Election: In the third election, the ballot paper with names of candidates and their symbols was introduced with voters putting a stamp on the candidate of their choice.
- Introduction of EVM in Lok Sabha Elections: In the 2004 general elections to the Lok Sabha, EVMs were used in all 543 constituencies.
- Global Scenario:
- Many Western democracies, including England, France, The Netherlands, and the United States, have opted to continue using paper ballots for their National or Federal Elections instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
- Some countries have discontinued the use of EVMs after trials over the past two decades. For example, Germany’s Supreme Court declared the use of EVMs in elections unconstitutional in 2009.
Significance of EVM:
- Prevention of Booth Capturing: EVMs have significantly reduced the likelihood of booth capturing, a practice where unauthorized individuals seize control of polling booths to manipulate votes.
- Elimination of Invalid Votes: EVMs have effectively eliminated invalid votes, which were a common issue with paper ballots.
- Environmental Sustainability: With a large electorate size like India’s, which is close to one billion, the use of EVMs contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the consumption of paper.
- Administrative Convenience: EVMs provide administrative convenience for polling officers on the day of the poll. They simplify the voting process, making it easier for voters to cast their ballots and for officials to manage polling stations efficiently.
Limitations on using EVM:
- Susceptibility to Hacking Allegations: Despite assurances from electoral authorities, doubts have been raised about the security of EVMs, with concerns that they may be vulnerable to hacking due to their electronic nature.
- Limited Sample Size for VVPAT Verification: The current practice of verifying the EVM count with Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips has a small sample size of only five per assembly constituency/segment.
- Identification of Polling Behavior: The process of matching EVM counts with VVPAT slips at the booth level allows for the identification of polling behavior by various political parties. This information could potentially be used for profiling voters and intimidation, undermining the secrecy and fairness of the electoral process.
Way Forward:
- Enhancing Transparency and Comprehensibility: In a transparent democracy, citizens should be able to understand and verify the election process without requiring specialized technical knowledge.
- Scientific Sampling for EVM-VVPAT Matching: Rather than a 100% match, the sample for matching the EVM count with VVPAT slips should be determined scientifically, possibly by dividing each state into large regions as suggested by experts.
- Error Resolution: In case any error is detected, the VVPAT slips for the concerned region should be fully counted, forming the basis for results. This would instill statistically significant confidence in the counting process.
Mains PYQ
Q In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India?
Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Status of Gas based plants in India; Section 11 (Electricity Act, 2003);
Mains level: Significance of Gas-Based Plants;
Why in the News?
- The Central government has issued directives under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, of 2003 to all gas-based generating stations to ensure Maximum Power Generation.
- This section empowers the Central/state government to specify the operation of generating stations in extraordinary circumstances.
Why India Needs Gas-based Plants?
- Electricity Demand in India: India faces a surge in electricity demand, especially during the upcoming summer season. The government has instructed gas-based power plants to commence operations to address this demand surge.
- Optimizing Power Availability: The directive aims to optimize power availability from gas-based generating stations during the anticipated high-demand period, similar to measures taken for imported-coal-based power plants.
- Ideal Transitioning Fuel: Gas-based power plants can be an ideal transition fuel for the shift from coal-based generation to renewable energy in the Indian power sector. They can provide the necessary flexibility and reliability to the grid as the share of renewable energy increases.
- Targets: The Indian government has set a target of increasing the share of non-fossil fuel, especially renewables, in power generation to 50% by 2030, and gas-based power plants can play a crucial role in achieving this target.
Challenges in building Gas-based Infrastructure:
- Underutilized Capacity: Despite having considerable capacity, gas-based generating stations remain underutilized, primarily due to commercial considerations.
- Non-availability of Affordable Fuel: India’s gas-based power plants are either stranded or operating at sub-optimal levels due to the non-availability of affordable fuel
- Lack of Domestic Gas Supply: The limited domestic gas supply has forced gas-based power producers to depend on LNG to meet their fuel needs, but the high cost of LNG has increased the variable cost of power, making it difficult to schedule in merit order dispatch
- Dependence on Imports: With barely half of the current gas consumption coming from local production, dependence on gas-based power plants can only be interim and not a long-term solution.
Initiatives taken by the Government:
- Setting up biogas plants: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, launched the Biogas program to set up biogas plants for various applications, including power generation.
- Use of gas-based power for peaking and balancing: The government will use some gas-based power to meet the country’s peaking and balancing needs during the summer of 2024.
- Increasing gas-based power generation: The government wants the share of gas-based power to rise to 15% of India’s total installed power generation capacity.
Way forward:
- Diversification of fuel sources: Encourage the exploration and development of domestic gas reserves to reduce reliance on imported gas and mitigate price volatility.
- Investment in infrastructure: Develop infrastructure for transporting gas efficiently across the country to ensure a steady and reliable supply to power plants.
- Policy support: Provide long-term policy certainty and incentives for investment in gas-based power generation, including tax breaks, subsidies, and assured purchase agreements.
Mains PYQ
Q Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads. (UPSC IAS/2014)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green Bond;
Mains level: FIIs; Green Bonds; Sovereign Green Bonds Framework (2022);
Why in the News?
On April 5 the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) greenlighted investments in the country’s Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs) by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIS).
- These are the investors such as insurance companies, pension funds, and nation-states’ sovereign wealth funds.
What is the Sovereign Green Bond?
- It is a type of bond issued by a government to finance projects and expenditures that have a positive environmental impact and are aligned with sustainability goals.
- These bonds are specifically earmarked for funding green projects, assets, and expenditures that contribute to environmental sustainability and climate objectives.
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Why has India allowed FIIs to invest in its Green Bonds?
- For attracting Foreign Investments: By allowing FIIs to invest in green bonds, India attracts foreign capital into its green projects.
- For Widening the Pool of Capital: Allowing FIIs to invest in India’s green projects expands the sources of funding available for the country’s ambitious climate goals, including achieving net zero emissions by 2070 and increasing the share of non-fossil fuel-based energy sources to 50%.
- For Meeting Climate Commitments: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021 to reduce India’s carbon emission by 45% and increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix.
- For Diversification of Investments: FIIs are looking to diversify their portfolios and seek opportunities in green investments due to regulatory support, particularly in developed countries.
- India’s Sovereign Green Bonds Framework (2022), addresses concerns about greenwashing by providing a credible framework for green investments.
Limitation For Govt. of India:
- Limited credibility of projects: The absence of specific regulations for green bonds leaves investors unable to assess the financial risk associated with the projects.
- Higher costs of issuing: The high cost of issuing green bonds in India poses a challenge for the market. Green bonds are initially costly but provide long-term cost savings.
- Greenwashing may not be resolved: Greenwashing, which is the deceptive promotion of a company’s eco-friendly image, is prevalent in the green bond industry. Some bonds are labeled as “green” despite not meeting the specified criteria.
Way Forward:
- Establish Clear Regulations: The government should establish clear and stringent regulations for green bonds, outlining specific criteria for eligible projects.
- Enhance Project Credibility: Implement mechanisms for independent verification and certification of green projects to ensure their credibility.
- Lower Issuance Costs: Explore options to reduce the issuance costs of green bonds, such as providing incentives or subsidies to issuers.
BACK2BASICS:
About India’s Sovereign Green Bonds Framework:
- It was first announced in the Union Budget 2022-23, where the proceeds of these green bonds will be issued for mobilizing resources for green infrastructure.
- It was aimed to mobilize Rs 16,000 crore through the issuance of Green Bonds in the fiscal ending of March 2023.
How they are issued?
- The Finance Ministry will, each year, inform the RBI about spending on green projects for which the funds raised through these bonds will be used.
- Green Bonds will be issued through a Uniform Price Auction (a public sale in which a fixed number of similar things are sold at the same price).
What is the Eligibility for Repurchase Transactions (Repo)?
- SGrBs will be eligible for Repurchase Transactions (Repo).
- SGrBs will also be reckoned as eligible investments for Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR)
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Mains PYQ
Q Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at the World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arctic Region
Mains level: Distribution of resources; Arctic Region;
Why in the news?
The Indian government appears interested in capitalizing on seabed mining and resource exploitation in the Arctic
About Artice Region:
- The Arctic region is rich in energy resources, including oil, natural gas, and renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, and tidal power.
- The Arctic covers an area of approximately 8 million square kilometers, with interests belonging to Denmark, Canada, Iceland, Finland, Russia, Norway, Sweden, and the United States
The reason behind the growing interest in the Arctic Region:
- Climate Change Concerns: India’s increased interest in the Arctic stems from scientific data revealing accelerated warming in the region.
- Trade Route Opportunities: India seeks to capitalize on the opening up of Arctic sea routes, particularly the Northern Sea Route, to enhance its trade efficiency.
- Geopolitical Considerations: India’s focus on the Arctic is also driven by geopolitical factors, including concerns over China’s expanding presence and Russia’s decisions regarding access to Arctic routes.
- Historical Engagement: India’s involvement in the Arctic dates back to 1920 with the signing of the Svalbard Treaty.
Indian Initiatives:
- Arctic Council: As an Observer in the Arctic Council, India actively participates in various working groups and expert meetings. India’s involvement in these discussions helps in understanding Arctic governance issues and contributes to the development of sustainable policies for the region.
- INS Himadri: In 2019, India launched its first scientific expedition to the Arctic with the INS Himadri, an ice-class research vessel. The expedition aimed to study climate change, oceanography, and marine biodiversity, furthering India’s expertise in polar research.
- PAME: India’s commitment to sustainable development in the Arctic is reflected in its engagement with Arctic Council initiatives like the ‘Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment’ (PAME).
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Way Forward – Potential for Collaboration:
- Green Energy and Clean Industries: India’s current policy emphasizes cooperation with Arctic countries, particularly Norway, in green energy and clean industries. This aligns with India’s goal of positioning itself as a responsible stakeholder in global environmental initiatives.
- Transformational Partnership: Collaboration with Norway could be transformative for India, offering opportunities for increased participation in Arctic Council working groups
- Scientific Research and Environmental Protection: A partnership with Norway is expected to focus on scientific research, climate, and environmental protection. These areas align with India’s Arctic Policy pillars, emphasizing the importance of addressing environmental challenges through research and cooperation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate Change;
Mains level: Climate Change; CO2 emissions;
Why in the news?
Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. But it has contributed around 4% to global warming to date
Year-wise Global Aviation demand, Energy Efficiency, and CO2 emissions
Global Co2 emissions from aviation
The reason behind Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions:
- CO2 Emissions: When jet fuel burns, it releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, much like any other combustion process. CO2 as a greenhouse gas has contributed around 4% to global warming to date.
- Non-CO2 effects: In addition to CO2, aircraft emissions also include other substances like nitrogen oxides, soot, water vapor, and sulfate aerosols. These substances interact with the atmosphere in various ways and can have different climate impacts. For example:
- Contrails: These are the visible trails of condensed water vapor and ice crystals that form behind aircraft in certain atmospheric conditions. Contrails can contribute to the formation of cirrus clouds, which can have a warming effect on the climate.
- Induced cirrus cloud formation: Aircraft can also induce the formation of cirrus clouds through their emissions, further contributing to warming.
Initiatives taken by the Indian Government:
- India is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), its Kyoto Protocol (KP) and the Paris Agreement (PA).
- As a Party to the UNFCCC, India periodically submits its National Communications (NCs) and Biennial Update Reports (BURs) to the UNFCCC which includes national Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory.
- The energy sector contributed 75%, Industrial Process and Product Use 8%, the agriculture sector 14%, and the waste sector contributed 3% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2016.
- The Land Use Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) sector was the net sink and absorbed about 15% of the carbon dioxide in 2016.
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Way Forward:
- Transitioning to Alternative Fuels: Invest in Research and Development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), such as biofuels, hydrogen, or synthetic fuels, which emit fewer CO2 emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.
- Improving Aircraft Efficiency: Encourage the adoption of more fuel-efficient aircraft and technologies, including advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and efficient engines.
- Implementing Operational Improvements: Enhance air traffic management systems to optimize flight routes, reduce delays, and minimize fuel consumption during taxiing, takeoff, and landing.
Mains PYQs:
- 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? (2021)
- Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg protocol. (2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hydrocarbons;
Mains level: The extraction of Hydrocarbons;
Why in the news?
The geological processes, extraction methods, and environmental impact of hydrocarbon extraction.
BACK2BASICS
Where are Hydrocarbons located?
- Hydrocarbons originate from plant and animal fossils that were formed by the forces of temperature and weight over millennia.
- They are mostly found deep underground, in porous rock formations, such as sandstone, limestone, and shale. Hydrocarbons exist in Subterranean rock formations in various forms like natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum, typically found in reservoirs.
- The primary source of hydrocarbons in underground rocks is kerogen, organic matter deposits originating from lakes, marine ecosystems, or terrestrial ecosystems.
- Different types of kerogen yield various hydrocarbon products such as waxy oils, oil and gas, light oils, gas, and coal.
- Petroleum geologists utilize tools and techniques from petroleum geology to evaluate these rocks, assessing factors like porosity and permeability.
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How Hydrocarbons are extracted?
The extraction of hydrocarbons, such as oil and gas, has several negative impacts on the environment:
- Damage to Marine Life and Ecosystems: The extraction process can lead to the release of toxic substances and chemicals, which can harm marine life and ecosystems. This can lead to the death of fish, birds, and other marine animals, as well as the destruction of habitats.
- Deforestation and Destruction of Flora: The search for hydrocarbon deposits often involves the clearing of large areas of land, which can lead to deforestation and the destruction of plant life. This can have a significant impact on local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Water Pollution: The extraction process can lead to the contamination of groundwater and surface water.
- Destruction of Fertile Land: The extraction process can destroy fertile land, which can have serious consequences for agriculture and food production. This can lead to soil erosion, desertification, and the loss of biodiversity.
Renewable sources that can serve as alternatives for hydrocarbons include:
- Hydroelectricity: This is the most significant renewable energy source at 6% of the global total
- Solar Energy: Solar power is a promising renewable energy source that can be harnessed using solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy. The solar power development sector is the fastest-growing renewable energy sector in the U.S
- Wind Energy: Wind turbines can generate electricity from wind power, and this technology is becoming increasingly popular and efficient
- Biomass Energy: Biomass energy can be derived from organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste.
- Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy is generated and stored in the Earth’s crust. This energy source can be used for heating, cooling, and electricity generation
- Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): RNG is a pipeline-quality gas that can be utilized by utilities interchangeably with conventional natural gas. RNG can be produced from methane waste sources such as farm and landfills
Conclusion: Hydrocarbons, found in subterranean rock formations, are extracted using petroleum geology techniques. Extraction poses environmental risks like marine damage, deforestation, and water pollution. Renewable alternatives include hydroelectric, solar, wind, biomass, geothermal energy, and renewable natural gas.
Mains PYQ:
Q Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Passes related to Siachen Glacier
Mains level: Siachen Glacier is strategically important for India for several reasons Why in the News?
Why in the News?
April 13, 2024, marks the 40th anniversary of Operation Meghdoot, which was launched by the Indian Army to pre-empt Pakistan and occupy the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram ranges.
The genesis of Operation Meghdoot
- Launched: April 13, 1984 (by the Indian Armed Forces);
- Aim: To seize control of the Siachen Glacier in Kashmir, marking the first assault in the world’s highest battlefield.
- It was a response to Pakistan’s Operation Ababeel.
- Indian troops, including the Kumaon Regiment and Ladakh Scouts, successfully gained control of critical peaks and passes like Sia La, Bilafond La, and Gyong La, along with the commanding heights of the Saltoro Ridge, giving India a strategic advantage in the region.
- Operation Meghdoot resulted in the first of its kind and the only army in the world to have deployed tanks and heavy ordnance at such high altitudes.
- The Siachen Glacier conflict arose due to a vague demarcation of territories in the Karachi Agreement of 1949, leading to both India and Pakistan claiming the barren heights and the glacier, which escalated tensions in the region.
Significance of Siachen Glacier:
- Preventing ingress from Pakistan and China: Siachen forms a hub between Shaksgam Valley, Karakoram Pass, and Aksai Chin, making it vital for India to prevent ingress not only from Pakistan but also from China.
- Maintaining the status quo: The Indian Army’s presence in the region has helped maintain the status quo and prevent any territorial changes that could compromise India’s security.
- Watershed and drainage: The Siachen Glacier acts as a watershed, with its melting waters being the main source of the Nubra River in the Indian region of Ladakh, which drains into the Shyok River and ultimately the Indus River, a major water source for Pakistan.
Recent developments on the Glacier
- Technological Advancements: The introduction of VSAT technology has revolutionized communication on the glacier, improving mobile and data connectivity for troops. This has enhanced real-time situational awareness and telemedicine capabilities.
- Improved Mobility and Logistics: The induction of Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, logistic drones, and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) has significantly improved mobility across the glacier and the supply of essential provisions to remote posts, especially during winters. New logistics chains ensure the availability of fresh rations and vegetables for forward posts.
- Aircraft Support: Various aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF) operate in support of Operation Meghdoot, providing crucial support to troops in remote posts. Helicopters, including Chinook, remain a lifeline for troops.
- Enhanced Medical Facilities: Medical facilities in Partapur and Base Camp boast some of the best medical and surgical specialists in the country.
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Way forward:
- Continued Diplomatic Talks: India and Pakistan may continue to engage in diplomatic dialogues, potentially at higher levels, to discuss the demilitarization of Siachen and other related issues. These talks could aim to find common ground and address mutual concerns.
- Authentication of AGPL: India’s insistence on authenticating the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) as the first step towards demilitarization could remain a key sticking point. Efforts may be made to find a mutually acceptable way to verify and authenticate the AGPL.
- Involvement of Third Parties: Third-party mediation or involvement from international organizations could be explored to facilitate discussions and help build trust between India and Pakistan.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: The reason behind the Urbanisation is not a liberating force for Dalits
Why in the News?
The Indian cities have failed with the aspirations and expectations of the Dalit liberation movement in urbanization.
View of Ambedkar and Jyotirao Phule on Urbanisation:
- Urbanization as an Opportunity for Dalit Liberation: Both Ambedkar and Jyotirao Phule saw urbanization as an opportunity for Dalit liberation. They believed that the systems of caste oppression that were prevalent in Indian villages would weaken in cities.
- City Life as Liberating and Liberal: Phule admired city life for its liberal atmosphere and the opportunity it provided him to earn a living. Similarly, Ambedkar saw cities as places where one could become anonymous, breaking free from the constraints of caste-based identities.
- Transition from Caste to Class: Cities offered the potential for individuals to transition from a caste-based order to a class-based order. In cities, one’s status would be determined more by their accumulation of resources or capital rather than their caste background.
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Why Urbanisation is not a liberating force for Dalits?
- Extension of Caste in City: The logic of purity-pollution extends to the broader urban environment, where Dalits carry the stigma of their ghettoized identity into public spaces. This perpetuates the association of Dalit identity with impurity and reinforces caste-based discrimination.
- Meat as impure by the State: Governments impose Brahminical regulations on public spaces, reinforcing the perception of meat as impure. For example, it includes Regulations on meat shops and bans on meat-based street food in certain areas, often justified by citing religious sentiments.
- Secular and Religious Spaces: The state’s regulations to maintain purity in both secular and religious public spaces, even extending to what pedestrians can visually encounter.
- Poor Sanitation: A large-scale study also found that public services and access to Municipal Infrastructure such as clean drinking water are the worst in Dalit and Muslim ghettos
- Issue of Sacrifice Zone: Research in sacrifice zones regions marked for severe environmental pollution such as landfills shows that such areas are overwhelmingly inhabited by Dalits and Muslims.
- Statistics: A recent report by the ‘Housing and Land Rights Network’ on forced evictions in India also shows that Dalits and Muslims are the most impacted by slum demolition drives.
Suggestive Measures:
- Community Empowerment: Empower Dalit and Muslim communities through grassroots initiatives, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
- Awareness and Sensitization: Conduct awareness campaigns and sensitization programs aimed at challenging caste-based stereotypes and prejudices in urban society.
- Infrastructure Development: Prioritize investment in infrastructure development in Dalit and Muslim ghettos to improve access to basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and education.
Conclusion: Urbanization hasn’t fulfilled Dalit liberation hopes. Ambedkar and Phule envisioned cities as liberating, but caste persists. Measures include community empowerment, awareness campaigns, and infrastructure development to combat discrimination and improve living conditions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Reasons behind the Fertility levels dropping below one in many Asian nations
Why in the News?
Many countries in East and Southeast Asia are in the middle of a population crisis, with fewer births every year and record-low fertility rates.
- In March this year, several hospitals in China stopped offering newborn delivery services due to declining demand.
What is TFR?
Total Fertility Rate is a measure used in demography to represent the average number of children that would be born to a woman over her lifetime. |
TFR of Asian countries and India and Comparison with others:
Reasons behind the Fertility levels dropping below one in many Asian nations:
- Family Planning Measures: Countries like South Korea and Singapore have implemented stringent family planning policies, limiting the number of children couples are encouraged to have. For example, South Korea’s slogan in the 1980s, “Even two children per family are too many for our crowded country,” reflects the emphasis on controlling population growth.
- Career Opportunities for Women: With more opportunities for women to pursue careers, there has been a shift in priorities away from having children.
- Declining Marriage Rates: Dropping marriage rates contribute to lower fertility rates, as marriage traditionally correlates with childbearing. As fewer people get married or delay marriage, the window for childbearing narrows.
- Cost of Raising Children: The rising cost of raising a child is cited as a deterrent to having larger families. Financial considerations such as education, healthcare, and housing expenses may dissuade couples from having more children.
- Ideal fertility rate: The ideal fertility rate for a population to remain stable, assuming no immigration or emigration, is 2.1 children per woman. This rate is known as the replacement rate, and it ensures that each generation will replace itself.
Suggestive Measures to maintain an ideal Fertility Rate:
- Supporting Work-Life Balance: Implement policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible work schedules, parental leave, and affordable childcare, to encourage individuals to have children while pursuing their careers.
- Financial Incentives: Offer financial incentives or subsidies for families to alleviate the financial burden of raising children, making it more feasible for individuals to start families.
- Education and Awareness: Provide education and awareness programs on the benefits of having children at a younger age and the importance of family planning to help individuals make informed decisions about their fertility.
- Healthcare Support: Improve healthcare services related to fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth to ensure a safe and supportive environment for individuals considering starting a family.
Conclusion: Declining fertility rates in Asian nations prompt a population crisis due to stringent family planning, women’s career opportunities, declining marriage rates, and high child-raising costs. Need to take measures include work-life balance policies, financial incentives, education, and healthcare improvements to maintain an ideal fertility rate.
Mains PYQ
Q Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the mains cause of population increase in India.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Iran and Israel
Mains level: Middle East countries; Iran and Israel
Why in the news?
Iran has said that its April 12 attacks on Israel were in response to Israeli war jets targeting an Iranian consulate in Syria earlier this month, leading to the death of its senior military commanders.
Context:
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- The Iran-Israel relationship has not always been as fraught as it is today. Iran was one of the first countries in the region to recognise Israel after its formation in 1948. It was only after 1979 that their diplomatic ties ended.
- Iran–Israel Relations: This can be studied through four major phases:
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- Ambivalent (1947-1953);
- Friendly (1953-1979);
- Worsening (1979-1990);
- Open Hostility (1991-present);
1953 to 1979 Iran–Israel Relations:
- From 1953 to 1979, during the rule of the Pahlavi dynasty in Iran, the relationship between Iran and Israel was relatively friendly.
- Iran recognized Israel as a sovereign state in 1950, making it the second Muslim-majority country to do so after Turkey.
- Despite occasional tensions, Iran and Israel engaged in significant economic, political, and military cooperation during this period. This cooperation extended to various sectors and included joint projects.
- Iran supported Israel during conflicts with Arab nations, indicating a level of alignment in their geopolitical interests.
- One notable joint project between Iran and Israel was the construction of the Trans-Israel oil pipeline, showcasing the depth of their cooperation, particularly in the economic sphere.
Post 1979 Iran–Israel Relations:
- After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran became a religious state, with a significant shift in its foreign policy and worldview.
- Iran, under the new regime, viewed Israel as an occupier of Palestinian land and referred to it as “Little Satan.” This represented a significant departure from the previous regime’s stance.
- Iran, under Ayatollah Khomeini, also labeled the United States as the “Great Satan” and saw both Israel and the US as interfering in the region’s affairs.
- Iran sought to expand its influence in the region, challenging traditional powers such as Saudi Arabia and Israel, both of which were US allies.
- Initially at odds with pan-Arabism championed by leaders like Gamal Abdel Nasser, Iran’s relations with Arab countries, such as Egypt, warmed after Nasser died in 1970.
- The signing of an accord between Iran and Iraq in 1975, which included Iran’s agreement to cease support for Kurdish-Iraqi separatists, led to a temporary easing of hostility between the two nations.
- These shifts in Iran’s foreign policy and its improved relations with neighboring countries, as well as Iraq, led to a decrease in Israel’s strategic importance to Iran.
India’s Stance:
- India’s Neutral Stance: India has adopted a neutral stance on the conflict between Iran and Israel, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the region.
- Strategic Partnership with Israel: Despite its neutral stance, India maintains a strategic partnership with Israel, characterized by significant military and economic ties, including a substantial trade volume of around $7.5 billion.
- Cultural and Linguistic Ties with Iran: India also has cultural and linguistic ties with Iran, along with strategic economic interests, such as the Chabahar port project, which connects India to Central Asia through Iran.
- Focus on Citizen Safety: India’s primary focus amidst the escalating conflict is ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens, with approximately 10,000 Indian nationals in Iran and an additional 18,000 in Israel.
Conclusion: Iran-Israel ties, once friendly, soured post-1979 due to Iran’s religious revolution. India maintains neutrality, balancing strategic partnerships with both nations while prioritizing citizen safety amid escalating tensions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Blurred lines between "rescue" and "capture"
Why in the news?
The human-animal conflict in India is a significant issue, with several lives lost and property damage due to the increasing interactions between humans and wildlife
Difference between between wildlife ‘capture’ and ‘rescue’
- Capture: It refers to the act of taking wild animals into custody, often due to conflicts with humans, such as when an animal poses a threat to human safety or property. This may involve trapping, sedating, or physically restraining the animal. The primary goal of capture is to ensure human safety and prevent further damage. Captured animals may be relocated, rehabilitated, or, in some cases, euthanized, depending on the situation and the animal’s condition.
- Rescue: It refers to the act of providing assistance to wild animals in distress, such as those injured, orphaned, or trapped in a dangerous situation. The primary goal of rescue is to help the animal recover and, if possible, return it to the wild. Rescue efforts may involve medical treatment, rehabilitation, and release back into the wild.
Blurred lines between “rescue” and “capture”
- Guidelines vs. Reality: Despite government guidelines discouraging capture without considering preventative measures, in practice, animals are often captured hastily rather than adopting non-invasive approaches.
- Case of Elephant “Rescue”: An elephant was captured under the pretext of rescue from a coffee plantation but was subsequently released 200 km away in an unfamiliar landscape, leading to further complications and ultimately its death.
- Unintended Consequences: The attempt to “rescue” the elephant resulted in its straying into a neighboring state, highlighting the unintended consequences and potential risks associated with such actions.
- Case of Leopard “Rescue”: Similarly, a leopard was “rescued” after being sighted in an agricultural field, but it died shortly after for unknown reasons, raising questions about the efficacy and ethics of such operations.
Issues related to rescue of snakes
- High Frequency of Interactions: Interactions with snakes are more frequent than with other wild animals, resulting in higher incidences of misguided rescue attempts.
- Failure to Distinguish Between Actions: There’s a lack of distinction between capture, removal, and rescue when managing conflicts with snakes, leading to poor handling and unnecessary removal from habitats under the guise of rescue operations.
- Issues with Relocation: Relocated snakes have poor survival prospects and relocation doesn’t effectively resolve conflict, potentially increasing future conflict occurrences.
- Harmful Effects of “Rescue” Operations: Such operations can cause physical trauma, injuries, and stress to animals, reducing their post-release survival chances.
Suggestive measures
- Education and Training: Provide comprehensive training to wildlife rescuers on species-specific rescue techniques and emphasize the importance of non-invasive approaches.
- Habitat Restoration: Focus on habitat conservation and restoration to reduce human-snake conflicts and provide natural habitats for snakes.
- Research and Monitoring: Conduct research to understand snake behavior and ecology better, enabling more informed rescue and relocation decisions.
- Collaboration: Foster collaboration between wildlife authorities, conservation organizations, and local communities to develop effective strategies for managing human-snake conflicts sustainably.
Conclusion
Enhanced training, habitat restoration, research, and collaboration are vital for navigating the blurry lines between wildlife “capture” and “rescue,” ensuring humane and effective management of human-animal conflicts in India.
Mains question for practice
Q Discuss the blurred lines between wildlife “capture” and “rescue” in India, highlighting issues and proposing measures for effective human-animal conflict management.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)
Mains level: he trade deficit between India and the ASEAN region is primarily due to the following reasons
Why in the news?
The review aims to address concerns such as the inverted duty structure, which puts local manufacturers at a disadvantage.
Trade deficit issue with ASEAN
- High trade deficit: The trade deficit between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been a significant issue, with the deficit widening to USD 43.57 billion in the last fiscal from USD 25.76 billion in 2021-22 and just USD 5 billion in 2010-11
- Review AITIGA:This has led to a review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) by 2025, aiming to address concerns about trade barriers, abuse of the agreement, and the growing trade gap between India and the ASEAN region
ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)
- The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is a trade agreement between the ten member states of ASEAN and India, signed in 2009 and implemented in 2010. The agreement aims to establish a free trade area between the parties, covering trade in physical goods and products, and progressively eliminating duties on 76.4 percent of goods.
The trade deficit between India and the ASEAN region is primarily due to the following reasons:
- Tariff disparities: India’s tariffs were much higher than partner countries, leading to a significant reduction in tariffs for partner countries, which in turn caused India’s imports to grow faster than exports. This imbalance has been widening since 2010-11, the year India entered into an agreement with ASEAN
- Non-tariff barriers and regulations: India’s exports to ASEAN have been affected due to non-reciprocity in FTA concessions, non-tariff barriers, import regulations, and quotas. These factors have hindered India’s ability to fully benefit from the FTA
- Routing of goods from third countries: There have been concerns about the routing of goods from third countries, such as China, to ASEAN countries with minimum value addition and then being imported into India, misusing the India-ASEAN FTA. This practice has contributed to the growing trade deficit
- Limited market access for Indian products: India’s exports of products such as textile clothing, footwear, food products, and minerals don’t have a significant place in ASEAN imports, while there is a higher dependence on products such as vegetables, fuels, chemicals, and metals from ASEAN, which are essential commodities
Conclusion
India’s review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement aims to tackle the widening trade deficit by addressing tariff disparities, non-tariff barriers, and the misuse of the agreement, crucial steps toward fostering fair and balanced trade relations.
Mains question for practice
Q Discuss the factors contributing to high deficit between India and ASEAN.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Asian Development Bank (ADB);
Mains level: Developments in Indian Subcontitnent; India's GDP growth projection by ADB;
Why in the News?
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) increased its GDP growth projection for India for the current fiscal year to 7%, up from its previous estimate of 6.7%.
Reason behind the increased India’s GDP growth projection by ADB:
- Manufacturing Sector: The manufacturing sector growth of India in the 2023 fiscal year was robust, with the S&P Global India Manufacturing PMI rebounding to 56.0 in November 2023 from an eight-month low of 55.5 in October 2023.
- Investment and Consumption Demand: Investment and Consumption demand are both expected to drive India’s economic growth in 2024 and FY25. Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) grew at 3.5% in the December quarter of FY24.
- Inflation Trend: Inflation in India is expected to continue its downward trend in tandem with global trends Inflation in India decreased to 5.09 percent in February 2024 from 5.10 percent in January 2024. India’s inflation rate is projected to trend around 4.30 percent in 2025, according to econometric models.
- Monetary policy: The RBI has kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% for 2023-24, focusing on withdrawal of accommodation to ensure that inflation progressively aligns to the target while supporting growth.
Government Initiatives taken for Regional Development:
- Regional Cooperation and Integration (RCI) Conference, 2023:
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- It was organised by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at Tbilisi, Georgia.
- Theme: ‘Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Integration through Economic Corridor Development (ECD)’.
- Objective: To integrate spatial transformation and area-centric approach with the help of Economic Corridor Development.
- In this Conference, India offered its indigenously developed GIS-based technology though knowledge sharing to ADB and South Asia Sub-Regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) countries for enhancing socio-economic planning and regional cooperation.
- PM GatiShakti National Master Plan and Multi-modal Connectivity:
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- Basically, PM Gati Shakti is principled to bring socio-economic area-based development as part of regional connectivity.
- It is being implemented to enhance connectivity with regional partners with the help of GIS-based technology. For Example: Indo-Nepal Haldia Access Controlled Corridor project.
BACK2BASIC:
About Asian Development Bank(ADB):
- Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members-49 from the region. ADB’s five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People’s Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%).
- Headquarters: Manila, Philippines.
- Objective: To foster social and economic development across Asia and the Pacific region.
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Conclusion: Indian government’s effort across the robust manufacturing growth, investment, working on consumption demand, decreasing inflation, and supportive monetary policy, aligning with its goal of promoting regional social and economic development are gaining some fruits.
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)
Q India has recently signed to become founding member of New Development Bank (NDB) and also the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). How will the role of the two Banks be different? Discuss the strategic significance of these two Banks for India. (UPSC IAS/2014)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Science and Technology; Biotechnology; NexCAR19;
Mains level: Process and Significance of CAR T thearpy;
Why in the News?
- President Droupadi Murmu launched India’s first indigenously-developed CAR T-cell therapy, hailing it as a major breakthrough against cancer.
- This therapy was developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and the Tata Memorial Centre, and it is known as ‘NexCAR19 CAR T-cell therapy’.
BACK2BASICS:
What is CAR T cell thearpy?
CAR T-cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy that involves modifying a patient’s T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system, to recognize and attack cancer cells. This therapy is designed to target specific proteins found on the surface of cancer cells, such as CD19, which is commonly found on B cells. |
How are CAR-T cells made?
Significance of CAR T Thearpy:
- Promising results: This therapy has shown promising results in treating some types of blood cancers, including certain kinds of lymphoma, pediatric leukemia, and adult leukemia. It has shown with approximately 70% of patients responding to the treatment.
- Less time for treatment: CAR T-cell therapies are generally a single infusion with less than 2 weeks of inpatient care, while stem cell transplants and chemotherapy treatment regimens can take months to complete
Limitiations of CAR-T Therapy:
- Risks of CAR-T Therapy: The efficacy of CAR-T therapy varies from person to person, and it is too early to declare it a complete cure. While it has shown remarkable progress in challenging cases, its effectiveness is not universal.
- High Cost Therapy: NexCAR19 is priced at a fraction of its US counterpart, it remains relatively high for many Indians, ranging from ₹40 to 45 lakh.
- It’s Side Effects includes:
- Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS is the most common side effect of CAR-T therapy, triggering an ‘Inflammatory Response’ that leads to immune system hyperactivity.
- Neurotoxicity: Although not observed in early-stage clinical trials, neurotoxicity is a common side effect of CAR-T therapy that can manifest as confusion, seizures, or difficulty speaking or walking.
- Infections and Blood Cell Counts: Patients undergoing CAR-T therapy may experience infections and low blood cell counts as anticipated side effects.
Conclusion: India’s is moving towards heralding a breakthrough in Cancer Care Therapy. Despite cost challenges, Government efforts are aimed to enhance accessibility and better outputs in Healthcare Sector.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Representation of the People Act, 1951;
Mains level: Election Issues; Judiciary; 244th Report of Law Commission; Accountability
Why in the news?
The Supreme Court held that candidates need not to disclose every piece of Information and Possession in their Election Affidavit unless it is Substantial in Nature.
What are the Legal Provisions?
- Nomination paper with Affidavit: Section 33 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) read with rule 4A of election rules, requires every contesting candidate to file their nomination paper for elections along with an Affidavit in a ‘prescribed format’.
- Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) Vs Union of India (2002): The Supreme Court held that voters have the right to know about the criminal antecedents, income and asset details of the candidate and his/her dependants and educational qualification of contesting candidates.
- This judgement resulted in Section 33A being added to the RP Act that requires details of criminal antecedents to be part of the election affidavit.
- Punishable Offence: Section 125A of the RP Act further provides that failure to furnish required information, giving false information or concealing any information in the nomination paper or affidavit shall be punishable with imprisonment up to six months or fine or both.
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Present Dilemma of Accountability:
- Candidates with Criminal Charges: The significant issue of candidates with serious criminal charges contesting elections raises questions about the integrity and suitability of such candidates for public office.
- According to a report by ADR, 19% of candidates in the 2019 Lok Sabha election faced charges of rape, murder or kidnapping.
- Circumvention of Disclosure Requirements: Some candidates attempted to circumvent disclosure requirements by leaving certain columns blank and filing incomplete affidavits, indicating loopholes in the electoral process.
Recommendations by Election Commission and Law Commission in its 244th report:
- A conviction for filing a false affidavit should attract a punishment of a minimum of 2 years imprisonment and be a ground for disqualification.
- The Trials in such cases must be conducted on a day-to-day basis.
- Persons charged by a competent court with offences punishable by imprisonment of at least 5 years should be debarred from contesting in the elections provided the case is filed at least 6 months before the election in question.
Supreme Court’s Judgement to resolve this issues:
- In Public Interest Foundation Vs Union of India (2018) directed candidates as well as political parties to issue a declaration about criminal antecedents, at least three times before the election, in a newspaper in the locality and electronic media.
Way Forward:
- Debarring from contesting elections : Debarring chargesheeted candidates from contesting elections is likely to be misused by various ruling parties.
- Increasing Punishment for False Affidavits: Increasing punishment for filing false affidavits and making it a ground for disqualification need to be implemented.
- Strict Implementation of SC order:The Supreme Court’s order to provide wide publicity of criminal records should also be strictly implemented.
Conclusion: Addressing challenges in candidate disclosure, enhancing electoral integrity can be achieved through measures such as imposing stricter penalties for false affidavits, enforcing disclosure laws rigorously, and ensuring widespread dissemination of candidates’ criminal records.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Important reports in the News; Trends in unemployment
Mains level: Urbanisation and Unemployment;
Why in the news?
A recent report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Institute for Human Development (IHD) revealed that two out of every three unemployed individuals were young graduates.
Unemployment across Indian States:
- Highest Unemployment Rate: At almost 10%, Goa’s unemployment rate is more than three times the national average of 3.17%.
- Four of the top five states with high unemployment rates (Goa, Kerala, Haryana, and Punjab) are comparatively richer states.
- Lower Unemployment Rates: Maharashtra and Gujarat, which are rich states in western India, experience unemployment rates far less than the national average.
- Unemployment in Northern and Southern states: All northern states (Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh) and most southern states have unemployment rates higher than the national average, except Karnataka.
- Unemployment below the National Average: Out of the 27 states considered, 12 states have unemployment rates less than the national average.
- Lower unemployment rates in poorer states: Except for Maharashtra and Gujarat, most states with unemployment rates lower than the national average also have per capita incomes lesser than the national average.
What is the Relationship between Urbanisation and Unemployment? (ILO observations)
- Relationship between Self-employment and Unemployment: The trend line shows a downward slope, indicating a negative relationship between self-employment and unemployment.
- Informal self-employment mainly in Agriculture and Rural Economy: A significant portion of informal self-employment is in agriculture and the rural sector.
- Relationship between Labor Force and Unemployment: Figure 3 illustrates a positive relationship between the urban share of the labor force and the unemployment rate. Highly urbanized states tend to have higher unemployment rates (Positive relationship).
- High Unemployment and Urbanized states: States like Goa and Kerala, which are highly urbanized, experience high unemployment rates. This is attributed to the limited scope for informal jobs in urban settings compared to rural agriculture, which acts as a reserve for absorbing surplus labor.
- Limited Informal Sectors: Although informal sectors exist and thrive in urban settings, they have limited capacity to absorb job-seekers compared to rural agriculture.
- Exceptions states: Gujarat and Maharashtra, despite being highly urbanized, have lower unemployment rates compared to states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
Nexus between Education and Employment:
- Highly educated labor force and unemployment: Kerala, with a highly educated labor force (30% of graduates), faces high unemployment.
- In contrast, Gujarat and Maharashtra have lower proportions of graduates in their labor force (14% and 20% respectively) and experience lower unemployment rates despite being richer and urbanized.
- High unemployment among graduates: Graduates may lack the skills required for the growing modern sector, highlighting the need for improved teaching infrastructure and standards.
- Graduates aspire to high-wage jobs that match their skills, leading to unemployment if the modern sector doesn’t expand enough to absorb them.
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Conclusion: Addressing youth unemployment necessitates improving education quality to match job market demands, fostering skill development for the modern sector, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing rural employment opportunities. Policy interventions should target these areas for inclusive growth and employment generation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National One Health Mission; Lumpy Skin disease;
Mains level: Healthcare in India; National One Health Mission;
Why in the news?
In the past, we have seen that there is interdependence between humans, animals, and the environment has been made increasingly evident with the emergence of pandemics such as COVID-19.
- It is not just humans who are affected by pandemics but also livestock — an example being the outbreak of lumpy skin disease that has spread across countries.
Why an integrated idea like the ‘One Health’ Mission is needed?
One Health is an interdisciplinary approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental health. It emphasizes collaboration across various sectors, including medicine, veterinary science, ecology, and public health, to address health challenges comprehensively.
Key features of National One Health Mission:
- Intersectoral Collaboration: The mission aims to coordinate, support, and integrate all existing One Health initiatives in the country, including the Ministries of Health and Family Welfare, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Environment, and Science and Technology
- Integrated Disease Surveillance: The mission implements integrated disease surveillance within and across human, animal, and environmental sectors to address communicable diseases, including zoonotic diseases, and improve overall pandemic preparedness and integrated disease control.
- Consolidation of data: The mission creates an integrated, science-based environment where researchers from various disciplines can use laboratories as necessary and generate requisite inputs for One Health Science, including databases and models with a consolidated approach of ecologists, field biologists, epidemiologists, and other scientists.
Challenges in National One Health Mission
- Limited Database: There have been limited efforts to develop databases and models with a consolidated approach of ecologists, field biologists, epidemiologists, and other scientists to understand and respond to the drivers that threaten health and optimize the effectiveness of public health systems in achieving these goals within each sector.
- Lack of Awareness and Understanding: The lack of awareness and understanding of the One Health concept among stakeholders hinders collaborative efforts required to address complex public health issues
- Funding Constraints: Funding constraints are a significant barrier to implementing One Health interventions, especially in low- and middle-income countries that may need more resources to invest in One Health initiatives
Conclusion: To address challenges in the National One Health Mission, efforts must focus on enhancing data collection, raising awareness among the stakeholders, and securing adequate funding. These measures are essential for effective implementation and holistic health management.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: ARC report;
Why in the news?
In the run-up to elections, political parties make allegations of corruption against their rivals to reach out to voters and influence voting patterns. So, let’s see about the corruption trend in India.
What is Corruption?
Corruption refers to dishonest or unethical conduct by individuals or institutions, often involving the misuse of entrusted power or resources for personal gain. It can take various forms, including bribery, embezzlement, fraud, nepotism, cronyism, and favoritism. Corruption undermines the principles of fairness, integrity, and accountability in both public and private sectors. |
Corruption in India (Pre-poll survey of 2024 compared with 2019 Survey):
- Increase in Corruption: According to a pre-poll survey, more than half (55%) of respondents believe that corruption has increased in the past five years.
- The proportion of respondents believing that corruption has decreased has declined significantly, from 37% in 2019 to 19% in 2024.
- Causes for Corruption in India: A majority of respondents (56%) hold both Union and State governments responsible for the increase in corruption, with a higher proportion blaming the Union government specifically.
- Across Spatial Consistency: Regardless of whether respondents live in villages, towns, or cities, the perception of increased corruption is widespread.
- Opinion of Respondents: Both rich and poor respondents largely agree that corruption has increased, though there is a slight increase in the perception of decreased corruption among richer respondents.
What does the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) report say?
- Lack of Transparency: The opacity of government processes and decision-making provides opportunities for corruption.
- Regulatory Environment: Cumbersome and complex regulations create opportunities for rent-seeking behavior by officials and bureaucrats.
- Political Interference: Politicization of administrative processes and appointments leads to patronage networks and favoritism, fostering corruption.
- Lack of Whistleblower Protection: The absence of robust mechanisms to protect whistleblowers discourages individuals from reporting corruption. Fear of retaliation and inadequate legal safeguards inhibit the exposure of corrupt practices.
- Weak Enforcement Mechanisms: Inadequate enforcement of laws and regulations allows corrupt practices to thrive.
Conclusion: To combat rising corruption in India, comprehensive measures including enhancing transparency, simplifying regulations, strengthening enforcement, depoliticizing administration, and implementing robust whistleblower protection are imperative for fostering integrity and accountability in governance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Agriculture Sector and Farmers Protest;
Mains level: Farmer Demands and Government Initiatives;
Why in the news?
A recent survey conducted by CSDS-Lokniti aimed to gather opinions regarding the ongoing farmer protests.
Opinion about the Farmer Protest:
The major key demands of Farmers in India include:
- On Minimum Support Price (MSP): Farmers demand a legal guarantee for MSP for crops, which is a crucial lifeline for farmers facing market uncertainties.
- On Electricity Act 2020: Farmers are demanding the repeal of the Electricity Act 2020, which they believe will negatively impact their income.
- On Compensation: Farmers are demanding compensation for farmers who died during the previous agitation in Lakhimpur Kheri.
- Withdrawal of Cases: Farmers are demanding the withdrawal of cases registered against farmers during the 2020-21 agitation.
Government Initiatives:
- Negotiations: The government has taken several steps to address the farmer agitation, including negotiations with protesting farmers, proposing the formation of a committee to provide statutory backing to the Minimum Support Price (MSP), and engaging in talks with farmer representatives.
- Demands: Despite promises made to farmers in 2021, the government has not fully responded to their demands, leading to continued tensions and protests. The government’s reaction to the protest still appears to be focused on maintaining law and order rather than proactively addressing the underlying issues raised by the farmers
Conclusion: The CSDS-Lokniti 2024 pre-poll survey highlights divisive opinions on farmer protests, citing demands for an MSP guarantee, repeal of the Electricity Act, and compensation for fatalities. Despite negotiations, unresolved grievances persist, indicating a need for proactive governmental action and dialogue
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora, Indian Economy, and issues.
Why in the news?
China’s burgeoning production of electric cars and other green technologies has become a flashpoint in a new US-China trade fight, highlighted by US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen during her five-day visit to China.
Context:
- According to the Paris-based International Energy Agency, China has built a substantial car industry that accounts for 60% of global electric vehicle sales. Similar dynamics exist in other industries, such as solar panels, batteries, and steel.
- China is now the world’s largest producer of solar cells.
- Now the main concern is that the Chinese are building up a lot of capacity in many industries across the board, including these new technology sectors, and if domestic demand does not pick up, they are going to be looking for markets outside the country.
US-China Trade Dispute:
- The US and China have been slugging it out since Trump slapped heavy tariffs on imported steel and aluminum items from China in March last year, and China responded by imposing tit-for-tat tariffs on billions of dollars worth of American imports.
- The IMF noted that the US-China trade tension was one factor that contributed to a “significantly weakened global expansion” late last year, as it cut its global growth forecast for 2019.
US-China Trade and Investment Facts:
- US GOODS & SERVICES trade with China totalled an estimated $737.1 billion in 2018. Exports: $179.3 billion; imports: $557.9 billion; deficit: $378.6 billion
- CHINA IS CURRENTLY the US’s largest goods trading partner with $659.8 billion in total (two-way) goods trade in 2018. Exports: $120.3 billion; imports: $539.5 billion; US goods trade deficit: $419.2 billion
- US FDI IN CHINA (stock) was $107.6 billion in 2017, a 10.6% increase from 2016. US direct investment in China is led by manufacturing, wholesale trade, finance and insurance
- CHINA FDI IN THE US (stock) was $39.5 billion in 2017, down 2.3% from 2016. China’s direct investment in the US is led by manufacturing, real estate, depository institutions
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How does China’s Auto Industry pose an external threat to Indian Market?
- Market Dominance: China is dominating the local market and threatening to dominate India’s traditional export markets, which could cause concern for the ‘Make in India‘ program.
- Quality Concerns: The quality of auto parts coming from China is a major concern for the safety of vehicles in India. With increasing stakes by Chinese vendors, the situation is expected to become more challenging.
- Cost Advantage: Chinese automakers have a cost advantage over North American and European brands, allowing them to undercut rivals. This cost advantage is due to Chinese manufacturers’ ability to produce EVs more efficiently and profitably than their Western counterparts.
- Security concerns: Chinese automakers flooding foreign markets with their autos and the potential for these vehicles to be used for espionage, data collection, or sabotage.
How India can benefit from the ongoing US-China trade war?
- Export Opportunities: India can tap export opportunities in both the US and China, particularly in areas such as garments, agriculture, automobile, machinery, apparel, and readymade garments
- Export Growth: India’s exports to the US increased by 11.2% in 2018, and to China by 31.4% in the same year, indicating the potential for further growth
- Product Opportunities: India can boost exports of around 350 products to the US and China, including items like copper ores, rubber, paper/paperboard, industrial valves, vulcanised rubber, carbon or graphite electrodes, and natural honey
- Trade Deficit Reduction: Increasing exports would help India narrow the widening trade deficit with China, which stood at USD 50.12 billion during April-February 2018-19
Conclusion: The US-China trade fight intensifies over China’s dominance in green technology sectors like electric vehicles. India stands to benefit from increased exports to both nations, potentially narrowing its trade deficit with China while tapping into new markets.
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