Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women’s Reservation Bill
Mains level: Women reservation and representation, challenges and Imperative for Women in enforcement agencies
What’s the news?
- The 2023 Constitution Amendment Bill, passed by both Houses of Parliament, reserves one-third of seats in the House of the People, State Legislative Assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of Delhi.
Central idea
- In the near future, women lawmakers are poised to constitute at least 33% of India’s legislative bodies. In tandem with legislative reforms, there is a pressing need for increased female representation in law enforcement agencies.
The Connection between Legislators and Law Enforcement
- The representation of women in the Indian Parliament stands at approximately 14.4%, a notable improvement compared to the 4.9% recorded in the first Lok Sabha in 1952.
- While the direct relationship between the number of legislators and the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies is not straightforward, the representation of women in these institutions reflects their alignment with the diverse society they serve.
Reservation and Representation in the Police Force
- In parallel with legislative reforms, achieving greater gender diversity within law enforcement agencies is a pressing concern.
- Several states have adopted policies mandating the allocation of 30% or 33% of vacant police positions to women, leveraging horizontal reservation.
- This approach ensures that if minimum reserved positions for SC, ST, Other Backward Classes, and unreserved categories are not filled by women candidates on merit, women are given priority.
- However, there is significant variation among states in implementing such policies, with some not having any reservation for women in their police forces.
- The data published by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) reveals that although the total strength of state police forces grew by approximately 7.48% over five years, the representation of women in these forces increased only marginally.
Examples of Variations in Implementation
- Kerala, Mizoram, and Goa: These states, despite not having specific reservation policies for women in the police force, manage to maintain women’s representation in a commendable range between 6% and 11%.
- Bihar: Bihar allocates an impressive 35% reservation for women, with an additional 3% reserved for backward caste women. However, the actual representation of women in the force is around 17.4%, indicating challenges in the effective execution of these quotas.
- Chandigarh: Chandigarh boasts the highest percentage of women in its police force, with approximately 22% representation.
- Jammu and Kashmir: Conversely, Jammu and Kashmir have the lowest representation of women in their police force, standing at approximately 3.3%.
Challenges in Recruitment
- Low Rate of Filling Vacancies: Recruitment is conducted for only about 4% to 5% of the total vacant positions, taking into account an attrition rate of 2.5% to 3% and an annual sanction of new posts of around 1.5% to 2%. This sluggish pace of recruitment impedes efforts to increase women’s representation.
- Lack of Permanent Police Recruitment Boards: Numerous states lack permanent police recruitment boards, which makes it challenging to conduct regular recruitment cycles.
- Infrequent Recruitment: Due to these impediments, recruitment cycles often occur at infrequent intervals, further delaying the process of enhancing women’s representation.
- Reforms Implementation: Some of the key reforms aimed at enhancing women’s participation include merging women police with the regular police force and establishing police recruitment boards. However, not all states have been enthusiastic about implementing these reforms, potentially affecting their benefits.
- State Subject: Policing falls under the purview of states as per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. Therefore, implementing necessary police reforms primarily remains the responsibility of individual states.
Crime Data and the Imperative for Women in Policing
- According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, approximately 10% of the total crimes defined under the Indian Penal Code were committed against women in 2021.
- These crimes include offenses such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and crimes against women and children.
- This data underscores the pressing need for specialized handling of such cases, as they often require a nuanced and empathetic approach.
- Insufficient Representation:
- Despite the prevalence of crimes against women, only about 5.3% of total arrests in 2021 were women. This indicates that the available women police force may be insufficient to effectively address cases related to women.
- Ensuring an adequate number of women police officers is essential to handling these cases sensitively and professionally.
- Scope Enlargement: The Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act has expanded the scope of women’s recruitment in the police force. This expansion acknowledges the unique skills and sensitivity that women officers can bring to cases involving children and minors.
- Versatile Capabilities: The women have demonstrated their competence in various police duties, dispelling any doubts about their ability to handle diverse assignments in a police institution. Their versatility is an asset in responding to a wide range of law enforcement challenges.
- Democracy and Representation: In a democratic country, every institution must be representative of its populace to earn the trust of the citizens it serves. Ensuring diversity, including gender diversity, within law enforcement agencies is vital to building trust and confidence among the public.
Government efforts
- Financial Incentives: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) introduced financial incentives starting in 2018–19 to encourage states to implement police reforms effectively. These incentives include reserving a portion of modernization funds, with an initial reservation of 10% in the first year, followed by 20% of total modernization funds.
- Special Initiatives: The MHA also offered a special grant to encourage states to establish a ‘women desk’ in every police station. However, there may not be sufficient women personnel to handle these desks effectively in some districts.
Way Forward: Empowering Women in Policing
- Family Quarters Satisfaction: As of January 1, 2021, the satisfaction level regarding family quarters for women police officers stood at only about 30%. Adequate family quarters are crucial for creating a conducive work environment.
- Infrastructure and Environment: Efforts should be made to provide a conducive environment and basic infrastructure to encourage more women to join the police force. This includes improving living conditions, providing separate toilets for women staff, and providing crèche facilities for children in police stations.
- Uniform Police Act: Consider implementing a uniform police act for the entire country to establish consistent standards for women in the police force.
- Recruitment: Ensure that every state has a recruitment board to oversee and facilitate regular recruitment of women into the police force.
- Special Recruitment Drive: Launch special recruitment drives in all states and union territories to actively recruit more women officers and increase their representation in the police force, similar to the Constitutional 128th Amendment for women in legislatures.
Conclusion
- The journey toward gender equality and representation in India’s legislative and law enforcement bodies is complex but essential. Bridging the gender gap in the police force is not just about equality, but also about enhancing the effectiveness and inclusivity of these vital institutions in a democratic society.
Also read:
Women’s reservation: What is the road ahead, before it can be implemented
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: generative AI and applications and latest models
Mains level: generative AI and applications, regulations, Concerns and measures
What’s the news?
- Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a potent force in the digital landscape, raising critical questions about regulation, copyright, and potential risks.
Central Idea
- In a remarkably short period, chatbots such as ChatGPT, Bard, Claude, and Pi have demonstrated the remarkable potential of generative AI applications. However, these AI marvels have also exposed their vulnerabilities, prompting policymakers and scientists worldwide to grapple with the question, whether generative AI should be subject to regulation.
What is generative AI?
- Like other forms of artificial intelligence, generative AI learns how to take actions based on past data.
- It creates brand-new content—a text, an image, even computer code—based on that training instead of simply categorizing or identifying data like other AI.
- The most famous generative AI application is ChatGPT, a chatbot that Microsoft-backed OpenAI released late last year.
- The AI powering it is known as a large language model because it takes in a text prompt and, from that, writes a human-like response.
What is the legal framework on which generative AI rests?
- U.S. Copyright Approach:
- In the United States, copyright law recognizes only humans as copyright holders.
- Consequently, AI-generated works often fall outside the scope of copyright protection.
- This situation poses challenges when it comes to attributing authorship to AI-generated content.
- India’s Ambiguity:
- India’s position on AI-generated content and copyright remains ambiguous.
- A recent case highlights this ambiguity, where a copyright application for an AI-generated work was initially rejected.
- The lack of clear guidelines in India regarding copyright protection for AI-generated content adds complexity to the legal landscape.
The European Union’s AI Act
- Individual Rights: The EU AI Act places a strong emphasis on safeguarding individual rights within the AI landscape. It seeks to protect individuals from potential AI-related harm, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
- Leveling the Playing Field: Recognizing the dominance of large tech corporations in AI development, the Act aims to foster a more competitive environment. This involves measures to reduce the concentration of AI development within a select few companies, promoting innovation and diversity.
- Transparency Obligations: The AI Act introduces transparency requirements for AI-generated content. Specifically, it mandates the labeling of AI-generated material as such and requires summaries of the training data used. These provisions aim to enhance transparency and accountability in AI systems.
Contrasting Approaches: Risk-Based vs. Relaxed Regulation
- EU’s Risk-Based Approach:
- In contrast, the European Union employs a risk-based approach to AI regulation.
- This approach involves delineating prohibitions on certain AI practices, recommending ex-ante assessments for others, and enforcing transparency requirements for low-risk AI systems.
- The EU’s approach acknowledges the multifaceted risks posed by AI and seeks to mitigate them effectively.
- U.S. Regulatory Approach:
- The United States maintains a relatively relaxed approach to AI regulation, which may be attributed to underestimating the associated risks or a general reluctance towards extensive regulation.
- This approach raises concerns, especially in sectors like education, where there is minimal control over the use of generative AI tools by students, including age and content restrictions.
- Additionally, discussions regarding the regulation of AI risks, particularly in the context of disinformation campaigns and deepfakes, are notably limited in the U.S.
- Comprehensive Regulatory Framework: India necessitates a comprehensive regulatory framework that spans both horizontal regulations applicable across sectors and vertical regulations specific to distinct industries. The absence of such regulations results in uncertainties and impediments to effectively addressing AI-related issues.
- Data Protection Clarity: The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act of 2023 plays a pivotal role in addressing data protection concerns. However, the DPDP Act exhibits certain gaps, such as legitimizing data scraping by AI companies when data is publicly available.
Challenges surrounding trade secrets and transparency in the context of AI
- Corporations frequently employ trade secrets to safeguard their AI models and training data from disclosure.
- Nevertheless, when AI systems have the potential to cause significant societal harm, there may arise a need to compel companies to divulge these particulars.
- This predicament raises questions about achieving a balance between safeguarding trade secrets and addressing the broader societal consequences of AI.
- Guaranteeing transparency in AI systems holds paramount importance, particularly when AI-generated content is disseminated.
- The societal imperative for transparency, particularly in instances where AI-generated content might be exploited for malicious purposes or cause harm,
Way forward
- Continued Dialogue: Policymakers, legal experts, industry leaders, and stakeholders should engage in ongoing discussions and collaboration to develop effective regulations and guidelines for generative AI.
- Ethical Considerations: The development and deployment of AI systems should prioritize ethical principles to ensure responsible use and mitigate potential harms.
- Transparency and Accountability: There should be efforts to promote transparency in AI systems, especially when AI-generated content is involved. Accountability mechanisms should also be in place to address issues arising from AI use.
- Comprehensive Regulation: Governments and international bodies may consider developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks that encompass various aspects of AI, including data protection, transparency, accountability, and liability.
- Public Education: Initiatives to educate the public about AI’s implications, benefits, and limitations should be developed, particularly in sectors where AI is extensively used, such as education.
Conclusion
- The global regulation of generative AI emerges as a pressing concern. Adaptive and thoughtful regulatory approaches are essential to address the evolving challenges and opportunities introduced by generative AI on a global scale.
Also read:
AI generative models and the question of Ethics
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Self-respect marriages
What’s the news?
- In recent years, the Supreme Court has had to remind the Madras High Court of the validity of self-respect marriages, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the Self-Respect Movement in the fight for social justice and self-respect.
Central idea
- The recent controversy surrounding the validity of self-respect marriages, also known as Suyamariyathai thirumanam, in Tamil Nadu is a poignant reminder of the enduring battle for recognition and acceptance that these unions have faced. Despite being legalized in 1967 self-respect marriages continue to be a subject of contention.
What is a self-respect marriage?
- A self-respect marriage, also known as Suyamariyathai thirumanam, is a type of marriage ceremony and union that originated within the Dravidian self-respect movement in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
- These marriages are characterized by their departure from traditional Hindu marriage rituals and customs. Instead, self-respect marriages are based on principles of social equality, individual freedom, and non-religious ideals.
What is the self-respect movement?
- The Self-Respect Movement is a socio-political and cultural movement that originated in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu during the early 20th century.
- It was primarily championed by leaders and thinkers associated with the Dravidian ideology, which aimed to promote the rights and interests of the Dravidian people of South India and challenge perceived inequalities and injustices in society.
- The movement had a significant influence on the politics and social fabric of Tamil Nadu and played a role in shaping the state’s identity.
The Self-Respect Movement’s Struggle
- Challenging Caste-Based Discrimination: The Self-Respect Movement fiercely opposed the deeply entrenched caste-based discrimination prevalent in Tamil Nadu. It sought to dismantle the oppressive caste system and challenge the privileges enjoyed by Brahmins in society.
- Advocating for Social Equality: Central to the movement’s ethos was the promotion of social equality. It encouraged rationalism and atheism as alternatives to religious dogma and superstition, advocating for a scientific worldview.
- Empowerment of Women: The Self-Respect Movement was at the forefront of advocating for women’s rights. It fought for women’s education, equality, and autonomy within both families and society at large.
- Promotion of Tamil Language and Culture: The movement emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting the Tamil language and culture. It resisted the imposition of Sanskrit and Brahminical traditions that threatened Tamil identity and heritage.
- Formation of Political Parties: The Self-Respect Movement eventually translated its socio-cultural goals into political action. This led to the formation of influential political parties like the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) that championed the cause of social justice and self-respect.
Legal battles for recognition
- Early Lack of Recognition: In the early stages of the movement, self-respect marriages lacked legal recognition. They were not supported by existing laws, which favored traditional Hindu marriages.
- Advocacy during the Hindu Code Bill: Leaders and activists of the Self-Respect Movement actively participated in the Hindu Code Bill drafting process in 1944. They submitted memorandums and evidence to advocate for comprehensive changes to Hindu law, particularly focusing on women’s legal rights and recognition of non-religious marriages.
- Limited Recognition in the 1955 Act: Despite the movement’s efforts, the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 provided only limited recognition to select reformed marriages. It did not acknowledge self-respect marriages, emphasizing traditional Hindu rites and ceremonies.
- Proposals for Separate Legislation: The movement proposed the Hindu Non-Conformist Marriage Registration Bill, 1954. However, it was abandoned in favor of the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which did not adequately address property rights within civil marriages.
- Struggles in the Legislative Process: Efforts to pass legislation recognizing self-respect marriages faced opposition, particularly from Congress legislators. The ‘Madras Suyamariyathai Marriage Validation Bill’ introduced in 1959 aimed to legalize self-respect marriages but was defeated.
The 1967 Amendment
- Introduction of Section 7 A: Section 7 A was introduced in the Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act 1967. This provision was pivotal as it provided legal recognition and legitimacy to non-ritual Hindu marriages.
- Validation of Non-Ritual Hindu Marriages: The amendment validated and legalized non-ritual Hindu marriages, including self-respect marriages, under Hindu law. This marked a significant departure from the previous lack of recognition.
- Challenging Brahminic Interpretations: Beyond recognition, the 1967 Amendment challenged Brahminic interpretations of Hindu marriage practices that had marginalized and discredited self-respect marriages and those who chose them.
- Impact on Legal Status: With the enactment of this amendment, self-respect marriages gained legal standing and legitimacy under Hindu law in Tamil Nadu. This recognition was crucial to protecting the rights of individuals who had entered into such marriages.
Contemporary Challenges
- Resistance from Government Bodies: Government bodies, such as the Union Ministry for Social Justice and Empowerment, have at times resisted recognizing the Section 7 Act, leading to disputes and challenges.
- Judicial Misinterpretations: The judiciary has occasionally misinterpreted or questioned the validity of self-respect marriages, contributing to legal challenges and uncertainty.
- Recent Supreme Court Reminders: The Supreme Court has had to remind the Madras High Court of the validity of self-respect marriages in recent years, indicating ongoing legal battles.
- Cumulative Legal Reforms: The cumulative effect of legal reforms in Tamil Nadu has had a far-reaching impact on gender rights within marriages, challenging traditional norms and ideals.
Conclusion
- The ongoing struggle for recognition of self-respect marriages in Tamil Nadu highlights the resilience of the Dravidian self-respect movement and its commitment to challenging traditional norms. The Madras High Court’s progressive stance on gender rights within marriage underscores the need for continued advocacy and awareness to protect the rights of individuals who choose self-respect marriages.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Laws related to organ transplantation in India
Mains level: India's kidney crisis, challenges in procurement, transplant laws and Need for reforms
What’s the news?
- India faces a grave crisis in its healthcare landscape, particularly concerning the shortage of kidneys for transplantation.
Central idea
- India is grappling with a severe kidney crisis, marked by an alarming demand-supply gap in kidney transplantation. While kidney transplantation is the most effective treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), India’s regulatory framework presents formidable obstacles to innovative kidney exchange methods.
India’s Kidney Crisis
- In 2022, over two lakh patients required kidney transplants, but only about 7,500 transplants, a mere 3.4%, were performed.
- This alarming disparity can be attributed to the high prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in India, which affects approximately 17% of the population.
- CKD often progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), for which kidney transplantation is the most effective treatment in terms of quality of life, patient convenience, life expectancy, and cost-effectiveness.
- However, India lags far behind developed countries like the United States, which performs about 20% of the needed kidney transplants.
- Importantly, this gap is not solely due to a lack of medical facilities but is largely influenced by stringent regulations in India.
Current kidney procurement methods in India
- Obtaining kidneys from deceased donors is one of the primary methods in India.
- However, this method faces challenges due to low donation rates, specific conditions required for the nature of death, and the infrastructure needed to collect and store organs.
- Families’ willingness to donate organs after a loved one’s death remains relatively low.
- Living Relatives or Friends:
- Another method for obtaining kidneys is through living relatives or friends.
- Patients can request a kidney donation from a willing living individual who is a compatible match.
- This approach requires compatibility in terms of blood type and tissue type, which can be a significant obstacle. It also involves complex emotional and ethical considerations.
Challenges related to kidney procurement methods in India
- Regulatory Barriers: Stringent regulations in India hinder innovative kidney exchange methods, such as kidney swaps and kidney chains. These regulations limit the participation of non-near-relatives in kidney swaps, and altruistic donations for kidney chains are often illegal.
- Lack of Kidney Chains: Kidney chains, a method involving a series of altruistic donations, are nearly non-existent in India due to legal restrictions. In most Indian states, it is illegal to donate a kidney out of altruism.
- Black Market for Kidneys: The stringent regulations around kidney exchange have led to the emergence of black markets for kidneys in India. The reference to selling a kidney is a mainstream expression, indicating the prevalence of such illegal operations.
The need for regulatory reform
- Stringent Regulations: Current regulations impede innovative kidney exchange methods, hindering non-near-relatives’ participation and banning altruistic donations in many states.
- Missed Opportunities: India has missed chances to expand kidney supply through effective methods like kidney swaps and chains due to legal barriers.
- Disparity in Regulations: Inconsistent regulations between swap transplants and direct donations raise questions about fairness.
- Lack of Coordination: India lacks a national coordinating authority, making it difficult to create diverse donor-recipient pools.
- Black Market Concerns: Stringent regulations have led to a black market for kidneys, endangering those involved.
- Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act 1994: This legislation laid the foundation for organ transplantation in India by recognizing the possibility of transplants from brain-stem death.
- 2011 Amendment: In 2011, an amendment legalized swap transplants and initiated a national organ transplant program in India. This represented a significant step toward expanding transplantation options.
- Reforms in February 2023: The government introduced reforms in February 2023, offering more flexibility in age and domicile requirements for organ registration. While noteworthy, the article suggests that these reforms fall short of addressing the core issue of inadequate kidney supply.
Lessons for India to transform its own organ transplantation landscape
- Altruistic Donations: Emulate countries like the US and the Netherlands in legalizing and encouraging altruistic kidney donations to expand the donor pool.
- National Registries: Follow Spain and the UK by establishing national-level registries for kidney chains and swaps to streamline coordination.
- International Collaboration: Explore international partnerships as seen in Spain to broaden the donor and recipient network.
- Continuous Improvement: Commit to ongoing regulatory enhancements, inspired by the success of the United States in facilitating kidney swaps and chains.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Prioritize patient-centered policies, drawing from global models, to improve patient access and quality of life.
Conclusion
- Reforming India’s kidney transplant laws is not only a matter of urgency but also a humanitarian imperative. Along with the domestic reforms, learning from global best practices is the key to addressing this critical issue and ensuring a brighter future for kidney transplant recipients in India.
Also read:
Organ transplant rules In India: A Significant Step
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ASEAN
Mains level: ASEAN summit, Indonesia's significant role, China challenges , India's concerns
What’s the news?
- In a recent ASEAN meeting, Indonesia, under the leadership of President Joko Widodo, successfully injected fresh perspectives into long-standing ASEAN stances.
Central idea
- The recent ASEAN meet in Jakarta, under Indonesia’s chairmanship, showcased the country’s adept handling of regional dynamics and its diplomatic finesse. With the president set to step down in 2024, this summit marked a high point in his leadership. Notably, eight ASEAN nations convened, with Myanmar excluded at the political level and Thailand undergoing a governmental transition.
Indonesia’s nuanced approach towards the Indo-Pacific
- Expanding the Arc of Prosperity: President Joko Widodo emphasized the need to expand the arc of prosperity within ASEAN. This highlighted Indonesia’s commitment to regional development and recognized the growing economic importance of the Indo-Pacific.
- ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF): Indonesia’s leadership resulted in the creation of the AIPF. This forum brought together government leaders from ASEAN countries, partner nations, and prominent figures from the business sector to discuss peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Functional Approach: Indonesia’s approach to the Indo-Pacific was notable for its functional orientation. It emphasized cooperation and collaboration over strategic rivalry, aligning with the Quad’s cooperative outlook.
- Balancing Act with China: While Indonesia’s stance did not explicitly confront China, the absence of China from the AIPF was noticeable. This raises questions about how Indonesia aims to balance its Indo-Pacific approach with its relationship with China.
- Inclusive Dialogue: Indonesia’s strategy sought to position ASEAN as a key player in shaping the Indo-Pacific’s future. It underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue and cooperation for regional stability and prosperity.
- Regional Stability and Prosperity: Indonesia’s approach acknowledges that regional stability and prosperity are best achieved through collaboration and engagement rather than through overt confrontation or rivalry.
Myanmar’s Conundrum
- Exclusion from Political Level: Myanmar’s absence from the political level at the recent ASEAN summit was consistent with the organization’s practice, highlighting the ongoing internal turmoil since the military coup in February 2021.
- Indonesia’s Pragmatic Approach: Indonesia, under its ASEAN Chairmanship, demonstrated a pragmatic stance toward the Myanmar issue, recognizing the limitations of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) framework intended for dialogue and resolution in Myanmar.
- Office of Special Envoy: Indonesia took a distinctive approach by establishing an office of the special envoy rather than appointing an individual special envoy, allowing for discreet engagement with Myanmar, neighboring nations, India, and ASEAN members.
- Facilitating Dialogue: The 5PC, once seen as a binding decision, is now considered a facilitating initiative, emphasizing Indonesia’s and ASEAN’s acknowledgment of the complexity of the Myanmar situation. This initiative aims to promote dialogue among various segments within Myanmar.
- Hosting of the ASEAN Summit: Myanmar’s exclusion from hosting the 2026 ASEAN summit highlighted the growing disconnect between the nation and the regional bloc. Historically, ASEAN used hosting privileges as leverage to address issues within member states, but their effectiveness in the current context remains uncertain.
China’s Challenge
- Primary Challenge for ASEAN: China poses the foremost challenge to ASEAN, especially concerning the looming big-power rivalry in the region. The call for peace and prosperity in the region is essentially a plea to prevent the United States and China from displaying their rivalry within ASEAN.
- Slow Progress on the Code of Conduct: Progress on the South China Sea (SCS) code of conduct has been sluggish. A significant point of contention is the differing interpretations of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which creates obstacles to establishing a binding code of conduct.
- China’s Standard Map: China’s introduction of a new standard map that claims the territories of several countries, including those in the South China Sea, has added complexity to the situation. Notably, countries like India, Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia raised their concerns about this map in bilateral discussions with China.
- Indonesia’s Cautious Approach: Indonesia, as the host of the ASEAN and East Asia Summit (EAS), maintained a cautious approach to the issue of China’s standard map during the summit, where the Chinese Premier was in attendance.
- Contradictions in Progress: The emphasis on UNCLOS and disputes over China’s map contradict the progress that ASEAN claims to have made on the code of conduct. The main purpose of the code is to govern the South China Sea as an international waterway, not as China’s domestic sea, as implied by the map.
Challenges to ASEAN Unity
- Myanmar’s Exclusion: A prominent challenge to ASEAN unity is the exclusion of Myanmar from political-level participation in the recent ASEAN summit. This exclusion stems from the ongoing political crisis in Myanmar, triggered by the military coup in February 2021.
- Thailand’s Transition: Thailand, another ASEAN member, is facing challenges due to its transitional government formed after an election. Consequently, it had official-level representation at the summit, raising concerns about the level of representation within ASEAN during crucial meetings.
India in the context of the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF)
- Participation in AIPF: India, along with the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, conducted side events at the AIPF. This suggests that India is actively engaged in discussions at the forum.
- Concerns Over China’s New Map: Several countries, including India, raised bilateral concerns with China regarding its new standard map. This map claims territories that other countries consider their own, causing diplomatic tensions.
- Interest in the South China Sea: India has a vested interest in the South China Sea due to its trade and strategic considerations. India has been monitoring developments in the region, including China’s territorial claims and their impact on freedom of navigation.
Why India Needs ASEAN?
- Significant Trade & Commercial Relations: ASEAN is a major destination for India’s service sectors and a vital source of foreign investments.
- Development of North East India: ASEAN provides an alternate route for India’s access to North Eastern India, facilitating development and strategic interests.
- Countering Chinese Expansion: Strengthening ties with ASEAN countries helps India counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Maritime Freedom: Collaboration with ASEAN ensures a free and peaceful Indo-Pacific region based on a rules-based order.
- Support for Indian Initiatives: ASEAN’s support is crucial for India’s success in regional policies and initiatives.
- Emerging Market: India benefits from ASEAN’s agricultural and industrial products, while ASEAN relies on India’s demographic dividend.
- Global Reforms: ASEAN’s global influence aligns with India’s vision for reforms in international forums.
- Elevating India’s Global Status: Partnership with ASEAN enhances India’s geopolitical standing.
Strengthening ASEAN’s Position
- ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP): ASEAN is actively working to bolster its position by embracing the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP). This strategic framework emphasizes ASEAN’s central role in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to reinforce its influence and relevance.
- Enhanced Coast Guard Coordination: ASEAN is prioritizing improved coordination among its coast guards. This approach signifies a commitment to safeguarding maritime security and effectively managing potential conflicts in the region’s waters.
- Joint Defense Exercises: ASEAN is engaging in joint defense exercises as part of its efforts to strengthen its position. These exercises are viewed as a robust response to the sluggish progress on the South China Sea (SCS) code of conduct, with the goal of enhancing regional security.
- Addressing Code of Conduct Challenges: The slow progress on the South China Sea code of conduct is a significant concern for ASEAN. To tackle this issue, ASEAN is promoting the AOIP and intensifying security cooperation, reflecting its determination to address the challenges related to the code of conduct.
- Continuity through Troika Leadership: In a bid to maintain continuity and unity within ASEAN, Indonesia has formed a troika with the upcoming chairs, Laos and Malaysia. This arrangement aims to provide guidance and ensure ASEAN’s stability and coherence in the face of ongoing challenges and transitions.
Conclusion
- Indonesia’s leadership during the ASEAN summit deserves commendation for maintaining stability amidst the region’s complex challenges. In a rapidly changing world, ASEAN’s stability remains of paramount importance. Indonesia’s collaboration with the upcoming chairs, Laos and Malaysia, signals continuity in charting ASEAN’s course forward.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Election- Constitutional provisions
Mains level: One nation, one election plan, advantages and concerns and challenges and federalism
What’s the news?
- The Center has taken a significant step towards implementing the One Nation, One Election concept by forming a committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind.
Central idea
- The recently concluded special session of Parliament has brought into focus the idea of One Nation, One Election as a means to address the challenges posed by frequent elections in India. While this proposal has gained attention, it requires thorough examination and data-driven deliberation before any decisive steps are taken.
What is the ONOE plan?
- Concept: The ONOE plan aims to synchronize the timing of the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections across all states in India to reduce the frequency of election cycles nationwide.
- Historical Context:
- After the enforcement of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, the first-ever general elections for both the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies occurred simultaneously in 1951–1952.
- This practice continued for the following three Lok Sabha elections until 1967, streamlining the election process.
- Disruption:
- In 1959, the cycle was disrupted as the Central government invoked Article 356 of the Constitution, leading to the dismissal of the Kerala government due to a perceived failure of constitutional machinery.
- Subsequent to 1960, defections and counter-defections among political parties led to the dissolution of several state legislative assemblies.
- This fragmentation resulted in separate election cycles for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.
- Current Scenario: Presently, only specific states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha conduct their assembly polls concurrently with the Lok Sabha elections.
Critical analysis
Excessive Expenditure: A Questionable Concern
- Rising Election Costs: The cost of elections has been steadily increasing. In 2019, the expenditure for the general elections was about Rs 9,000 crore, averaging about Rs 100 per voter.
- Political Party Spending: Political parties spent nearly Rs 3,000 crore during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, with an estimated Rs 50,000 crore informally spent. Addressing this informal expenditure is a primary concern.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: The absence of comprehensive data on total public expenditure for separate versus simultaneous elections limits our understanding. To make informed decisions, a meticulous analysis of costs and potential savings is imperative.
Diversion of Duty: A Matter of Debate
- Essential Responsibility: While election duty is considered essential for security forces, it’s also a privilege for civilian officials.
- Lack of Statistical Data: The absence of statistical data showing the exact number of days dedicated to election duties for simultaneous versus separate elections hinders informed decision-making.
Disruption in Development: A Misconception
- Model Code of Conduct (MCC): The MCC primarily restricts certain categories of public expenditure during elections, not all development work.
- Need for Data: The lack of data demonstrating the extent of disruption in development work is a crucial gap in the argument against simultaneous elections.
- Historical Perspective: Flexibility in Democracy
Historical context reveals flexibility in Indian democracy:
- 15 Years of Simultaneous Elections: From 1951–52 to 1967, elections were held simultaneously for 15 years without a specific constitutional provision.
- Preserving Political Freedom: Imposing limits on election timing could curb political parties’ freedom to express a lack of confidence or engage in democratic processes.
Local autonomy vs. centralization
- Local Impact: State-level elections primarily concern local voters and leaders and should not unduly affect voters in other states or the central government.
- Centralization of Politics: Centralized campaigning diminishes the focus on local governance, weakening local democratic institutions and representation.
Urgent Priorities for Reform
- Pressing Issues Abound: India faces a multitude of pressing issues, from natural disasters to public agitations. These challenges can disrupt normal governance and require immediate attention.
- Nature’s Fury: Natural disasters, such as heavy rainfall or hazardous air quality, often paralyze regions and demand swift government response to alleviate suffering and manage the aftermath.
- Educational Disruptions: Factors like heatwaves or international events like the G20 meetings can lead to the closure of educational institutions, affecting students’ routines and demanding educational policy adjustments.
- Protracted Agitations: Protests and agitations, sometimes lasting for months, can bring normal life to a standstill, necessitating government intervention and resolution.
- Meaningful Electoral Reforms: Rather than focusing on the mechanical scheduling of elections, there is an urgent need for more substantial electoral reforms that enhance transparency and accountability.
- Managerial Efficiency: Improving the efficiency of election management can be achieved without the need for onerous constitutional amendments.
Conclusion
- The proposal for ONOE is intriguing but lacks the necessary data and robust debate to support its implementation. India should prioritize addressing more pressing governance issues and electoral reforms that enhance transparency.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green Revolution
Mains level: Green Revolution and Contributions and the significant roles played by MS Swaminathan
What’s the news?
- Monkomb Sambasivan Swaminathan, the legendary agricultural scientist widely regarded as the Father of the Green Revolution, passed away at the age of 98 on September 28. His contributions to agriculture in the 1960s and ’70s transformed India’s farming landscape, ushering in an era of food security.
Central idea
- The passing of MS Swaminathan marks the end of an era in Indian agriculture. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of farmers and his pioneering efforts in the Green Revolution have left an indomitable legacy. This op-ed is dedicated to the father of the Green Revolution.
Early life and education
- Born on August 7, 1925, in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
- Initially, I aimed for a career in the civil services and even cleared the civil services examination.
- He switched to agriculture due to his passion, inspired by the Quit India Movement and the Bengal famine of 1942–43.
- He enrolled in the Agriculture College in Coimbatore to pursue his interest in agriculture.
Diverse Roles in Agriculture
- Swaminathan held various significant positions related to agriculture, both in India and abroad.
- His roles included Independent Chairman of the Food and Agricultural Organization Council (1981–85), President of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (1984–90), and President of the World Wide Fund for Nature (India) from 1989–96.
- He also served as the Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), among other positions.
The Green Revolution: A Turning Point
- Swaminathan’s mission was to transform Indian agriculture.
- Introduced high-yielding crop varieties, improved irrigation facilities, and promoted fertilizer use.
- Wheat production in India surged from 6 million tonnes in 1947 to 17 million tonnes between 1964 and 1968.
- The Green Revolution bolstered India’s food security and reduced dependence on imports.
Swaminathan’s Contributions to the Green Revolution
- Swaminathan worked on enhancing crop varieties, particularly rice and wheat.
- He pioneered the development of semi-dwarf wheat varieties to reduce lodging and boost yields.
- Collaboration with Norman Borlaug resulted in the introduction of dwarfing genes into wheat varieties, leading to the “Wheat Revolution.”
- Swaminathan recognized the challenges of the Green Revolution, including the displacement of local crop varieties, soil fertility conservation issues, and indiscriminate pesticide use.
- He also noted the risks of overexploiting groundwater.
Advocacy for Farmers
- As the head of the National Commission on Farmers from 2004 to 2006, Swaminathan advocated for the welfare of farmers.
- He recommended that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for agricultural produce should be at least 50% more than the cost of production, ensuring fair compensation to farmers.
Awards and recognition
- Swaminathan was awarded the first World Food Prize Laureate in 1987 for his contributions to India’s wheat and rice production.
- He received the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, two of India’s highest civilian honors.
Conclusion
- As we remember the Father of the Green Revolution, we must also reflect on the challenges that persist in Indian agriculture and work towards a sustainable and equitable future. Swaminathan’s vision and dedication will continue to inspire generations of agricultural scientists and policymakers in their pursuit of a food-secure India.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green hydrogen and its applications
Mains level: Green Hydrogen, National Green Hydrogen Mission, challenges and way forward
What’s the news?
- Recently, the government affirmed its commitment to making India a green hydrogen hub with a trial run of two buses that will operate on this clean fuel.
Central idea
- Green hydrogen is recognized for its minimal emissions and higher efficiency compared to internal combustion engines. The government’s move to conduct a trial run of two buses on green hydrogen fuel is part of a larger plan to introduce 15 more such buses by the end of the year. However, several challenges must be addressed to ensure the commercial viability of green hydrogen.
- Green hydrogen, often referred to as clean hydrogen, is a type of hydrogen gas produced through a process that uses renewable energy sources or other low-carbon methods with little to no greenhouse gas emissions.
- Green hydrogen (GH2) is produced by splitting water (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen (O2) using renewable electricity.
- It is considered an environmentally friendly and sustainable form of hydrogen production because it does not rely on fossil fuels or emit harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases during its creation.
- It can serve as an energy source (heavy industry, long-distance mobility, aviation, and power storage) and an energy carrier (as green ammonia or blended with natural gas).
Have you heard about green steel?
- Green steel refers to steel that is produced using sustainable and environmentally friendly methods.
- Green steel is produced using renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and by utilizing low-emission technologies that reduce carbon emissions.
- One of the main ways to produce green steel is through the use of hydrogen instead of coal or natural gas as the reducing agent in the steel-making process.
- Green steel is seen as a way to reduce the environmental impact of the steel industry, which is responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions.
- The costs of green steel, made from green hydrogen, are currently much higher but could be reduced with economies of scale and changes in production technologies.
Challenges and roadblocks
- Renewable Energy Capacity Gap: India needs to add approximately 100 GW of renewable energy capacity every year for the next seven years to meet its green hydrogen production goals. In contrast, only about 16 GW of renewable energy capacity was added last year, revealing a substantial capacity deficit.
- Water Intensity: The production of 1 kg of green hydrogen requires around eight to nine liters of water. This poses a significant challenge in regions already grappling with water scarcity issues, potentially straining local resources.
- Electrolyser Manufacturing Capacity: The global manufacturing capacity of electrolysers, the critical component in green hydrogen production, currently stands at about 10 GW. To meet its 2030 targets, India may need to increase its capacity six to tenfold, indicating a pressing need for rapid expansion.
- Access to Rare Earth Minerals: Rare earth minerals are essential for electrolyser production, and China currently dominates this market. India must secure a consistent supply of these minerals through strategic partnerships or domestic production to support its green hydrogen ambitions.
- Safety Concerns: Green hydrogen is highly flammable, necessitating rigorous safety measures throughout the production, storage, and transportation processes. These safety concerns may impact public perception and adoption.
Way forward
- Accelerate Renewable Energy Deployment: India should intensify efforts to deploy renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Policies, investments, and streamlined regulatory processes are necessary to attract investments and expedite capacity expansion.
- R&D for Water-Efficient Technologies: Investment in research and development is critical to developing water-efficient hydrogen production technologies. Collaborations with research institutions and international partners can expedite progress.
- Domestic Electrolyser Production: India should prioritize domestic electrolyser manufacturing capabilities. Strategic diplomatic negotiations and alliances can help secure access to rare earth minerals for indigenous production.
- Stringent Safety Standards: Developing and enforcing robust safety standards and protocols for green hydrogen production, storage, and transport is essential. Ensuring safety will foster confidence in the technology.
- Infrastructure Development: Building the necessary infrastructure, including pipelines and refueling stations, for green hydrogen production, storage, and distribution is crucial for its widespread adoption.
Steps in the right direction
- Green Hydrogen Mission: The Indian government has launched the Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. This initiative is designed to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and mitigate 50 million metric tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Investment in Electrolysis Technology: A significant portion of the Green Hydrogen Mission’s budget is dedicated to developing electrolysers, the devices used in the electrolysis process to produce green hydrogen. This investment is crucial to scaling up hydrogen production capacity in the country.
- Utilizing the Indian Oil Corporation’s Expertise: The government has wisely leveraged the Indian Oil Corporation’s expertise for the country’s inaugural green hydrogen vehicle project. To access global markets and foster collaborations with other nations, India must further develop its capabilities in the green hydrogen sector.
Conclusion
- India’s aspirations to become a green hydrogen hub are laudable and align with global efforts to combat climate change. However, the journey ahead is fraught with challenges. Technological innovation, international partnerships, and a sustained commitment to clean energy are essential to transforming these ambitions into a sustainable reality.
Also read:
[Sureshot] National Green Hydrogen Mission
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Khalistan Issue, Strained India-Canada relations, and need for Quiet and mature diplomacy
What’s the news?
- Indian and Canadian leaders and diplomats have a history of failing to engage constructively, often talking past each other. This disconnect persists today, fueled by differing perceptions and unresolved issues. The recent Nijjar case has brought these tensions to the forefront.
Central idea
- In the realm of international diplomacy, the relationship between India and Canada has often been marked by a lack of genuine engagement and mutual understanding. Both nations have harbored grievances, with India feeling that Canada has disregarded its concerns, particularly regarding the Khalistan issue, while Canada believes that India fails to grasp its legal and governance framework.
Canada’s Stance in the ongoing India-Canada diplomatic tensions
- Emphasis on the Rule of Law: Trudeau has emphasized that Canada is a nation founded on the rule of law. He underscores the importance of upholding a rules-based world order.
- Nijjar Case as a Test: Canada has made the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar a test case for upholding the rule of law and global order. It asserts that harming any of its nationals is unacceptable, irrespective of any grievances India may have.
- Support from Allies: Canada’s stance in the Nijjar case has garnered support from its allies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. These countries endorse Canada’s position and call on India to cooperate with Canada in the investigation.
- Demand for Specific Evidence: Canada has shared credible allegations with India regarding the Nijjar case. While India dismisses these allegations.
India’s Response
- Rejection of Allegations: The Indian government has rejected Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations regarding the Nijjar case as absurd and motivated. India disputes the claims made by Canada and seeks concrete evidence to substantiate these allegations.
- Offer to Address Concerns: Despite dismissing the allegations, India has expressed a willingness to examine Canadian concerns if specific evidence is provided. India maintains that it is ready to cooperate on any genuine issues related to its citizens.
- Assertion of National Laws: India insists that its national laws cannot serve as a shield for promoting secession or staging protests that glorify violence. It calls for Canada to take legal action against Khalistani propagandists and individuals involved in hate speech and violence on Canadian soil.
- Open to Diplomacy: India remains open to diplomatic engagement with Canada to address the Nijjar case and other ongoing issues, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and cooperation.
Challenges to Constructive Engagement
- Perceived Racism in Governance: Some Indians view Canada’s approach to governance systems in countries like India as colored by racism. Intrusive questions posed to Indian visa seekers from security services are seen as unacceptable and warrant bilateral discussions.
- The Khalistan Issue: India’s frustration with Canada regarding the Khalistan issue dates back over four decades. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) was established in 1984, yet Khalistani activities were not taken seriously, even after instances of terror emerged.
- Response to Recent Charges: Trudeau’s use of harsh language and the expulsion of a senior Indian diplomat strained the relationship further. A measured Indian response was replaced by a more confrontational approach.
- Evidence and Judicial Scrutiny: Canadian officials claim to possess intelligence implicating India in Nijjar’s murder but have not revealed details. For a meaningful resolution, this intelligence needs to be converted into evidence suitable for judicial scrutiny.
Challenges to Constructive Engagement
- Perceived Racism in Governance: Some Indians view Canada’s approach to governance systems in countries like India as colored by racism. Intrusive questions posed to Indian visa seekers from security services are seen as unacceptable and warrant bilateral discussions.
- The Khalistan Issue: India’s frustration with Canada regarding the Khalistan issue dates back over four decades. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) was established in 1984, yet Khalistani activities were not taken seriously, even after instances of terror emerged.
- Canada’s Trust Issue: The Canadian law enforcement system appears to lack trust in the Indian legal system. This is evident in Canada’s reluctance to extradite individuals accused of violence and murder in India, especially those with ties to Khalistani activities.
- Response to Recent Charges: Trudeau’s use of harsh language and the expulsion of a senior Indian diplomat strained the relationship further. A measured Indian response was replaced by a more confrontational approach.
- Evidence and Judicial Scrutiny: Canadian officials claim to possess intelligence implicating India in Nijjar’s murder but have not revealed details. For a meaningful resolution, this intelligence needs to be converted into evidence suitable for judicial scrutiny.
Way Forward: Need for quiet and constructive diplomacy
- Private Dialogue: Both nations should prioritize private, behind-the-scenes dialogue to address their grievances and misunderstandings. Public posturing should be replaced with discreet diplomatic channels where concerns can be discussed openly and candidly.
- Evidence-Based Engagement: Canada should provide specific evidence regarding the Nijjar case to India, allowing for a fair and transparent examination of the allegations. India, in turn, should be open to reviewing this evidence objectively.
- Respect for Sovereignty: Respect for each other’s sovereignty should be paramount. Issues related to visa applications and extradition should be approached in a manner that aligns with international norms while respecting national sovereignty.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Both nations should exhibit cultural sensitivity in their interactions. Questions and actions that may be perceived as insensitive should be avoided to prevent further strain on relationships.
- Leadership Role: Leaders in both India and Canada should play a key role in setting a tone of constructive engagement. Diplomacy should be marked by measured language and a commitment to dialogue.
Conclusion
- To rebuild strained Indo-Canadian relations, both nations must shift towards a more constructive engagement that acknowledges their respective concerns and grievances. Quiet and mature diplomacy should replace confrontational tactics. In the pursuit of a harmonious relationship, mutual respect and understanding are essential, and only through constructive engagement can these goals be achieved.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate-induced infectious diseases
Mains level: Climate change and new disease scenarios, need for a One Health approach
What’s the news?
- The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), released in March, serves as a stark reminder of the escalating global risk posed by infectious diseases.
Central idea
- The intricate relationship between climate and disease becomes more evident with each passing year. Recent analysis in Nature Climate Change (2022) warns that humans now face a wider array of infectious agents than ever before. More than half of all known infectious diseases affecting humans worsen due to shifting climate patterns.
The Impact of Climate Change on Infections
- Habitat Loss and Human-Animal Interaction:
- Climate change contributes to habitat loss, pushing disease-carrying animals into closer proximity to human territories.
- This increased interaction between humans and wildlife raises the risk of disease transmission from animals to humans.
- For example, the Nipah virus outbreaks in Kerala originated from bats and caused fatalities in humans.
- Broader Spectrum of Infectious Agents: An analysis published in Nature Climate Change in 2022 warns that humans now face a wider range of infectious agents due to climate change. Over half of all known infectious diseases that threaten humans are exacerbated by changing climate patterns.
- New Transmission Routes: Diseases often find new transmission routes due to climate change. This includes transmission through environmental sources as well as through medical tourism and contaminated food and water from once-reliable sources.
- Ecosystem Transformation: Climate change is transforming ecosystems by introducing invasive species and extending the range of existing life forms. These changes trigger complex upheavals in ecosystems, making it challenging for ecologists and epidemiologists to predict disease outbreaks.
- Manifestation of Climatic Shifts: These climatic shifts are manifesting in severe health crises, including a dengue epidemic in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Kolkata, as well as the Nipah outbreak in Kerala.
- Human-Induced Health Vulnerability Crisis:
- Human-induced climate change is described as unleashing an unprecedented health vulnerability crisis.
- India, in particular, has experienced the ominous impact, with early summers and erratic monsoons leading to water scarcity in regions like the Gangetic Plains and Kerala.
Current Surveillance, Reporting, and Challenges
- Improved Reporting Over the Decades:
- India has made significant progress in reporting disease outbreaks over the past two decades.
- Initiatives like the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) were introduced to enhance disease surveillance.
- For example, in 2008, IDSP reported 553 outbreaks, and by 2017, this number had increased to 1,714.
- Transition to the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP):
- The IDSP was phased out in favor of a newer system called the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) in 2018.
- IHIP is a web-enabled, near-real-time electronic information system that added 20 additional disease conditions compared to IDSP’s 13.
- It aimed to provide disaggregated data to its users.
- Unfulfilled Expectations: Despite the promise of IHIP, the program has not fully met expectations for real-time tracking of emerging disease outbreaks.
- Inadequate Surveillance for Emerging Diseases: The current design of disease surveillance is deemed inadequate for the emerging disease scenario brought about by climate change.
The Need for a Unified Approach: One Health
- Interconnectedness of Health: One Health recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant, and environmental health. It emphasizes that these domains are interdependent and that the health of one is intimately linked to the health of the others.
- Preventing Disease Outbreaks: The One Health approach is pivotal in preventing disease outbreaks, particularly those originating from animals. It acknowledges that diseases like zoonotic infections (those that can be transmitted from animals to humans), neglected tropical diseases, vector-borne diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental contamination are all interconnected.
- Holistic Approach: One Health takes a holistic approach to health surveillance and prevention. It goes beyond traditional disease control strategies and recognizes the need to address health challenges at their source, including the role of ecosystems.
Recommendations for India
- Implement one health program: Foster synergy between the central and state governments and their specialized agencies, including animal husbandry, forest and wildlife, municipal corporations, and public health departments. Develop robust surveillance systems and establish lines of responsibility and collaboration.
- Coordination and Management: With the influx of funding from sources like the World Bank, enhance the coordination and management of One Health initiatives. The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister has played a leading role, but greater collaboration is essential.
Way forward: Looking Beyond Disease X
- The Obsession with “Disease X”: While the global focus remains on the mysterious “Disease X,” the ongoing challenges posed by familiar infectious agents like influenza, measles, Japanese encephalitis, dengue, and diarrhoea continue to strain public health systems.
- Climate Change’s Broader Impact: Climate change is not limited to infectious diseases. It exacerbates injuries and fatalities resulting from extreme weather events, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issues.
- Nipah’s Wake-Up Call: The re-emergence of the Nipah virus in Kerala serves as a stark wake-up call, emphasizing that a mere biomedical response to diseases is inadequate in the face of evolving threats.
- The Role of Ecosystems: Protecting ecosystems becomes paramount as they play a crucial role in mitigating climate-induced infectious diseases and maintaining overall ecological balance.
- Fostering Collaboration: Collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, health departments, environmental bodies, and the public, is essential to effectively address these complex challenges.
- Proactive Safeguarding: The road ahead demands concerted efforts not only to adapt to climate change but also to proactively safeguard our planet and the well-being of its inhabitants for a resilient and healthier future.
Conclusion
- The urgent need for a One Health approach to combat climate-induced infectious diseases is clear. India must prioritize collaboration, surveillance, and ecosystem protection to effectively address this growing threat and secure a healthier future for its population.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Development diplomacy, The India-France Development Partnership, Cooperation in Indo pacific
What’s the news?
- In a recent development, the Indo-French partnership, celebrating its 25th anniversary, reaffirmed its commitment to tackling sustainable development challenges in the Indo-Pacific through innovative strategies and regional collaboration.
Central idea
- The Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a critical geographic hotspot for sustainable development in the 21st century. India and France, as resident powers and close allies sharing democratic values and a commitment to multilateralism, play pivotal roles in this context. Their 25-year-old strategic partnership is now geared towards Agenda 2030, as outlined in the ambitious ‘India-France Indo-Pacific Roadmap’ within ‘Horizon 2047.
What is development diplomacy?
- Development diplomacy, also known as development-oriented diplomacy, is a diplomatic approach that seeks to promote and advance a country’s development goals and objectives through its foreign policy and international relations.
- It involves using diplomatic tools, negotiations, and cooperation with other countries and international organizations to address issues related to economic development, poverty reduction, social progress, and sustainability.
The significant role of development diplomacy in shaping global relations
- Bridge Between Foreign Policy and Development Cooperation:
- Development diplomacy is occupying a crucial space that bridges foreign policy and development cooperation.
- This integration of diplomacy and development efforts allows countries to pursue their foreign policy objectives while simultaneously working toward global development goals.
- Benefit for the Global South:
- Development diplomacy is particularly beneficial for countries in the Global South. These nations often face substantial development challenges, including poverty, infrastructure deficits, and limited access to financing.
- Development diplomacy can help them access resources, technology, and expertise from other countries and international organizations.
- India’s successful G20 presidency was a pivotal moment that emphasized the importance of development cooperation on the global stage. During its presidency, India focused on connecting with low-income countries and small island developing states (SIDS).
- This outreach demonstrates how development diplomacy can be a key instrument for building partnerships, addressing common challenges, and fostering solidarity among nations.
- Bridging the North-South Gap:
- Development diplomacy, as exemplified by India’s engagement during its G20 presidency, serves as a means to bridge the gap between the Global North (developed countries) and the Global South (developing countries).
- It promotes cooperation, knowledge sharing, and resource allocation to support sustainable development in regions that need it most.
French Presence in the Indian Ocean
- Overseas Territories: France has several overseas territories and departments in the Indian Ocean, including Réunion Island, Mayotte, and the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF). These territories are integral parts of France and are located strategically in the Indian Ocean.
- Naval Bases: France maintains important naval bases in the Indian Ocean, notably in Réunion and Mayotte. These bases serve as key hubs for French naval operations in the region, including patrolling and securing maritime routes.
- Military Presence: France deploys military assets to protect its interests and contribute to regional security in the Indian Ocean. This includes naval vessels, aircraft, and troops stationed in the area. These forces are often involved in counter-piracy operations and maritime security efforts.
- Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs): France’s overseas territories in the Indian Ocean have large Exclusive Economic Zones, which grant them jurisdiction over significant maritime areas. These zones are valuable for fisheries, resource exploration, and scientific research.
- Geopolitical Interests: France’s presence in the Indian Ocean is driven by various geopolitical interests. These include ensuring the security of its overseas territories, protecting maritime trade routes, countering piracy and illegal fishing, and participating in regional stability efforts.
- Cooperation with Regional Partners: France collaborates with regional partners and organizations in the Indian Ocean, such as the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and the African Union, to address common challenges, including environmental protection, security, and economic development.
- Economic Engagement: France is involved in economic activities in the Indian Ocean region, including trade, investment, and development assistance. French companies operate in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and tourism.
Indo-French Strategic Cooperation
- Geographic Significance: The Indo-Pacific region is highlighted as a critical geographic hotspot for sustainable development in the 21st century, and both India and France are described as resident powers and close allies with significant stakes in the region.
- Shared Values: India and France are characterized as bilateral trade partners who share the core values of democracy and a commitment to multilateralism. Their strategic partnership is noted as being particularly relevant to the Indo-Pacific region.
- Long-Standing Partnership: The partnership between India and France has reached the milestone of 25 years, and both countries express a keen interest in strengthening their cooperation towards achieving Agenda 2030, as outlined in the India-France Indo-Pacific Roadmap within the framework of Horizon 2047.
- Areas of Cooperation: India and France have formulated several mutually beneficial cooperation agreements covering various sectors, including defense, climate, economic, maritime, and civil nuclear domains. Their shared geopolitical interests and developmental agendas are cited as key drivers of this cooperation.
- Diplomatic Peak: The diplomatic relationship between India and France is described as being at its peak, with both nations poised for a policy dialogue to further their cooperation in supporting sovereign efforts and addressing developmental challenges with a focus on sustainability.
- Global Impact: The significance of development diplomacy is significant. Development diplomacy is a crucial tool for many countries in the Global South that lack resources and access to finance.
- G20 Presidency: India’s G20 presidency is highlighted as an opportunity for the country to contribute to and lead global development efforts in the post-pandemic world.
- Data Analysis: India and France are noted for their involvement in data analysis using satellite technologies, although specific details are not provided.
Addressing Challenges in Sustainable Development
- Defining Green Projects: The ambiguity surrounding the definition of green projects poses a significant obstacle to sustainable development. India and France can take the lead in setting clear standards and criteria for such projects, establishing a common framework that encompasses environmental, social, and economic factors.
- Bridging the Start-up Financing Gap: Start-ups are often the breeding ground for innovative, sustainable solutions, yet they face financing hurdles. India and France can collaborate to create dedicated funds and venture capital networks focused on green and sustainable start-ups.
- Enhancing Data Collection and Analysis: Accurate and accessible data is the backbone of informed decision-making. Leveraging their expertise in data analysis and satellite technology, India and France can establish a regional data repository.
- Encouraging Private Sector Engagement: The private sector is a potent force in driving sustainability. Both countries can incentivize businesses by offering tax incentives, subsidies, or preferential treatment to companies that embrace sustainable practices.
- Promoting Regional Cooperation: Sustainable development challenges often transcend borders. India and France can lead by example, initiating regional cooperation efforts. These may include co-funding cross-border infrastructure projects, facilitating knowledge sharing among Indo-Pacific nations.
Conclusion
- The India-France Development Partnership in the Indo-Pacific holds immense promise for realizing Agenda 2030s sustainable development goals. As resident powers and close allies, India and France are well-positioned to lead the way in addressing the region’s development challenges and fostering sustainability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SWI report and its findings
Mains level: The relationship between economic growth and employment in India, Reasons, challenges, and framework for change
What’s the news?
- A recent report, SWI 2023, has brought to light the disconcerting disparity between India’s relentless pursuit of GDP growth and the stark reality of inadequate job creation.
Central idea
- In the realm of policy decisions, a fundamental question often arises: Should the focus be on accelerating economic growth or ensuring widespread employment opportunities? A recent report, India is Broken and the State of Working India 2023, draws insights on how India’s growth trajectory impacts employment, emphasizing the need to consider various social factors in this equation.
The State of Working India 2023 (SWI) Report
- SWI 2023, focusing on a long-term perspective, analyzes data from 1983 to 2023, emphasizing social identities like caste, gender, and religion.
- It highlights how GDP growth benefits are distributed unevenly among various segments of society.
- The quality of jobs created is a crucial aspect of distinguishing between regular-wage jobs and self-employment.
The relationship between economic growth and employment in India
- Job Creation Challenge: The report emphasizes that job creation remains one of India’s most significant macroeconomic challenges. Despite the pursuit of high GDP growth, the report suggests that the correlation between economic growth and employment generation has weakened over time.
- Weakening Employment Elasticity: Employment elasticity, which measures the extent to which employment grows when GDP grows by one unit, has consistently declined since the 1980s. This decline indicates that a 1% increase in GDP now results in less than a 1% increase in employment.
- Recent Trends: The period from 2017 to 2021 showed a notable improvement in employment. However, this improvement came with nuances. While employment numbers increased, it’s essential to distinguish between jobs created due to economic growth and those created out of necessity (self-employment).
- Quality of Jobs: The SWI 2023 report underscores the importance of considering the quality of jobs created. Not all employment opportunities are equal, and the report highlights the prevalence of self-employment, which often lacks regular wages and job security.
- Impact on Women: The changing employment landscape disproportionately affects women. Although women accounted for half of the lost employment during the specified period, they received only a third of the increase in formal employment. This shift also saw more individuals turning to self-employment due to economic distress.
- Uncorrelated Growth: The report’s broader takeaway is that over the long run, GDP growth and employment growth have been uncorrelated in India. This suggests that policies solely oriented towards achieving higher GDP growth rates may not necessarily lead to accelerated job creation.
The dominance of GDP growth
- For years, India’s national discourse has been dominated by the pursuit of high GDP growth rates as the primary indicator of economic progress.
- The belief has been that rapid economic growth will naturally lead to increased employment opportunities.
- However, recent developments challenge this conventional wisdom, prompting us to reconsider our priorities.
The US perspective
- In contrast to India’s GDP-centric approach, the United States, the world’s largest economy, places a strong emphasis on employment levels.
- The Chairman of the US Federal Reserve, Jay Powell, consistently highlights the importance of achieving full employment while maintaining price stability.
Why does India not prioritize employment to the same degree?
- Historical Perspective: India’s approach to economic development has been influenced by its post-independence history. When India gained independence in 1947, it faced widespread poverty, and economic growth was seen as a means to uplift the masses.
- Development Paradigm: India adopted a development paradigm that prioritized industrialization and capital-intensive sectors. The belief was that as industries expanded, they would naturally absorb labor.
- Policy Framework: India’s economic policies, especially since the 1991 economic reforms, have largely centered on liberalization, privatization, and globalization. These policies aimed to attract foreign investment and promote private sector growth, often with an emphasis on manufacturing and services. While these policies aimed at increasing overall economic output, they did not always address the issue of employment directly.
- Data Focus: Economic policymakers often rely on GDP growth as a quantifiable and easily measurable metric to gauge economic performance. Employment data can be more complex to collect and interpret, and the focus on GDP growth has made it the primary indicator of success.
- Political Considerations: Political leaders and parties have, at times, used the promise of high GDP growth as a way to gain popular support and demonstrate economic progress to the electorate. This political narrative has reinforced the emphasis on GDP growth.
- Globalization Trends: The global trend toward globalization and competitiveness has also influenced India’s priorities. The country has sought to position itself as a global economic player, and this often involves pursuing policies that align with international economic norms, including a focus on GDP growth.
- Lack of Comprehensive Social Safety Nets: India’s social safety nets and social security systems have historically been limited in coverage and effectiveness. As a result, there may be a perception that focusing on GDP growth is essential to lifting people out of poverty, as job opportunities are seen as the primary means of economic betterment.
A Framework for Change: Rethinking India’s Growth Strategy
- Promote labor-intensive manufacturing:
- Encourage industries that have the potential for labor-intensive manufacturing, such as textiles, electronics assembly, and agro-processing.
- Implement policies and incentives to attract investments in these sectors, as they can create a significant number of jobs.
- Invest in skill development and training.
- Establish comprehensive skill development programs to enhance the employability of the workforce.
- Collaborate with industries to design training programs that align with their specific needs, ensuring that workers are adequately prepared for available job opportunities.
- Support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs):
- Provide targeted support to MSMEs, which often generate substantial employment.
- Simplify regulations and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for MSMEs to encourage their growth.
- Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Industries:
- Explore opportunities in green manufacturing and sustainable industries, aligning with global trends toward environmentally friendly practices.
- Invest in renewable energy, eco-friendly technologies, and sustainable agriculture, which can create employment while contributing to environmental goals.
- Infrastructure Development in Rural Areas:
- Develop infrastructure in rural areas to facilitate economic activities and job creation outside of urban centers.
- Improve connectivity, transportation, and access to markets to boost rural employment opportunities.
- Focus on the formalization of jobs:
- Implement policies that encourage the formalization of employment, including ensuring written contracts and providing benefits to workers.
- Address labor market informality to improve job quality and security.
- Gender-Inclusive Policies:
- Develop and enforce policies that promote gender equality in the workforce.
- Encourage women’s participation in the labor market through initiatives such as affordable childcare facilities and measures to reduce workplace harassment.
- Social Safety Nets:
- Strengthen social safety nets to provide a cushion for workers during periods of economic volatility.
- Ensure that unemployment benefits, healthcare, and retirement provisions are accessible and effective.
- National Employment Policy:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive national employment policy that outlines a long-term vision and strategy for job creation.
- Address both the supply and demand sides of the labor market and promote the quantity and quality of employment.
- Global Trade and Export Promotion:
- Actively engage in global trade and export promotion, which can stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
- Identify and target export-oriented industries with growth potential.
- Decentralized Economic Development:
- Promote economic decentralization by encouraging the development of regional and local economies.
- Invest in infrastructure, skills, and entrepreneurship in underdeveloped regions to reduce regional disparities.
Conclusion
- The time has come for India to reconsider its economic priorities. While GDP growth remains important, a greater emphasis on job creation, especially quality employment, is crucial for sustainable and inclusive development. The findings of the SWI 2023 report offer a compelling case for Indian policymakers to shift their focus towards strategies that prioritize employment generation, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared by all segments of society.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Digital India Act, 2023
Mains level: AI Governance Challenge and measures
What’s the news?
- India is poised to take center stage in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the upcoming Global AI Summit and the GPAI Global Summit.
Central idea
- As AI is projected to contribute significantly to India’s economy, accounting for 10% of its GDP by 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has rightly called for a global framework on the ethical expansion of AI. In this context, it is imperative that India address the unique challenges concerning children and adolescents in the AI landscape.
What is the Digital India Act, 2023?
- The act is new legislation that aims to overhaul the decades-old Information Technology Act of 2000.
- The Act covers a range of topics such as AI, cybercrime, data protection, deepfakes, competition issues among internet platforms, and online safety.
- The Act also aims to address new complex forms of user harm that have emerged in the years since the IT Act’s enactment, such as catfishing, doxxing, trolling, and phishing.
- Creating new regulations around newer technology, including 5G, IoT devices, cloud computing, the metaverse, blockchain, and cryptocurrency
- Reclassifying online intermediaries into separate categories instead of one general intermediary label, each with its own set of regulations
- Removing safe harbor immunity for online intermediaries for purposeful misinformation or other content violations from third parties
- Creating digital standards and laws regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technology
- Criminalizing cyberbullying, identity theft, and unauthorized sharing of personal information without consent.
Addressing the Governance Challenge through the Digital India Act
- Establish a regulatory framework that aligns industry incentives with the well-being of young users.
- Implement measures to combat exploitative AI practices, ensuring the safety and mental health of children and adolescents.
- Provide guidance and tools for families to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.
- Promote inclusivity and fairness by addressing biases and discrimination in AI systems.
- Revise data protection provisions to strike a balance between privacy and personalization, recognizing the unique needs of young users.
Way Forward: Rethinking Child-Centric AI Regulation
- International Best Practices:
- India can draw on international best practices to develop child-centric AI regulations.
- UNICEF’s guidance for policymakers on AI and children, aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, provides a framework for creating an enabling environment that prioritizes children’s well-being, inclusion, fairness, non-discrimination, safety, transparency, explaining ability, and accountability.
- Learning from California’s Age-Appropriate Design Code Act, Indian authorities can push for transparency in digital services by configuring default privacy settings, assessing the impact of algorithms and data collection on children, and using age-appropriate language for user-facing information.
- Research on AI’s benefits and risks for Indian children and adolescents should inform the development of an Indian Age-Appropriate Design Code for AI.
- Establishing institutions for regular dialogue with children and adolescents is crucial.
- Similar to Australia’s Online Safety Youth Advisory Council, these institutions could comprise individuals between the ages of 13 and 24.
- Such entities will help regulators better understand the threats young people face while interacting with AI systems and preserve the benefits they derive from digital services.
Conclusion
- In the era of rapidly evolving AI, India’s regulatory approach must prioritize openness, trust, and accountability over rigid prescriptions. As India progresses towards comprehensive Internet regulation and seeks to lead in global AI governance, safeguarding the interests of its young citizens should remain at the forefront of its policy agenda.
Also read:
Laying the foundation for a future-ready digital India
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lokmanya' Tilak and associated facts, role, contribution etc
Mains level: Lokmanya Tilak's vision, Nationalistic Ideals, role, contribution
What’s the news?
- The ten-day Ganesh festival, commencing on September 19, is celebrated nationwide with mass participation, a transformation attributed to Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s 19th-century efforts, now symbolizing India’s unity and resilience.
Central idea
- The ten-day Ganesh festival is a spectacle of devotion and festivity celebrated with enthusiasm across India, particularly in the western regions. This grand public event, characterized by mass participation, owes its transformation from a one-day private affair to a colossal celebration to the visionary nationalist leader, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, fondly known as Lokmanya or the Leader of the People.
Tilak’s Nationalistic Ideals
- Advocated Swaraj (self-rule) with unwavering commitment: Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a visionary leader who firmly believed in India’s right to self-rule. At a time when many nationalist leaders were seeking concessions from the British, Tilak boldly asserted that India should have full self-governance, known as Swaraj, as its birthright.
- Fearlessly criticized British exploitation in India: Tilak was an outspoken critic of British colonial rule in India. He fearlessly highlighted the exploitation, economic hardships, and cultural subjugation faced by Indians under British rule.
- Promoted modern civil and political rights: Tilak advocated for the modernization of India’s political and civil rights. He argued for greater political participation and civil liberties for Indians, emphasizing the need for Indians to have the same rights as citizens of other nations.
- Gained popularity through fiery rhetoric and direct language: Tilak’s communication style was marked by fiery rhetoric and direct language. He used newspapers and public speeches to communicate his ideas to a wide audience.
Tilak’s Leadership and Vision
- Emerged as a prominent mass leader in India’s anti-colonial movement: Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s leadership during the late 19th and early 20th centuries made him one of the most prominent figures in India’s anti-colonial struggle.
- Iconic declaration: Tilak’s famous declaration, Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it, encapsulated his determination and became a rallying cry for the Indian independence movement.
- Effectively mobilized people against British rule: Tilak’s leadership was instrumental in mobilizing people against British colonial rule. He organized protests, public meetings, and social and cultural events that galvanized support for the nationalist cause.
- Utilized Hindu imagery and symbolism in political campaigns: Tilak recognized the power of symbolism in political mobilization. He used Hindu imagery and symbolism to appeal to the cultural and religious sentiments of the majority of Indians.
The Transformation of the Ganesh Festival
- Shifted the Ganesh festival from a one-day private event: Before Tilak’s intervention, the Ganesh festival was a one-day private affair largely observed by Brahmins and upper castes. However, in 1893, Tilak initiated a transformative change by expanding the festival into a ten-day community celebration.
- Introduced community Ganpati worship in 1893: Tilak introduced the concept of community Ganpati worship during the Ganesh festival, allowing people from all social strata to participate in the festivities.
- Incorporated patriotic songs and propagated nationalist ideas: Under Tilak’s guidance, the Ganesh festival became a platform for singing patriotic songs and propagating nationalist ideas.
- Formation of Ganesh festival societies and increased youth participation: Tilak’s efforts led to the establishment of Ganesh festival societies across Maharashtra, encouraging youth participation and instilling a sense of pride, valor, and patriotism among the youth.
Shivaji Festival and Boycott Campaign
- Initiated the Shivaji festival in 1896 to inspire nationalism: In addition to the Ganesh festival, Tilak introduced the Shivaji festival in 1896 to celebrate the legacy of the Maratha king Shivaji and inspire nationalist sentiments among young Maharashtrians.
- Celebrated the legacy of Maratha King Shivaji: The Shivaji festival paid tribute to Shivaji’s role in resisting foreign rule and promoting Swaraj, instilling pride in Maharashtrians.
- Organized a campaign in Maharashtra to boycott foreign cloth: In 1896, Tilak organized a campaign in Maharashtra to boycott foreign cloth in response to the imposition of an excise duty on cotton by the British colonial administration.
- Efforts galvanized support for the nationalist cause: Both the Shivaji festival and the boycott campaign were instrumental in galvanizing support for the nationalist cause.
Controversies and Criticisms
- Accused of introducing a communal aspect to the freedom struggle: Tilak faced criticism for allegedly introducing communal elements into the freedom struggle, particularly during the communal clashes of 1893.
- Maintained a conservative stance on women’s emancipation and caste reforms: Tilak’s conservative positions on women’s rights and caste reforms were points of contention.
- Criticize the British for favoring Muslims due to fears of a Hindu majority: During the communal clashes of 1893, Tilak accused the British of being partisan towards Muslims out of fear of a growing Hindu majority.
- Left a complex legacy with an enduring impact on India’s nationalist movement: Despite the controversies and criticisms, Bal Gangadhar Tilak left a complex but indelible legacy in India’s struggle for independence, shaping the course of the nationalist movement.
Conclusion
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s vision and leadership and his efforts to unite and instill nationalist fervor through this festival continue to shape the way it is celebrated today. Ganesh Chaturthi stands as a symbol of India’s unity and resilience in the face of colonial rule, thanks to the foresight of Lokmanya’ Tilak.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Mains level: Women’s Reservation Bill
What’s the news?
- In a historic move, Parliament passed the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, commonly referred to as the women’s reservation Bill.
Central idea
- The Indian Parliament recently ratified the Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, as the bill is called, seeks to reserve one-third of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha, the State Legislative Assemblies. The bill received overwhelming support in both houses of Parliament and now awaits presidential assent to become law.
What does the bill say?
- Reservation for Women: The primary objective of the bill is to provide 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies across India. This means that one-third of the total seats in these legislative bodies would be reserved exclusively for women candidates.
- Applicability to SCs and STs: The reservation for women extends to seats that are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies as well. This ensures that women from marginalized communities also have an opportunity to participate in the political process.
- Rotational Reservation: The bill stipulates that the seats reserved for women will be rotated after each delimitation exercise. Delimitation involves the adjustment of territorial boundaries and the allocation of seats based on population changes. This rotation ensures that women candidates have a chance to represent different constituencies over time.
The groundwork for the Women’s Reservation Bill
- The foundation for the Women’s Reservation Bill was established with the enactment of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in 1993.
- These amendments introduced the concept of panchayats and urban local bodies into the Indian Constitution.
- Notably, these amendments mandated a one-third (33%) reservation for women in these local governing bodies.
- This marked a significant step toward increasing women’s representation in grassroots politics.
- Building on the provisions of the 73rd and 74th Amendments, some states took progressive steps to further enhance women’s political participation.
- For example, Bihar became the first state to provide 50% reservation for women in panchayat bodies in 2006.
- Over time, more than 20 states adopted a 50% reservation for women at the panchayat level.
- Studies on Women’s Leadership:
- Academic research conducted during this period shed light on the positive influence of women’s leadership in political bodies.
- For example, a 2001 study by Raghabendra Chattopadhyay and Esther Duflo in West Bengal found that women leaders tended to invest more in infrastructure directly relevant to the needs of rural women, such as water supply, fuel availability, and roads.
- Another study conducted in Maharashtra highlighted how all-women panchayats prioritized women’s issues, showcasing the potential benefits of women’s representation in politics.
Previous attempts in the parliament over the years
- The Women’s Reservation Bill, also known as the 81st Constitution Amendment Bill, was first introduced in the Lok Sabha in 1996 by the Deve Gowda-led United Front government. This bill proposed reserving one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women.
- It was referred to a Joint Committee for recommendations but failed to receive approval in the Lok Sabha. The bill lapsed with the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
- In 1998, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led National Democratic Alliance government reintroduced the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha.
- However, like the previous attempt, it also lapsed after the government fell in 1999.
- 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003:
- The Women’s Reservation Bill was reintroduced in the Lok Sabha multiple times between 1999 and 2003.
- However, it faced resistance and failed to secure passage during these years.
- In 2010, the Manmohan Singh-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government tabled the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament). This bill aimed to reserve one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women.
- However, the bill was never taken up for consideration in the Lok Sabha and lapsed with the dissolution of the 15th Lok Sabha.
Critical issues and concerns raised by the opposition
- Delay Due to Delimitation:
- The primary concern raised by the opposition is the linkage of women’s reservations with the periodic delimitation exercise. The last delimitation order was issued in 2008, and there is a freeze on seat readjustment until the figures of the first Census held after 2026 become available.
- This has raised concerns that women’s reservations might not be implemented until the 2031 Census figures are available, causing a potential prolonged delay.
- Another significant issue raised by the Opposition is the absence of a separate reservation for OBCs in the Women’s Reservation Bill.
- While the bill provides reservations for SCs and STs, it does not include a specific provision for OBCs, despite their significant population representation.
Assurance and suggestions
- Amit Shah’s Assurance: Home Minister Amit Shah informed Parliament that the census and delimitation exercise would be conducted immediately after the general election due in 2024. This implies that the delimitation process, which has been a concern regarding potential delays in implementing women’s reservations, would be expedited.
- Owaisi’s Suggestion: Asaduddin Owaisi and Syed Imtiyaz Jaleel of the AIMIM suggested that the bill should incorporate separate quotas for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Muslim women, as these communities are underrepresented in Parliament and legislative assemblies.
Way forward
- Timely Delimitation: The government can work on conducting the delimitation exercise promptly after the general election due in 2024, as stated by Home Minister Amit Shah. This would ensure that women’s reservation becomes a reality sooner.
- Inclusive Consultations: The concerns regarding the absence of a separate reservation for OBCs should be addressed through inclusive consultations and discussions with political parties and stakeholders.
- Research and Data: Continued research on the impact of women’s reservation at various levels of governance can provide evidence of its positive effects.
- Political Consensus: Building consensus among political parties and garnering bipartisan support for the Women’s Reservation Bill is essential. This can be achieved through dialogue, negotiations, and compromise to address the concerns of different parties.
Conclusion
- The passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill is a significant step toward promoting gender equality and women’s participation in the Indian political landscape. While it faces challenges related to delimitation and OBC representation, its historical context and potential benefits make it a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards inclusive and representative governance.
Also read:
Women’s share in Assemblies less than 10% in 20 States
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Delhi declaration , India-Middle East-Europe Corridor
Mains level: India's G- 20 presidency, Diplomatic win, key outcomes, IMEC and its significance
What’s the news?
- A historic shift in Saudi policy and key global developments raise prospects for peace; Israel’s absence at the 2023 G-20 summit draws attention.
Central idea
- The 2023 G-20 summit, held under India’s presidency, demonstrated India’s ability to address complex global challenges despite the group’s limited economic focus. India’s success at the summit, marked by various outcomes, garnered global attention.
Key Outcomes
- Inclusion of the African Union: The G-20 welcomed the African Union, expanding its reach and global inclusivity.
- Clean Energy Initiative: India offered a tangible solution through a biofuel alliance, promoting clean energy globally.
- Substantial Aid for Asia-Africa: Increased aid for Asia-Africa cooperation was pledged, promoting development in the region.
- Economic Corridor Announcement: The most significant surprise was the announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, connecting India to Europe via the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel.
- The Delhi Declaration: A joint statement issued by all G-20 members emphasized the need for global cooperation in a fractured international order.
What is the Delhi Declaration?
- The Delhi Declaration is a joint statement issued during the 2023 G-20 Summit held under India’s presidency.
- It serves as a summary of the key agreements, commitments, and principles that member nations of the G-20, a group of major economies, endorse during the summit.
- The declaration typically addresses various global challenges, including economic issues, climate change, geopolitical concerns, and social development.
What makes the Delhi Declaration a diplomatic triumph?
- It is notable because it manages to garner the agreement of major world leaders, even in the context of international power struggles.
- Despite the absence of China’s President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the summit, India succeeded in obtaining their agreement for the declaration.
- This reflects India’s diplomatic acumen in bridging divides and fostering consensus among diverse nations.
- Unity Amidst Differences:
- The declaration manages to bring together countries with differing perspectives and interests. It is often challenging to find common ground on complex issues such as territorial disputes or geopolitical conflicts, but the Delhi Declaration demonstrates that the G-20 member nations can set aside differences to agree on a common agenda.
- This unity is seen as a diplomatic success in a world marked by division and discord.
- The Delhi Declaration strikes a balance between addressing global issues and not directly naming certain nations for their actions. In this case, it avoids naming Russia for its aggression against Ukraine but emphasizes the importance of upholding the United Nations charter and principles of territorial sovereignty.
- This balanced approach allows each member to find something in the declaration that aligns with their interests, contributing to its success.
- India’s diplomats and leadership employed effective diplomatic strategies in crafting the Delhi Declaration. By creating a text that caters to the interests of each member, they ensured that all participating nations could claim a win.
- This diplomatic skill in negotiation and consensus-building is viewed as a triumph for India’s presidency.
What is IMEC?
- The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is an economic initiative aimed at creating a strategic trade and transportation corridor that connects India with the Middle East and Europe.
- It was established through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the leaders of India, the United States, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Italy, and the EU on September 10 in New Delhi.
- IMEC envisions the development of a reliable and cost-effective transport network, including railways and ship-to-rail transit, to facilitate the movement of goods and services between India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and the European Union (EU).
- It seeks to offer an alternative route for trade between Asia and Europe, reducing transit times and logistics costs compared to existing maritime routes like the Suez Canal.
What makes this initiative a game-changer?
- Geopolitical Significance: The corridor’s establishment is seen as a transformative move in the geopolitics of the region. It directly challenges China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has been a major driver of China’s influence globally. By offering an alternative route and infrastructure, it diversifies strategic options for countries in the region and potentially reduces their reliance on the BRI.
- Economic Benefits: The corridor has the potential to significantly boost trade and economic ties between India and Europe, two major economic regions. It’s expected to stimulate economic growth, create opportunities for investment, and contribute to prosperity along the corridor.
- Improved Connectivity: The project enhances connectivity between regions, not only economically but also culturally. Enhanced connectivity can foster stability and cooperation among participating countries.
- Diplomatic Significance: India’s success in securing the participation of Middle Eastern countries, including Israel, underscores its diplomatic influence and the importance of its strategic relationships in the region.
- Global Recognition: The corridor’s announcement received international recognition, with leaders like U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledging its significance. This recognition highlights its potential to have a far-reaching impact on the global economic and geopolitical landscape.
- Regional Development: The corridor has the potential to be a catalyst for regional development. It could encourage investment in infrastructure, technology, and industries along the route, leading to job creation and improved living standards for local populations.
- Security Considerations: The corridor’s success is closely tied to regional stability and cooperation. It could incentivize countries in the Middle East, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, to work towards diplomatic normalization and conflict resolution. Achieving peace in the region is crucial for the corridor’s successful realization.
Israel’s Absence from the G-20 and Possible Factors
- Israel’s absence from the 2023 G-20 summit, despite its involvement in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor project, leads to questions about the reasons behind this decision.
- Diplomatic Normalization: Diplomatic normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia may have played a role. The economic corridor project might have been linked to diplomatic normalization efforts, delaying public recognition of Israel’s involvement until full normalization was achieved.
- Avoidance of Domestic Politics: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s failure to publicly acknowledge Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative for the economic corridor could be a result of domestic political considerations. Netanyahu might have wanted to avoid appearing too eager for diplomatic achievements, given his domestic political situation.
- U.S. Administration’s Preferences: The U.S. administration’s avoidance of Netanyahu for eight months due to domestic politics suggests that U.S. preferences or concerns might have influenced Israel’s role in the summit.
- Regional Sensitivities: The complexities of the Middle East and sensitivities surrounding Israel’s involvement with Middle Eastern countries might have influenced the host’s decision on the guest list for the summit.
Way Forward: A Push for Peace
- Saudi Arabia’s Diplomatic Shift: Saudi Arabia’s decision to end its diplomatic boycott of Israel signifies a historic opportunity for progress in the Middle East. This shift should be leveraged to promote peace and stability in the region.
- Influencing Other Nations: Saudi Arabia’s acceptance of Israel could serve as a positive example for other Muslim-majority nations. Efforts should be made to encourage countries like Pakistan, Indonesia, and Malaysia to engage in diplomatic relations with Israel, fostering broader regional cooperation.
- Conditional Diplomacy: Recognizing the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, diplomatic efforts should continue with a commitment to the two-state solution and the well-being of the Palestinian people as key conditions for acceptance. This approach acknowledges the need for a just and lasting resolution.
- Promoting Negotiations: The Peace Day Effort initiated by Saudi Arabia, supported by the Arab League and the European Union, offers a path to incentivize Israeli and Palestinian leaders to come to the negotiating table. International stakeholders should continue to support and facilitate these efforts.
- Addressing Extremism: While pursuing diplomacy, it is crucial to address extremism on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Counteracting extremism and promoting dialogue and reconciliation are essential components of any sustainable peace process.
Conclusion
- The 2023 G-20 summit under India’s presidency showcased India’s leadership in addressing global challenges. Israel’s absence raised questions, but the path to diplomatic normalization and peace in the Middle East may have played a role. As India continues to drive global cooperation, the world watches with anticipation.
Also read:
India-Middle East-Europe Corridor: The way to a new world order
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Judicial device of Injunction and related provisions
Mains level: Personality rights, debate its significance
What’s the news?
- The Delhi High Court this week allowed Kapoor’s pleas for protection of his personality rights from misuse by third parties. Rajinikanth’s name, Amitabh Bachchan’s baritone, and now Anil Kapoor’s style These are some of the personality rights that celebrities are trying to protect.
Central idea
- In recent times, celebrities have been increasingly vigilant about safeguarding their personality rights, which encompass elements such as their name, voice, signature, images, and distinctive features. The Delhi High Court’s recent decision to grant protection to Anil Kapoor’s personality rights from misuse by third parties has brought this issue into the limelight.
About personality rights
- Personality rights, often loosely referred to as the rights over one’s name, image, and unique characteristics, are crucial for celebrities.
- Many celebrities take proactive measures to protect their personality rights, including registering some of these distinctive aspects as trademarks.
- For example, Usain Bolt’s iconic bolting or lightning pose has been registered as a trademark, ensuring that only he or authorized parties can use it for commercial gain.
- The primary idea behind personality rights is to grant the individual the exclusive right to derive economic benefits from these distinctive features.
- Exclusivity is a critical factor in attracting commercial opportunities for celebrities, so unauthorized use by third parties can result in tangible financial losses.
Legal Protection for Personality Rights
- The law protects personality rights in India, although these rights are not explicitly mentioned in statutes. Instead, they are derived from related legal principles, primarily the right to privacy and the right to property.
- How the law safeguards personality rights in the absence of specific legislation?
- Right to Privacy and Right to Property: Personality rights are rooted in the broader concepts of the right to privacy and the right to property. These foundational rights form the basis for protecting an individual’s control over their personal identity and commercial interests.
- Application of Intellectual Property Concepts: Intellectual property principles, often used to protect trademarks, can be applied to safeguard personality rights. This includes preventing the unauthorized use of a celebrity’s identity or distinctive attributes for commercial purposes.
- Deterrence: Injunctions serve as a legal deterrent against the unauthorized commercial exploitation of a celebrity’s identity. They prohibit specific activities or uses of the celebrity’s persona, helping protect their financial interests.
- Challenges in Enforcement: While injunctions provide legal protection, enforcing them can be challenging. Celebrities often need to issue takedown orders to online intermediaries like Google to remove unauthorized content. These legal processes can incur significant costs but may still be beneficial compared to the financial losses resulting from unauthorized use.
Precedents in Indian Courts
- Indian courts have established important precedents in cases involving the protection of personality rights, particularly in the absence of specific legislation explicitly addressing these rights. Here are some notable precedents set by Indian courts:
- Amitabh Bachchan’s Case (November 2022):
- The Delhi High Court issued an injunction against the unauthorized use of Amitabh Bachchan’s personality rights. These included variations of his name, such as Big B, and his distinctive style, like addressing a computer as Computer ji and lock kiya jaye.
- The court relied on a 2012 order involving Bachchan, where Titan Industries had taken legal action against a jewelry store for using Bachchan’s images from a Tanishq advertisement. This precedent established the principle that personality rights can be protected in India.
- Rajnikanth’s Case (2015):
- The Madras High Court’s judgment in a case involving actor Rajnikanth established that personality rights apply to individuals who have attained celebrity status.
- Rajnikanth had filed a lawsuit against the producers of the movie Main Hoon Rajnikanth, claiming that the film’s use of his name, image, and style of delivering dialogue infringed on his personality rights.
- The court’s observation that personality rights vest in those who have become celebrities has been cited as an important precedent in subsequent cases.
What is an injunction?
- An injunction is a legal remedy issued by a court that orders a person or entity to either perform a specific action or refrain from doing a particular act.
- In the given content, when unauthorized third parties exploit a celebrity’s personality rights for commercial purposes, celebrities have the option to seek legal recourse by moving to court and requesting an injunction. An injunction is a court order that restrains or prevents the unauthorized use of these rights.
- It serves as a legal deterrent against the unauthorized commercial exploitation of a celebrity’s identity, helping to protect their financial interests.
Anil Kapoor’s Case
- Anil Kapoor’s recent case before the Delhi High Court resulted in an ex-parte, omnibus injunction against 16 entities using his name, likeness, image, and even deploying technological tools like artificial intelligence for commercial gain.
- An ex-parte injunction, issued without hearing the opposing party, and an omnibus injunction, which covers unauthorized uses not explicitly mentioned in the plea, serve as deterrents against misuse.
Challenges in enforcing injunctions
- Tracking Misuse: Even with an injunction in place, it is not easy to monitor and track all instances of unauthorized use of a celebrity’s personality rights. This is especially challenging in the digital age, where content can spread quickly across various platforms.
- Online Content: Unauthorized content can proliferate rapidly on the internet and social media platforms. Identifying and taking action against each instance of infringement can be a time-consuming and resource-intensive process.
- Global Reach: The internet allows content to be accessible globally. Celebrities may need to address unauthorized use not only within their own jurisdiction but also in other countries where their image and likeness are being exploited.
- Costs: Enforcing injunctions often involves legal expenses, including attorney fees and court costs. Pursuing legal action against multiple infringing parties can be financially burdensome, particularly for individuals.
- Response from Online Intermediaries: When unauthorized content is hosted or distributed through online intermediaries like search engines or social media platforms, getting these platforms to comply with takedown requests can be challenging. It may require legal processes and negotiations.
Criteria for Granting Injunctions
- In the Titan case, the HC, in its order, listed out the basic elements comprising the liability for infringement of the right of publicity.
- Validity of the right: The plaintiff must possess an enforceable right in their identity or persona.
- Identifiability of the celebrity: The defendant’s unauthorized use must make the celebrity easily identifiable.
- Intent to trade upon the celebrity’s identity: Evidence of the defendant’s intent to profit from the celebrity’s identity is crucial.
Conclusion
- The Delhi High Court’s decision in Anil Kapoor’s case highlights the evolving legal landscape surrounding personality rights in India. Celebrities are increasingly turning to the courts to protect their unique identities and the financial interests associated with them. As these cases continue to shape the legal framework, celebrities can seek redress against those who seek to exploit their personality rights for commercial gain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: The Mediation Act, 2023
Mains level: Mediation and Arbitration , The Mediation Act, 2023- benefits and concerns
What’s the news?
- During the recent monsoon session of Parliament, both Houses passed the Mediation Bill, 2023, now known as the Mediation Act, 2023.
Central Idea
- The discourse surrounding India’s litigation system invariably leads to discussions on alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Given the delays and escalating costs associated with Indian court proceedings, the significance of ADR cannot be overstated. While arbitration and conciliation have traditionally dominated these discussions, the recent passage of the Mediation Act of 2023 signals a pivotal shift towards recognizing the importance of mediation.
About the Mediation Act, 2023
- During the monsoon session of Parliament, the Mediation Bill, 2023, was passed in both Houses, subsequently receiving the President’s assent and being referred to as the Mediation Act, 2023.
- This Act builds upon India’s existing legal framework, which encourages courts to refer disputing parties to ADR, including mediation, if settlement possibilities exist. However, the Act takes a significant step forward by obligating parties to engage in pre-litigation mediation, regardless of prior agreements.
- To facilitate this process, the Act mandates courts and relevant institutions to maintain a panel of mediators.
Potential benefits of the Mediation Act, 2023
- Reduction of Frivolous Claims: The Act’s requirement for pre-litigation mediation is expected to reduce the filing of frivolous claims in Indian courts. Parties will be compelled to explore amicable settlements through mediation before resorting to litigation, which can help filter out cases that lack merit.
- Efficient Dispute Resolution: The Act’s provision for completing mediations within 180 days from the parties’ first appearance promotes efficient dispute resolution. This can lead to quicker resolutions compared to potentially protracted court proceedings, saving time and resources for all parties involved.
- Expertise and Neutrality: The Act mandates that mediations be conducted by empaneled mediators who are neutral and possess expertise in the field. This ensures that parties receive professional guidance from unbiased experts, enhancing the prospects of a fair and impartial resolution.
- Reduced Burden on Indian Courts: By encouraging pre-litigation mediation, the Act aims to reduce the caseload of Indian courts. This could result in expedited court proceedings for cases that do proceed to litigation, relieving the burden on the judiciary and potentially reducing court backlogs.
- Promotion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): The Act aligns with the broader goal of promoting ADR mechanisms in India. It recognizes mediation as a valuable tool for reducing court congestion and promoting efficient dispute resolution, aligning with international best practices.
- Institutional Mediation: The Act’s emphasis on institutional mediation can enhance the professionalism and accessibility of mediation services in India. This institutional framework can provide parties with the necessary infrastructure and support for effective dispute resolution.
- India as a Global Hub for Dispute Resolution: The Act’s provisions, along with the emphasis on ADR, aim to position India as a global hub for various aspects of commercial dispute resolution. This aligns with international best practices and can attract international businesses seeking efficient dispute resolution services.
Concerns associated with the act
- Coercion and sincerity: There may be concerns about parties feeling compelled to engage in mediation even if they are not genuinely interested in pursuing a settlement. Mandatory mediation may raise questions about the sincerity of the parties’ participation.
- Delays in Urgent Cases: While the Act allows for urgent interim relief from the court in exceptional circumstances, there may still be concerns about potential delays in urgent cases due to mandatory pre-mediation proceedings.
- Mediator Availability: Ensuring a sufficient pool of qualified mediators may be a challenge. The Act’s requirement for empaneled mediators could lead to a shortage of available mediators, potentially causing delays in mediation processes.
- Balancing Neutrality and Expertise: Striking the right balance between mediator neutrality and expertise can be challenging. Concerns may arise regarding mediator bias or perceived bias in some cases.
- Implementation Challenges: Implementing the Act effectively and ensuring compliance by all parties and institutions may pose challenges. Adequate training, infrastructure, and support for mediators and mediation service providers will be essential for successful implementation.
Alignment of Mediation and Commercial Arbitration
- Similar Legal Framework: The Mediation Act, 2023, effectively positions mediation on par with commercial arbitration in India. Both forms of dispute resolution share a similar legal framework with several common elements.
- Stringent Timelines: Both mediation and commercial arbitration, as governed by their respective legislation, impose stringent timelines for the conduct of proceedings. This ensures that disputes are resolved efficiently and within defined timeframes.
- Mandate for Confidentiality: Both mediation and arbitration proceedings mandate confidentiality. This confidentiality requirement ensures that the details of the dispute and the resolution process remain private, which can be advantageous for businesses and individuals involved in sensitive matters.
- Court Referral: The Act, similar to legislation governing arbitration, obligates Indian courts to refer disputing parties to either mediation or arbitration. This reflects a broader trend toward encouraging alternative dispute resolution mechanisms before resorting to litigation.
- Appointment of Neutrals: Both mediation and arbitration involve the appointment of neutral third parties. In mediation, this is the mediator, while in arbitration, it’s the arbitrator. These neutrals play a crucial role in facilitating the resolution process and ensuring impartiality.
- Enforceability: Both mediation and arbitration legislation emphasize the enforceability of agreements. The Act ensures the enforceability of mediated settlement agreements, while arbitration legislation ensures the enforceability of arbitral awards.
- Council Establishment: The Act proposes the establishment of the Mediation Council of India, which mirrors the proposed Arbitration Council of India. This underscores the recognition of mediation as a significant dispute resolution mechanism alongside arbitration.
Parliament’s Message
- The Act conveys a clear message to Indian industry: in commercial matters, courts should no longer be the default venue for dispute resolution.
- Parties are encouraged to resolve disputes amicably through mediation or commercial arbitration, with access to Indian courts considered a last resort.
- This paradigm shift will foster camaraderie between mediation and arbitration, alleviating the burden on the judiciary.
Conclusion
- The Mediation Act, 2023, marks a transformative moment in Indian dispute resolution. It positions mediation as a powerful tool to amicably settle disputes, alongside commercial arbitration. By encouraging parties to explore alternative avenues for resolution and prioritizing institutional mediation, India aims to not only ease the burden on its courts but also emerge as a global leader in commercial dispute resolution.
Also read:
Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanism – NCA, Lok Adalats, etc.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Planetary boundaries
Mains level: planetary boundaries and variables, findings of the study, concerns and way forward
What’s the news?
- The Earth, our only home, is facing a severe health crisis due to the unchecked activities of human beings. A recent study reveals that we have breached six out of nine planetary boundaries.
Central idea
- Human activities have pushed Earth’s blood pressure dangerously high, imperiling the planet’s well-being. A recent study titled Earth beyond six of nine planetary boundaries, conducted by a global team of 29 scientists from eight countries and published in Science Advances, reveals that we have transgressed six out of nine planetary boundaries, akin to the vital parameters of Earth’s health.
What are the planetary boundaries?
- The planetary boundaries are a framework developed in 2009 that defines the limits of humanity’s impact on Earth’s essential processes and systems.
- These boundaries serve as guardrails to ensure that human activities do not push the planet beyond a point where it can no longer maintain the conditions necessary to support modern civilizations.
- These boundaries help identify the environmental limits within which human societies can thrive without causing irreversible damage to the Earth’s ecosystems.
Nine planetary boundaries and their associated control variables
- Biosphere Integrity: This boundary relates to the health of ecosystems and the rate of species extinction.
- Climate Change: It involves the concentration of atmospheric CO2 and the change in radiative forcing, which measures the balance of energy from sunlight compared to thermal energy lost by the Earth.
- Novel Entities: This boundary focuses on human-made substances not naturally found in the environment, such as synthetic chemicals, plastics, and genetically modified organisms.
- Stratospheric Ozone Depletion: This boundary concerns the release of human-made chemicals that harm the ozone layer in the stratosphere.
- Freshwater Change: It examines human-induced impacts on both blue (in lakes and rivers) and green (available in soil for plants) water resources.
- Atmospheric Aerosol Loading: This boundary tracks various particles from human-made emissions that affect cloud formation and atmospheric circulation.
- Ocean Acidification: It addresses the long-term reduction in ocean pH due to the absorption of excess atmospheric CO2 by seawater.
- Land System Change: This boundary evaluates changes in land use, especially the conversion of natural landscapes to agriculture or urban areas.
- Biogeochemical Flow: It focuses on alterations in the natural flows and forms of nitrogen and phosphorus cycles, essential for plant growth.
Findings of the study regarding the state of planetary boundaries
- Breached Planetary Boundaries: Out of the nine planetary boundaries identified, six have been breached by human activities. These boundaries include climate change, biosphere integrity, freshwater change, land system change, biogeochemical flows, and novel entities.
- Remaining Within Constraints: Two planetary boundaries, namely atmospheric aerosol loading and ozone depletion, are reported to remain within acceptable constraints. However, the boundary related to ocean acidification is noted as being close to being breached.
- Concerns about Nitrogen and Phosphorus: The study emphasizes the issue of an overflow of nitrogen and phosphorus, which falls under the biogeochemical flow boundary. While these elements are essential for life, their excessive use as crop fertilizers is causing problems such as algal blooms and ocean dead zones, where oxygen levels in the water decrease significantly, posing a threat to marine ecosystems.
- Historical Violations: The biosphere integrity boundary was reportedly violated in the 19th century due to rapid land use changes that significantly impacted various species. Similarly, the freshwater boundary was breached in the 20th century, specifically between 1905 and 1929.
- Rising Levels of Novel Entities: The study raises concerns about the increasing levels of novel entities in the environment. These include synthetic chemicals like pesticides and plastics that have been released into the environment without adequate safety testing. The presence of these novel entities is seen as destabilizing and harmful to the Earth’s systems.
- Land System Change: The article highlights that land-use conversion and fires are contributing to rapid changes in forested areas. Notably, deforestation in the Amazon tropical forest has increased to the point of transgressing the planetary boundary.
- Climate Change: The analysis of climate change indicates that both atmospheric CO2 concentration and radiative forcing are steadily increasing. For instance, the concentration of CO2 currently stands at 417 parts per million (ppm), significantly higher than the pre-Industrial Revolution level of 280 ppm. The safe boundary limit for CO2 concentration is noted as 350 ppm, which was breached in the 1980s.
Can Earth’s health still recover?
- Unlike tipping points, which can lead to large and often irreversible changes in the climate system, planetary boundaries are described as being more flexible.
- This means that breaches of these boundaries do not necessarily result in irreversible damage, and corrective actions can bring the Earth back within a safe operating space.
- For example, the stratospheric ozone depletion boundary is improving. This improvement is attributed to the combined international efforts initiated by the Montreal Protocol in 1987. The successful coordination to address ozone depletion serves as a positive precedent for addressing other breached boundaries.
Two Important Actions for Recovery
- Ending Fossil Fuel Burning: Curtailing or ending the burning of fossil fuels, which is a major contributor to climate change, is seen as essential. This action would help address the breach of the climate change boundary.
- Ending Destructive Farming: Implementing sustainable farming practices and reducing the negative impacts of land-use changes, including deforestation, can help restore ecosystems and address breaches related to land system change and biosphere integrity.
Conclusion
- We are at a critical juncture where concerted global efforts can still heal our planet. We must prioritize sustainability, conservation, and responsible resource management to ensure that future generations inherit a habitable Earth. The time to act is now, for Earth’s blood pressure has risen dangerously high, and the consequences of inaction could be catastrophic.
Also read:
Sustainable agriculture, climate change and nutrition: a complex challenge
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BRICS group
Mains level: BRICS Expansion, Significance and challenges and India's approach
What’s the news?
- The 15th BRICS summit held in Johannesburg recently made headlines with its announcement to expand its membership.
Central idea
- Originally comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS has now doubled its membership by welcoming Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. While some anticipated that this expansion would transform BRICS into an anti-Western platform, the reality appears to be different.
BRICS expansion and political compromises
- Expansion Initiated by China: China took the lead in pushing for the expansion of BRICS, which was originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This initiative was supported by Russia.
- Initial Reservations from India and Brazil: At the outset, India and Brazil expressed reservations about expanding BRICS. Their concerns revolved around the potential for BRICS to become an overtly anti-Western platform.
- Concerns About China’s Dominance: India, in particular, was cautious about further empowering China within the group. It was wary of an expanded membership that might add more clout to an already dominant China.
- Selection Reflects Political Compromises: The choice of new members, which includes Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, appears to be driven more by political compromise than by the application of specific, agreed-upon criteria.
- New Members’ Relationship with the West: Notably, the new members, with the exception of Iran, have significant stakes in their relationships with Western countries. This indicates that BRICS’ expansion may not have transformed it into an explicitly anti-Western alliance.
- Balancing Act: The expansion of BRICS seems to be a balancing act, seeking to accommodate the interests and concerns of both original and new members. It aims to maintain the group’s unity and relevance on the global stage.
Why are countries from the Global South interested in joining the BRICS?
- Hedging Against Uncertainty: Global South countries are joining BRICS as a means of hedging against an increasingly uncertain world marked by shifting political and security dynamics. They seek to strengthen their position in the face of unpredictable global events and challenges.
- Vulnerability to Sanctions: Many of these countries are concerned about their vulnerability to sanctions, particularly from the United States. For example, U.S. sanctions froze a significant part of Russia’s foreign exchange reserves, which raised anxieties among Global South countries about their own vulnerability to such measures.
- Expectation of an Alternative Global Currency: Some Global South countries may have expectations that BRICS, with China as a prominent member, could lead a shift toward an alternative global currency.
- Promotion of Local Currencies: BRICS has been actively promoting the use of local currencies for trade settlement and the raising of funds through local currency bonds. These efforts are seen as modest yet useful steps in reducing dependency on the U.S. dollar.
- Development Finance: BRICS has established the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), which has provided development finance for developing countries. Global South countries may see this as an opportunity to access financing for their development projects.
- Demand for Greater Global Governance Voice: There is growing frustration among Global South countries that their interests and aspirations continue to be ignored by dominant Western powers in international institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank.
BRICS’ role in a changing world
- Economic and Technological Advancements: BRICS, comprising major emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has witnessed significant economic growth, technological advancement, and military capabilities. This positions BRICS as substantial global players.
- Not a Gathering of the Weak: Unlike earlier groupings of weaker nations, BRICS represents countries with substantial global influence and capabilities.
- Energy Superpower: BRICS, with members like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Russia, has the potential to become a significant energy superpower, dominating the global energy market.
- Diverse Ideologies: Unlike the G7, BRICS lacks a common ideological affinity, with member countries having diverse political systems, economic models, and foreign policy priorities.
- Shorter History: BRICS is a relatively young group compared to the G7, which means it is still evolving in terms of its objectives, mechanisms, and institutional frameworks.
Challenges and differences within the BRICS grouping
- Diverse Interests and Priorities: BRICS is composed of countries with varying geopolitical priorities, economic structures, and foreign policy objectives. These differences can pose challenges when trying to reach consensus on collective goals and initiatives.
- Internal Contestations: The existence of internal contestations and differences among BRICS member countries is evident. For example, the India-China rivalry is an example of such internal dynamics. These differences can impact the group’s cohesion and decision-making.
- Lack of Common Security Perspective: Unlike the G7, which is a tightly knit security grouping, BRICS countries do not share a common security perspective. They have varying security interests and priorities, which can make it challenging to coordinate on security-related matters.
A Way Forward: Towards Collaborative Global Governance
- Acknowledging Current Challenges: To move forward, it’s essential to acknowledge the existing challenges in the international order. Recognize that the world is facing significant global issues, from climate change to economic disparities, that require collective action.
- Equal Participation: Encourage equal participation and representation of all countries, including emerging powers, in discussions and decision-making processes. Recognize that the global landscape has evolved and that the voices of emerging powers are essential in shaping the future.
- Engagement and Dialogue: Promote open and constructive engagement between Western countries, such as those in the G7, and emerging powers, including BRICS nations. Foster dialogue that seeks common ground while respecting diverse perspectives.
- Reform Existing Institutions: Consider reforms in existing international institutions like the United Nations, the IMF, and the World Bank to better reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. Ensure that these institutions are more inclusive and responsive to the needs and concerns of all nations.
- Utilize Forums like the G20: Leverage platforms like the G20, which bring together both advanced and emerging economies, to facilitate discussions and negotiations on global governance. Use these forums as spaces for collaborative problem-solving.
Conclusion
- For India, participating in multiple groupings, including BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Quad, and regular engagement with the G7, offers a strategic approach to addressing its multifaceted interests and aspirations. As BRICS expands its influence, it is essential for India to continue pursuing this nuanced approach to global governance.
Also read:
The implications of the expansion of BRICS
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