Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change
Mains level: The problem of air pollution, serious threat, efforts in progress and viable solutions
What’s the news?
- According to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the Earth has entered an era of global boiling, marked by scorching heatwaves, devastating floods, and erratic weather patterns.
Central idea
- With scorching heatwaves, devastating floods, and erratic weather patterns becoming the new normal, the urgency to address the triple-planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution has never been more apparent. Amidst this global turmoil, it’s crucial to recognize that one silent but deadly adversary is among us: air pollution.
The Silent Killer: Air Pollution
- Global health statistics are grim, with lung cancer claiming 10 million lives worldwide in 2020, a number projected to rise by another 3.2 million by 2050, according to a report by the Indian National Institute of Health.
- South Asia, home to two billion people, is a grim example, hosting nine of the world’s ten most polluted cities, with Delhi topping the list.
- Despite some progress in terms of Air Quality Index (AQI) improvements, Delhi remains in the grip of perilous air pollution, especially during the winter months.
The Looming Threat of Air Pollution
- Lung cancer, cardiovascular disorders, respiratory ailments, and mental health issues continue to devastate lives.
- Delhi’s air, laden with sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, high particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and ozone, deprives over 30 million residents of their basic human right to breathe clean air.
- Vulnerable groups like immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, children, and the elderly suffer disproportionately.
- In 2019, a Lancet report attributed 1.67 million deaths in India to air pollution, accounting for a staggering 17.8% of total deaths in the country.
Efforts in Progress to Combat Air Pollution
- PUSA Decomposer: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) has developed the PUSA Decomposer, which employs biotechnology to tackle agricultural pollution. This innovative solution addresses the burning of crop residues, a significant contributor to air pollution.
- State-level Policies: Many state governments have implemented policies like GRAP 3 (Graded Rapid Action Plan) to monitor air quality in pollution hotspots. The establishment of Green War Rooms represents a proactive approach to managing and mitigating air pollution in these regions.
- Startups and Innovation: Numerous startups, often led by young entrepreneurs, are actively engaged in finding sustainable solutions to air pollution. These initiatives include the conversion of agricultural waste into valuable products, reducing the environmental impact of farming practices.
International Initiatives and Collaborations to Combat Air Pollution
- UNESCO Initiatives: UNESCO has undertaken various initiatives to address air pollution. One notable initiative is the implementation of an internal carbon tax on all flight tickets. This tax aims to reduce carbon emissions from air travel, a significant contributor to global air pollution.
- World Air Quality Project: The World Air Quality Project provides real-time air quality data, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their activities and travel based on current air quality conditions. This empowers individuals to protect their health by avoiding areas with poor air quality.
- Collaboration with UNEP: UNESCO collaborates with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on environmentally conscious practices. For example, the ‘Virtual Meetings’ project promotes digital working to reduce the need for travel and its associated carbon emissions.
- Clean-Air-For-Schools: UNESCO’s Clean-Air-For-Schools program focuses on spreading education and awareness about clean air among students and the wider community. This initiative aims to engage future generations in the fight against air pollution.
- Promotion of Sustainable Practices: International initiatives also promote sustainable practices in various sectors. This includes the adoption of electric vehicles, the replacement of traditional lighting systems with energy-efficient LED arrangements, and the implementation of solar-powered offices to reduce carbon emissions.
- Protection of Historical Sites: Efforts are underway to protect historical and cultural sites from the harmful effects of air pollution. Developing strategies to curb air pollution in the vicinity of these sites is essential for their preservation.
- Green Solutions: UNESCO encourages the development of green solutions, such as urban forests, parks, and green corridors, to mitigate air pollution in urban areas.
Viable solutions to combat air pollution
- Urban Planning and Design: Cities worldwide are adopting innovative urban planning and design strategies to prioritize human health and environmental sustainability. Car-free zones, green spaces, and smart urban layouts can significantly reduce air pollution by promoting alternative transportation methods and reducing traffic congestion.
- Public Transportation: Electrified public transportation systems, including electric buses and trains, offer a sustainable and low-pollution alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-powered vehicles. These initiatives reduce emissions and contribute to cleaner air in urban areas.
- Nature-Based Solutions: Integrating nature-based solutions, such as urban forests, parks, and green corridors, into urban landscapes can help absorb pollutants and improve air quality. These green spaces also provide additional benefits for public health and well-being.
- Biotechnology: Innovative biotechnology, like the PUSA decomposer mentioned earlier, can play a crucial role in reducing agricultural pollution, a significant contributor to poor air quality.
- Renewable Energy: Transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources can significantly reduce the air pollution associated with fossil fuel combustion. China’s shift to clean energy and electrified mobility serves as a prime example of this transition’s positive impact.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: Initiatives like Indonesia’s Carbon Efficient Farming Project and efforts in Thailand and Vietnam to reduce open straw burning demonstrate the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural practices to minimize air pollution.
- International Collaboration: Global initiatives, such as those by UNESCO and the World Air Quality Project, facilitate international cooperation to combat air pollution. These efforts include measures like implementing carbon taxes on flight tickets and promoting environmentally conscious practices.
- Youth-Led Advocacy: Young activists worldwide are actively raising awareness about air pollution and advocating for cleaner air. Their efforts, including real-time air quality data monitoring and environmental education, play a vital role in inspiring change.
Conclusion
- The time for action is now. The problem of air pollution was created by people, and it is people who must find and implement solutions, supported by effective air quality policies and action plans. The choice is ours, and it is one that demands urgency, resolve, and a collective commitment to securing a cleaner, healthier world for all.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: G20 Initiatives
Mains level: the complex nexus of food security, climate variability, and sustainable agriculture for a resilient and sustainable future.
What’s the news?
- The interconnected challenges of food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach. The G20 Indian Presidency can play a pivotal role in fostering international cooperation to address these issues.
Central idea
- The intricate link between food security, climate variability, and sustainable agriculture has far-reaching consequences for the Earth and its inhabitants. Climate change threatens food security through erratic weather and extreme events, while agricultural practices exacerbate climate change, creating a damaging feedback loop.
Climate Variability and Food Insecurity
- Climate variability, characterized by erratic weather patterns such as droughts and floods, directly impacts agriculture. It can lead to crop failures, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased food insecurity.
- Erratic weather patterns disrupt traditional farming practices and make it challenging to predict and plan for successful harvests.
- Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by extreme weather events like droughts and floods.
How does land use play a significant role in both climate change and food security?
- Unsustainable land use practices, such as deforestation and the expansion of agriculture, release carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
- On the other hand, practices like reforestation, agroforestry, and land conservation can sequester carbon and improve soil health, benefiting both agriculture and climate change mitigation.
The Role of Sustainable Agriculture
- Mitigating Environmental Impact: Sustainable agriculture focuses on practices that aim to minimize the environmental degradation associated with conventional farming. This includes reducing the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can harm ecosystems and water quality.
- Maintaining or Improving Productivity: Sustainable agricultural practices are designed to maintain or even improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental harm. This is essential to ensuring a stable and sufficient food supply, particularly in the face of climate change-related disruptions.
- Enhancing Climate Resilience: Sustainable agricultural practices, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and reduced pesticide use, can enhance the resilience of farming systems. These practices make agriculture less susceptible to disruptions caused by climate variability, such as extreme weather events.
- Carbon Sequestration: The article suggests that sustainable land use practices, such as reforestation, agroforestry, and land conservation, can sequester carbon from the atmosphere. This not only helps mitigate climate change but also improves soil health, benefiting both agriculture and the environment.
How can agriculture be made more sustainable and resilient in communities in developing countries?
- Increasing Crop Diversity: Encouraging farmers to diversify their crop choices can improve resilience. Growing a variety of crops can increase the risk of crop failure due to unpredictable weather patterns and pests. Crop diversity also enhances nutrient cycling in the soil, improving overall soil health.
- Diversifying Farming Systems: Promoting mixed farming systems that include livestock and aquaculture alongside traditional crops can enhance resilience. These integrated systems can optimize resource use, provide multiple sources of income, and improve nutrient cycling.
- Efficient Irrigation Systems: Investing in efficient irrigation systems can help farmers cope with changing rainfall patterns and water scarcity. These systems can improve soil health and water conservation, reducing vulnerability to climate-related challenges.
- Promoting Organic Farming Practices: Encouraging organic farming practices, which minimize the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, can reduce environmental harm and improve the resilience of agricultural systems. Organic practices often focus on building healthy soils, which can better withstand climate variability.
- Cultivating Climate-Resistant Crops: Promoting the cultivation of climate-resistant crop varieties and drought-resistant seeds, such as millets, can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions. These crops are often better suited to withstand droughts and extreme temperatures.
- Strengthening Market Links: Facilitating connections between farmers and markets can help ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce. This can improve the economic resilience of farming communities and incentivize sustainable practices.
- Microfinance Opportunities: Providing access to microfinance opportunities can assist farmers in investing in sustainable agricultural practices. Financial support can help farmers acquire the resources they need to adopt more resilient and sustainable farming methods.
- Policy Support: Implementing policies that emphasize sustainable agriculture and provide incentives for sustainable practices can create an enabling environment for farmers. These policies can include subsidies for sustainable practices, access to credit, and support for climate adaptation.
Global Prospects through the G20 Indian Presidency
- International Cooperation: The G20 Indian Presidency offers a platform for international cooperation. G20 countries can collaborate and coordinate efforts to address pressing global challenges, including climate change and food security.
- Knowledge Sharing: The G20 provides a forum for knowledge sharing among member nations. Countries can exchange best practices, share research findings, and pool resources to tackle common issues more effectively.
- Policy Advocacy: G20 member countries can use their collective influence to advocate for policies that promote sustainability, resilience, and equity in global food systems. This can include advocating for climate-resilient agricultural practices and sustainable land use.
- Resource Mobilization: The G20 can facilitate resource mobilization to support initiatives aimed at creating a more sustainable and resilient global food system. This includes financial support for sustainable agriculture projects and climate adaptation efforts.
- Innovation and Research: G20 countries can promote international cooperation in agriculture research and innovation. By working together, they can accelerate the development of sustainable crop varieties, pest-resistant crops, and advanced farming technologies.
- Global Food Security: The G20 can play a pivotal role in enhancing global food security. This involves coordinating efforts to improve food distribution systems, reduce food losses and waste, and promote sustainable agriculture to ensure a stable food supply for vulnerable populations worldwide.
- Agricultural and Rural Development: G20 member nations can leverage their resources and expertise to support agricultural and rural development in developing countries. Investments in infrastructure, capacity development, and financial assistance to smallholder farmers can alleviate poverty and promote sustainable farming practices.
Conclusion
- Fostering international cooperation is essential to addressing the complex nexus of food security, climate variability, and sustainable agriculture for a resilient and sustainable future. The G20, with its potential to drive global strategies, should play a pivotal role in coordinating efforts to mitigate climate change, adapt agricultural practices, and ensure food security on a global scale.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Basic concepts
Mains level: Growing tax base, recent trends, opportunities and challenges
What’s the news?
- India sees a surge in taxpayer base amidst tax policy challenges; a stable tax-to-GDP ratio raises questions on fiscal maneuverability and economic growth prospects.
Central idea
- In the lead-up to each budget, the Union government cites limited tax revenues as a spending constraint. Recent years have seen a surge in direct and indirect tax payers, challenging the idea that only a small segment contributes. This should ideally raise the tax-to-GDP ratio, yet tax rate cuts and pandemic disruptions have limited fiscal gains, hinting at a deliberate shift to a low-tax regime.
What is meant by fiscal maneuverability?
- It refers to the government’s ability to adjust its revenue and expenditure policies in response to changing economic conditions, budget constraints, and policy goals.
What is Tax-to-GDP Ratio?
- The Tax-to-GDP ratio is a financial indicator that measures the total tax revenue collected by a government as a percentage of its overall GDP for a specific period, typically a fiscal year.
- This ratio is used to assess the level of taxation relative to the size of the economy.
- A higher Tax-to-GDP ratio suggests that a larger portion of a nation’s economic output is being collected in the form of taxes.
What Factors Have Led to the Government’s Limited Fiscal Maneuverability Before Budgets?
- The common refrain: Historically, the Union government has often cited its limited tax revenues as a significant constraint on its ability to maneuver effectively in the run-up to budgets.
- Steady increase in tax base: It’s noteworthy that there has been a consistent increase in both direct and indirect tax payers over recent years.
- Economic context: This expansion in the tax base has occurred during a phase of slower, uneven economic growth.
- Impact of tax cuts and disruptions: Despite the increase in taxpayers, cuts in both direct and indirect tax rates (including GST) and pandemic-induced economic disruptions have limited the fiscal gains from this surge in taxpayers.
How Has the Taxpayer Base Evolved in Recent Years?
- Growth in the taxpayer base: The tax base has shown substantial growth in recent years, challenging the belief that only a small section of society pays taxes.
- Direct tax base expansion: The number of companies paying tax grew by about 43 percent, from 7.46 lakh to 10.7 lakh, between the assessment years 2014–15 and 2022–23.
- Individual taxpayers: Individual taxpayers increased by 65 percent over the same period, rising from 5.38 crore to 8.9 crore.
- Role of small taxpayers: It’s important to note that a significant number of these new tax payers have incomes less than Rs 5 lakh.
Trends and Factors in the Expansion of the Indirect Tax Base
- Indirect tax base growth: The number of active GST payers increased from 1.2 crore in 2019 to 1.4 crore by June 2023.
- Composition: About 80 percent of these taxpayers are proprietorships, with another 10 percent being partnerships.
- Incentives for registration: Smaller establishments are incentivized to register under GST to avail of the input tax credit.
- Indirect tax impact: The growth in the indirect tax base may also be influencing the increase in direct tax payers.
Impact of Tax Rate Reductions
- Corporate tax rate reduction: In September 2019, the government announced a cut in the corporate tax rate for existing companies from 30 percent to 22 percent.
- Impact on revenue: As per government figures, the revenue loss on account of this corporate tax reduction was Rs 1.28 lakh crore in 2019–20 and Rs 1 lakh crore in 2020–21.
- Corporate tax-to-GDP ratio: The corporate tax-to-GDP ratio declined from 3.5 percent in 2018–19 to around 3.1 percent by 2022–23.
- Personal income tax rebates: In the interim budget of 2019, the government announced that individual taxpayers with taxable income up to Rs 5 lakh would get a full tax rebate.
- Personal income tax-to-GDP ratio: The personal income tax-to-GDP ratio increased from 2.5 percent in 2018–19 to 3 percent by 2022–23.
- Increase in zero tax liability: Notably, the number of individuals with zero tax liability also increased from 2.9 crore in 2019–20 to 5.16 crore in 2022–23, which may limit the gains from an expansion in the tax base.
What are the challenges?
- Revenue Sustainability: A challenge arises in ensuring that the gains from an expanding tax base translate into sustainable revenue streams. Despite the increase in taxpayers, tax cuts and disruptions may limit the fiscal benefits.
- Tax Evasion and Avoidance: Addressing tax evasion and avoidance remains a significant challenge. Although the formalization of the economy makes tax evasion more complicated, it requires effective measures to combat tax evasion further.
- Balancing Tax Cuts: The reduction in tax rates, such as the corporate tax cut, has implications for government revenue. Striking a balance between encouraging economic growth through lower taxes and maintaining adequate fiscal resources is a constant challenge.
- Targeted Spending: As the government’s fiscal space expands with a growing tax base, it faces the challenge of allocating resources effectively. Prioritizing and targeting spending on key development objectives while avoiding wasteful expenditures is essential.
Future Prospects
- Fiscal Sustainability: With an expanding economy and tax base, there is potential for improved fiscal sustainability. If managed effectively, this can provide the government with more resources to meet its long-term financial commitments.
- Development Opportunities: The growth in the tax base offers opportunities for increased public investment in critical sectors, fostering economic development, and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.
- Reduced Reliance on Borrowing: An increased tax base can reduce the government’s reliance on borrowing to meet budgetary needs, potentially leading to lower interest payments and debt management challenges.
- Incentive for Formalization: As more individuals and businesses enter the tax net, there’s a natural incentive for greater formalization of the economy. This can reduce the size of the informal sector and promote economic stability.
- Policy Flexibility: A broader tax base can provide the government with greater policy flexibility. It can consider adjustments to tax rates, exemptions, and deductions to support specific policy goals, such as promoting investment or addressing income inequality.
- Enhanced Economic Growth: With appropriate fiscal policies, the increased revenue potential from a growing tax base can contribute to sustained economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Conclusion
- The government’s strategic choices regarding tax rates have influenced the country’s tax landscape, expanded the taxpayer base while maintained stable tax-to-GDP ratios. As India’s economy continues to evolve, these gains should not be squandered through excessive giveaways but rather strategically allocated to promote sustainable development and economic growth.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Three key bills, provisions
Mains level: Indian justice system reforms ,Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill
What’s the news?
- The government recently introduced three key penal bills in a bid to reform the justice system.
Central Idea
- The recent introduction of three penal bills in the Lok Sabha by the government, aimed at decolonizing the Indian justice system, is a significant step in the realm of legal reform. While this initiative is commendable, it is crucial to recognize that the process of law-making and reform requires careful consideration and empirical validation.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill
- This bill aims to replace the existing Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860.
- The IPC defines crimes, sets out their elements, and prescribes corresponding penalties.
- The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill seeks to update and modernize the criminal laws to better reflect evolving societal values and democratic aspirations.
Why Public Participation Matters in Legal Reform?
- The Colonial Legacy: Learning from Past Mistakes
- The colonial penal law was replaced not due to inherent flaws but because it lacked participation from the Indian populace, imposing foreign ideas and values.
- Recognizing the crucial need for broad public participation to avoid repeating this historical oversight
- Macaulay’s Principle Revisited: Seeking Legal Certainty Through Debate
- Reflecting on Thomas Babington Macaulay’s principle of “uniformity when you can have it, diversity where you must have it, but in all cases certainty.”
- Emphasizing the goal of achieving equal and uniform application of the law through meaningful debate.
- Stressing the significance of precise legal terminology for clarity and legal certainty.
What constitutes undesirable behavior?
- Changing Norms: The Evolution of Legal Definitions
- Highlighting the evolving societal perceptions concerning behaviors deemed undesirable.
- Citing examples like the transition of attempted suicide from a criminal offense to a recognized mental health issue under Section 115(1) of the Mental Health Care Act, 2017.
- Examining the Supreme Court’s role in redefining adultery and its legal implications
- From Offense to Health Issue: The Case of Attempted Suicide
- Illustrating the transformation of attempted suicide from a crime to a mental health concern, reflecting a more compassionate and holistic approach.
- Challenging Tradition: Adultery and the Supreme Court Decision
- Analyzing the Supreme Court’s decision to redefine adultery and emphasizing the judiciary’s role in adapting to evolving social norms
- The Call for Social Audit: Rethinking “Undesirable” Behavior
- Advocating for a comprehensive social audit to redefine the concept of “undesirable” behavior, taking into account changing societal perspectives.
- Stressing the importance of empirical analysis in this process.
- Independent Oversight: The Need for Impartiality
- underscoring the necessity of an independent and impartial body to conduct the social audit to ensure fairness and objectivity in evaluating behavioral norms.
How to Balance Simplicity and Complexity in Penal Laws?
- Simplification’s Promise: Streamlining the Legal Framework
- Acknowledging efforts to simplify the legal framework through the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and highlighting potential benefits like enhanced clarity and efficiency in legal procedures.
- The Challenge of Overload: Retaining and Adding Offenses
- Addressing concerns about the risk of retaining and introducing new offenses, which could offset the advantages of simplification and potentially overwhelm the legal system.
- Revisiting Special Laws: The Malimath Committee’s Proposal
- Noting the proliferation of special penal laws post-Indian Penal Code to address emerging crimes.
- Suggesting an evaluation of whether these should be incorporated into the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita or managed through existing special laws or a new composite law, as proposed by the Malimath Committee.
Addressing Gender and Children’s Rights: What the Bill Says?
- Constitutional Alignment: Article 15(3) and Article 51A(e)
- Recognizing the alignment of the proposed Offenses Against Women and Children’ with the constitutional vision, specifically referencing Article 15(3) and Article 51A(e),
- Outdated Notions: Analyzing Clause 63 on Marital Rape
- Highlighting concerns with Clause 63, which excludes sexual intercourse between spouses above 18 from the definition of rape, and drawing parallels with colonial-era legal thinking
- Contradictory Provisions: Clauses 20 and 21 vs. Juvenile Justice Act of 2015
- Pointing out inconsistencies between retaining Clauses 20 and 21 in Chapter III (General Exceptions) and the philosophy of special laws for children outlined in Section 1(4) of the Juvenile Justice Act of 2015.
What does the new penal law prioritize?
- A Shift in Focus: Departing from the Colonial Framework
- Recognizing a departure from the colonial chapter scheme that favored the interests of the ruling class over body and property offenses.
- Placing bodily interests in Chapter VI, just before offenses against the state, indicating a significant shift in priorities.
- Measuring against the Constitution: Article 13(2)
- Raising questions about whether the proposed reforms will align with the constitutional vision enshrined in Article 13(2), which prohibits laws that infringe upon fundamental rights.
- Upholding Values: Autonomy, Equality, and Fraternity
- Highlighting the vital role of the proposed reforms in upholding principles of autonomy, equality, and fraternity as guaranteed by the Preamble of the Constitution
Conclusion
- The government’s initiative to reform the Indian justice system is laudable, but it must be accompanied by extensive public participation, a thorough examination of undesirable behavior, and a balanced approach to legal complexity. Only through careful consideration and a commitment to justice can the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill truly decolonize and rejuvenate the Indian justice system.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BRICS
Mains level: BRICS Expansion and significance
What’s the news?
- The 15th BRICS summit held in Johannesburg recently made headlines with its announcement to expand its membership.
Central idea
- The 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg made waves in international diplomacy when it announced the invitation of six new members: Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina. This move signifies BRICS’ commitment to challenging the West-dominated world order and building a more representative international system.
Expanding BRICS: A New Global Landscape
- The expansion of BRICS to include Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina
- It was reported that 40 countries have shown interest in BRICS’ membership, with 22 having submitted formal applications.
- BRICS has been a platform for emerging economies to voice their dissatisfaction with Western-dominated global institutions like the World Bank, IMF, and UN.
- At the Johannesburg summit, the UN Secretary General labeled these institutions of yesterday’s world, reflecting the need for change.
- With the inclusion of new members, BRICS now represents 46% of the world’s population and 37% of the global GDP in PPP terms, surpassing the G-7.
- This expansion also greatly impacts the energy sector, with the BRICS now accounting for 42% of global oil production.
Significance of BRICS Expansion
- Economic Clout: The BRICS’ share of global GDP in PPP terms rises from 31.5% to 37%, surpassing the G-7. This expansion creates a formidable economic bloc with the potential to shape global economic policies and trade dynamics.
- Demographic Powerhouse: The BRICS now represent 46% of the world’s population, giving them significant demographic weight. This diverse population can influence global consumer markets and labor forces.
- Energy Dominance: The inclusion of new members from energy-rich regions, especially West Asia, boosts BRICS’ role in global energy markets. It solidifies BRICS as a major player in shaping global energy policies.
- Geo-Strategic Influence: West Asian members already have strong ties with BRICS countries, contributing to the group’s geo-strategic significance. Egypt and Ethiopia hold key positions in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region, adding to BRICS’ strategic reach.
- Shared Political Views: BRICS members have historically shared political views on global issues. The new members’ alignment with these views strengthens BRICS’ collective stance on the United Nations, Middle East conflicts, and global terrorism.
- Multipolar Advocacy: BRICS challenges the Western-dominated international order. The expansion reaffirms BRICS’ commitment to advocating for a multipolar world order and reforming global institutions.
- Cooperative Opportunities: The inclusion of new members opens avenues for increased cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure, and technology transfer. This expansion promotes South-South collaboration.
- Global Balance Shift: BRICS’ expansion further shifts the global balance of power away from Western-dominated institutions. It elevates the influence of emerging economies in shaping global policies.
BRICS’ Substantial Achievements
- Consistent Declarations: BRICS leaders have met for over 15 years, consistently overcoming internal divisions and competitions to issue consensual “Declarations” at each summit. These declarations have expanded in content, reflecting the group’s evolving priorities and interests.
- Focus on Specific Deliverables: The declarations have increasingly focused on specific deliverables, indicating BRICS’ commitment to achieving tangible outcomes. This shift from broad rhetoric to concrete action is a substantial achievement.
- Intra-BRICS Cooperation: The Johannesburg Declaration emphasizes the importance of intra-BRICS cooperation. Member countries are committed to encouraging the use of local currencies in internal trade and financial transactions, promoting economic integration within the group.
- Outreach to Developing Nations: BRICS recognizes its role in supporting other developing nations. The group aims to extend its cooperation beyond its borders, reaching out to other countries that share similar development challenges.
- Shared Political Views: BRICS members have a history of sharing common political views on various global issues. This shared perspective strengthens their collective voice on matters such as the centrality of the United Nations, conflicts in the Middle East, and global terrorism.
- Promoting Multipolarity: BRICS challenges the Western-dominated international order by advocating for a multipolar world. This advocacy represents a substantial achievement in pushing for reforms and greater representation for emerging economies in global institutions.
Criticisms directed at the BRICS
- Talk-Shop with No Vision: Some Western commentators have criticized BRICS as being a talk-shop with no clear shared vision or meaningful achievements. This criticism suggests that BRICS meetings and declarations may lack substance and practical outcomes.
- Lack of Shared Vision: Critics argue that BRICS members have not demonstrated a cohesive or unified vision for the group’s role in global affairs. This criticism implies that the members may have divergent interests that hinder effective cooperation.
- Limited Achievements: Some critics have suggested that BRICS has not achieved significant or tangible results in its over 15 years of existence. This criticism questions the group’s ability to translate its discussions into meaningful actions or outcomes.
- Emerging Global Binary Divide: While not explicitly mentioned in the article, there is an implied criticism that BRICS may contribute to an emerging global binary divide or a new cold war between Western and non-Western nations. This view suggests that BRICS could exacerbate global divisions rather than promote cooperation.
Outlook for Regional Affairs
- The new BRICS members from West Asia, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have pursued independent foreign policy paths since 2020.
- Saudi Arabia, for instance, has actively engaged in de-escalation efforts, including ending the Qatar blockade in January 2021, establishing relations with Turkey, and initiating interactions with Iran in April 2021.
- These diplomatic engagements culminated in a significant China-brokered accord with Iran in March of the following year.
- Maritime Expansion: The UAE has also normalized ties with Iran and is actively expanding its maritime presence across key strategic regions, including the Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Horn of Africa. This maritime expansion underscores the UAE’s growing influence in these areas.
Outlook for Global Affairs
- Rejecting the Binary Divide:
- In contrast to Western commentators who perceive an emerging global binary divide or a new cold war, India and other BRICS members reject this view.
- They insist on asserting their strategic autonomy within a multipolar world order, rejecting the idea of being drawn into simplistic global power struggles.
- A recent media report described the Johannesburg summit as a turning point in modern history.
- This suggests that the expansion of BRICS, combined with its evolving role in global affairs, is seen as a pivotal and historic moment with profound implications for the contemporary international landscape.
Conclusion
- BRICS continues to assert its strategic autonomy and push for a multipolar world order, challenging Western-led international institutions. This expansion is a turning point in modern history, reflecting the evolving dynamics of global diplomacy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UPI, QR Code-CBDC and applications
Mains level: UPI QR Code-CBDC interoperability, significance and benefits
What’s the news?
- The fusion of UPI and CBDC is an essential component of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) ongoing pilot project aimed at propelling the retail digital rupee.
Central idea
- Banks are boosting digital rupee (e₹-R) adoption by integrating UPI QR codes with CBDC or e₹ apps. Users can now scan any UPI QR code for transactions, while merchants can accept digital rupee payments using their existing UPI QR codes.
Definition- Interoperability
- Interoperability, as defined by the RBI, is the technical compatibility that enables a payment system to operate harmoniously with other payment systems.
- This fosters the seamless execution, clearance, and settlement of payment transactions across diverse systems.
- The synergy between payment systems contributes to fostering adoption, coexistence, innovation, and efficiency for end-users.
Understanding QR Codes
- A Quick Response (QR) code is a pattern of black squares arranged in a grid on a white background, interpretable by imaging devices like cameras. It carries information about the attached item.
- This versatile tool provides an alternative contactless payment channel, allowing merchants to directly receive payments into their bank accounts.
What is a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)?
- CBDC is a legal tender issued by the central bank in digital form. Like rupee notes or coins, which are in physical form.
- Simply put, it’s just like rupee (₹) notes but in digital form (e₹). You can also exchange e₹ for physical currency notes.
- However, unlike fiat currency that’s usually stored in banks and hence their liability, CBDC is a liability on the RBI’s balance sheet. That’s why you don’t necessarily need to have a bank account to own a digital rupee.
- UPI is India’s mobile-based fast payment system, which enables customers to make round-the-clock payments instantly using a virtual payment address (VPA) created by the customer.
- It eliminates the risk of the remitter sharing bank account details with the remitter.
- UPI supports both Person-to-Person (P2P) and Person-to-Merchant (P2M) payments, and it also enables a user to send or receive money.
The interoperability between UPI and CBDC
- The interoperability between UPI and CBDC introduces the concept of UPI QR code-CBDC interoperability. This entails the compatibility of all UPI QR codes with CBDC applications.
- In the pilot phase of the retail digital rupee, e₹-R users had to scan a specific QR code for transactions. However, with UPI-CBDC interoperability, transactions can now be initiated using a single QR code.
- The digital rupee, a tokenized digital variant of the rupee, is issued by the RBI as CBDC. The e₹ is stored within a digital wallet linked to a customer’s existing savings bank account, while the UPI directly connects to the customer’s account.
Significance of Interoperability
- Enhanced User Experience: Interoperability simplifies the payment process, allowing users to seamlessly make transactions using any UPI QR code. This eliminates the inconvenience of switching between multiple payment apps or systems, enhancing user satisfaction.
- Accelerated Adoption of the Digital Rupee: Leveraging the popularity of UPI, interoperability promotes the adoption of the retail digital rupee. This aligns with the government’s objectives to drive digital currency usage and reduce reliance on physical cash.
- Merchant-Friendly: Merchants benefit from this interoperability as it eliminates the need for them to manage a separate QR code for digital rupee payments. This lowers the entry barrier for merchants to accept digital currency, making it more accessible to a wider range of businesses.
- Expanding Financial Inclusion: Interoperability has the potential to extend financial inclusion efforts, particularly in underserved regions. Users and merchants with limited exposure to digital payments can now participate more easily in the digital economy.
- Efficiency and Cost Savings: For both users and merchants, interoperability reduces the operational costs associated with maintaining multiple payment platforms. It simplifies accounting and transaction management for businesses.
How will it drive CBDC adoption?
- Presently, UPI is a widely used payment method. The interoperability between UPI and CBDC is poised to accelerate the adoption of the digital rupee.
- With over 70 mobile apps and 50 million merchants accepting UPI payments, the existing UPI ecosystem sets the stage for the retail digital rupee’s growth.
- The RBI reported 1.3 million customers and 0.3 million merchants using e₹-R in July, with daily transactions ranging from 5,000 to 10,000.
- Prominent banks, including State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Yes Bank, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, and IDFC First Bank, have introduced UPI interoperability on their digital rupee applications.
Benefits for Users
- Seamless Transactions: Users can effortlessly execute digital rupee transactions by scanning any UPI QR code, eliminating the need for multiple apps or QR codes for different transactions.
- Wider Acceptance: Users are no longer restricted to specific QR codes; they can utilize their digital wallets linked to UPI for transactions at various merchants, increasing flexibility.
- Financial Inclusion: Interoperability ensures that users, including those in remote areas, can easily access and use the digital rupee without specialized infrastructure or additional QR codes, promoting financial inclusion.
- Reduced Transaction Costs: Users can avoid extra fees associated with using multiple payment platforms. Interoperability makes digital rupee transactions more cost-effective.
- Streamlined Wallet Management: Users can consolidate their digital transactions within a single digital wallet, simplifying financial management.
Benefits for Merchants
- Ease of Adoption: Merchants can accept digital rupee payments without the complexity of creating and maintaining a separate QR code for CBDC, simplifying onboarding for businesses, including small retailers.
- Expanded Customer Base: With interoperability, merchants can cater to a broader range of customers using digital rupees, regardless of whether customers possess a specific QR code.
- Reduced Infrastructure Costs: Merchants save on expenses related to setting up and maintaining additional payment infrastructure, such as separate QR codes or payment terminals.
- Efficient Settlement: The integration allows for efficient settlement of digital rupee payments, whether or not the merchant has a CBDC account. This ensures prompt and secure payment receipts for merchants.
- Increased Sales: Simplified payment options often lead to smoother and quicker checkouts, potentially boosting customer satisfaction and increasing sales for merchants.
Conclusion
- The convergence of UPI and CBDC through interoperability marks a transformative phase in the realm of digital payments. With the fusion of two powerful platforms, the retail digital rupee is poised to gain widespread adoption, revolutionizing the landscape of digital transactions in India.
Also read:
India’s Central bank digital currency (CBDC) in detail
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change
Mains level: Climate Change and its Impact on Women, gender equality and environmental sustainability
What’s the news?
- In the current era, the fusion of gender equality and environmental sustainability presents a dynamic duo that holds the key to accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Central Idea
- The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) aptly points out that gender equality and environmental goals are not isolated endeavors; they forge a symbiotic relationship that can amplify progress towards a sustainable future.
Vulnerability in a Changing Climate
- Climate change, a pressing global concern, has repercussions that reverberate across demographics, with women bearing a disproportionate brunt of its impact.
- The International Labour Organization (ILO, 2019) forecasts that by 2030, scorching temperatures will result in a 2.2% loss of global working hours—equivalent to 80 million full-time jobs.
- The United Nations (2009) highlighted that across genders, women are considered to be more vulnerable and disproportionately affected by climate change than men.
- Estimates project that by 2050, climate change risks, coupled with natural disasters and food inflation, could push 130 million people into poverty, disproportionately affecting women’s inequality.
Climate Change and its Impact on Women, Particularly in Low-Income Countries
- Gendered Vulnerability in Low-Income Countries:
- Women across the globe face heightened risks to their health, safety, and quality of life. Yet, the vulnerability is notably more pronounced in developing and less developed countries, especially those grappling with low-income realities.
- This vulnerability is rooted in their reliance on natural resources and labor-intensive work, making them more susceptible to climate change impacts.
- A crucial aspect of this vulnerability lies in the interconnectedness of poverty and climate change.
- Climate Crisis Intensifying Basic Needs Struggles:
- Rural women, in particular, are burdened with the responsibility of ensuring access to essentials like clean water, cooking fuel, and nutritious food for their families.
- This often involves arduous journeys and exposes them to health and safety risks.
- Underpaid and Overworked:
- Despite their pivotal role in food production systems, women engaged in agriculture face persistent challenges.
- Data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlights that over 60% of working women in southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are in agriculture. Unfortunately, they often receive inadequate pay and work under challenging conditions.
- Owning Land: A Gender Disparity:
- A significant gender disparity exists in land ownership, with women owning only a small fraction of cultivated land.
- Despite being the backbone of the food production system, women own only about 10% of the land used for farming.
- This discrepancy further diminishes their resilience against the impacts of climate change.
- Projected Displacement and Urgent Action:
- As a grim outlook, studies like McAllister’s 2023 research forecast a potentially staggering 1.2 billion climate refugees by 2050.
- This underscores the urgency of addressing these intertwined challenges.
Gender-specific issues
- Displacement and Vulnerability: A UN study reveals a stark reality – a substantial 80% of those displaced by climate-related disasters are women and girls.
- Challenges for Vulnerable Women: Women, especially from marginalized communities, grapple with distinct challenges in the aftermath of natural disasters. Their displacement increases their susceptibility to prejudice and exploitation, exacerbating the hardships they already face.
- Exploitation Post-Disasters: The disruption caused by disasters creates an environment ripe for exploitation, with women as primary targets. Notably, the aftermath of the 2015 Nepal earthquake exposed women to trafficking and exploitation, further highlighting the risks they face.
- Gender-Based Violence Intensifies: The upheaval following disasters leads to an alarming escalation of gender-based violence against women. Disrupted communities and increased vulnerability create an environment where women are at greater risk.
- Limited Access to Essential Services: Essential services like employment, education, healthcare, and psychosocial support become scarcer post-disaster. For women, this translates into further limitations and challenges, exacerbating their already marginalized status.
- Resource and Knowledge Disparities: Women in agriculture face barriers in accessing quality resources, education, and technical knowledge. As climate change compounds these challenges, their vulnerability is magnified.
Way Forward: Empowering Women for Climate Resilience and Action
- Women’s Role in Climate Adaptation: Acknowledging the potential women possess to contribute to climate adaptation is crucial. Women bring unique perspectives and knowledge to the table, making their engagement indispensable in finding effective solutions.
- Empowerment Through Education and Training: Investing in women’s education and training is paramount for building resilience to the impact of climate change. Equipping women with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable practices, such as agriculture, water management, and energy generation, fosters their capacity to adapt to changing conditions.
- Supporting Women Farmers: Initiatives like the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in India exemplify the importance of imparting knowledge to women farmers on how to navigate shifting climate patterns.
- Women in Climate Policy Decision-Making: Acknowledging the disparities women face in climate change impacts, the need for their active involvement in decision-making becomes evident.
- Programs to Amplify Women’s Voices: Initiatives like the Gender and Climate Change Development Programme in South Asia seek to elevate women’s influence in policymaking, granting them a stronger voice in shaping climate strategies that directly impact their lives.
- Global Imperative for Women-Led Climate Action: The call for women-led climate action is not confined to specific regions; it’s a global imperative. Developing and emerging countries, where women often bear the brunt of climate impacts, necessitate collective efforts to empower women as agents of change.
Conclusion
- The convergence of gender equality and environmental sustainability is no longer an abstract concept; it is a tangible pathway towards a more equitable and resilient world. In a future marred by climate uncertainty, investments in women’s education, training, and participation stand as beacons of hope.
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Note4Students
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 government forms a committee to explore the possibility of One Nation, One Election.
Central idea
- On September 1st, the Central government established a committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind to assess the viability of the ‘one nation, one election’ (ONOE) proposal. This concept revolves around synchronizing the timing of Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections across all states to reduce the frequency of electoral processes across the country.
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.
Reports and Perspectives on ONOE
- Law Commission of India (LCI) Report – 2018:
- The LCI, led by Justice B. S. Chauhan, issued a draft report in August 2018 that scrutinized simultaneous elections.
- The report acknowledged the constitutional and legal complexities surrounding this proposal.
- It emphasized that the current constitutional framework necessitates amendments for the plan to be realized.
- The LCI also recommended seeking approval from at least 50% of the States for such an overhaul.
- Despite feasibility challenges, the report recognized potential benefits, including cost savings, reduced administrative burden, timely policy execution, and focused governance.
- Historical Context – LCI Report 1999:
- Notably, the LCI, headed by Justice B. P. Jeevan Reddy, supported the concept of simultaneous elections as early as 1999.
- This historical context underscores that the idea has been debated over time.
- Balancing Perspectives:
- The reports and perspectives reveal a dualistic landscape: ONOE offers advantages like efficient governance and reduced election strain, but it’s hampered by practical and constitutional complexities.
- In assessing ONOE’s viability, the focus is on a well-rounded understanding that considers both the potential benefits and the intricate challenges.
Concerns Regarding the One Nation, One Election Plan
- Feasibility and Constitutional Implications:
- The Constitution outlines fixed tenures (Article 83(2) and 172) for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, raising doubts about the feasibility of simultaneous elections.
- The possibility of mid-term government collapse necessitates a clear mechanism for holding fresh elections or imposing the President’s rule.
- Federalism and Conceptual Incompatibility:
- ONOE seems to conflict with the federal structure, contradicting the idea of India as a Union of States (Article 1).
- Altering this balance might affect the autonomy and authority of state governments.
- Frequency, Accountability, and Blending of Issues:
- Frequent elections allow citizens to address national and state issues separately, enhancing accountability.
- ONOE’s merging of issues might dilute accountability mechanisms and lead to a less-focused governance approach.
- Cost Misconceptions:
- While the Central government highlights the substantial costs of frequent elections, critics argue that the actual expenses are not as massive.
- The analysis questions whether the Election Commission’s expenditure of ₹8,000 crore over five years, amounting to ₹1,500 crore annually or ₹27 per voter per year, is a significant expense for maintaining India’s democratic pride.
Way forward
- Comprehensive Constitutional Review:
- Engage legal experts to meticulously assess necessary constitutional amendments for ONOE.
- Develop a contingency plan to handle midterm government collapses, ensuring stability and smooth transitions.
- Balancing Federalism and Centralization:
- Initiate dialogues with state governments to understand and address their concerns about centralization.
- Craft a balanced framework that respects both federal principles and national electoral efficiency.
- Hybrid Accountability Model:
- Explore a hybrid approach that retains staggered elections for select states while implementing ONOE for others.
- Maintain distinct accountability mechanisms for national and state issues, promoting effective governance.
- Transparent Cost-Benefit Analysis:
- Conduct an independent and transparent assessment of the costs and savings associated with ONOE.
- Present factual data to address misconceptions and inform stakeholders about the financial implications.
- Pilots and Gradual Implementation:
- Begin ONOE implementation through pilot projects in a limited number of states.
- Assess challenges, gather insights, and refine the approach before nationwide adoption.
Conclusion
- The proposal for one nation, one election envisions synchronizing Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections to curtail the frequency of polls. The Indian democracy’s complex dynamics and diverse contexts warrant a comprehensive assessment before implementing such a transformative change.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Hunger Index,
Mains level: GHI, Subnational Analysis, India's Calorie Undernourishment challenge, efforts and way forward
What’s the news?
- Despite boasting the world’s largest public distribution system and comprehensive food security schemes, India’s standing on the Global Hunger Index (GHI) remains alarming.
Central idea
- The 2022 GHI ranked India a staggering 107 out of 121 nations, trailing behind Nigeria (103) and Pakistan (99). The GHI, encompassing calorie undernourishment, child malnutrition, and under-five mortality dimensions, highlights India’s ongoing battle against these challenges.
Extent of the Issue
- The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report for 2022 reveals a staggering statistic – India is home to approximately 224.3 million undernourished individuals.
- Alarming disparities surface among various states, prompting the utilization of subnational data to develop a more nuanced and localized hunger index.
- By harnessing such data, India can assess the extent of undernourishment at the state and union territory level, a crucial step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals aimed at eradicating hunger and malnutrition.
The State Hunger Index (SHI)
- Indicators: The SHI is derived from the Global Hunger Index (GHI) framework, utilizing four main indicators:
- Prevalence of stunting, wasting, and under-five mortality among children below five years of age.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) undernourishment among the working-age population.
- Calorie Undernourishment Replacement: Calorie undernourishment, a GHI indicator, is replaced by BMI undernourishment due to data unavailability post-2012.
- Data Sources: SHI calculations involve data from various sources, including:
- National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5)
- Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI)
- Calculation: Normalized values of the indicators are combined using techniques recommended by the GHI.
- Score Range and Categories:
- SHI scores range from 0 to 100.
- Higher scores indicate higher hunger levels.
- The categories of SHI scores are as follows:
- Below 10: Low hunger
- 10-20: Moderate hunger
- 20-30: Serious hunger
- 30-40: Alarming hunger
- 50 or above: Extremely alarming hunger
Findings of the State Hunger Index (SHI)
- Alarming Hunger Levels: States like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh have alarmingly high SHI scores of 35, indicating significant hunger levels.
- Moderate Hunger Levels: States such as Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Tripura, Maharashtra, and West Bengal score above the national average (29), indicating moderate hunger levels.
- Lower Hunger Levels: Chandigarh stands out with a notably low SHI score of 12, suggesting relatively lower hunger levels.
- Moderate Hunger Category: States like Sikkim, Puducherry, and Kerala have SHI scores below 16, placing them in the ‘moderate hunger’ category.
- Serious Hunger Concerns: Several states score below the national average but above 20, pointing to serious hunger challenges in these regions.
Calorie Undernourishment: A Critical Challenge
- Deteriorating GHI Score: Over the past few years, India’s Global Hunger Index (GHI) score has worsened primarily due to the increasing prevalence of calorie undernourishment. This underscores the urgent need to address this challenge effectively.
- Escalating Proportions: Data from the Food and Agriculture Organization reveals that the proportion of calorie undernourishment has been on the rise since 2017, reaching a concerning 16.3% in 2020. This trend mirrors statistics from over a decade ago, such as those from 2009.
- Government Disputes and Data Concerns: Despite these alarming figures, the Indian government has raised doubts about the accuracy of the data and methodologies employed in calculating the GHI. However, the absence of empirical evidence to support these disputes leaves room for further clarity.
- Data Limitations: Notably, a challenge in understanding the scale of calorie undernourishment stems from the lack of recent National Sample Survey (NSS) rounds on nutritional intake since 2011-12. This survey previously offered insights into the prevalence of undernourishment at both national and subnational levels.
- Impact on Health and Development: Calorie undernourishment directly affects health and development, leading to weakened immune systems, stunted growth, impaired cognitive development, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
- Economic and Social Implications: The persistence of calorie undernourishment has far-reaching socio-economic consequences, hindering productivity, reducing human capital potential, and perpetuating the cycle of poverty.
Way forward
- Urgent Focus on Calorie Undernourishment: Recognize the urgent need to address calorie undernourishment, which has contributed to India’s declining GHI score.
- Reviving NSS Rounds: Prioritize conducting new National Sample Survey (NSS) rounds on nutritional intake to obtain updated and accurate data on undernourishment levels.
- Evidence-Based Approach: Encourage the Indian government to substantiate their concerns about GHI data accuracy with empirical evidence.
- Collaborative Efforts: Collaborate between government agencies, NGOs, researchers, and communities to formulate and implement targeted strategies.
- Alignment with SDGs: Align efforts with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2 focused on eradicating hunger and malnutrition.
Conclusion
- While the GHI is not immune to criticism regarding its methodology and aggregation techniques, it remains a critical tool for gauging undernourishment and child nutrition. Despite strides in reducing extreme poverty, disparities persist in addressing food insecurity, hunger, and child malnutrition. India must prioritize targeted interventions to overcome these challenges and fulfill its commitment to sustainable development.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: China’s economic slowdown, its ripple effect, Economic Growth Comparison with India
Central Idea
- The recent news of China’s economic slowdown has sparked a range of responses. China’s concerns about stagnation and the middle-income trap have shifted to fears of deflation, raising global implications. To comprehend the root causes and gravity of China’s current economic dilemmas, it is crucial.
Background: Unstable Growth and Strategic Choices
- Premier Wen Jiabao’s Concerns (2007): Premier Wen Jiabao raised alarms in 2007, highlighting instability, imbalances, a lack of coordination, and unsustainability as China’s economic challenges.
- 2008 Global Financial Crisis Strategy: China responded to the 2008 crisis by investing heavily in infrastructure (railways, highways, energy, and construction) to maintain double-digit growth and stabilize the economy.
- Deferred Structural Issues: While this strategy spurred growth, it deferred addressing issues like low consumption, regional disparities, and inadequate social security measures.
- Leadership Imperative for Growth: The need to sustain prosperity for domestic legitimacy drove China’s focus on high growth rates, even if it meant overlooking structural concerns.
Current Realities
- Transition to the New Normal: President Xi Jinping’s 2017 shift focused on quality-of-life issues, acknowledging the limitations of export-driven, investment-heavy growth.
- Acceptance of Slower Growth: China entered the new normal, accepting slower growth rates and requiring adjustments in economic expectations.
- Challenges in Transition: Slower export growth due to rising labor costs from increased wages and social security investments led to unemployment challenges.
- Balancing Priorities in the New Normal: Adapting to the “new normal” entails managing the delicate balance between sustainable growth, addressing structural issues, and maintaining social stability.
Escalating Challenges and the Evergrande Crisis
- Trade War and De-risking Impact: The escalation of challenges was fueled by the impact of the US-China trade war and the implementation of de-risking strategies. These factors introduced complexities to China’s economic landscape.
- Evergrande Crisis Unveiled: The Evergrande crisis, spanning from 2020 to 2023, emerged as a significant event exposing vulnerabilities within China’s housing sector. The crisis highlighted potential issues of misregulation and systemic risk.
- Path-Dependency Concerns: The Evergrande crisis exacerbated concerns about China’s economic dependence. The fear of a crash landing became more pronounced, underscoring the importance of addressing structural challenges.
- Complexity of Structural Problems: The challenges faced by Evergrande shed light on broader structural issues present within China’s economy. The crisis revealed the intricate interplay of development challenges and regulatory oversights.
- Policy Implications and Regulatory Oversight: The Evergrande crisis triggered discussions about the need for stronger regulatory oversight and effective policy responses. Stabilizing the housing market has emerged as a critical concern for the government.
China’s economic slowdown and its ripple effect
- Global Trade Impact: China’s economic slowdown has implications for global trade. As one of the world’s largest economies and trading partners, China’s reduced economic activity affects international trade flows, impacting both suppliers and consumers worldwide.
- Commodity Markets: The slowdown has led to decreased demand for commodities such as crude oil, cement, and steel. China’s status as a major consumer in these markets has caused a cooling of prices, impacting countries that rely on exporting these commodities.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: China plays a critical role in global supply chains. Its economic slowdown and disruptions in production have affected supply chain dynamics, causing delays and disruptions for companies worldwide.
- Investor Sentiments: China’s economic challenges have led to cautious investor sentiments. Uncertainties about the Chinese economy have influenced global financial markets and investment decisions.
- Global Economic Growth: China’s slowdown contributes to lower global economic growth rates. The country’s reduced demand for goods and services affects other economies, particularly those that heavily depend on exports to China.
- Regional Trade Partners: Neighboring countries that have strong economic ties with China, such as those in Asia, are directly impacted by China’s slowdown. Reduced demand for their exports to China affects their economies as well.
- Currency Exchange Rates: China’s economic slowdown can impact currency exchange rates. Fluctuations in China’s economic performance can influence the value of its currency, affecting exchange rates globally.
Future Outlook
- State-Owned Enterprises (SoEs) Challenges: State-owned enterprises, due to preferential treatment and political networks, pose ongoing challenges. Their resistance to change and reliance on political influence can hinder necessary reforms for economic growth.
- Evergrande Crisis and Systemic Issues: The Evergrande crisis exposed vulnerabilities within China’s housing sector and revealed potential systemic issues. Addressing these challenges is crucial to preventing further disruptions in the economy.
- Middle-Income Trap and Value Chain Advancement: The looming middle-income trap poses a dilemma for China’s economic trajectory. To avoid stagnation, China must navigate this challenge and advance its position in the global value chain, which requires innovation and upgrading industries.
- Economic Growth Comparison with India: Despite the challenges, China’s projected 5% growth rate still surpasses India’s anticipated 6.1% growth rate. China’s size and economic influence make this growth rate significant and impactful on global markets.
Conclusion
- China’s economic challenges underscore the need for strategic decisions in a shifting landscape. Achieving growth while addressing internal imbalances and global uncertainties remains a formidable task. As China’s economy evolves, its choices will resonate on the international stage, reshaping the perception of its rise and risk appetite.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UCC
Mains level: UCC- Child-centric approach
Central Idea
- In the backdrop of a potential UCC being brought to the fore during a special parliamentary session from September 18 to 22, 2023, it’s crucial to transcend the traditional discourse surrounding polygamy and divorce. The forthcoming UCC must delve deeper into issues beyond these and prioritize the well-being of children in custody.
What is the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?
- The UCC is a framework aimed at replacing personal laws based on religious customs and traditions with a unified set of civil laws applicable to all citizens of a country, regardless of their religion or background.
- The goal of a UCC is to provide a common set of laws for matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, among others.
- This unified code is intended to promote equality, justice, and uniformity in personal matters while respecting individual rights and cultural diversity.
Reimagining child custody
- The Guardians and Wards Act, 1890, fundamentally prioritizes the child’s welfare when determining custody.
- Within the Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956, Section 6 asserts the father’s status as the natural guardian, followed by the mother. However, this distinction should not be interpreted as lifetime primacy but rather ‘in the absence of’ the father.
- A more holistic UCC should move beyond this binary.
Exploring Islamic Law
- Intriguingly, custody under Islamic law centers on the child’s rights rather than the parents. The father’s custody right ranks sixth, following the mother, maternal grandmother, paternal grandmother, sister, maternal aunt, and paternal aunt.
- Different schools of thought allocate custody at varying ages or events. Notably, the Hanafi school does not strip the mother of custody upon ceasing to be Muslim.
- Such varied approaches provide a lens for crafting a comprehensive UCC.
Nuanced Issues in Child Custody
- Complexities Beyond Conventional Disputes:
- Child custody disputes involve intricate challenges that go beyond the typical battles between fathers and mothers.
- The complexities arise from scenarios involving biological parents’ rights after adoption and situations related to a biological father accused of rape.
- Favoring biological parents over adoptive ones:
- Courts are increasingly leaning towards granting custody to biological parents, often at the expense of adoptive parents.
- The growing concern is that the child’s best interests might be overlooked in such cases.
- Case of Custody to the Biological Father:
- In a specific case where the Bombay High Court granted custody of an adopted child to the biological father.
- This decision was made despite the biological father facing rape charges that led to the child’s birth.
- Balancing Biological and Adoptive Rights:
- The case underscores the importance of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) addressing the rights of both biological and adoptive parents.
- The primary focus should be on the child’s well-being and best interests.
- Biological Mother’s Situation:
- Another case involves a 17-year-old biological mother who allegedly eloped with an accused rapist, resulting in the birth of a child.
- Despite the biological mother’s subsequent marriage and decision to surrender the child for adoption, the High Court awarded custody to the biological father.
- A Holistic Approach to Custody Decisions:
- These instances highlight the need for custody decisions to consider not only legal aspects but also the child’s welfare and the well-being of all parties involved.
- Advocates for the UCC to address such nuanced scenarios and ensure that custody decisions are guided by the principle of prioritizing the best interests of the child.
Significance of a Progressive UCC
- A Holistic Approach to Custody:
- A progressive UCC goes beyond superficial changes, addressing custody beyond the father’s role.
- It ensures the “best interests of the child” principle in custody disputes, balancing parental rights.
- Balancing Biological and Adoptive Parents:
- The UCC’s recognition of both biological and adoptive parents prevents favoring one over the other.
- It prioritizes child welfare over parental status.
- Reflecting on a Changing Society:
- A progressive UCC adapts to evolving family dynamics and structures.
- It caters to diverse familial arrangements, avoiding outdated norms.
- Protection Against Discrimination:
- The UCC safeguards individual rights, preventing discrimination based on religion, gender, or background.
- It ensures equal treatment in family matters.
- Empowering Children’s Interests:
- The UCC’s child-centric approach minimizes the adverse effects of custody disputes on children.
- It promotes a healthier environment for their growth.
- Encouraging Equitable Gender Roles:
- A progressive UCC challenges traditional gender roles, empowering individuals to make choices.
- It dismantles biases, promoting gender equality.
- Legal Clarity and Unity:
- Uniform laws reduce legal complexities, providing clarity for the individuals involved.
- They foster a sense of unity by treating all citizens equally.
- Recognition of Modern Family Models:
- LGBTQ+ relationships, single parenthood, and non-traditional families gain legal recognition.
- The UCC acknowledges diverse family structures.
- Enhancing Adoption and Surrogacy Regulations:
- A progressive UCC offers comprehensive guidelines for adoption and surrogacy.
- It safeguards the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved.
Conclusion
- As the horizon of legal reform broadens, a child-centric approach should be at the heart of the UCC. The UCC should not only evolve with changing societal dynamics but also serve as a testament to the nation’s commitment to nurturing the best interests of its children.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: The concept of one nation, one election, pros and cons
What’s the news?
- The government forms a committee to explore the possibility of One Nation, One Election.
Central idea
- In a significant move, the Indian government has established a committee under the leadership of former President Ram Nath Kovind to delve into the viability of implementing the concept of one nation, one election. This proposal coincides with the announcement of a special parliamentary session scheduled between September 18 and 22, with its specific agenda undisclosed.
Historical Context
- Independent India’s initial elections featured simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly polls. However, the synchronized cycle was disrupted due to various political changes, including the rise of regional parties.
- Over time, some states aligned their assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls, while others maintained separate cycles.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently advocated for the synchronization of Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.
- He announced the formation of a committee in June 2019 after his re-election, intending to explore this concept in consultation with political party leaders.
Arguments in Favor of Simultaneous Elections
- Cost Efficiency: Conducting multiple elections throughout the year consumes significant resources. Synchronizing elections could lead to substantial cost savings by consolidating administrative efforts, reducing expenses, and optimizing resource allocation.
- Effective Governance: Frequent elections disrupt governance as the Model Code of Conduct restricts policy announcements. Simultaneous elections could ensure uninterrupted policy implementation and governance, benefiting citizens with a consistent and focused administration.
- Resource Rationalization: Organizing elections requires considerable manpower, security personnel, and financial resources. Simultaneous elections would streamline resource allocation, reducing the strain on logistical arrangements and personnel deployment.
- Enhanced Voter Participation: Coordinated elections could potentially boost voter turnout by creating a sense of importance and urgency among citizens to participate in a comprehensive electoral process.
- Engagement of security forces: Deployment of security forces is normally throughout the elections and frequent elections take away a portion of such armed police force which could otherwise be better deployed for other internal security purposes.
- Impact on social fabric: Frequent elections perpetuate caste, religion, and communal issues across the country as elections are polarising events that have accentuated casteism, communalism, and corruption.
- Focus on populist measures: Frequent elections will impact the focus of governance and policymaking as it forces the political class to typically think in terms of immediate electoral gains rather than focus on long-term programs and policies.
Arguments Against Simultaneous Elections
- Logistical Challenges: Coordinating elections across states and levels of government presents significant logistical challenges, including the availability of polling stations, security arrangements, and managing a large-scale operation.
- Regional Representation: Simultaneous elections may favor national parties over regional ones, leading to a reduction in the representation of regional issues and undermining the diversity of political voices.
- Disruption on Government Collapse: If a government collapses before its term concludes, simultaneous elections could lead to a prolonged period of political uncertainty and governance instability at both state and national levels.
- Constitutional Amendments: Implementing simultaneous elections necessitates extensive amendments to the Constitution, electoral laws, and parliamentary procedures, which may require complex negotiations and consensus-building.
- Impact on Federal Structure: Simultaneous elections might blur the distinction between state and national issues, potentially weakening the federal structure and eroding the autonomy of state elections.
- Electoral Commission Capacity: Coordinating simultaneous elections would place a significant burden on the Election Commission’s resources, possibly affecting the efficiency and credibility of the electoral process.
- Complexity of the Anti-Defection Law: Simultaneous elections could complicate the implementation of the anti-defection law, potentially leading to legal challenges and political instability.
- Suppression of Diverse Voices: A single overarching election campaign might overshadow regional concerns and reduce the space for a diverse range of opinions and local issues.
Previous Considerations and Recommendations
- Election Commission’s 1983 Suggestion: In 1983, the Election Commission proposed the idea of holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.
- The Law Commission’s 1999 Recommendation: The Law Commission, led by Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy, presented its 170th report in May 1999. The report recommended exploring a system where elections for the Lok Sabha and all legislative assemblies are held simultaneously.
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Effort (2003): In 2003, then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee discussed the concept with Congress President Sonia Gandhi. Though initial discussions were positive, the idea did not gain traction beyond that point.
- L.K. Advani’s Proposal (2010): In 2010, BJP leader L.K. Advani proposed fixed-term legislatures and simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. He emphasized the need to avoid frequent elections for the stability of governments.
- Election Commission’s Support (2019): In 2019, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora expressed support for the idea of simultaneous elections, calling it a desirable goal. He suggested aligning the terms of state assemblies with the life of the Parliament for successful implementation.
- Parliamentary Standing Committee (2015): The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law, and Justice, led by E.M. Sudarsana Natchiappan, compiled a report in 2015. The report highlighted benefits such as reduced expenditure, policy continuity, and a minimized impact on essential services during election times.
- Law Commission’s Draft Report (2018): In August 2018, the Law Commission, under the leadership of Justice B.S. Chauhan, drafted a report stating that simultaneous elections couldn’t be held within the existing constitutional framework. The Commission recommended amendments to the Constitution, the Representation of the People Act 1951, and parliamentary procedures for its implementation. The report suggested that at least 50% of states ratify constitutional amendments.
Contemporary Perspectives
- BJP’s Manifesto (Recent Years): The BJP included the idea of “one nation, one election” in its election manifesto, viewing it as a means to streamline the electoral process and minimize disruptions caused by frequent elections.
- Opposition’s Reservations (2023): In 2023, leaders from parties such as Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Congress have expressed opposition to the idea of simultaneous elections. They argue that it could diminish the importance of state elections and regional parties, leading to their overshadowing by national leaders.
Way forward?
- The standing committee recommended a cycle of elections, according to which elections to some legislative assemblies whose term end within six months to one year before or after the election date could be held during the midterm of Lok Sabha . For the rest of the states, elections could be held along with the general elections to Lok Sabha.
- Cost can be brought under control by ensuring that the legal cap on expenditure of candidates is followed by all parties.
- Accomplishing one year one election will be easier as it doesn’t require as many legal amendments as simultaneous polls for which the Centre will have to make five amendments to the Constitution.
Conclusion
- The concept of one nation, one election remains a subject of ongoing deliberation in Indian politics. While proponents emphasize its potential advantages, critics raise valid concerns about its implementation and impact on regional dynamics. The future of this proposal will depend on how these considerations are navigated in the evolving political landscape of India.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CEC and Other ECs -Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office and constitutional provisions
Mains level: The CEC and Other ECs (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 and concerns and way forward
What’s the news?
- The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, introduced in the Rajya Sabha on August 10, seeks to alter the control dynamics of the Election Commission (EC) by increasing political executive influence.
Central idea
- The proposed legislation establishes a Selection Committee for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs), with the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a nominated Cabinet minister as its members. This change excludes the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the committee and overturns a prior Supreme Court ruling.
Background
- To ensure the EC’s impartiality and independence in conducting free and fair elections, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court, in the case of Anoop Baranwal vs Union of India on March 2, established interim guidelines.
- This mandates a three-member committee composed of the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India for appointments.
- The Court specified that this composition would remain until a corresponding law is passed by Parliament.
Historical Context
- The Constituent Assembly aimed to ensure the EC’s independence. B. R. Ambedkar stressed that elections must be conducted by an independent body separate from the government.
- While the Constitution left legislative room for future parliamentary intervention, it was expected to uphold fairness and reason.
Constitutional Provisions and Autonomy
- Article 324 Authority: The Constitution assigns the Election Commission (EC) the crucial responsibility of Superintendence, direction, and control of elections, granting it the power to oversee and manage various aspects of the electoral process.
- Composition Defined: Article 324, clause 2, outlines the composition of the EC, comprising the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and a determined number of other Election Commissioners (ECs) as determined by the President.
- Autonomy Safeguarded:
- Article 324(5) serves as a crucial safeguard to ensure the autonomy and independence of the EC. It stipulates that the removal process for the CEC mirrors the procedure applicable to a judge in the Supreme Court.
- By mirroring the removal process of a Supreme Court judge, the Constitution seeks to shield the EC from arbitrary or partisan influences.
- EC Member Removal: While the same level of security of tenure is not extended to other Election Commissioners, their removal remains contingent on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner. This provision reflects the intent to uphold an EC that operates independently and free from external political pressures.
- Precedent and Autonomy: The case of T N Seshan vs Union of India (1995) further establishes the notion that any removal of EC members must be grounded in intelligible and cogent considerations.
Concerning Provisions of the Bill
- Shift in Selection Committee Composition: The proposed bill introduces a new Selection Committee responsible for appointing the CEC and ECs. However, the composition of this committee excludes the CJI, a departure from established practices. This shift raises concerns about reduced judicial participation in the appointment process.
- Quorum Dynamics and LoP’s Role: The bill sets a quorum requirement for the Selection Committee, consisting of two members – the Prime Minister and a Cabinet Minister. This setup potentially diminishes the Leader of the Opposition’s (LoP) role to a mere formality, impacting the balanced representation and input from all relevant stakeholders.
- Consideration Beyond Search Committee Recommendations: Section 8(2) of the bill allows the Selection Committee to consider candidates not recommended by the Search Committee. This provision conflicts with the transparency objective set out in Section 8(1) and raises concerns about the potential for arbitrary appointments and favoritism.
- Procedure Regulation and Lack of Transparency: Section 8(1) empowers the Selection Committee to regulate its own procedure. This provision introduces the possibility of an unregulated decision-making process lacking transparency and potentially leading to an opaque and subjective appointment process.
Potential adverse impact of the bill
- EC Autonomy Erosion: The proposed bill threatens to undermine the autonomy of the EC. The changes in the appointment process and composition of the SC could expose the EC to increased political influence, potentially compromising its impartiality.
- Reduced Judicial Oversight: Exclusion of the CJI from the SC reduces judicial oversight in appointments. This could lead to a lack of checks and balances, eroding the credibility of the appointment process.
- Executive Dominance: The quorum dynamics favoring the PM and CM could result in executive dominance over appointments. This could weaken the EC’s ability to function independently and impartially.
- Impaired Democracy: If the EC’s autonomy and credibility are compromised, the democratic process itself could be undermined, with elections losing their impartiality and fairness.
- Precedent from the Ashok Lavasa Case: The case of Ashok Lavasa, whose independent stance led to cases against his family members, illustrates the potential repercussions of dissenting voices within the EC. In the context of such cases, the proposed bill could further discourage independent decision-making within the EC, impacting its ability to operate freely.
Way Forward
- Reconsider Composition: Reevaluate the composition of the Selection Committee for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs). Consider reintroducing the Chief Justice of India (CJI) to ensure balanced participation and uphold checks and balances.
- Balanced Quorum: Revise the quorum requirement of the Selection Committee to include the LoP as a full participant. This balanced representation will ensure a comprehensive decision-making process.
- Transparency in Selection: Implement measures to maintain transparency in the appointment process. Avoid considering candidates not recommended by the Search Committee, preserving the fairness and credibility of appointments.
- Clarity in Procedure: Establish clear and transparent procedures for the Selection Committee. Providing well-defined guidelines will ensure an objective and equitable appointment process.
- Parliamentary Scrutiny: Subject any proposed changes to thorough scrutiny by the Parliament. A comprehensive debate involving various political parties will help ensure the legitimacy of the amendments.
- Uphold Constitutional Values: Prioritize adherence to constitutional principles when considering changes to the appointment process. Upholding the autonomy and integrity of the EC is paramount.
Conclusion
- The CEC and Other ECs (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, threatens the fundamental autonomy of the Election Commission. Upholding the EC’s independence is vital for maintaining the integrity of India’s democratic process and ensuring the equal representation of all citizens and political parties in elections.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, CrPc and IPC
Mains level: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, reforms and concerns
What’s the news?
- The proposed inclusion of Clause 69 in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 has sparked a critical debate about the role of criminal law in regulating intimate relationships.
Central idea
- The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita of 2023 introduces a thought-provoking Clause 69, which seeks to criminalize sexual acts grounded in promises of marriage that are ultimately unfulfilled. While the clause extends its scope to encompass instances of deceit-based sexual interactions, its primary focus is on situations where a promise of marriage serves as the foundation.
Complexities of Consent and Promise of Marriage in Indian Law
- Historical Precedent: The judiciary has historically categorized sex involving unfulfilled marriage promises as rape under IPC Section 375. Consent is contingent on the promise.
- Persistent Practice: Despite the 2013 amendments redefining consent under Section 375, courts still rely on IPC Section 90, which includes consent under “fear” or “misconception”.
- Retrospective Invalidation: Misconception entails using promises to manipulate consent. The breakdown of such promises retrospectively invalidates consent, potentially leading to rape charges.
- Clause 69’s Distinct Offense: Clause 69 proposes a separate offense distinct from rape. This disregards the need for knowledge on the part of men and women, as well as the requirement of consent.
- Diminished Role of Consent: Clause 69, regardless of the basis of a woman’s consent, punishes consensual sex if a false marriage promise is established.
What are the concerns?
- Misuse Concerns: Clause 69 might be misused when parents discover premarital sexual activity, leading to its invocation regardless of the promise’s existence.
- Potential Impact: While acquittal is possible with the woman’s denial of the promise, arrests and detention during legal proceedings can disrupt lives.
- Rising Trend of Misuse: A significant portion of rape trials, particularly those initiated by parents or guardians, aims to curb women’s sexual autonomy.
- Statutory Rape Charges: Parents often report women as minors in elopement cases, leading to statutory rape charges against partners. Subsequent acquittals occur when age is proven.
- Unintended Rape Charges: Intriguingly, rape charges arise not due to lack of consent, but rather because of consent, highlighting the paradoxical outcomes of certain legal strategies.
Judicial Interpretations
- Deelip Singh v. State of Bihar, 2004: Recontextualizing Consent Dynamics
- This case illuminates the nuanced approach courts take when considering consent within the context of a broken promise of marriage.
- The Supreme Court’s ruling signifies that consent could be contingent on parental approval, adding complexity to the understanding of consent in intimate relationships.
- Uday v. State of Karnataka, 2003: Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Consent
- In this case, the court’s perspective sheds light on how societal norms influence the interpretation of consent in promise-to-marry scenarios.
- The recognition of inter-caste marriage norms illustrates that consent might still exist even when a promise of marriage remains unfulfilled due to societal constraints.
Way forward
- Comprehensive Consent Education:
- Implement comprehensive sex education programs to emphasize consent, communication, and respect in relationships.
- Equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate situations involving consent and promises.
- Empowering Women’s Agency:
- Promote initiatives that empower women through education, vocational training, and economic opportunities.
- Conduct community-driven campaigns to challenge traditional gender norms and advocate for women’s rights.
- Balanced Legal Reforms:
- Seek legal reforms that consider the complexities of relationships and ensure justice without undue victimization.
- Collaborate with legal experts, sociologists, and gender activists to draft legislation respecting individual agency.
- Support Structures for Victims:
- Establish comprehensive support mechanisms, including counseling, legal aid, and safe spaces for individuals affected.
- Aim to minimize the potential harm that legal processes may cause while protecting the rights of victims.
- A Holistic Perspective on Consent:
- Foster a societal shift towards affirmative consent in intimate interactions.
- Launch public awareness campaigns to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding consent.
- Promoting Dialogue and Mediation:
- Encourage alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation and counseling to resolve cases arising from broken promises.
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- Collaborate with community leaders and organizations to facilitate open discussions on relationships and consent.
Conclusion
- Clause 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, necessitates careful reflection on consent, autonomy, and societal norms. Empowerment comes from transcending narrow legal frameworks and cultivating a culture that values individual agency and choices in relationships and decisions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Rice Export Restrictions, impact and suggestions
What’s the news?
- The Indian Government Implements Rice Export Restrictions to Stabilize Domestic Prices
Central Idea
- In a bid to control domestic rice prices and safeguard the country’s food security, the Indian government has implemented a series of measures that impact rice exports and production. These steps include prohibiting the export of white rice, imposing a 20% export duty on par-boiled rice and allowing the export of Basmati rice only for contracts valued at $1,200 per tonne or higher.
What is the rice production estimate?
- Rabi season: According to the third Advanced Estimate of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, during the Rabi season 2022-2023, rice production was 13.8% less, at 158.95 lakh tonnes tons, compared to 184.71 lakh tonnes during Rabi 2021-2022.
- Kharif season: Kharif sowing data show that rice is sown on 384.05 lakh hectares this year as on August 25 compared with 367.83 lakh hectares during the same period last year.
- Shortfall in the south-west monsoon: In states such as Tamil Nadu, where the Samba crop sowing usually starts in August in the Cauvery delta area, now it will be delayed due to a shortfall in the south-west monsoon.
- El Niño effects: Trade and rice millers say that new-season crop arrivals will start after the first week of September, and that El Niño effects are likely to impact arrivals to some extent. According to M. Sivanandan, secretary of the Tamil Nadu Rice Millers Association, paddy prices that were ₹27 a kg last year this month is at ₹33 a kg now.
Rice Exports Overview
- India’s Global Leadership: India boasts the position of being the world’s largest rice exporter, holding a significant 45% share in the global rice market.
- Export Growth in 2023: During the months of April and May in 2023, rice exports surged significantly by 21.1% compared to the same period in the preceding fiscal year.
- Basmati Rice Export Surge: Notably, the month of May saw a remarkable growth of 10.86% in Basmati rice exports as opposed to May 2022.
- Non-Basmati Exports Rise: Despite the introduction of a 20% export duty on white rice and the prohibition of broken rice exports in September, non-Basmati rice shipments saw a noteworthy increase of 7.5% in exports.
Trends and Data
- Steady Non-Basmati Exports: The trend of rising non-Basmati rice exports has remained consistent over the past three years.
- Basmati Exports Performance: Data from the All-India Rice Exporters’ Association indicates that exports of Basmati rice for the 2022-2023 period surpassed the figures from the previous year.
- August 17 Exports: Up until August 17, 2023, the total rice exports (excluding broken rice) reached 7.3 million tonnes, showcasing a substantial 15% increase in comparison to the 6.3 million tonnes recorded during the corresponding period in the preceding year.
Global Challenges and Impact
- Challenges in Other Nations: Beyond India, several countries are grappling with challenges in rice production and exports.
- Thailand anticipates a nearly 25% decrease in production in the upcoming year.
- Myanmar has halted raw rice exports.
- Adverse crop conditions are reported in Iraq and Iran, affecting their rice crops.
How Will These Measures Help India?
- Food Security Assurance: Banning rice exports ensures a steady supply of rice within the country.
- Price Stability: By restricting rice exports, the government can prevent abrupt spikes in domestic rice prices.
- Supporting Vulnerable Populations: The ban on exports helps maintain affordable prices for rice.
- Managing Supply Chain Resilience: Export bans mitigate disruptions in the rice supply chain. This ensures that even in the face of challenges such as adverse weather conditions or logistical issues, the availability of rice in the domestic market remains consistent.
- Strengthening Local Procurement: By redirecting rice to local markets, the government can enhance its efforts to procure grains for public distribution programs.
Concerns Raised
- Export Revenue Impact: Exporters might experience reduced revenue due to limited access to international markets. This can affect their financial viability and potentially lead to job losses within the export sector.
- Trade Relations: Imposing export bans could strain trade relationships with countries that rely on India as a rice supplier. Diplomatic efforts might be required to manage any potential tensions arising from these restrictions.
- Long-Term Export Effects: Prolonged export restrictions could result in a loss of market share over time. Competing rice-exporting countries might seize the opportunity to strengthen their presence in international markets, impacting India’s export potential once the ban is lifted.
- Global Food Price Influence: Reduced rice supply from a major exporter like India could contribute to global food price volatility, affecting the food security of other nations.
- Efficiency Concerns: In some cases, export bans might lead to inefficiencies in resource allocation. If farmers have surplus produce that cannot be exported, it could result in wastage or inadequate storage facilities.
What can Indian farmers expect?
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) Increase: The government has raised the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for rice, indicating that farmers can anticipate better returns for their crops. This ensures that the paddy purchased by rice millers will be priced higher than the MSP, providing farmers with improved income.
- Price Stability for Farmers: Rice prices are not expected to decline for farmers due to the increased MSP and other measures. This stability in prices can contribute to more consistent and predictable incomes for agricultural producers.
- Controlled Rice Price Climbs: The restrictions on rice exports are designed to prevent steep price increases in the domestic market. Farmers can expect that the government’s efforts to stabilize rice prices will positively impact their ability to fetch reasonable rates for their produce.
- Better Income Prospects: With a higher benchmark price established by the government, farmers are likely to benefit from improved earnings. This elevation in benchmark prices is expected to translate into better market rates for their rice.
- Secured Long-Term Availability: While there may be a minor current increase in rice prices for domestic consumers, the long-term availability of rice is secured. Farmers can anticipate a steady demand for their produce without fear of drastic price fluctuations.
Suggestions provided by exporters
- Reclassification for Export Decisions: Exporters suggest that the government should classify rice as either common rice or specialty rice for export policy decisions, rather than solely categorizing it as Basmati and non-Basmati. This approach aims to tailor policies to different rice varieties.
- Geographical Indication Recognition: Trade policy consultant S. Chandrasekaran proposes that rice varieties with Geographical Indication (GI) recognition should be shielded from general market interventions. This measure aims to preserve the unique qualities of these specific rice types.
- Basmati Rice Export Policy: A Basmati rice exporter, Mohit Gupta, recommends that the government should have allowed Basmati rice exports to continue or set a minimum value for exports, such as $900 per tonne. Gupta argues that such restrictions could impact both exporters and farmers, as demand influences paddy purchases.
Conclusion
- The Indian government’s recent measures to control rice exports and stabilize the domestic market exhibit a multifaceted approach. As stakeholders await further developments and clarifications on government policies, the long-term impact on Indian agriculture and rice exports remains an evolving narrative.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AI applications
Mains level: Emergence of AI and need for careful regulations
What’s the news?
- Divergence in AI Regulation Approaches: Western Model Emphasizes Risk, Eastern Approach Prioritizes Values, Urges India to Shape Regulations in Line with Cultural Identity.
Central idea
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) has firmly entrenched itself in our lives, heralding a transformative era. Its potential to revolutionize work processes, generate creative solutions through data assimilation, and wield considerable influence for good and ill is undeniable. In light of these realities, the imperative for AI regulation cannot be overlooked.
The need for careful AI regulation
- Ethical Impact and Accountability: AI’s decisions can have ethical implications, necessitating regulations to ensure responsible and ethical use.
- Data Privacy and Protection: As AI relies on data, regulations are essential to safeguard individuals’ privacy and prevent unauthorized data usage.
- Addressing Bias and Fairness: AI can perpetuate biases present in data, leading to unfair outcomes. Regulations are required to ensure fairness and prevent discrimination.
- Minimizing Unintended Outcomes: Complex AI systems can yield unexpected results. Careful regulation is needed to minimize unintended consequences and ensure safe AI deployment.
- Balancing Innovation and Risks: Regulations strike a balance between fostering AI innovation and managing potential risks such as job displacement and social disruption.
- Ensuring Security and Accountability: Regulations help ensure AI system security by setting standards for protection against cyber threats and unauthorized access. Establishing clear guidelines enhances accountability for any security breaches.
- Preserving Human Autonomy: Regulations prevent overreliance on AI, preserving human decision-making autonomy. AI systems should assist and augment human judgment rather than replace it entirely.
- Global Collaboration and Consensus: Regulations facilitate international collaboration and the development of common ethical standards and guidelines for AI.
Contrast between Western and Eastern approaches to AI regulation
- Global Regulatory Landscape:
- Governments worldwide are grappling with the challenge of regulating AI technologies.
- Leading regions in AI regulation include the EU, Brazil, Canada, Japan, and China.
- It forms groups such as the EU, Brazil, and the UK as western systems, while Japan and China represent eastern models.
- Intrinsic Differences:
- Western and eastern approaches to AI regulation exhibit fundamental differences.
- Western regulations are influenced by a Eurocentric view of jurisprudence, while the eastern model takes a distinct path.
- Western Risk-Based Approach:
- Western systems employ a risk-based approach to AI regulation.
- Risk categories such as unacceptable risk, high risk, limited risk, and low risk are identified for AI applications.
- Different regulatory measures are applied based on the risk level, ranging from prohibitions to disclosure obligations.
- Eastern Models: Japan and China
- Japan’s approach is embodied in the Social Principles of Human-Centric AI.
- These principles include human-centricity, data protection, safety, fair competition, accountability, and innovation.
- China’s regulations emphasize adherence to laws, ethics, and societal values in AI services.
- Values vs. Means:
- A stark difference emerges between the two models regarding their approach to regulation.
- The western model specifies how regulations should be implemented, focusing on means and rationale.
- The eastern model emphasizes upholding values and ends, embracing the overlap between legal and moral considerations.
- Comparative Effectiveness:
- The western model is well-suited for rule-abiding societies, offering clear rules and punitive measures for non-compliance.
- The eastern model emphasizes a holistic approach, allowing for flexibility and acknowledging the intertwining of legality and morality.
- Hindu Jurisprudence Concept:
- The concept of Hindu Jurisprudence is introduced, referring to legal systems that embrace the overlap between legal rules and moral values.
- Historical Perspective:
- The differences between eastern and western approaches have historical roots.
- Professor Northrop’s study in the 1930s highlighted cultural and philosophical distinctions in legal systems.
Distinction between Eurocentric and Eastern legal systems
- Eurocentric vs. Eastern Legal Systems: Professor Northrop’s analysis distinguishes between Eurocentric (Western) and Eastern legal systems. Western legal systems create rules through postulation, defining specific actions and penalties in a given social order.
- Postulation in Western Legal Systems: In Eurocentric systems, laws prescribe precise actions and consequences for non-compliance. The focus is on specifying what must be done within a legal framework.
- Intuition in Eastern Legal Systems: Eastern legal systems, referred to as Oriental, establish rules through intuition. Laws set the desired end or objective to be achieved and the moral values underlying the law.
- Role of Morality and Ends: In the Eastern approach, the moral aspect of the law plays a central role. Legal rules are geared towards achieving specific moral and societal objectives.
- Success of Ancient Indian Legal Systems: Ancient Indian legal systems achieved success due to clear objectives and underlying moral codes. People complied with these laws through intuition rooted in morality.
- Examples of Moral-Based Compliance: Instances like the Pandavas’ exile and Emperor Ashoka’s edicts demonstrate how ancient Indian laws aligned with underlying morality. These historical examples show how people followed laws guided by intuitive understanding and moral principles.
- Law and Morality in Eastern Cultures: In Eastern cultures, law and morality are often intertwined. Moral values influence the creation, interpretation, and adherence to laws.
- Impact of British Colonialism: The British colonization of India introduced a transplant of Western legal systems. The current legal system in India is seen as lacking the virtues of both the ancient Indian system and the English legal system.
How should AI be regulated in India?
- Perspective of Justice V. Ramasubramaniam
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- Justice V. Ramasubramaniam, a retired Supreme Court judge, has criticized the tendency to blindly emulate Western legal systems.
- In his judgments, he has highlighted the need to draw inspiration from Indian traditions and jurisprudence.
- A significant judgment on cryptocurrency by Justice Ramasubramaniam includes the Sanskrit phrase neti neti, indicating a non-binary perspective.
- Judges viewpoints like this could guide regulators in adopting a more Indian approach to regulation.
- NITI Aayog’s Approach:
- The NITI Aayog has circulated discussion papers on AI regulations.
- These papers predominantly reference regulations from Western countries like the EU, the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
- Alignment with Indian Ethos:
- India should establish AI regulations that reflect its cultural ethos and values.
- Drawing from India’s historical legal systems could provide a more appropriate regulatory framework.
- Hope for Better Regulation:
- AI regulation in India will be more considerate of Indian values and heritage than current indications suggest.
- It emphasizes the importance of a regulatory approach that aligns with the Indian ethos.
Conclusion
- The emergence of AI as a transformative force necessitates rigorous regulation. Embracing India’s unique legal heritage and considering the alignment of AI with societal values could lead to regulations that serve both innovation and morality. As India contemplates its AI regulatory landscape, it must not only look to the West but also introspect and turn its gaze eastward.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill,
Mains level: Gig Workers, Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, significance and major issues
What’s the news?
- The Rajasthan government introduced the Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, aiming to ensure social security for gig workers.
Central idea
- While the Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, demonstrates commendable intentions and includes noteworthy provisions, critical concerns arise that might undermine its effectiveness. There are four major issues that could potentially limit the scope and impact of the bill.
Key Features of the Bill
- Applicability: The bill covers both aggregators and primary employers engaging platform-based workers.
- Formation of a Welfare Board: A Welfare Board will be established, chaired by the Labor Department’s minister, to oversee welfare measures for gig workers.
- Registration and Unique ID: Gig workers and aggregators will be registered, and gig workers will receive a unique ID for streamlined welfare access.
- Social Security and Welfare Fund: A dedicated fund will offer social security benefits to registered gig workers.
- Welfare Fee Deduction: Aggregators will contribute through a welfare fee deducted from transactions.
- Access to Benefits: Gig workers will gain access to state-formulated social security benefits, including insurance.
- Grievance Redressal: A mechanism for addressing worker grievances will be in place.
- Representation: Gig workers will have representation on the Welfare Board for decision-making.
- Compliance and Fines: Aggregators must comply, with fines for non-compliance.
Four major issues that could potentially limit the scope and impact of the bill
1: Definitional Ambiguity
- Definitions from the Bill and their Implications:
- The Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, introduces definitions for gig worker and aggregator derived from the Code on Social Security, 2020.
- The definitions are intended to clarify the roles and relationships of gig workers and aggregators within the gig economy.
- Definitions of gig worker and aggregator:
- The bill defines a gig worker as an individual engaged in work outside the traditional employee-employer paradigm, earning from such activities, and operating under a predetermined payment rate contract.
- An aggregator is described as a digital intermediary that facilitates collaborations between aggregators, enabling service provision.
- Ambiguity in Determining the Aggregator’s Status:
- The definitions’ lack of precision in categorizing aggregators as employers creates uncertainty.
- The absence of explicit language binding aggregators to the role of employers leads to interpretational ambiguity.
- Implications of Definitional Vagueness:
- The vagueness could potentially result in gig workers being seen as self-employed or independent contractors rather than employees by aggregators.
- This vagueness contrasts with global best practices and sets the stage for the subsequent issue.
- Global Context and Significance:
- The debate over classifying gig workers and aggregators as employees or employers has global implications.
- The ABC Test in California’s labor code highlights the importance of clear classification, while the UK Supreme Court’s ruling in 2021 regarding Uber drivers further highlights the significance of accurate classification, underscoring that they are workers, not self-employed.
- Contrast with global practices:
- The Rajasthan Bill’s vague definitions deviate from global best practices, raising concerns about the subsequent challenges.
2: Integration with Labor Laws and Workplace Entitlements
- Classification of Gig Workers and Impact on Labor Laws:
- The Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, does not classify gig workers as employees.
- The absence of employee classification poses challenges in integrating the bill with established labor law frameworks.
- Challenges in Compliance and Workplace Rights:
- Non-classification could allow aggregators to bypass labor law mandates, potentially undermining gig workers’ workplace rights.
- Gig workers might be denied rights granted to employees, such as minimum wages and fair working conditions.
- Exclusion from entitlements and Fairwork India ratings:
- The bill’s provisions may unintentionally exclude gig workers from essential entitlements, potentially impacting their well-being.
- Fairwork India ratings in 2022 highlighted poor worker welfare practices among prominent platforms.
- Accountability for workplace accidents
- The question arises: If gig workers are not designated as employees, to what extent can aggregators be held accountable for workplace accident expenses?
- Some Indian platforms have addressed this issue, but relying on aggregators’ goodwill risks converting entitlements into benevolence.
- Contrast with Australia and New Zealand’s Approach:
- Australia and New Zealand’s focus on a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) and worker well-being highlights an alternative approach to workplace rights.
3: Duration of the Database and Implications for Gig Workers
- Database Creation and Durational Concerns:
- The bill’s third issue concerns the creation of a gig worker database transferred to the gig workers’ welfare board.
- A concern arises from the registration’s perpetual validity, irrespective of workers’ ongoing engagement with app-based platforms.
- Obstacle to Perpetual Registration:
- The well-intended perpetual registration concept could inadvertently hinder gig workers’ flexibility.
- Gig workers often work with multiple aggregators in a single day, leading to concerns about registration’s impact on choices.
- Potential influence on choices and mechanisms:
- Mandatory registration might enable aggregators to learn about workers’ engagements with various platforms, possibly influencing their choices.
- The bill lacks preventive mechanisms to address this potential influence.
4: Deficiencies in Social Security Provisions
- Social Security and Welfare Board Establishment:
- The bill’s fourth issue revolves around its core goal of providing social security to platform-based gig workers through a welfare board and fund.
- Eight aggregators are brought under the bill’s jurisdiction, but it lacks explicit definitions of social security and welfare measures.
- Discretionary Nature of Social Security Provisions:
- The bill delegated the responsibility of defining social security measures to the welfare board’s discretion.
- This lack of specificity raises concerns about the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of the proposed social security provisions.
- Lack of explicit definitions and ambiguity:
- The absence of clear definitions for social security leaves room for interpretation and may affect the welfare board’s decision-making process.
- Influence dynamics within the Welfare Board:
- While the welfare board includes gig worker representatives, the dominance of powerful representatives from platforms, bureaucracy, and the government raises questions about the extent of worker influence.
Way forward
- Refine Definitions: Clarify gig worker and aggregator definitions based on global standards to prevent ambiguity in their roles.
- Employee Classification: Clearly categorize gig workers as employees to grant them labor protections and rights.
- Database Management: Implement a periodic registration renewal system to accommodate gig workers’ changing engagements.
- Preventive Measures: Introduce safeguards to prevent aggregators from exploiting registration data to influence gig workers’ choices.
- Social Security Definition: Define the scope of social security and outline welfare measures to ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Enhanced Worker Representation: Strengthen the influence of gig worker representatives on the welfare board.
- Stakeholder Consultation: Collaborate with gig workers, aggregators, experts, and labor organizations for a well-rounded regulatory framework.
Conclusion
- In conclusion, while the Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, demonstrates a commendable commitment to gig workers’ welfare, it is beset with critical flaws. Addressing the issues and aligning with global best practices will be crucial for the Bill to achieve its intended objectives and provide genuine social security to platform-based gig workers.
Also read:
What does India’s first gig workers’ rights Bill stipulate?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Thalinomics concept
What’s the news?
- The growing chasm between wages or salaries and the cost of living has given rise to a distressing scenario: the affordability of vital food commodities is under threat.
Central idea
- In Mumbai, the cost of a vegetarian thali surged 65% in five years, while income for laborers and salaried workers in urban Maharashtra increased only 37% and 28%, respectively. This discrepancy is making essential food items unaffordable, leading to compromised meals.
What is Thalinomics?
- Thalinomics is a term coined by an Indian economist and former Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India, Arvind Subramanian.
- It refers to a concept that involves analyzing changes in the cost of a vegetarian thali (a meal consisting of a variety of dishes served on a single plate) to gain insights into the trends and dynamics of food inflation and affordability.
- It involves tracking the prices of key ingredients that constitute a thali, such as cereals, pulses, vegetables, and other essential items.
- This concept is particularly relevant in countries like India, where food affordability and inflation are significant concerns for a large population.
Key insights: A case study of Mumbai and urban Maharashtra
- Rising Cost of Thali: The cost of preparing a home-cooked vegetarian thali in Mumbai has increased significantly by 65% over the past five years. This increase is attributed to rising prices of essential ingredients like rice, dal, vegetables, and other items that constitute a thali.
- Income Growth: Over the same five-year period, the average wage earned by casual laborers in urban Maharashtra increased by 37%, while the average salary of regular salaried workers increased by 28%. These income growth rates reflect the changes in earnings for these two categories of workers.
- Disparity Between Costs and Income: While the cost of a thali increased by 65%, income growth for casual laborers and salaried workers was significantly lower, at 37% and 28%, respectively.
- Affordability Challenge: The disparity between rising costs and income growth has resulted in essential food items becoming increasingly unaffordable for households. This affordability challenge can lead to reduced portion sizes or a compromise in the variety and nutritional quality of meals.
- Impact on Budget Share: The study also analyzes the portion of monthly wages or salaries required to afford two thalis every day for a month. This share increased from 22.5% of a casual laborer’s monthly earnings in 2018 to 27.2% in 2023. For salaried employees, it increased from 9.9% to 12.8% over the same period.
- Incomplete Data: Data limitations, particularly regarding the absence of certain ingredients like spices and ghee in the analysis, This suggests that the actual cost of making a thali could be even higher than the calculated figures.
Key aspects of the relationship between thali prices and inflation
- Inflation and Ingredient Prices: The prices of ingredients like rice, dal, vegetables, and oil can be affected by inflation. If the prices of these essential ingredients rise due to inflationary pressures, the overall cost of preparing a thali would increase.
- Food Inflation: The cost of a thali, which is composed of various food items, is directly influenced by food inflation. If there’s high food inflation, it can significantly impact the affordability of thalis and other meals.
- Supply and Demand Dynamics: Inflation can be driven by supply and demand imbalances. If there’s a shortage of certain ingredients due to supply disruptions (e.g., poor harvests or transportation issues), prices can rise. Similarly, changes in consumer demand patterns can affect the prices of specific ingredients, further impacting thali costs.
- Monetary Policy: Central banks often use monetary policy tools to control inflation. Interest rate adjustments, money supply regulation, and other measures can impact inflation rates. High inflation rates can lead to increased production costs for farmers and manufacturers, which may trickle down to the prices of thali ingredients.
- Income Effects: Inflation can impact consumers’ purchasing power. When inflation outpaces income growth, households might need to allocate a larger portion of their income to cover basic expenses like food. This can particularly affect lower-income households, leading to affordability challenges for items like thalis.
- Regional Variation: Inflation rates can vary regionally and even locally. Different regions might experience different rates of inflation due to factors like supply chain disruptions, local economic conditions, and government policies.
- Government Policies: Government policies such as subsidies, import/export regulations, and agricultural policies can influence ingredient prices and, consequently, the cost of preparing a thali. These policies can impact the supply and availability of key ingredients.
Implications of the higher cost of a thali
- Nutritional Impact: The rising cost of thali ingredients can lead to compromised nutritional intake as households might cut back on certain items to manage expenses. This can result in inadequate diets and potential health implications.
- Affordability Strain: As thali prices escalate, households may face financial strain by allocating a larger portion of their income to food expenses. This can limit their ability to save, invest, and engage in non-essential expenditures.
- Dietary Diversity: Increased thali costs can potentially lead to reduced dietary diversity as households might opt for cheaper, less nutritious alternatives, affecting overall dietary quality.
- Balanced Meals: Higher thali costs might lead to smaller portions or fewer items in the thali, disrupting the balance of a typical meal and potentially impacting satiety and nutritional completeness.
- Quality of Life: Reduced dietary quality due to affordability challenges can have broader implications for individuals’ quality of life, health, and overall well-being.
- Economic Struggles: For households with limited disposable income, the burden of increased thali costs can exacerbate economic struggles and hinder progress.
Way forward
- Policy Interventions: Implement policies to address the widening gap between thali costs and income growth, ensuring that essential food remains affordable.
- Income Enhancement: Focus on raising wages for casual laborers and salaried workers to match the rising cost of thalis.
- Affordability Measures: Establish measures to mitigate the impact of expensive thalis on households, considering subsidies or targeted assistance.
- Nutrition Awareness: Launch campaigns to educate households about maintaining nutritious diets even when faced with affordability challenges.
- Gender-Inclusive Approach: Address gender disparities by formulating policies that empower women economically.
- Data-Driven Approach: Base policies on accurate and up-to-date data on food prices, wages, and consumption patterns.
- Food Security Initiatives: Strengthen food security programs to ensure access to nutritious food despite thali cost increases.
- Policy Evaluation: Continuously assess the effectiveness of policies in addressing thali affordability and overall well-being.
Conclusion
- The shifting dynamics between escalating costs and relatively stagnant income pose a serious challenge to maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet. As prices continue to rise, a more comprehensive approach is crucial to ensuring that affordable nutrition remains within reach for all strata of society.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Election Commission of India
Mains level: Election Commission of India, , Supreme court's recent judgement, significance, challenges and government's response
What’s the news?
- In recent times, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has emerged as a battleground where conflicts between the government and the judiciary come to the fore. The current divergence of opinions centers around the process of appointing officials within the ECI.
Central idea
- The Supreme Court’s unanimous verdict, issued on March 2, directed the President to appoint the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs) based on a committee’s recommendation. This decision aimed to bolster the ECI’s constitutional stature and curtail political influence. However, the government introduced a bill in the Rajya Sabha on August 10 that, if passed, will overturn this verdict.
The CEC and Other ECs Bill, 2023
- The bill aims to bring about significant changes in the process of appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners, as well as in defining the conditions of their service and their terms of office.
- The bill intends to repeal the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991, which currently governs the appointment, conditions of service, and term of office of the Election Commissioners.
The significance of the Supreme Court’s judgment
- Broadening the Selection Process: The judgment introduces a selection committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha or leader of the largest Opposition party, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI). This broadens the decision-making process beyond the central government.
- Enhanced Constitutional Status: The judgment elevates the constitutional status of the Election Commission by involving key figures such as the CJI in the selection committee. This underscores the importance of the institution in India’s democratic framework.
- Dilution of Government Control: The involvement of the CJI and opposition leaders reduces the potential for appointments to be influenced solely by the ruling government. This ensures a more balanced and impartial selection process.
- Transparency and Representation: The judgment promotes transparency and accountability by including multiple stakeholders in the selection process. This prevents appointments from occurring behind closed doors and enhances public trust.
- Mitigating Bias and Partisanship: The inclusion of the CJI adds a judicial perspective to appointments, preventing potential biases or affiliations towards any political party. This safeguards the Election Commission’s credibility and neutrality.
- Safeguarding Democratic Processes: By reinforcing the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and autonomy in the appointment process, the judgment ensures that the Election Commission continues to uphold the integrity of democratic elections.
Legislative concerns associated with the bill
- Alteration of Committee Composition: The Bill aims to replace the Chief Justice of India (CJI) with a Union Cabinet Minister in the selection committee. This change would shift the balance of the committee’s decision-making dynamics.
- Potential for Government Influence: By replacing the CJI with a Union Cabinet Minister, the government could gain greater influence over the appointment process, raising concerns about the potential for political bias and government control.
- Diminished Judicial Perspective: The removal of the CJI from the selection committee might lead to a reduced judicial perspective in the appointments, potentially undermining the objective of preventing political bias.
- Government’s Priorities: The introduction of this bill could be seen as an attempt by the government to assert more authority over the Election Commission’s top appointments, potentially impacting the institution’s autonomy.
- Shift in Democratic Safeguards: The alteration of the committee’s composition could potentially weaken the system of checks and balances established by the Supreme Court’s judgment, shifting the balance of power in favor of the ruling government.
- Public Perception and Trust: The legislative challenge posed by the bill could raise concerns about the government’s intentions regarding the Election Commission’s autonomy and the transparency of appointments.
- Political Dynamics: The bill’s introduction might impact the ongoing political dynamics between the government and opposition parties, potentially leading to debates and negotiations around the selection committee’s composition.
- Potential Legal Debates: The proposed changes might lead to legal debates about the compatibility of the bill with the Supreme Court’s judgment and the broader constitutional principles it aims to uphold.
- Future Institutional Reforms: The outcome of this legislative challenge could have broader implications for the appointment processes of other constitutional and statutory bodies, potentially setting a precedent for changes in their selection procedures.
Historical debates and recommendations related to the appointment process of the CEC and ECs
- Constituent Assembly Debates (1949): During the Constituent Assembly debates, there was a suggestion to subject the appointment of the CEC to confirmation by a two-thirds majority in a joint session of Parliament. However, the final decision was to empower Parliament to make appropriate laws on this matter.
- V.M. Tarkunde Committee (1975): This committee appointed by Jayaprakash Narayan recommended that the appointments of ECs should be more broad-based, involving a collegium-like approach, rather than relying solely on the government’s advice.
- Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990s): Set up by Prime Minister V.P. Singh, this committee on electoral reforms suggested a collegium-based approach for appointing ECs to enhance credibility and impartiality.
- Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2009): The commission’s fourth report recommended a comprehensive collegium-based appointment process to ensure the independence and neutrality of the Election Commission.
- B.B. Tandon’s Suggestion (2006): Former CEC B.B. Tandon proposed a committee, headed by the Prime Minister, for appointing the CEC and ECs. The committee should include the Lok Sabha Speaker, the Leaders of the Opposition, the Law Minister, the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, and a judge nominated by the Chief Justice of India.
- Arun Jaitley’s Statement (2006): BJP General Secretary Arun Jaitley supported a representative collegium, including the Chief Justice of India, to appoint apex electoral officials. He emphasized that government monitoring would undermine the commission’s independence.
- L.K. Advani’s Proposal (2012): BJP leader L.K. Advani suggested a collegium with the Prime Minister as chairman, including the CJI, the Minister of Law and Justice, and the Leaders of the Opposition from both Houses.
Way forward
- Engage Stakeholders: Collaborate with legal experts, opposition parties, and civil society to incorporate diverse perspectives for a balanced and effective appointment process.
- Public Understanding: Emphasize transparent communication to articulate the rationale behind any changes in the appointment process, fostering public understanding and trust.
- Learn from History: Draw guidance from historical recommendations such as the Dinesh Goswami Committee and Second Administrative Reforms Commission to shape a more transparent and inclusive appointment process.
- Judicial Involvement: Consider the significance of judicial involvement in the selection committee to maintain checks and balances and prevent undue political influence.
- Legislative Scrutiny: Ensure comprehensive examination and scrutiny of the proposed changes through parliamentary debates and discussions during the legislative process.
- Constitutional Alignment: Ensure that any modifications adhere to constitutional principles, upholding the democratic foundations of the country’s governance.
Conclusion
- The current debate underscores the intricate interplay between democratic integrity and political maneuvering. The forthcoming decisions will shape the ECI’s trajectory, determining whether it maintains its unbiased autonomy or inches closer to political control. To safeguard democracy and uphold the integrity of elections, maintaining the ECI’s independence remains paramount.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Social security, challenges and reforms
What’s the news?
- Over half of India’s salaried workforce lacks social security benefits, revealing stark inequality and a deficient system ranked poorly internationally, prompting calls for urgent reforms to ensure equitable coverage and protection for all segments of the workforce.
Central idea
- Recent statistics from the Periodic Labour Force Survey Annual Report 2021–22 highlight a grim reality: approximately 53% of India’s salaried workforce lacks access to social security benefits, including provident funds, pensions, health care, and disability insurance. This dire situation extends to the informal sector, where around 91% of the workforce operates without social security. Meanwhile, India’s social security system ranks dismally low, according to Mercer CFS.
Plight of gig workers and the informal sector
- Gig Workers: Approximately 1.3% of India’s active labor force comprises gig workers, yet they rarely have access to any form of social security benefit. This absence of coverage leaves them without essential protections such as provident funds, pensions, health care, and disability insurance.
- Informal Sector: A staggering 91% of India’s workforce operates within the informal sector, where access to social security remains severely limited. This lack of coverage extends to essentials like provident funds, pensions, health care, and disability insurance, contributing to a vulnerable and marginalized workforce.
Failures within existing social security schemes
- Underutilization of Funds: The National Social Assistance Programme, which aimed to support elderly individuals without able-bodied earners, suffered from stagnant contributions and poor funding allocation. The Center’s contribution to old-age pension schemes remained below minimum wage levels.
- Mismanagement of Funds: Instances of mismanagement are evident in various schemes. The CAG audit revealed that the National Social Security Fund had accumulated Rs. 1,927 crore since its inception, yet the entire amount remained unutilized. Similarly, funds collected for the social security of construction workers in Delhi were poorly utilized, with a significant portion going unspent.
- Beneficiary Mismanagement: The CAG identified instances of funds being transferred to deceased beneficiaries, indicating flaws in the implementation of social security schemes.
Lessons from Brazil’s General Social Security Scheme
- Comprehensive Coverage: Brazil’s General Social Security Scheme offers a contribution-based approach that covers a wide range of situations, including accidents, disabilities, illness, family burdens, and even unemployment. This comprehensive coverage provides income support for workers and their families in various circumstances.
- Government Backing: Brazil’s scheme is designed with provisions for government intervention. In cases where funds are lacking, the National Treasury steps in to ensure that social security benefits are sustained, providing a safety net for workers.
- Ease of Access: The scheme in Brazil allows easy access to social security benefits through simple processes such as phone calls or bank visits. This user-friendly approach reduces bureaucratic hurdles for beneficiaries.
- Inclusivity: The Brazilian scheme extends its coverage to even low-income insured individuals who face incarceration. This inclusive approach ensures that marginalized groups are not left without support.
The Way Forward: Urgent reforms are needed
- Addressing India’s social security crisis necessitates immediate and strategic reforms. Three fundamental principles guide this transformation:
- Expanded Contribution: Enhancing contributions under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) system for formal workers, coupled with partial contributions from informal workers with meaningful income, could lay the foundation for a more inclusive system.
- Government Intervention: The government must intervene to support those who are unemployed or earning insufficiently. Providing social protection to the poorest 20% of the workforce, including elderly, pregnant, and disabled individuals, could amount to approximately ₹1.37 trillion, or approximately 0.69% of GDP in FY20.
- Streamlined Framework: Reforms should streamline and simplify existing schemes, ensuring coverage of all sectors. Establishing a pan-India labor force card and extending successful schemes like the Building and Other Construction Workers Schemes could substantially improve coverage.
Conclusion
- As India transitions towards an aging society, ensuring social security for all workers becomes paramount. The focus must shift from rhetoric to tangible actions. Reforming social security will not only provide a safety net for workers but also contribute to equitable growth. By embracing comprehensive and inclusive policies, India can propel itself towards a more secure and prosperous future.
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