Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NGT
Mains level: NGT, concerns over it's underperformance and need for revival
What is the news?
- There are concerns regarding the underperformance of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) over the past five years which highlights the need for reform and revival.
Central idea
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) plays a crucial role in adjudicating environmental cases in India, upholding the principles of justice and fairness. However, over the past five years, the NGT has faced significant challenges and underperformance. There is need for reform and revival within the NGT, emphasizing the responsibility of lawyers to raise awareness about its shortcomings.
What is NGT?
- The NGT is a specialized judicial body in India established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
- Its primary purpose is to handle cases related to environmental issues and disputes.
- The NGT has jurisdiction over matters concerning the enforcement of environmental laws, conservation of natural resources, and the prevention and control of environmental pollution
Structure of NGT
- Chairperson: The NGT is headed by a Chairperson who is appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The Chairperson holds a significant position of authority and leadership within the tribunal.
- Judicial Members: The NGT consists of Judicial Members who possess legal qualifications and expertise. These members are responsible for adjudicating on environmental cases and applying legal principles to make informed decisions.
- Expert Members: Expert Members are appointed to the NGT to provide specialized knowledge and expertise in specific fields related to the environment. These members bring scientific, technical, or environmental expertise to assist in the decision-making process.
- Selection Committee: A Selection Committee is formed by the Central Government to appoint both the Judicial Members and Expert Members of the NGT. This committee plays a crucial role in the selection process, ensuring the appointment of qualified individuals.
- Tenure and Age Limit: Members of the NGT, including the Chairperson, serve a term of three years or until they reach the age of sixty-five, whichever comes earlier. They are not eligible for reappointment after completing their term.
- Number of Members: The NGT Act specifies that there should be a minimum of ten and a maximum of twenty full-time Judicial Members and Expert Members in the tribunal. The actual number of members may vary within this range based on the requirements and workload of the NGT
Powers & Jurisdiction of NGT
- Jurisdiction over Civil Cases: The NGT has jurisdiction over all civil cases that involve substantial questions related to the environment. This includes matters concerning the enforcement of legal rights associated with the environment.
- Suo Motu Powers: The NGT has been granted “unique” forum status by the Supreme Court, which empowers it with suo motu (on its own motion) powers. This means that the NGT can take up environmental issues across the country without requiring a specific case to be filed before it.
- Adjudicatory and Preventative Roles: The NGT not only performs an adjudicatory function but is also entrusted with vital roles that are preventative, ameliorative, or remedial in nature. This implies that the NGT has a broader mandate beyond purely resolving disputes and is empowered to take preventive or remedial measures to address environmental concerns.
- Appellate Jurisdiction: In addition to its original jurisdiction, where parties can file applications before the NGT, the tribunal also possesses appellate jurisdiction. This means that it can hear appeals as a court (tribunal) on matters within its purview.
- Guided by Principles of Natural Justice: While the NGT is not bound by the procedural rules outlined in the Code of Civil Procedure 1908, it is guided by the principles of natural justice. This ensures fairness and due process in its proceedings and decision-making.
- Principles of Sustainable Development: In making its orders, decisions, or awards, the NGT applies the principles of sustainable development, precautionary principle, and polluter pays principle. These principles guide the tribunal in achieving a balance between environmental protection and development.
- Relief and Compensation: The NGT has the power to provide relief and compensation to victims of pollution and other forms of environmental damage. It can order restitution of damaged property and restoration of the environment in specific areas as it deems appropriate.
- Execution of Orders: The orders, decisions, or awards of the NGT can be executed as decrees of a civil court. This ensures that the directions issued by the tribunal are enforceable and have legal weight.
- Penalty for Non-compliance: The NGT Act provides a procedure for penalties in case of non-compliance. This includes imprisonment for a term that may extend to three years, fines that may extend to ten crore rupees, or both, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
- Laws Covered: The NGT deals with civil cases arising from seven laws related to the environment, including the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977; the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; the Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991; and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
Concerns regarding NGT
- Lack of Judicial Oversight: One of the major concerns raised is the delegation of judicial work to expert committees, which resulted in a lack of judicial oversight. The reports of these committees were often accepted without hearing the affected parties, violating the principles of natural justice. This undermines the fair and transparent functioning of the NGT.
- Violation of Natural Justice: There are concerns regarding the failure to hear the parties affected by the orders issued by the expert committees goes against the basic principles of natural justice. Natural justice dictates that no one should be condemned behind their backs, and all parties should have the opportunity to present their arguments and evidence.
- Questionable Application of Polluter Pays Principle: The concerns have been raised about the application of the Polluter Pays principle by the NGT. There are discrepancies in the self-made report published by the NGT, which fails to acknowledge the outcome of challenges to the orders imposing Environmental Compensation.
- Bias Against Development and Industry: The concern expressed over the term compensation regime used to describe the NGT’s approach during the mentioned tenure. This term suggests a bias against development and industry, which may hinder the balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.
- Credibility and Transparency: The questions raised on the credibility and transparency of the NGT, particularly regarding the self-certification report published on its website. Such self-assessment raises doubts about the objectivity and reliability of the report and undermines the credibility of the NGT as an independent judicial body.
Need for reform and revival of the NGT
- Addressing Underperformance: The NGT has experienced underperformance over the past five years, as mentioned in the article. This can hinder its effectiveness in handling environmental cases and achieving its objectives. Reform is necessary to improve the NGT’s performance and ensure it fulfils its intended purpose.
- Judicial Oversight and Natural Justice: The delegation of judicial work to expert committees and the lack of proper judicial oversight raise concerns about the NGT’s decision-making process. It is important to reform the system to enhance judicial oversight and uphold the principles of natural justice, ensuring fair hearings and comprehensive evaluations of cases.
- Credibility and Transparency: The credibility and transparency of the NGT have been called into question. The publication of a self-made report card exclusively covering the tenure of the outgoing chairperson raises doubts about objectivity and transparency. Reform measures should focus on enhancing the credibility and transparency of the NGT’s operations and decision-making.
- Collaboration and International Standing: Reviving the NGT involves fostering collaborations with national and international organizations, research institutions, and experts. Such collaborations can strengthen the NGT’s knowledge base, exchange best practices, and enhance its standing on the global stage.
- Rebuilding Bar-Bench Relationship: The strained relationship between the bar (lawyers) and bench (NGT members) needs to be addressed. Reviving this relationship is crucial for effective representation of parties involved in environmental cases and to facilitate a constructive dialogue on environmental issues.
- Prioritizing Sustainability and Development Balance: While environmental protection is vital, the NGT’s approach should not be perceived as biased against development and industry. Reforms should strike a balance between environmental conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth and ecological concerns are harmonized.
- Transparent and Accountable Performance Evaluation: The NGT’s performance evaluation should be carried out in a transparent and accountable manner, avoiding any self-certification or subjective assessments. Establishing clear evaluation criteria and mechanisms can help monitor the NGT’s performance objectively.
Conclusion
- The NGT’s underperformance over the past five years necessitates urgent reform and revival. The next Chairperson must restore credibility, transparency, and respect within the institution, while also striking a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. Through these efforts, the NGT can fulfill its vital role in addressing environmental challenges and upholding principles of justice
Also read:
State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Vulnerabilities of urban India to climate change , Mitigation efforts
What is the news?
- The recent floods and extreme weather events in north-western India and Delhi highlight the urgent need for cities across the country to prepare for and adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change.
Central Idea
- As global and local warming intensify, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as floods, water scarcity, and heatwaves will grow exponentially. Our current governance, planning, and infrastructure systems are ill-equipped to handle these rapid changes, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate future disruption
Challenges in urban areas
- Inadequate Water, Sanitation, and Drainage Infrastructure: Urban areas face challenges in providing basic services such as water supply, sanitation, drainage, and wastewater management. The existing infrastructure is often insufficient and struggles to deliver these services effectively.
- Concentration of Population and Economic Output: Cities concentrate a large portion of the population and economic activities, which increases their vulnerability to climate impacts. The dense built-up areas, coupled with poor infrastructure, exacerbate the effects of extreme weather events like flooding, water scarcity, and heatwaves.
- Irrational Land Use and Planning Systems: The irrational land use practices and planning systems worsen the challenges faced by cities. Encroachments, illegal constructions, and improper zoning further amplify the vulnerability of urban areas to climate impacts.
- Vulnerability of Informal Settlements and Slums: Millions of people are forced to live in informal settlements and slums with inadequate infrastructure and services. These areas are highly vulnerable to climate impacts, leading to increased risks and hardships for the residents.
- Impacts on Sensitive Regions: Cities located in sensitive regions along coastlines, rivers, and hills face even more severe impacts due to higher exposure and locational vulnerability. They are more prone to flooding, landslides, and other extreme events.
How to prevent disruptions by flood and extreme weather events?
- Ensuring Effective Drainage Systems:
- Urban civic bodies must conduct regular audits ahead of the monsoon season to ensure stormwater drains, tanks, and lakes are functional and free from obstructions.
- Integrating drainage, water supply, and wastewater systems in the medium term can store intense rainfall, recharge groundwater, and provide better services, ultimately limiting waterborne diseases.
- Improving Road Infrastructure:
- Rapid urban expansion has outpaced planned drainage systems, resulting in roads functioning as makeshift stormwater drains.
- Addressing local flooding requires the improvement of road construction and repair practices. Infrastructure planning and coordination should account for the impact of new constructions, such as flyovers, underpasses, and metro lines, on existing drainage systems to prevent post-flooding traffic bottlenecks.
- Implementing Blue-Green-Grey Infrastructure:
- Adopting blue-green-grey infrastructure, such as green roofs, urban forests, and wetlands, can mitigate flooding, water scarcity, and heatwaves.
- Learning from initiatives like China’s sponge cities and the effective flood defense mechanism provided by East Kolkata’s wetlands, Indian cities should prioritize nature-based solutions.
- Reducing Flood Vulnerability:
- Leveraging high-resolution satellite and topographical data, India can map all its cities and identify flood-prone areas. The focus should then shift to addressing the vulnerability of communities living in these areas, such as those along riverbanks, low-lying regions, and unstable slopes.
- Building community-based resilience and enhancing evacuation strategies will be crucial in minimizing the dislocation of millions during extreme events.
- Strengthening Early Warning Systems:
- Building on the progress made in improving forecasting, early warning, and evacuation systems in large cities like Mumbai and Surat, India must extend these measures to other at-risk areas.
- Additionally, critical services such as cellphone, power, and water supply should be fortified to ensure their resilience and rapid recovery post-disaster
Way forward
- Integrated Climate Action Plans: Develop comprehensive climate action plans involving multiple stakeholders to address floods and extreme weather events.
- Upgrading Infrastructure: Invest in resilient infrastructure, including improved drainage systems, upgraded road infrastructure, and integration of green infrastructure to manage stormwater and reduce flood risks.
- Robust Early Warning Systems: Strengthen early warning systems by improving forecasting capabilities, enhancing communication channels, and conducting regular drills and awareness campaigns.
- Community Engagement and Resilience: Empower local communities, educate residents about flood risks, promote preparedness, and encourage sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and waste management.
- Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Develop and enforce robust policy and regulatory frameworks that integrate climate considerations to prevent encroachments and ensure resilient urban development.
- Climate Financing: Explore climate financing mechanisms and partnerships to secure funding for climate adaptation projects, leveraging national and international funds, private sector entities, and climate finance initiatives.
- Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange: Enhance capacity through training programs and knowledge exchange platforms for urban planners, officials, and community leaders to accelerate the adoption of effective flood and extreme weather mitigation strategies
Conclusion
- Protecting and preparing Indian cities for the future impacts of climate change is imperative. It is crucial to acknowledge that climate change is a harsh reality requiring collective adaptation efforts, regardless of socio-economic status. By implementing these measures, Indian cities can enhance their climate resilience and safeguard the well-being of their inhabitants
Also read:
The lesson from a monsoon-battered North India: Time to be prepared
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: DM and Tb related facts
Mains level: The dual burden of India, TB and Diabetes, Interconnection, challenges and treatment measures
What is the news?
- India has long grappled with two major epidemics: type 2 diabetes (diabetes mellitus, DM) and tuberculosis (TB). With a staggering 74.2 million people living with diabetes and 2.6 million new TB cases each year, it is crucial to understand the deep interconnection between these diseases.
Central Idea
- The diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB) are closely interconnected in India, with DM increasing the risk and severity of TB, and TB co-infection worsening diabetes outcomes. Among people with TB, the prevalence of DM was found to be 25.3% while 24.5% were pre-diabetic. Which highlights the need for urgent action to address this dual burden and improve care coordination for individuals affected by both diseases.
What is type 2 diabetes?
- Type 2 diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus (DM), is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.
- It is the most common form of diabetes and typically develops over time, often in adulthood.
- In type 2 diabetes, the body either becomes resistant to the effects of insulin (a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels) or does not produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels.
What is tuberculosis (TB)?
- TB is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.
- TB is transmitted through the air when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria. When inhaled by others, these droplets can lead to infection
The interconnection and Impact of DM on TB
- Increased Risk of TB: People with DM have a higher risk of developing TB compared to those without DM. DM weakens the immune system and impairs the body’s ability to fight off infections, including TB.
- Increased TB Severity: When individuals with DM acquire TB infection, they tend to have a higher bacterial load, which means there are more TB bacteria in their bodies. This can result in more severe symptoms and complications associated with TB.
- Delayed Sputum Conversion:
- Sputum conversion refers to the transition from having TB bacteria detectable in the sputum (positive) to no longer having detectable bacteria (negative) after initiating treatment.
- Individuals with both TB and DM often experience delayed sputum conversion compared to those with TB alone.
- It means that it takes longer for the TB bacteria to be eliminated from their bodies, prolonging the infectious period and potentially increasing the risk of transmitting the disease to others.
- Altered Treatment Outcomes:
- TB treatment outcomes can be affected by the presence of DM. Individuals with both TB and DM may experience modified TB symptoms, radiological findings, and lung functioning compared to those with TB alone.
- Studies have shown that individuals with TB and DM have reduced lung functioning even after completing TB treatment.
- Respiratory Complications: Individuals with both TB and DM are more prone to experiencing respiratory complications related to TB. Respiratory complications can be a common cause of death in this population, highlighting the increased severity of TB when DM is present.
What measures India must take to combat the dual burden of DM and TB
- Integrated Care: Implement patient-centered care approaches that address the unique needs of individuals with both TB and DM, along with other comorbidities. This includes coordinated diagnosis and treatment, bidirectional screening, patient education, and support.
- Holistic Treatment Plans: Strengthen high-quality care for TB, DM, and associated comorbidities by developing holistic treatment plans. Prioritize individual programs for TB and DM and ensure their integration into healthcare services.
- Resilient Health Systems: Build and scale up resilient and integrated health systems by garnering increased commitment from stakeholders, formulating robust policy guidance, and mobilizing additional resources. These efforts will support the development of effective strategies to combat both diseases.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Enhance the research literature on TB and DM interactions to enable better decision-making. Access to comprehensive data and ongoing studies will provide critical insights for improving patient care and raising awareness of the impact of these interconnected diseases
Conclusion
- The coexistence of diabetes mellitus and tuberculosis in India demands immediate attention. By adopting integrated care models, improving treatment outcomes, and strengthening health systems, we can effectively address the dual burden of DM and TB. It is essential for health professionals, policymakers, and communities to prioritize research, enhance collaboration, and work together to improve the lives of those affected by these intertwined epidemics.
Also read for more details:
Is India a Diabetes capital of the world?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Floods in India: A recurring challenge and measures for flood management and shifting focus towards converting calamity into a valuable resource
What is the news?
- The monsoon season in India this year brought about unprecedented changes, with Mumbai and New Delhi experiencing the onset of rains on the same day after a gap of 61 years.
” Floods are acts of God but flood losses are largely acts of man”
Central idea
- The events of heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding are occurring in various parts of India leading to significant loss of lives, damage to land, and financial losses. This highlighting the inadequacy of India’s hydro-infrastructure for effective flood management and calls for a shift in mindset towards conserving flood flows as a valuable resource
Floods in India: A recurring challenge
- Frequency: India experiences floods on a recurring basis, with at least one major flood event occurring each year. This indicates that floods are not isolated incidents but rather a consistent challenge.
- Loss of Lives: Floods in India lead to the loss of lives, with an average of 1,600 lives being lost annually, according to the National Disaster Management Authority. The loss of human lives highlights the severity and recurring nature of the flood challenge.
- Damage to Land: Floods affect a significant area of land in India, impacting approximately 75 lakh hectares. This demonstrates the recurrent impact of floods on agricultural land, leading to crop damage and agricultural losses.
- Financial Losses: Floods in India cause substantial financial losses, with damages estimated at Rs 1,805 crore. These losses encompass damages to crops, houses, and public utilities, further highlighting the recurring challenge and the need for effective management strategies.
Flood management measures
Structural Measures:
- Storage Reservoirs: These reservoirs are constructed to store excess water during high-flow periods and release it gradually, reducing flood peaks. They also serve as a water source for irrigation, electricity generation, and other purposes.
- Embankments: These structures, also known as levees, act as barriers to prevent floodwaters from encroaching on vulnerable areas such as agricultural lands, cities, and industries.
- Diversions: This measure involves redirecting excess water away from heavily populated or susceptible areas to less vulnerable regions, helping to minimize the impact of flooding.
Non-Structural Measures:
- Flood Forecasting and Warning Systems: These systems use data analysis, weather monitoring, and hydrological modeling to provide advance warnings about potential flood events. They enable timely evacuation of people and movable assets, reducing the risk to life and property.
- Flood Plain Zoning: This measure involves regulating the use of floodplains by restricting human activities and developments in flood-prone areas. By delineating zones based on flood risk, it helps minimize vulnerability and losses associated with floods.
How floods can be a valuable resource?
- Water Storage: Floods can serve as a valuable resource for water storage. By conserving and capturing floodwaters, the excess water can be stored in reservoirs or other storage facilities. This stored water can then be used for various purposes during dry periods, including irrigation, drinking water supply, and industrial needs.
- Drought Mitigation: Conserving flood flows can help mitigate the impact of droughts. By storing excess floodwaters, the saved water can be utilized to partially address water scarcity during drought periods, providing relief to agriculture, communities, and ecosystems that rely on water availability.
- Groundwater Recharge: Floods contribute to the replenishment of groundwater aquifers. The infiltration of floodwaters into the soil helps recharge underground water reserves, ensuring a sustained supply of groundwater for various uses even after the flood event subsides.
- Ecological Benefits: Floods support ecosystems and promote biodiversity. The article mentions that floods bring essential nutrients, sediments, and organic matter to wetlands and riverine habitats, which nourish the ecosystems and support diverse flora and fauna.
- Hydropower Generation: Controlled release of floodwaters can be harnessed for hydropower generation. By utilizing the energy of flowing water, floods can be a valuable resource for producing renewable energy through hydropower projects
Why India needs to upgrade its hydro-infrastructure?
- Inadequate Infrastructure: India’s hydro-infrastructure is currently inadequate for effective flood management. The existing infrastructure, such as storage reservoirs, embankments, and diversions, is not sufficient to address the challenges posed by floods.
- Insufficient Storage Space: The storage space created in major river basins, such as the Ganga and the Brahmaputra, is inadequate for the available flows. This indicates a need to enhance storage capacity to effectively manage floodwaters and maximize their utilization.
- Managing Variabilities: With changing rainfall patterns and intensities due to climate change, the variability of water flows in rivers will increase. Upgrading the hydro-infrastructure is seen as crucial to effectively manage these increasing variabilities and address the resulting challenges of floods and droughts.
- Conservation of Flood Flows: The potential value of conserving flood flows for drought mitigation. Upgrading the hydro-infrastructure would enable the conservation of unutilized flood flows, which can then be stored and utilized during dry periods to partially mitigate droughts.
- Water Security and Resilience: Upgrading the hydro-infrastructure is important for ensuring water security and resilience. It allows for improved water management, including storage, distribution, and utilization, which can reduce dependence on erratic monsoon patterns and enhance the country’s ability to cope with water-related challenges.
- Environmental Considerations: An upgraded hydro-infrastructure should incorporate environmental considerations. This includes preserving ecological flows, minimizing disruptions to ecosystems, and promoting sustainable water management practices.
Way forward: Towards comprehensive flood management
- Shift in Focus: Shifting attention and efforts from flood control to flood management. This involves adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses structural and non-structural measures, as well as integrating environmental considerations.
- Upgrading Hydro-Infrastructure: Upgrading the existing hydro-infrastructure includes increasing storage capacity, improving embankments, and constructing new reservoirs. Upgrades should address the inadequacies of the current infrastructure and consider the potential for conserving flood flows.
- Conserving Flood Flows: By safely storing and utilizing excess floodwaters, damages caused by floods can be reduced, and the saved water can be utilized to partially mitigate droughts. This requires the development of storage facilities and infrastructure to capture and store floodwaters during high-flow periods.
- Integrated Approach: There is need for an integrated approach to flood management. This involves combining structural measures with non-structural measures such as flood forecasting, warning systems, and floodplain zoning. Integration should also consider environmental considerations and the preservation of ecological flows.
- Learning from International Experiences: Learning from international experiences in flood management. This includes evaluating the performance of flood control measures, studying integrated approaches, and understanding how other countries have balanced flood management objectives with environmental concerns.
- Community Engagement and Awareness: Raising awareness about flood risks, promoting community preparedness, and involving local communities in early warning systems and evacuation plans.
- Policy and Governance: There is need for robust policies and governance mechanisms to support comprehensive flood management. This includes incorporating climate change adaptation strategies, promoting multi-stakeholder collaboration, and ensuring environmental safeguards.
- Investment and Resource Allocation: Allocating adequate resources and funding for flood management initiatives. This involves securing financial support for infrastructure upgrades, research and development, capacity building, and community resilience programs.
Conclusion
- It is imperative for India to recognize flood flows as a valuable resource and implement measures that conserve water for subsequent use and water security. By adopting a comprehensive approach, upgrading hydro-infrastructure, and leveraging a mix of structural and non-structural measures, India can effectively mitigate the impacts of floods while ensuring sustainable water management for the future.
Also read:
The lesson from a monsoon-battered North India: Time to be prepared
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Factors attributed Climate change
Mains level: Increasing Trend of Extreme Rainfall and flash floods, its impact and mitigating measures
What is the news?
- Last weekend, parts of North India witnessed heavy rains that triggered flash floods and left a trail of destruction, tragically it resulted in at least 50 reported deaths. Himachal Pradesh was the worst affected. Several places in Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh reported record rainfall.
Central idea
- Last weekend, North India faced a calamity as torrential rains triggered flash floods and wreaked havoc across the region. Understanding the factors that led to this catastrophe is crucial in developing effective strategies to mitigate the impact of such extreme weather events in the future.
Fundamental characteristics of monsoon rainfall in the region
- Concentrated Timeframe: Monsoon rainfall in the region is not evenly distributed throughout the year. Instead, it occurs within a specific timeframe. All the seasonal rainfall (about 80-100 cm) falls within 130-150 hours, which is a relatively short period.
- Heavy Rain Contribution: The heavy rains play a significant role in contributing to the overall seasonal precipitation. Half of the seasonal rainfall (40-50 cm) occurs in only 30-40 hours.
- Runoff: When heavy rains occur, most of the rainwater drains away as runoff, particularly when the soil is already wet. This indicates that a substantial amount of rainfall does not get absorbed into the ground but flows off as surface runoff.
Factors attributed to the Heavy Downpour in north India
- Active Monsoon and Moisture Influx: An active monsoon season with strong winds in the lower air layers brought in moisture from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. These moisture-laden winds contributed to the heavy rainfall in the region.
- Atmospheric Forcing and Eastward Moving Troughs: Large-scale atmospheric forcing, in the form of outflows in the upper layers of the atmosphere, moved eastward through mid-latitude troughs. These troughs directed the flow of moisture towards the Himalayan region, exacerbating the intensity of the rainfall.
- Orographic Uplift and Steep Terrain: The steep terrain of the Himalayas, combined with orographic uplift, played a significant role in intensifying the precipitation. When air masses encounter the mountains, they are forced to rise, resulting in enhanced rainfall.
- Synoptic Conditions and Moisture Intrusion: The synoptic conditions during the period were conducive to heavy rainfall. The monsoon was active, with strong moist easterly winds entering the region. Additionally, there was moisture intrusion from the North Arabian Sea, further augmenting the rainfall.
Increasing Trend of Extreme Rainfall
- Tripled Number of Extreme Rainfall Events: Recent studies indicate that the number of extreme rainfall events, defined as rainfall exceeding 15 cm in 24 hours, has tripled in many parts of the country.
- Prolonged Duration of Rainstorms: The duration of rainstorms has also tripled, indicating that rainfall events are lasting longer, potentially leading to higher rainfall accumulation.
- Decreased Number of Rainy Days and Hours: The total number of rainy days and hours during the monsoon season has decreased. This means that when it does rain, it tends to be in the form of heavy downpours rather than spread out over more frequent but lighter rainfall events.
- Regional Variation: Central India has been particularly affected by the increasing trend of extreme rainfall events, with a significant rise in both frequency and intensity.
- Himalayan Region Prone to Extreme Rainfall: The Himalayan region, with its complex topography and varied weather patterns, is prone to extreme rainfall events. Studies indicate that 65 percent of areas in the region show a positive trend in the frequency of daily rainfall extremes.
Impact of Arctic Warming on Monsoon Climate
- Increased Frequency of Blocking Highs and Mid-latitude Troughs: Arctic warming has been observed to influence the monsoon climate through changes in mid-latitude circulation. As the Arctic warms and sea ice recedes, there is growing evidence of an increased frequency of blocking highs and deep mid-latitude troughs. These atmospheric patterns can affect weather systems and contribute to extreme rainfall events during the monsoon season.
- Influence on Circulation Patterns: Observations and models suggest that Arctic warming can alter circulation patterns, including the movement of air masses, pressure systems, and wind patterns. These changes can have cascading effects on the monsoon climate, including the transport of moisture and atmospheric conditions that contribute to heavy rainfall events.
- Impact on Monsoon Dynamics: The warming of the Arctic and subsequent changes in circulation patterns can affect the dynamics of the monsoon. This can lead to shifts in moisture inflow, atmospheric stability, and the timing and intensity of rainfall during the monsoon season.
- Potential for Future Changes: As Arctic warming continues; it is expected that the impacts on the monsoon climate will persist and potentially intensify. This suggests that the influence of Arctic warming on the monsoon may contribute to further changes in extreme precipitation patterns and associated impacts in the future.
Way forward: Mitigation Strategies for Flooding
- Robust Early Warning System: Implement a comprehensive early warning system that utilizes meteorological observations, including Doppler weather radar and high-resolution numerical weather prediction models. Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning can aid in interpreting the data, enhancing the accuracy and timeliness of alerts.
- Continuous Monitoring and Flood Warning Systems: Continuously monitor rainfall patterns, river levels, and deploy an advanced flood warning system. This integrated approach allows for timely response and evacuation plans to safeguard vulnerable communities.
- Flood Risk Maps: Develop flood risk maps incorporating topography, historical flood data, and hydrological modeling. These maps can identify high-risk zones and guide targeted actions to enhance preparedness and resilience.
- Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Improve and maintain climate-resilient infrastructure, including robust drainage systems and channels, to prevent waterlogging and minimize flood damage.
- Land Use Planning and Zoning Regulations: Implement effective land use planning and zoning regulations, designating flash flood-prone areas as non-residential or restricted zones to mitigate potential risks.
- Protection and Restoration of Natural Ecosystems: Prioritize the protection and restoration of natural ecosystems such as forests and wetlands. These natural buffers can absorb rainfall and reduce runoff, mitigating the intensity of floods.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Conduct widespread awareness campaigns to educate individuals on flood response and preparedness. Encourage actions such as evacuation planning, first aid knowledge, and reliance on credible sources of information during emergencies
Conclusion
- Recognizing the escalating threat of extreme precipitation events and implementing proactive measures are pivotal in improving India’s resilience to climate-induced disasters. Building resilience is crucial to safeguarding vulnerable communities and ensuring a sustainable future for the nation.
Also read:
[Burning issue] Urban Floods in India
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Finance Commissions
Mains level: Finance Commissions and its role, recommendations and challenges in implementation
What is the news?
- This article critically examines the historical outcomes of the 13th FC and underscores the need for realistic expectations regarding the forthcoming 16th FC
Central idea
- The Finance Commissions (FC) in India play a crucial role in determining the fiscal framework for resource allocation between the Union and state governments. Established under Article 280 of the Constitution, the FCs provide recommendations on vertical devolution, horizontal distribution, and grants-in-aid. However, the effectiveness of these recommendations in achieving their intended objectives remains a matter of contention
Purpose and Scope of Finance Commissions
- Finance Commissions are constituted under Article 280 of the Constitution and their recommendations encompass three key areas: vertical devolution, horizontal distribution, and grant-in-aid.
- Vertical devolution focuses on Union to state transfers
- Horizontal distribution involves the allocation of resources between states based on a specific formula.
- Grant-in-aid, covered under Article 275, provides financial assistance to states deemed in need.
- It is important to note the distinction between grants and grant-in-aid, as the latter operates at arm’s length and offers more flexibility in terms of control.
Recommendations of the previous Finance Commission
13th Finance Commission Recommendations:
- Increase the number of court working hours using existing infrastructure.
- Enhance support to Lok Adalats.
- Provide additional funding to State Legal Services Authorities to enhance legal aid for the marginalized.
- Promote the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
- Enhance the capacity of judicial officers and public prosecutors through training programs.
- Support the creation of a judicial academy in every state for training purposes.
- Allocate funds for the setting up of specialized courts.
15th Finance Commission Recommendations:
- Gather quantifiable data on the level of various services available in different states.
- Collect corresponding unit cost data to estimate cost disabilities among states.
- Fill gaps in statistical data through the efforts of the Ministry of Statistics.
Challenges encountered in the implementation of Finance Commission recommendations
- Lack of Implementation of Homilies: The recommendations made by Finance Commissions, both at the Union and state levels, are often ignored as mere pious intentions. This indicates a lack of commitment and follow-through in translating the recommendations into concrete actions.
- Conditionalities and Expenditure Restrictions: The objections raised by some states in the article indicate challenges related to conditionalities attached to grants. Conditionalities may restrict the expenditure options of states, creating obstacles in implementing the recommended reforms.
- Inadequate Resource Allocation: The allocated funds for specific reforms may not be sufficient, leading to inadequate implementation. Financial constraints and competing budgetary priorities can limit the availability of resources needed to effectively execute the recommended measures.
- Lack of Coordination: The implementation of Finance Commission recommendations requires cooperation between the Union and state governments. Any lack of coordination or disagreements between these entities can hinder the execution of reforms
Way forward: Need for realistic expectations regarding the forthcoming 16th FC
- Acknowledging Implementation Challenges: Recognize the challenges and complexities involved in implementing Finance Commission recommendations, such as coordination issues, administrative capacity, and resistance to change. This understanding will help shape realistic expectations and strategies for addressing these challenges.
- Strengthening Implementation Mechanisms: Focus on improving the implementation mechanisms and processes. This includes enhancing coordination and cooperation between the Union and state governments, strengthening administrative capacity at all levels, and streamlining the implementation of conditionalities to facilitate smoother execution.
- Robust Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress and outcomes of implemented reforms. Regular assessment will help identify implementation gaps and provide opportunities for course correction and improvement.
- Building Stakeholder Consensus: Foster stakeholder engagement and consensus-building to ensure the buy-in and ownership of recommended reforms. Engage relevant stakeholders, including government departments, civil society organizations, and local communities, to create a shared vision and collective commitment towards implementation.
- Learning from Past Experiences: Analyze past experiences and identify the reasons behind the limited implementation of previous recommendations. This will help inform future strategies, learning from the challenges faced and replicating successful implementation models.
- Advocacy and Public Awareness: Create awareness among the public about the importance of Finance Commission recommendations and their impact on governance and development. Foster advocacy efforts to generate public support and hold governments accountable for implementing the recommended reforms.
Conclusion
- Finance Commissions in India fulfill a critical role in determining fiscal transfers between the Union and state governments. However, the implementation of their recommendations often falls short of expectations due to various challenges and limitations. By critically analyzing the past experiences of Finance Commissions, it becomes evident that a more pragmatic approach is necessary to align expectations with the actual outcomes.
Also read:
Finance Commission and the Challenges of Fiscal Federalism
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: South China Sea issue, Significance of India Philippines maritime relations
What is the news?
- During the fifth meeting of the Philippines-India Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in New Delhi on June 29, the Foreign Ministers of India and the Philippines, S. Jaishankar and Enrique Manalo, respectively, discussed enhancing the bilateral partnership between the two countries. The meeting focused on maritime cooperation and addressing the South China Sea issue
Central Idea
- With a shared history of diplomatic relations spanning nearly 75 years and common maritime interests, the External Affairs Minister of India, S. Jaishankar, and the Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, Enrique Manalo, laid out a roadmap to enhance the bilateral partnership in the 21st century.
Significance and developments emerged from the meeting
- Establishment of a resident defense attaché office in Manila: The decision to open a resident defense attaché office in Manila reflects a deeper commitment to defense cooperation between India and the Philippines. This move will facilitate closer coordination, information sharing, and joint defense initiatives.
- Increased collaboration between the Coast Guards: The Coast Guards of India and the Philippines will enhance their collaboration, aiming to strengthen maritime security in the region. This includes joint patrols, information exchange, and joint operations to combat maritime threats.
- Manila’s acquisition of naval assets with concessional credit from India: To bolster its maritime capabilities, the Philippines will acquire naval assets with the help of a concessional line of credit extended by India. This support will enhance the Philippines’ maritime defense capabilities and contribute to maintaining regional stability.
- Expanded training and joint exercises on maritime security and disaster responses: Both countries will expand their training programs and conduct joint exercises focused on maritime security and disaster response. This cooperation will enhance operational readiness and preparedness to address maritime challenges, including disaster relief efforts.
The South China Sea issue: A significant topic of discussion
- Agreement on regional and multilateral issues: Both India and the Philippines reached an agreement on regional and multilateral matters, particularly emphasizing the importance of maritime highways like the South China Sea.
- India’s position on international law and the 2016 Arbitral Award:
- India reiterated its consistent position of adhering to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
- Notably, India made an unambiguous call to respect the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, which represents a departure from India’s previous stance.
- This shift signifies India’s recognition of the legitimacy of the Arbitral Award.
- Background of the Arbitration Case: The Philippines had submitted a case for arbitration to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) to address its disputes with China in the South China Sea. Despite China’s formal withdrawal from the arbitration, the proceedings continued under UNCLOS guidelines.
- Key findings of the Arbitral Award:
- The PCA’s Award, released on July 12, 2016, rejected China’s claims of historical rights in the South China Sea.
- The tribunal determined that any claims to resources within the nine-dash line were unfounded.
- It also found that China had violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) through various actions, including interfering with fishing and petroleum exploration, constructing artificial islands, and failing to prevent Chinese fishermen from operating in the zone.
What is Quiet diplomacy?
- Quiet diplomacy refers to a diplomatic approach that focuses on behind-the-scenes negotiations and discussions conducted discreetly, away from public attention and media scrutiny.
- It involves engaging in diplomatic efforts through confidential channels, informal dialogues, and private meetings to address sensitive issues and resolve conflicts.
How Quiet diplomacy could ease South China Sea tensions
- Confidence-Building Measures: Quiet diplomacy can facilitate the implementation of confidence-building measures among the claimant states. This can include agreements on joint military exercises, information sharing, or cooperative initiatives aimed at reducing tensions and building trust.
- Open Communication: Quiet diplomacy allows for confidential and discreet communication between stakeholders, such as China and the claimant states. It provides a platform for open dialogue where concerns and perspectives can be expressed, leading to better understanding and the potential for resolving differences.
- Mediation and Facilitation: Quiet diplomacy may involve the engagement of neutral third-party mediators or facilitators who can assist in bridging differences and guiding the negotiation process. These mediators can provide a neutral perspective, offer expertise, and help facilitate constructive dialogue among the stakeholders.
- Informal Track-II Diplomacy: Quiet diplomacy encourages informal exchanges and dialogues between academic experts, think tanks, and non-governmental organizations. These interactions can provide alternative perspectives, generate innovative ideas, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
- Crisis Management: Quiet diplomacy can be applicable during times of crisis or heightened tensions in the South China Sea. It allows for confidential crisis management talks between relevant parties, enabling swift and discreet negotiations to de-escalate tensions and seek temporary agreements
Way forward
- Dialogue for Conflict Resolution: The South China Sea issue requires a political framework and dialogue for resolution. Leaders of ASEAN nations are encouraged to engage in “quiet diplomacy to find a political solution, as legal methods may have limitations. Dialogue provides an opportunity for peaceful conflict resolution through negotiations and diplomatic channels.
- Emphasis on a Code of Conduct: The establishment of a legally binding code of conduct is crucial for managing the South China Sea issue. ASEAN leaders are called upon to work towards developing and implementing such a code. A code of conduct can provide guidelines and rules to manage disputes, reduce tensions, and promote stability in the region.
- Regional Unity and Cooperation: Regional cooperation and unity among ASEAN nations are essential to address the South China Sea issue effectively. Greater understanding and coordination among ASEAN members can strengthen their negotiating position and foster a united front in dealing with challenges related to territorial claims and maritime security.
- Respect for International Law: Upholding international law, including UNCLOS, is emphasized in the article. Countries are encouraged to respect legal and diplomatic channels, adhere to their obligations under UNCLOS, and uphold the rights of coastal states. Adherence to international law is essential for maintaining stability, resolving disputes, and promoting a rules-based order in the South China Sea.
Conclusion
- By committing to a rules-based order and emphasizing the significance of international law, India underscores its commitment to regional stability and peace. The need for dialogue, political frameworks, and unity among ASEAN nations is crucial to achieving a peaceful resolution in the South China Sea, protecting vital maritime commons, and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of global trade.
Also read:
India’s Initiative for ASEAN Women in UN Peacekeeping
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Challenges faced by India's manufacturing sector, declining productivity, and its impact on employment and economy
What is the news?
- According to a recent study Productivity growth in Indian manufacturing has been slowing since the 1990s, with a more pronounced decline in the years leading up to the Covid-19 pandemic. Exploring the causes behind this decline is crucial to develop effective strategies for revitalizing the sector.
Central idea
- India’s manufacturing sector has long been a matter of concern for policymakers and the subject of extensive academic research. The government has consistently aimed to increase the share of manufacturing in the country’s GDP. However, despite efforts to promote manufacturing, the sector’s contribution and overall employment has remained stagnant.
Key Facts about Manufacturing Productivity in India
- Slowing Growth: Productivity growth in India’s manufacturing sector has been declining since the 1990s, with a significant acceleration in the mid-2010s and leading up to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Gap with the United States: India’s manufacturing productivity per worker is considerably lower compared to the United States. In 2020, it was only around a fifth of the productivity level in the US.
- Regional Disparities: There are wide variations in manufacturing productivity across Indian states. Western and Central Indian states tend to have higher average productivity, while Southern and Eastern states have lower productivity levels. This contrasts with the GDP per capita rankings, where Southern states generally have higher incomes than their Western and Central counterparts.
Potential reasons behind the decline in manufacturing productivity
- Slow Manufacturing Sector Growth: The overall growth rate of India’s manufacturing sector has been decreasing, particularly since around 2015. This sluggish growth can limit the opportunities for productivity improvement and hinder overall sector performance.
- Insufficient Investments: Inadequate investments in technology, infrastructure, and research and development (R&D) can hamper productivity growth. Limited capital expenditure by firms may result in outdated machinery, inefficient processes, and lower productivity levels.
- Skill Mismatch: The manufacturing sector requires a specific skill set, and a mismatch between the skills possessed by the labor force and the skills demanded by the industry can impede productivity. The lack of trained and skilled workers in areas such as advanced manufacturing techniques, automation, and specialized operations may contribute to lower productivity levels.
- Informality and Informal Labor Market: The prevalence of informal employment in the manufacturing sector can hinder productivity growth. Informal workers often lack access to training, social security benefits, and stable employment conditions, which can lead to lower productivity levels compared to formal employment arrangements.
- Regulatory Challenges: Cumbersome regulatory processes, including complex labor laws, bureaucratic red tape, and regulatory compliance burdens, can hamper productivity growth. These challenges may discourage investment and hinder the adoption of efficient production practices.
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Inadequate infrastructure, such as poor transportation networks, unreliable power supply, and limited access to technology and connectivity, can negatively impact manufacturing productivity. Insufficient infrastructure can increase costs, disrupt supply chains, and hinder efficiency in production processes.
- Inefficient Supply Chains: Weak linkages and coordination within supply chains can contribute to lower productivity in manufacturing. Challenges such as fragmented value chains, inefficient logistics, and inadequate coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors can result in delays, increased costs, and reduced overall productivity.
- Lack of Innovation and Technology Adoption: Limited emphasis on innovation, research, and development, as well as a slower adoption of advanced technologies, can constrain productivity growth in the manufacturing sector. Insufficient investment in technological upgrades and a reluctance to adopt new manufacturing techniques can lead to lower productivity compared to global standards.
Implications of Declining manufacturing productivity
- Economic Growth: Declining manufacturing productivity can hinder overall economic growth.
- Reduced Competitiveness: Declining productivity in manufacturing can erode a country’s competitiveness in the global market. This can lead to a decline in exports and an increase in imports, negatively impacting the trade balance and potentially affecting the overall economic stability of a nation.
- Employment and Labor Market Challenges: Lower productivity can result in reduced job creation within the manufacturing sector, leading to unemployment or underemployment.
- Technological Progression: When productivity declines, the incentives for firms to invest in research and development or adopt new technologies may diminish, leading to a slower pace of technological advancement within the manufacturing sector.
- Industrial Development and Diversification: A decline in productivity can hinder the growth and diversification of the manufacturing sector, limiting its ability to contribute to overall industrial development.
- Investment and Innovation: Declining productivity in manufacturing can discourage investment and innovation within the sector.
- Sectoral Shifts: Declining manufacturing productivity may result in a shift towards other sectors of the economy. If manufacturing becomes less competitive and less productive, resources and investments may be redirected to other sectors such as services.
What can be done?
- Boost Investments: Encouraging both domestic and foreign investments in the manufacturing sector can help upgrade infrastructure, improve technology adoption, and enhance productivity. This can be achieved through attractive investment policies, tax incentives, and easing of regulatory procedures.
- Skill Development and Training: Focusing on skill development programs tailored to the manufacturing sector can address the skill mismatch and enhance the capabilities of the workforce. Collaborating with educational institutions and industry associations to design training programs and apprenticeships can ensure a skilled labor force.
- Infrastructure Development: Prioritizing infrastructure development, including transportation networks, power supply, logistics, and digital connectivity, is essential for improving productivity. Investment in infrastructure projects can create an enabling environment for manufacturing activities and reduce operational inefficiencies.
- Regulatory Reforms: Streamlining regulatory processes, reducing bureaucratic complexities, and simplifying labor laws can create a business-friendly environment. Establishing a favorable regulatory framework can attract investments, foster innovation, and enhance productivity in the manufacturing sector.
- Research and Development (R&D): Encouraging R&D activities and innovation in the manufacturing sector can lead to technological advancements and productivity gains. Collaborations between industry, research institutions, and academia can facilitate knowledge transfer and promote innovation-driven manufacturing.
- Entrepreneurship and Start-up Ecosystem: Supporting entrepreneurship and nurturing a vibrant start-up ecosystem in manufacturing can bring fresh ideas, innovation, and competitiveness. Providing access to finance, mentorship programs, and incubation support can encourage entrepreneurial growth and drive productivity.
- International Collaborations: Strengthening international collaborations and partnerships can facilitate knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and best practice sharing. Engaging with global manufacturing networks can help Indian manufacturers learn from successful models and adapt to global standards.
Conclusion
- The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for policy interventions to address the challenges faced by India’s manufacturing sector. Encouraging investments in workers, improving labor market conditions, and promoting a conducive business environment are crucial steps that can help revitalize India’s manufacturing sector, enhance productivity, and lift millions out of poverty.
Also read:
Revisiting India’s Manufacturing Dilemma: A Call for Comprehensive Ecosystem Development
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NFHS report
Mains level: India's progress and challenges in family planning and the concept of Reproductive autonomy,
Why is this news?
- India’s progress in family planning initiatives and achievements in areas such as life expectancy, maternal health, and gender empowerment. Instead of ensuring reproductive autonomy for each woman, society has obsessed with total fertility rates and the ideal population size of a family.
Central Idea
- The theme of this year’s World Population Day, Unleashing the power of gender equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock our world’s infinite possibilities, holds significant relevance for India. In order to foster women-led development across various sectors in India, it is imperative to prioritize reproductive autonomy as a core component.
What is mean by reproductive autonomy?
- Reproductive autonomy refers to an individual’s right and ability to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive health and choices without interference, coercion, or discrimination.
- It encompasses the freedom to decide whether or when to have children, the number of children to have, and the spacing between pregnancies.
- Reproductive autonomy includes access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including family planning methods, contraceptives, sexual education, prenatal care, safe abortion services, and support for reproductive health decisions.
India’s progress in family planning
- Family planning initiatives: India has been commended for its family planning initiatives, aiming to provide comprehensive reproductive health services to every potential beneficiary.
- Reproductive health services: Efforts have been made to expand the contraceptive basket and provide a range of modern short and long-acting reversible contraceptives, permanent methods, information, counseling, and services, including emergency contraception.
- Maternal health improvements: India has made impressive strides in maternal health, as reflected in the significant reduction in maternal mortality rates. The current rate stands at 97 per 100,000 live births, down from 254 in 2004.
- Gender empowerment: India has achieved progress in empowering women and girls. The number of child marriages has been cut in half since the early 2000s, and teen pregnancies have significantly decreased.
- Access to vital services: India has witnessed improved access to crucial services, including health, education, and nutrition.
- Longer life expectancy: Life expectancy at birth has significantly increased in India over the years, with Indians now living a decade longer compared to the 1990s.
What are the Challenges?
- Lack of physical autonomy: Despite the progress made, many women in India continue to lack physical autonomy.
- Limited decision-making power: According to the National Family Health Survey, only 10% of women in India are independently able to make decisions about their own health.
- Acceptance of marital violence: The survey also reveals that 11% of women believe that marital violence is acceptable if a woman refuses to have sex with her husband.
- Unplanned pregnancies: Nearly half of all pregnancies in India are unplanned, highlighting a challenge in ensuring effective family planning services and education.
- Ongoing gender disparities: While progress has been made, there are persistent gender disparities and inequalities that need to be addressed to achieve true gender equality.
- Societal attitudes: Attitudes and societal norms that perpetuate gender-based discrimination and violence continue to pose challenges to women’s empowerment.
Opportunities for India
- Advancing gender equality: India has a significant opportunity to advance gender equality, which can have far-reaching positive effects on various aspects of society, including economic growth, social progress, and inclusive development.
- Economic growth potential: By increasing women’s labor force participation by 10 percentage points, India could unlock significant economic growth potential. It is estimated that this could contribute to more than 70% of the potential GDP growth, amounting to an additional $770 billion by 2025.
- Human capital development: Empowering women through education and family planning can lead to the accumulation of human capital, which is crucial for sustainable development and economic progress.
- Harnessing women’s potential: By enabling women to participate fully in various sectors, including science, technology, agriculture, education, and healthcare, India can tap into the immense talent, ideas, and innovation that women bring to the table.
- Rights-based legislation and policies: India has the opportunity to formulate and implement legislation and policies that empower women, girls, and marginalized individuals, enabling them to assert their rights and make life-changing personal decisions.
- Inclusive economic development: Promoting gender equality and empowering women can contribute to inclusive economic development by ensuring equal opportunities and participation for all segments of society.
- Shifting population dynamics: By focusing on reproductive choices and ensuring reproductive autonomy for individuals, India can shape its population dynamics in a way that respects individual rights and choices, while also addressing demographic challenges.
Way forward
- Investments in women’s lives: Ensuring gender equality and empowering women requires making investments in every stage of a woman’s life, from childbirth to adolescence to maturity. This includes providing access to quality education, healthcare, and support systems that enable women to make informed choices and assert their rights.
- Legislation and policies: Formulating and implementing rights-based legislation and policies that empower women, girls, and marginalized individuals is crucial. This involves engaging with these groups, understanding their needs, and creating an enabling environment that supports their rights and decision-making.
- Comprehensive reproductive health services: Continued efforts should be made to provide comprehensive reproductive health services that are accessible, affordable, and of high quality. This includes expanding the contraceptive basket, ensuring access to family planning methods, information, counseling, and emergency contraception.
- Gender-just approaches: Adopting gender-just approaches and solutions is essential for building a prosperous and inclusive India. This involves challenging societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender discrimination and violence, and promoting gender equality as a fundamental value.
- Population and development discourse: Reaffirming the commitment to placing individual rights, particularly women’s rights and well-being, at the center of the population and development discourse is crucial. Shifting the focus from population stabilization to respecting reproductive choices and promoting reproductive autonomy is essential.
Conclusion
- On this World Population Day, let us reiterate our commitment to placing individual rights, particularly women’s rights and well-being, at the forefront of population and development discourse. Embracing gender-just approaches and solutions is essential for building a prosperous India and a better world for all.
Also read:
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AI generative models, Latest AI applications
Mains level: Artificial Intelligence and generative models, Benefits, challenges, way ahead
What is the news?
- The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and generative AI models and its impact on productivity, growth, and employment is explored, with a focus on the positive effects, potential job displacement, and opportunities for India, while dispelling fears of a robot-dominated future.
Central Idea
- The rapid advancements in AI, particularly in the form of Large Language Models and Generative AI, have revolutionized various aspects of our lives. From automated factories to self-driving cars and chatbots, AI has extended its influence beyond our expectations.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
- AI is a constellation of technologies that enable machines to act with higher levels of intelligence and emulate the human capabilities of sense, comprehend and act.
- An AI system can also take action through technologies such as expert systems and inference engines or undertake actions in the physical world.
- These human-like capabilities are augmented by the ability to learn from experience and keep adapting over time.
What is generative AI?
- Like other forms of artificial intelligence, generative AI learns how to take actions from past data.
- It creates brand new content – a text, an image, even computer code – based on that training, instead of simply categorizing or identifying data like other AI.
- The most famous generative AI application is ChatGPT, a chatbot that Microsoft-backed OpenAI released late last year.
- The AI powering it is known as a large language model because it takes in a text prompt and from that writes a human-like response.
Potential positive economic impact of AI
- PwC Report: The PwC report predicted an increase in global GDP by 14% or $15.7 trillion by 2030 due to ongoing technological advancements in AI. It also suggests that the greatest economic gains from AI will come from China, with a projected 26% boost to GDP by 2030.
- Goldman Sachs Research: According to the Goldman Sachs Research report, generative AI alone could raise global GDP by 7% or almost $7 trillion over a 10-year period.
- Forum for the Kent A. Clark Center for Global Markets Survey: The survey conducted among economic experts revealed that 44% of U.S. experts expected a substantial increase in GDP per capita due to AI, while 34% of European experts expected the same.
Positive effects of AI adoption
- Increased productivity: A study conducted by economists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) called Generative AI at Work revealed that AI tools improved worker productivity by 14% and enhanced consumer satisfaction among customer service agents.
- Improved consumer satisfaction: AI tools have contributed to better treatment of customer service agents, leading to improved consumer satisfaction.
- Employee retention: The use of AI tools in the workplace has been associated with increased employee retention rates, possibly due to the enhanced productivity and job satisfaction resulting from AI support.
- Faster and smarter work: A recent survey among employees of LinkedIn’s top 50 companies in the United States shows that almost 70% of them found AI helping them to be faster, smarter, and more productive
- Potential for significant GDP growth: Research by PwC suggests that ongoing advancements in AI could lead to a projected increase in global GDP by 14% or $15.7 trillion by 2030.
- Creation of human-like output: Generative AI has the potential to generate human-like output, which can have positive macroeconomic effects by facilitating better communication and interaction between humans and machines.
Employment challenges
- Labor replacement: AI technologies have the capability to automate both repetitive and creative tasks, potentially leading to the displacement of certain jobs.
- Negative impact on wages and employment: Studies indicate that the adoption of robots and automation can have a negative effect on wages, employment, and the labor share. This impact is particularly observed among blue-collar workers and those with lower levels of education.
- Wage inequality: Automation and AI contribute to wage inequality by affecting worker groups specializing in routine tasks. Changes in the wage structure over the last few decades can be attributed to the decline in wages for workers engaged in routine tasks in industries undergoing automation.
- Intensified competition and winner-takes-all scenario: The adoption of AI may intensify competition among firms, potentially leading to a winner-takes-all scenario where early adopters gain significant advantages.
- Displacement of middle-class jobs: AI technologies, especially in white-collar industries, may displace middle-class jobs, posing challenges for those in such occupations. The impact of AI on middle-class employment remains uncertain, potentially leading to job losses in these sectors.
Opportunities for India
- Embracing the demographic dividend: India’s large population presents an opportunity to leverage the demographic dividend. By investing in AI education and training, India can harness the potential of its workforce and utilize AI to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities.
- Focus on online education: The pandemic has increased acceptance and reliance on online education. India can take advantage of this trend and utilize online platforms to offer AI education and reach a wider audience, further accelerating the adoption of AI skills across the country.
- Potential economic gains: The PwC report suggests that China is projected to experience the greatest economic gains from AI. However, India can still benefit by focusing on AI education, innovation, and creating an ecosystem that fosters AI-driven growth. By doing so, India can tap into the economic benefits associated with AI and boost its own GDP.
Way forward
- Collaborative approach: Governments, industry, academia, and civil society should collaborate to shape the future of AI in a manner that benefits society as a whole. Open dialogues, partnerships, and knowledge sharing can drive responsible AI development.
- Lifelong learning: Promoting a culture of lifelong learning and continuous skill development is crucial. This includes investing in education and training programs that cater to the changing demands of the AI-driven job market.
- Regulatory frameworks: Governments need to develop agile regulatory frameworks that strike a balance between innovation and accountability. These frameworks should be adaptable to evolving technologies and address potential risks associated with AI.
- Research and innovation: Continued research and investment in AI can drive innovation, especially in areas such as explainable AI, ethics, and responsible AI practices. Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting AI research can lead to breakthroughs in addressing challenges and maximizing benefits.
- Inclusive approach: Ensuring inclusivity in AI development and deployment is vital. Diversity in AI teams and the inclusion of diverse perspectives can help mitigate biases and ensure AI systems serve the needs of all individuals and communities.
Conclusion
- Artificial Intelligence has permeated various sectors of the global economy, offering substantial benefits in terms of productivity and growth. While concerns regarding job displacement persist, the full extent of AI’s impact on employment remains uncertain. Governments should proactively address the challenges posed by AI while promoting education and training in AI-related fields.
Also read:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare: Applications, Concerns and regulations
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: public health surveillance models
Mains level: wastewater surveillance and its benefits, public health surveillance mechanism, challenges and innovative models
What’s the news?
- A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health has reintroduced wastewater surveillance as a powerful strategy for public health surveillance.
Central idea
- In 1854, during a cholera outbreak in London, physician John Snow traced the epidemic to a contaminated water pump, highlighting the importance of disease prevention. Today, advancements in public health surveillance present new opportunities to detect outbreaks early. Wastewater surveillance, a cost-effective approach, has gained prominence in tracking diseases like poliovirus and SARS-CoV-2.
What is mean by Wastewater Surveillance?
- Wastewater surveillance refers to the monitoring and analysis of wastewater samples to gather information about the presence and spread of disease-causing agents, such as viruses or bacteria, within a community.
- It involves systematically sampling and testing wastewater from various sources, such as sewage systems or wastewater ponds. The samples are then analyzed in designated laboratories to identify specific markers or genetic fragments of pathogens.
Benefits of Wastewater Surveillance
- Early Outbreak Detection: Wastewater surveillance detects disease-causing agents before clinical cases are reported, enabling prompt response and containment measures.
- Community-Level Monitoring: Analyzing wastewater samples offers insights into overall community health, aiding in disease trend identification and targeted interventions.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Wastewater surveillance eliminates the need for individual samples, reducing costs associated with collection, testing, and analysis.
- Complementary to Clinical Data: Wastewater surveillance provides additional information beyond clinical data, capturing asymptomatic cases and enhancing disease prevalence understanding.
- Early Warning System: Specific genetic markers or pathogen fragments found in wastewater samples can serve as an alert for potential disease outbreaks.
- Surveillance in Resource-Limited Areas: Wastewater surveillance helps monitor disease occurrence in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities, enabling prioritized resource allocation.
- Evidence-Based Decision Making: Integrating wastewater surveillance data with other sources informs data-driven decisions for disease control, resource allocation, and targeted interventions.
Challenges in India’s public health surveillance system
- Uneven Coverage: The public health surveillance system in India does not provide uniform coverage across the country. Rural and remote areas often lack adequate surveillance infrastructure and resources, resulting in limited data collection and monitoring capabilities in these regions.
- Fragmented and Siloed Efforts: Disease surveillance efforts in India are often fragmented and focused on specific diseases or health conditions. This siloed approach makes it difficult to detect and respond to emerging health threats comprehensively.
- Inadequate Data Sharing: In India, there are challenges in sharing data between different levels of government and across departments, hindering the seamless flow of information necessary for early detection and response.
- Limited Diagnostic and Laboratory Capacity: India’s public health laboratory infrastructure and diagnostic capacity need significant improvements. Inadequate resources, outdated equipment, and a shortage of trained personnel can hamper timely and accurate testing.
- Underreporting and Data Quality Issues: Underreporting of diseases and inconsistent data quality pose significant challenges in India’s public health surveillance system.
- Limited Use of Advanced Technologies: The adoption of advanced technologies, such as real-time data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, is limited in India’s public health surveillance system.
How India can enhance its epidemiological capabilities?
- Incorporate Wastewater Surveillance into Reporting: Efforts should be made to incorporate wastewater surveillance data into existing surveillance reporting systems.
- Integration with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which aims to create a seamless online platform for healthcare services, offers an opportunity for the integration of wastewater surveillance.
- Strengthen Public Health Laboratory Networks: Efforts should be made to strengthen public health laboratory networks by incorporating the testing of wastewater samples into surveillance reporting. This can be achieved by providing the necessary resources, equipment, and trained personnel to conduct wastewater testing.
- Training of Public Health Professionals: Public health professionals should receive training not only in traditional epidemiological methods but also in the management and interpretation of data derived from wastewater surveillance.
- Data Management and Analysis: Develop robust data management systems to collect, store, and analyze wastewater surveillance data. This may involve creating dedicated databases or integrating wastewater surveillance data into existing surveillance information systems.
Need for Political backing and adequate funding for the successful integration of wastewater surveillance
- India’s Commitment to Public Health Surveillance: India has already demonstrated its commitment to public health surveillance and resource mobilization. It is essential for political leaders to recognize the potential of wastewater surveillance as an effective tool for disease monitoring and response.
- Niti Aayog’s Vision: The integration of wastewater surveillance aligns with Niti Aayog’s vision. Political leaders can provide strategic guidance and policy support to ensure the inclusion of wastewater surveillance in the national public health agenda
- International Platforms and Leadership: India’s leadership at international platforms like the G20 provides an opportunity to elevate the significance of innovative approaches to disease surveillance, including wastewater surveillance. Political leaders can leverage these platforms to advocate for enhanced public health surveillance and secure international commitments and support.
- Resource Allocation: Adequate funding is essential to implement wastewater surveillance effectively. Political leaders should allocate sufficient resources to build and strengthen laboratory networks, develop wastewater sampling infrastructure, and train public health professionals in data analysis and interpretation.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Political leaders can facilitate partnerships between the public and private sectors to enhance funding for wastewater surveillance.
Conclusion
- The inclusion of wastewater surveillance in India’s public health infrastructure holds great promise for enhancing disease prevention and control. Through strategic leadership, India has the potential to set a precedent in integrated public health surveillance, creating a model that prioritizes proactive measures, timely response, and a resilient healthcare system.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SCO
Mains level: Significance of SCO, challenges within and way forward
Central idea
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual summit with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) holds immense significance. With the participation of key leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the meeting is poised to address crucial regional issues.
Relevance of the topic
- India’s strained relations with neighbouring countries and the ongoing war in Europe.
- Negotiations and meetings of SCO hold significance for India specifically related to the India-china relations and border standoff
Significance of the Meeting for India
- Regional Engagement: As the host of the SCO meeting, India has the opportunity to actively engage with key regional players, including Russia, China, and Central Asian countries. This engagement allows India to strengthen its relations with neighboring nations and enhance regional cooperation on various fronts.
- Showcase of Strategic Autonomy: India’s successful visit to the United States prior to the SCO summit highlights its ability to maintain positive relations with global powers while actively participating in regional groupings like the SCO. This demonstrates India’s strategic autonomy and self-assuredness, reinforcing its position as a reliable and influential player in global affairs.
- Voice of Reason: PM Modi’s previous statement to President Putin, emphasizing that this is not the era of war, showcased India’s capacity to express its views to influential leaders. It highlighted India’s commitment to peaceful resolution and diplomacy, enhancing its international standing.
- Strengthening Central Asian Ties: India’s participation in the SCO provides a valuable platform to strengthen and expand its relations with Central Asian countries. By actively engaging with them through the SCO, India can foster stronger bilateral ties and explore opportunities for trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors.
- Countering Cross-Border Terrorism: The SCO’s focus on combating terrorism and cross-border issues aligns with India’s priorities. Through participation in SCO initiatives and discussions, India can emphasize the importance of concerted efforts to address terrorism and promote regional stability.
Changing Dynamics in Central Asia
- Decline of Russian Influence: Central Asia, which was traditionally considered Russia’s backyard, has seen a decline in Russia’s influence in recent years. This decline is partly due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories. Central Asian countries, such as Kazakhstan, have openly expressed their non-support for Russia’s actions, signaling a shift in their perspective.
- Growing Chinese Presence: China has been expanding its presence in Central Asia through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese investments in infrastructure projects, such as building pipelines, transmission lines, and other connectivity projects, have increased.
- Common People’s Concerns: The common people in Central Asian countries have concerns about potential economic exploitation and loss of national assets. There have been demonstrations against China’s increasing influence, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the long-term implications of Chinese involvement.
- Search for Diverse Partnerships: Central Asian countries are looking beyond Russia and China for partnerships. They aim to avoid becoming excessively dependent on a single power and seek relationships with multiple countries. India, Turkey, Iran, the United States, and Europe are among the nations interested in engaging with Central Asian countries and offering alternative opportunities for economic cooperation, security, and development.
- Strengthening Relations with India: India has historical, cultural, and civilizational links with Central Asia. Prime Minister Modi’s visits to all five Central Asian countries in 2015 demonstrated India’s commitment to deepening ties.
- Multi-Actor Engagement: Besides India, other countries such as Turkey, Iran, the United States, and Europe are also recognizing the opportunities in Central Asia. They are actively seeking to enhance their relations with the region, understanding the need for a multi-actor approach to regional engagement.
India’s progress and expectations
- Strengthening regional relations: India’s active participation in the SCO has strengthened ties with Central Asian countries and expanded cooperation in various sectors.
- Counterterrorism and security cooperation: India’s engagement in the SCO highlights its commitment to combating terrorism and promoting regional security.
- Economic cooperation and trade opportunities: India seeks to enhance economic ties with Central Asian nations through trade and investment improvements.
- Regional connectivity and infrastructure development: India advocates for improved regional connectivity, including projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Chabahar Port, to facilitate trade and economic cooperation.
- Cultural and people-to-people exchanges: India focuses on fostering cultural and educational exchanges to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen ties between India and Central Asia.
- Expanding influence: Active participation in the SCO allows India to expand its influence in the region and project itself as a reliable and responsible partner in international affairs.
Challenges within the SCO framework
- Divergent Interests: The SCO consists of member states with diverse geopolitical interests, historical disputes, and economic priorities. These divergences can sometimes make it difficult to achieve consensus and coordinated action on important issues.
- Bilateral Disputes: Some SCO member states have ongoing bilateral disputes, such as the border disputes between India and China, and Pakistan and India. These disputes can create tensions within the organization and hinder collective decision-making.
- Power Dynamics: The SCO includes major powers like China and Russia, which may wield more influence and have their own priorities within the organization. Balancing power dynamics and ensuring equitable representation among member states can be a challenge.
- Security Concerns: The SCO’s primary focus is on regional security, counterterrorism, and combating extremism. However, member states may have varying security concerns, differing threat perceptions, and divergent approaches to addressing security challenges.
- Economic Disparities: The SCO encompasses countries with varying levels of economic development and differing priorities for economic cooperation. Achieving comprehensive economic integration among member states can be challenging due to disparities in economic systems, infrastructure connectivity, and trade barriers.
Way forward
- Strengthening Trust and Confidence: Member states should work towards building trust and confidence among themselves through increased dialogue, transparency, and shared understanding of each other’s perspectives and concerns. Regular high-level exchanges, bilateral meetings, and people-to-people interactions can contribute to enhancing trust and cooperation.
- Consensus-Building and Decision-Making: The SCO should prioritize consensus-building among member states on key issues. Ensuring that decision-making processes are inclusive, transparent, and representative will help in addressing divergent interests and maintaining unity within the organization.
- Resolving Bilateral Disputes: Member states should make efforts to resolve their bilateral disputes through peaceful means and dialogue. Encouraging direct negotiations, promoting confidence-building measures, and seeking third-party mediation when necessary can contribute to reducing tensions and enhancing cooperation within the SCO.
- Enhanced Economic Cooperation: The SCO should focus on deepening economic cooperation among member states. This can be achieved through the promotion of trade, investment, infrastructure connectivity, and technology sharing.
- Regional Security Cooperation: Member states should collaborate closely to address common security challenges, including terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking. Strengthening intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and capacity-building initiatives can enhance the effectiveness of the SCO in maintaining regional security and stability.
- Engaging with External Partners: The SCO should engage with external partners, including observer states and dialogue partners, to explore areas of mutual interest and cooperation. This can help leverage external expertise, resources, and networks to support the organization’s objectives while ensuring that the SCO remains independent and maintains its autonomy.
Conclusion
- While the SCO meeting may not directly resolve border standoffs or ongoing wars, it serves as a platform to strengthen regional relations, address cross-border terrorism, and explore avenues for cooperation. By actively engaging with Central Asian countries and leveraging its strengths, India can enhance its influence and contribute to the region’s progress
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Antimicrobial Resistance and various diseases caused by pathogens
Mains level: Rising Antimicrobial Resistance, concerns and measures
What’s the news?
- Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is today reckoned among the most ominous threats confronting Global Public Health. There is an urgent need for a collective and comprehensive approach to address the global threat of AMR and the role of various stakeholders in prevention, control, and surveillance efforts is crucial.
Definition
- Antimicrobial resistance, means that certain drugs that were once effective in treating infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites no longer work because the pathogens have become resistant to them.
- In simpler terms, it is when the germs that make us sick become “immune” to the medicines we use to treat them.
Prevalence of AMR
- According to recent estimates, in 2019, 1.27 million deaths were directly attributed to drug-resistant infections globally. By 2050, up to 10 million deaths could occur annually.
- If unchecked, AMR could shave US$ 3.4 trillion off GDP annually and push 24 million more people into extreme poverty in the next decade.
- A 2022 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed that resistance to broad-spectrum antimicrobials increases by 5% to 10% every year.
AMR: A concern for global public health
- Rising Resistance: The infections caused by the pathogens including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, are increasingly developing resistance to antimicrobial drugs which is becoming more challenging to treat effectively.
- Treatment Failures: AMR can lead to treatment failures, as commonly used antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic drugs may no longer be effective against resistant strains.
- Healthcare Impact: AMR increases the complexity and cost of treatment, prolongs hospital stays, and requires the use of stronger and more expensive drugs. Healthcare-associated infections caused by drug-resistant pathogens are a particular concern.
- Limited Drug Pipeline: The development of new antimicrobial drugs has slowed down in recent years. There is a lack of new effective treatments to replace those that are losing effectiveness due to resistance.
- Global Spread: AMR is a global issue that knows no boundaries. Resistant pathogens can spread between countries through travel and trade, and international cooperation is crucial.
Current Scenario of AMR prevention and National Action Plans
- Over the last ten years, the prevention, control, and response to AMR has been a high priority for most national governments, international organisations (such as the WHO, FAO, OIE), healthcare communities, and civil society, etc.
- The WHO’s global action plan (GAP) was adopted by member nations in 2015.
- National action plans have been prepared by many countries.
- India’s NAP was approved in 2017. It is understood that NAP 2.0 is now envisaged.
- In 2015, the WHO launched the Global Action Plan (GAP) on AMR, which provides a strategic framework for countries to develop their national action plans.
- AMR is an important priority in the G20 health agenda under India’s presidency.
India’s national action plan to combat AMR
- Coordinated Action: India’s NAP emphasizes coordinated action by the government and non-government sectors. It involves a whole of government approach, involving sectors like Health, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Agriculture, Dairy, Pharmaceuticals, and Biotechnology.
- Advocacy and Awareness: The plan focuses on advocacy and awareness-building activities to educate healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public about responsible antimicrobial use and AMR prevention.
- Community Involvement: India’s NAP It emphasizes engaging and empowering communities to promote responsible use of antimicrobials.
- Infection Prevention and Control: The NAP emphasizes infection prevention and control measures to reduce the spread of AMR. This includes promoting appropriate hygiene practices and implementing infection control protocols in healthcare settings.
- National AMR Surveillance Network (NARS Net): India has established the National AMR Surveillance Network to monitor and track the prevalence and patterns of AMR across the country. This surveillance system helps in generating data for evidence-based interventions.
- Research and International Collaboration: India’s NAP emphasizes the importance of research on AMR and encourages international collaboration in this field.
Need for a concerted, combined effort to address AMR
- One Health Approach: AMR requires a One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment. Collaborative efforts among human and veterinary healthcare sectors, agriculture, environmental agencies, and other stakeholders are necessary to tackle AMR comprehensively.
- Stakeholder Involvement: The sectors responsible for food, drinking water, and the environment should share equal ownership in addressing AMR. Regulating antibiotic access and usage in non-human consumption sectors, such as animal husbandry and poultry, is vital.
- State and Local Engagement: Implementation of infection control measures, regulation of pharmacies, treatment of sewage and pharmaceutical effluents, and AMR surveillance are primarily implemented at the state level.
- Environmental Considerations: Efforts should be made to prevent the contamination of the environment by untreated wastewater and effluents, including those from antibiotics manufacturing units and healthcare facilities. Effective sanitation and waste treatment infrastructure are necessary to combat AMR.
- Surveillance and Data: Robust surveillance systems are crucial to monitor AMR patterns and trends. Collecting and analyzing data on antimicrobial use, resistance prevalence, and treatment outcomes helps inform evidence-based interventions.
What’s more?
- Parallel efforts on a war footing are needed for the discovery and commercialisation of new antibiotics and new antimicrobials. Such efforts must be incentivised.
- Social media and its numerous platforms have captured the imagination of people around the world. The influence of social media on our mind and behaviour cannot be denied. We
- Considering its influence on our mind and behaviour, social media and its numerous platforms must be leveraged to spread the message of AMR.
- Objective should be to inculcate community realisation for rational and correct use of antimicrobials.
Conclusion
- Addressing the global challenge of AMR demands a collective and coordinated effort involving various stakeholders. Embracing novel solutions, such as new diagnostics, alternative treatments, and technology-driven interventions, is essential. By embracing these measures, we can protect public health, alleviate economic burdens, and secure a healthier future for all.
Also read:
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): An Invisible Pandemic
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key concepts
Mains level: Data portability and interoperability and its significance
What is the news?
- The government is reportedly introducing a revised version of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill during the upcoming Monsoon session of Parliament. The article highlights the importance of including provisions on data portability and interoperability in the Bill.
Central idea
- The government is set to present a revised version of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill. This presents a unique opportunity for the government to enhance the Bill by reintroducing provisions on data portability and introducing an interoperability provision.
What is the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill about?
- The Digital Personal Data Protection Bill aims to safeguard personal data of Indian citizens.
- It states how data should be stored, processed, and protected.
- The bill specifies obligations of data fiduciary for processing digital personal data and states practices they must follow to prevent data breach.
- It also defines consent of the data principal to provide such information
What is meant by Data portability and interoperability?
Data Portability:
- Data portability refers to the ability of individuals to transfer their personal data from one platform, service, or organization to another.
- It focuses on the movement and transfer of personal data, allowing users to take their data with them when they switch platforms or services.
- Data portability empowers individuals by giving them control over their personal information and the freedom to choose alternative platforms or services without losing access to their data.
Interoperability:
- Interoperability refers to the ability of different systems, platforms, or services to seamlessly exchange and use data with one another.
- It ensures that different technologies, applications, or networks can work together and communicate effectively, enabling data and information to flow between them.
- Interoperability allows for the compatibility and interaction of systems, promoting collaboration and communication across different platforms.
What is the Need for Empowering Users through Data Portability and Interoperability?
- User Control and Choice:
- Currently, users often find themselves locked into platforms or services that collect and utilize their data without much transparency or control.
- By enabling users to transfer their data and choose alternative platforms, data portability allows individuals to exercise their rights and make informed decisions about their data.
- Privacy and Data Protection:
- Users have the right to ensure that their personal data is handled responsibly and in accordance with their preferences.
- By facilitating data portability, individuals can move their data to platforms that prioritize privacy and security, incentivizing organizations to adopt stronger data protection practices.
- Fostering Competition and Innovation:
- Start-ups and smaller companies often face challenges in competing with established platforms due to the network effects and data lock-in created by dominant players.
- By allowing users to easily switch platforms while retaining their data, data portability enables start-ups to attract dissatisfied users and offer innovative alternatives, driving competition and fostering a dynamic market.
- User Empowerment:
- When users have the ability to freely move their data, platforms are incentivized to provide better services, respect user rights, and compete for user loyalty.
- This shift in power dynamics puts users in a more empowered position, encouraging platforms to prioritize user interests and enhance their overall digital experience.
- Cross-Platform Collaboration and Interaction:
- Interoperability allows users to communicate and engage with individuals on different platforms, breaking down the silos that currently limit cross-platform interaction.
- This promotes a more interconnected digital ecosystem and enhances user experiences by enabling seamless communication and data flow.
Potential concerns associated with data portability and interoperability
- Privacy Risks: The movement of personal data through data portability and interoperability raises privacy concerns, including unauthorized access, breaches, and misuse of information. Robust data protection measures are necessary to safeguard user privacy.
- Data Security: Data portability and interoperability add complexity to data security. Strong security protocols are needed to prevent unauthorized access, tampering, or loss of data.
- Standardization Challenges: Achieving universal standardization for seamless data transfer and interoperability is challenging due to the diverse range of technologies involved. Lack of standardization can hinder smooth data transfer and interoperability.
- Vendor Lock-in: While data portability aims to reduce vendor lock-in, some platforms may still implement practices that make it difficult to transfer data. This can limit user choice and freedom.
- Data Quality and Compatibility: Data transfer between platforms can result in compatibility and quality issues. Differences in data formats and standards can affect data accuracy, completeness, and reliability.
- Complexity and Technical Challenges: Implementing data portability and interoperability can be technically complex. It requires infrastructure, resources, and expertise to support seamless data transfer and compatibility.
Way forward
- Legislative Action: Governments must prioritize enacting comprehensive data protection laws with provisions for data portability and interoperability, establishing clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms.
- Industry Collaboration: Stakeholders should collaborate to develop common protocols, formats, and standards for data portability and interoperability, prioritizing user-centric design, data security, and privacy.
- User Education: Governments and organizations should educate users about their rights regarding data portability and interoperability, raising awareness of benefits, risks, and processes involved.
- Privacy by Design: Organizations should adopt privacy by design principles, integrating data protection into platform and service design from the outset.
- Third-Party Verification: Independent entities can verify and audit data portability and interoperability practices, ensuring compliance with standards and building user trust.
- International Collaboration: Governments should engage in international collaborations to promote harmonized standards and regulations for cross-border data transfers.
- Continuous Review: Regularly reviewing and updating regulations and standards ensures adaptability to evolving technology and data governance challenges.
Conclusion
- Given the internet’s indispensability to modern life, it is imperative for the government to seize this opportune moment and enact legislation that supports user empowerment and innovation. By striking while the iron is hot, the government can create a more equitable and thriving digital landscape for all.
Also read:
Laying the foundation for a future-ready digital India
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: TRAI
Mains level: Regulating OTT communication services, necessity and challenges
Central Idea
- In a surprising move, the TRAI is reconsidering its previous stance on regulating OTT communication services such as WhatsApp, Zoom, and Google Meet. Almost three years after advising against a specific regulatory framework for these services, TRAI has released a consultation paper, inviting stakeholders to provide suggestions on regulating OTT services.
What is Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?
- TRAI is an independent regulatory body established by the Government of India to regulate and promote telecommunications and broadcasting services in the country.
- TRAI’s primary mandate is to ensure fair competition, protect consumer interests, and facilitate the growth and development of the telecom industry in India.
- TRAI performs various functions to fulfill its objectives, including formulating regulations and policies, issuing licenses to telecom service providers, monitoring compliance with regulations, resolving disputes, promoting fair competition, and conducting research and analysis in the telecom sector.
- TRAI also acts as an advisory body to the government on matters related to telecommunications and broadcasting.
What is Over-the-top (OTT)?
- OTT refers to the delivery of audio, video, and other media content over the internet directly to users, bypassing traditional distribution channels such as cable or satellite television providers.
- OTT communication services offer users the ability to make voice and video calls, send instant messages, and engage in group chats using internet-connected devices.
- Examples of popular OTT services include video streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music, communication apps like WhatsApp and Skype, and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Growing complexity of regulating Internet services
- Rapid Technological Advancements: The Internet landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, platforms, and services emerging regularly which makes it challenging for regulators to keep up with the latest developments and their potential implications.
- Convergence of Services: Traditionally distinct services such as telecommunications, broadcasting, and information technology are converging in the digital realm. Internet services now encompass a wide range of functionalities, including communication, entertainment, e-commerce, social networking, and more.
- Global Nature of the Internet: The Internet transcends national boundaries, making it difficult to implement uniform regulations across jurisdictions. Different countries have varying approaches to Internet governance, privacy laws, content regulation, and data protection.
- Privacy and Data Protection: The collection, storage, and use of personal data by Internet services have raised concerns about privacy and data protection.
- Content Moderation and Fake News: The rise of social media and user-generated content platforms has brought forth challenges related to content moderation, misinformation, and disinformation. Regulators are grappling with issues of freedom of speech, ensuring responsible content practices, and combatting the spread of fake news and harmful content online.
Why is TRAI exploring selective banning of OTT apps?
- Economic Ramifications: Shutting down telecommunications or the entire Internet can have significant negative consequences for a country’s economy. By exploring selective banning of OTT apps, TRAI aims to mitigate the economic ramifications while still addressing concerns related to specific apps or content.
- Technological Challenges: Traditional methods of blocking websites or apps may face challenges when dealing with dynamic IP addresses and websites hosted on cloud servers. Advanced techniques and encryption protocols like HTTPS make it difficult for service providers to block or filter content at the individual app level. Despite these challenges, TRAI believes that it is still possible to identify and block access to specific websites or apps through network-level filtering or other innovative methods.
- Parliament Committee Recommendation: TRAI’s exploration of selective banning of OTT apps aligns with the recommendation made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on IT. The committee suggested that targeted blocking of specific websites or apps could be a more effective approach compared to a blanket ban on the entire Internet.
Why it is necessary to regulate OTT communication services?
- Consumer Protection: Regulations can help ensure consumer protection by establishing standards for privacy, data security, and user rights. OTT communication services handle vast amounts of personal data and facilitate sensitive conversations, making it crucial to have safeguards in place to protect user privacy and secure their data from unauthorized access or misuse.
- Quality and Reliability: By establishing minimum service standards, authorities can ensure that users have consistent and reliable access to communication services, minimizing disruptions and service outages.
- National Security: OTT communication services play a significant role in everyday communication, including personal, business, and government interactions. Ensuring national security interests may require regulatory oversight to address issues like lawful interception capabilities, preventing misuse of services for illegal activities, and maintaining the integrity of critical communications infrastructure.
- Level Playing Field: Regulatory measures aim to create a level playing field between traditional telecom operators and OTT service providers. Regulating OTT communication services can address the perceived disparity in obligations and promote fair competition among different service providers.
- Public Interest and Social Responsibility: OTT communication services have become integral to societal functioning, enabling education, healthcare, business communication, and more. Regulations can ensure that these services operate in the public interest and uphold social responsibilities. For example, regulations can address issues like combating misinformation, hate speech, or harmful content on these platforms.
Conclusion
- TRAI’s decision to revisit its stance on regulating OTT communication services reflects the evolving dynamics of the Internet industry. The consultation paper and the draft telecom Bill highlight the need for regulatory parity and financial considerations in this sector. As stakeholders provide suggestions, it remains to be seen how TRAI will strike a balance between regulating OTT services and fostering innovation in the digital landscape
Also read:
Fake News: Addition of The Provision In Intermediary Guidelines
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NPA, Writ off, its direct and indirect impact on financial stability
Mains level: NPA's, implications for banks and economy as a whole
What is the news?
- The latest financial stability report released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) shows a continuous decline in both Gross Non-performing assets (GNPAs) and Net NPAs, reaching their lowest levels since 2015.
Central Idea
- In recent years, the Indian banking sector has witnessed a remarkable turnaround in its non-performing assets (NPA) ratio, marking a significant improvement in its overall health. Just four years ago, Indian banks grappled with the highest NPA ratio among emerging economies.
What are Bad loans/ Non-Performing Assets (NPA’s)?
- Bad loans refer to loans that are classified as non-performing assets
- NPA is a term used to classify loans or advances that are in default. It indicates the inability of borrowers to fulfill their repayment obligations to the lender.
- In general, a loan is classified as an NPA when the borrower fails to make payments for a specified period, typically 90 days or more.
There are two key classifications related to NPAs:
- Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA): This refers to the total amount of loans or advances that have been defaulted by borrowers.
- Net Non-Performing Assets (NNPA): NNPA is derived by deducting the provision amount from the GNPA. Provision refers to the amount set aside by banks or financial institutions as a precautionary measure to cover potential losses arising from NPAs.
Background and Current Situation
- During the second quarter of 2019, the NPA ratio in Indian banks stood at a worrisome 9.2%, signifying that nearly one in ten loans had become bad.
- The severity of the problem was unveiled when the RBI conducted an expansive Asset Quality Review in 2016, exposing the true extent of bad loans.
- From 2016 to 2019, the NPA ratio remained high, causing apprehension among stakeholders.
- However, subsequent years witnessed a decline in the NPA ratio, a trend that persisted even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Factors contributing to the decline in NPAs
- Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC): The implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code in 2016 played a crucial role in the recovery of sick loans. It provided a structured and time-bound framework for resolving distressed assets, leading to improved NPA management and recovery.
- Shift towards personal loans: Banks shifted their lending focus from industries to personal loans. This strategic move reduced the exposure to sectors heavily impacted by the pandemic, potentially mitigating the risks of loan defaults and lowering the NPA ratio.
- Impact of COVID-19-related moratoriums: There were concerns about the potential increase in NPAs resulting from the COVID-19-related moratoriums. However, the data indicated that the moratoriums did not lead to a significant bump in NPAs, as initially expected. This suggests that the measures implemented to support borrowers during the pandemic were effective in preventing a major NPA crisis.
- Write-offs: The reduction in NPAs, particularly in FY20, can be attributed to the practice of writing off bad loans. Banks voluntarily wrote off NPAs to maintain healthy balance sheets, which had a positive impact on the overall NPA ratio. However, the continued reliance on write-offs raises concerns about the sustainability of this approach in the long run.
What are Write-Offs?
- Write-offs refer to the practice of removing non-performing assets (NPAs) from a bank’s balance sheet. When a loan becomes irrecoverable and the borrower is unable to repay, the bank may decide to write off the loan as a loss.
- This means that the bank no longer considers the loan as an asset and removes it from its books.
- Write-offs are typically done to maintain accurate financial records and reflect the true value of the bank’s assets
Concerns highlighted regarding write-offs
- Sustainability of NPA Reduction: Write-offs may artificially lower NPAs, but heavy reliance raises doubts about sustainable NPA reduction without effective recovery measures.
- Adequacy of Provisioning: Insufficient provisions to cover losses due to write-offs can weaken a bank’s financial position and ability to absorb future shocks.
- Transparency and Accountability: Ensuring transparent and accountable write-off processes is crucial to prevent misuse and maintain trust in the banking system.
- Impact on Lending Capacity: Write-offs reduce available capital, limiting a bank’s ability to lend and support economic growth. Inadequate replenishment may further constrain lending.
Decline in NPAs: Implications for the banks
- Improved Asset Quality: A decrease in NPAs indicates an improvement in the asset quality of banks. It suggests that a lower proportion of loans are in default or arrears, reflecting healthier lending practices and reduced credit risk. Banks with lower NPAs are better positioned to maintain stability and profitability in their loan portfolios.
- Enhanced Financial Health: Declining NPAs contribute to the overall financial health of banks. As the burden of bad loans decreases, banks can allocate resources more efficiently and utilize capital for productive purposes. This improves the banks’ ability to generate profits and strengthens their financial position.
- Increased Profitability: Lower NPAs positively impact banks’ profitability. When the proportion of bad loans decreases, banks experience fewer loan write-offs and provisioning requirements. This results in lower expenses associated with NPA resolution and provisioning, thereby enhancing profitability and improving the bottom line.
- Strengthened Capital Position: A decline in NPAs can lead to a strengthened capital position for banks. As they recover or resolve NPAs, banks can allocate capital more effectively and build buffers against potential losses. A stronger capital position provides resilience and stability to the banks, ensuring they can absorb shocks and maintain sustainable lending practices.
- Improved Investor Confidence: Decreasing NPAs can boost investor confidence in the banking sector. It demonstrates efficient risk management and sound lending practices, attracting investors and potentially leading to increased investments in banks. Enhanced investor confidence can contribute to the stability and growth of the banking sector.
- Enhanced Lending Capacity: With lower NPAs, banks can allocate more funds towards fresh lending and credit expansion. As the burden of bad loans reduces, banks have more capital available to extend credit to productive sectors of the economy, supporting economic growth and development
Conclusion
- Indian banks have made remarkable progress in reducing NPAs, as evident from the declining NPA ratios and improved profitability. However, the reliance on write-offs raises concerns about the sustainability of this trend. To ensure long-term stability, banks must prioritize prudent lending practices and effective risk management.
Also read:
Sansad TV Perspective: Health of India’s Banking System
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: urban local bodies
Mains level: disbanding cantonments and its advantages and disadvantages and challenges for urban local bodies
Central Idea
- Recently, the Ministry of Defence took a significant step towards disbanding cantonments in India with the notification for the abolition of Yol Cantonment in Himachal Pradesh. This move is part of a larger plan to convert military areas into exclusive military stations, while merging civilian areas with neighboring urban local bodies (ULBs).
Historical Context
- The 62 cantonments spread unevenly across the country are considered archaic colonial legacies that originated after the East India Company’s victory in the battle of Plassey.
- These cantonments were primarily established for quartering troops, but over time, civilian populations settled within their jurisdictions to provide support services.
- The current administration of cantonments is under cantonment boards, which function as deemed municipalities and perform civic duties similar to ULBs
Their features
- Cantonment Boards are democratic bodies comprising elected and nominated members.
- In terms of Entry 3 of the Union List (Schedule VII) of the Constitution of India, Urban Self Governance of the Cantonments and the Housing Accommodation therein is the subject matter of the Union.
- The Station Commander of the Cantonment is the ex-officio President of the Board, and an officer of the IDES or Defence Estates Organisation is the Chief Executive Officer who is also the Member-Secretary of the Board.
- They have equal representation of elected and nominated/ex-officio members to balance official representation with democratic composition.
- They maintain ecological balance while providing better civic facilities to the residents.
What is the plan?
- The plan is to carve out the military areas in all cantonments and convert them into “exclusive military stations” with the Army exercising “absolute control” over them.
- The civilian areas, in turn, will be merged with the local municipalities, which will be responsible for their maintenance among other things.
Advantages for the Military
- Focus on Core Responsibilities: By separating civilian areas from military stations, the military commanders would be relieved of non-military responsibilities. This would allow them to concentrate more on their core duties, such as training troops and maintaining war preparedness.
- Elimination of Political Involvement: In some instances, army officers have found themselves getting involved in local politics within cantonments, despite lacking background and training in this area. The merger of civilian areas into ULBs would reduce the army’s involvement in local political matters.
- Homogeneous Management: The merger would enable uniform and homogeneous management of military stations strictly under the control of the army. This would facilitate streamlined decision-making processes and enhance operational efficiency within military establishments.
- Enhanced Security: With civilian areas separated from military stations, there is a potential improvement in security arrangements. Military installations can implement stricter security measures without concerns about civilian populations living in close proximity.
- Increased Flexibility: Without the burden of managing civilian functions, the military can respond more flexibly to changing security needs and allocate resources more effectively. This flexibility can enhance the overall operational capabilities and readiness of the armed forces.
Benefits for Civilian Residents
- Property Regulations: Relief from restrictive property regulations, making it easier for residents to transfer, mutate, and develop properties without excessive limitations.
- Reduced Inconvenience: Mitigation of road closures within cantonments, resulting in less inconvenience for civilian residents in terms of movement and transportation.
- Access to Welfare Schemes: Integration with ULBs grants civilians access to social welfare schemes provided by the government, which were previously unavailable due to the cantonment’s non-plan sector status.
- Economic Opportunities: Removal of stifling restrictions on construction and economic activities encourages growth and urbanization in merged areas, potentially boosting employment and economic opportunities for residents.
- Municipal Laws: Residents come under the jurisdiction of ULBs, ensuring that municipal laws and services are applicable to them, leading to better governance and provision of essential services such as water supply, sanitation, education, and street lighting.
Potential Concerns
- Uncontrolled Construction: There is a possibility that the merger of cantonment areas into ULBs may lead to uncontrolled construction and commercialization, particularly in hill station cantonments. This could result in the loss of the charm and environmental integrity of these areas.
- Insufficient Services: ULBs may struggle to provide quality services and governance to the merged areas. Existing cities already face challenges in delivering services, and the addition of new areas with limited revenue may further strain the capacity of ULBs, potentially resulting in inadequate infrastructure, healthcare, and other essential services.
- Environmental Impact: The removal of restrictions on construction and economic activities may have negative environmental consequences, such as increased pollution, strain on natural resources, and encroachment on ecologically sensitive areas. Proper environmental safeguards should be in place to mitigate these potential impacts.
- Resistance to Resource Allocation: Existing councillors and political constituencies may resist diverting funds from their own areas to support the merged areas. This resistance could impede the equitable distribution of resources and hinder the development and provision of essential services in the merged areas.
- Capacity Constraints: ULBs may struggle with limited manpower, technical expertise, and administrative capacities to effectively govern and manage the merged areas. The sudden addition of new areas may overwhelm the existing administrative setup, hindering their ability to provide efficient and responsive governance.
- Revenue Generation: Merged cantonment areas may have limited revenue-generating potential, which can pose challenges for ULBs in generating sufficient funds to sustain and improve services. The existing revenue streams of ULBs may need to be re-evaluated, and new strategies for revenue generation may need to be implemented to support the merged areas.
Way forward
- Comprehensive Planning: The government should undertake comprehensive urban planning exercises to ensure orderly and sustainable development in the merged areas.
- Strengthening ULBs: To address the challenges faced by ULBs, the government should provide adequate financial resources, technical support, and capacity-building programs.
- Public Participation: Engaging the public and stakeholders in the planning and decision-making processes is crucial. This can be achieved through consultations, public hearings, and feedback mechanisms.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms should be established to assess the progress and impact of the merger. This would help identify any shortcomings or challenges and enable timely corrective measures to be implemented.
- Collaborative Approach: Collaboration between the central and state governments, ULBs, and other relevant stakeholders is essential. A coordinated approach will facilitate effective decision-making, resource allocation, and the implementation of policies and programs.
- Long-term Perspective: The merger should be viewed from a long-term perspective, considering the social, economic, and environmental implications. It is important to strike a balance between development aspirations and the preservation of the cultural and environmental heritage of the merged areas
Conclusion
- The decision to merge civilian areas of cantonments with ULBs carries both advantages and challenges. While the military stands to benefit from the separation, civilians can expect relief from restrictive regulations and improved access to welfare schemes. However, concerns about uncontrolled development and the ability of ULBs to deliver quality services warrant attention. Future mergers emphasize the need for government intervention to adequately fund cities and support their expanding responsibilities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Frequent Internet shutdowns, need and consequences, Need for an balanced approach
Central Idea
- In recent years, the Indian government has increasingly resorted to internet shutdowns as a means to control law and order in various regions, such as Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Manipur, and Punjab. India has witnessed a staggering 60% of internet shutdowns worldwide between 2016 and 2022.
Relevance of the topic
India emerged as the single biggest offender for a fifth consecutive year, with at least 84 internet blackouts in 2022
Shutdowns could have devastating impact on human lives such as , it may deepen the gender digital divide, disrupting the ability of women to conduct business or access information on reproductive healthcare
Reasons behind internet shutdowns in India
- Communal tensions: Approximately 40-50% of internet shutdowns in India are officially attributed to communal tensions. Shutdowns are imposed to prevent the spread of rumors, hate speech, and incitement to violence during periods of heightened communal tensions.
- Protests and demonstrations: Shutdowns are frequently imposed during protests and situations of civil unrest to control the spread of information, coordinate activities, and prevent further mobilization of protesters.
- Preventing cheating in exams: Internet shutdowns have been imposed during exams to curb cheating and prevent the use of online resources that may aid in dishonest practices.
- Religious processions: Shutdowns have also been observed during religious processions, particularly in regions with religious sensitivities, to prevent the circulation of inflammatory content and maintain public order.
Case study: Reviewing shutdowns in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Manipur
- Jammu and Kashmir (J&K):
- Prolonged Shutdown: The shutdown in J&K has been characterized by its extended duration, causing significant disruptions to the daily lives of residents. Internet access was severely restricted for an extended period, impacting essential services such as healthcare, education, and livelihoods.
- Lack of Due Process: Concerns have been raised regarding the decision-making process, with instances of shutdowns imposed by district magistrates without higher-level involvement. This raises questions about procedural fairness and the adherence to due process.
- Transparency and Justification: The lack of public information regarding shutdowns in J&K is a cause for concern. The transparency and clarity of justifications for imposing shutdowns are essential for accountability and safeguarding constitutional rights.
- Manipur:
- Ongoing Shutdown and VPN Blocking: The Manipur High Court has formed a committee to explore blocking VPN servers while maintaining restrictions on social media websites. However, the feasibility of this solution is questioned as VPNs also play a role in the exercise of freedom of speech and expression.
- Impact on Livelihoods and Services: The need to protect people’s livelihoods is emphasized, given the reliance on the internet for businesses and livelihoods. Ensuring access to critical services like healthcare and education during shutdowns becomes crucial.
Impact of internet shutdowns
- Restriction of Fundamental Rights: Internet shutdowns curtail the exercise of fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression, access to information, and the right to privacy. These shutdowns limit people’s ability to communicate, express themselves, and access essential information.
- Economic Consequences: Internet shutdowns have adverse effects on businesses, particularly those that rely on the internet for their operations. E-commerce, online services, and digital platforms suffer financial losses during shutdowns.
- Disruption of Essential Services: Internet shutdowns disrupt access to critical services like healthcare, education, and emergency services. Telemedicine, online education, and remote work become inaccessible, impacting people’s well-being, educational opportunities, and productivity
- Human Rights Violations: Prolonged and arbitrary internet shutdowns can be seen as human rights violations. They limit people’s ability to exercise their rights, stifle dissent, and undermine democratic processes.
- Negative Impact on Education: Internet shutdowns disrupt online education, e-learning platforms, and access to educational resources. This hampers educational progress and has long-term consequences for individuals and societies.
- Psychological and Emotional Impact: The inability to connect with others, access information, and engage in online activities can have psychological and emotional implications.
Justifications behind the frequent imposition of shutdowns
- Maintaining Public Order: Internet shutdowns are often imposed as a measure to maintain public order and prevent the escalation of law and order situations.
- Preventing the Spread of Misinformation: During times of crisis or unrest, shutting down the internet is seen as a way to prevent the rapid spread of misinformation and fake news. .
- Curbing Organizational Activities: Shutdowns are also imposed to disrupt the organization and coordination of protests, demonstrations, or other activities perceived as a threat to public order.
- Preserving Exam Integrity: Internet shutdowns may be implemented during examinations to prevent cheating. By restricting access to online resources, authorities aim to ensure the fairness and integrity of the examination process.
The two significant Supreme Court judgments related to internet shutdowns in India
- Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020): Recognized the right to access the internet as part of the right to freedom of speech and expression. Emphasized that internet shutdowns must be necessary and proportionate, subject to judicial review.
- Faheema Shirin v. State of Kerala (2020): Reaffirmed the importance of internet access for exercising fundamental rights. Stressed that restrictions on internet access should be temporary, proportionate, and justified with reasons
Way forward: Need for balance between maintaining public order and safeguarding the interests of internet-dependent individuals
- Protecting Public Order: Maintaining public order is a legitimate concern for governments to ensure safety, security, and the functioning of society. Internet shutdowns may be employed in exceptional situations where there is a real and imminent threat to public safety or when it is necessary to prevent the spread of violence or unrest.
- Proportionality: Any measure taken to maintain public order, including internet shutdowns, should be proportionate to the threat faced. Shutdowns should be targeted, time-limited, and precisely tailored to address the specific concerns, rather than imposing blanket restrictions that impact the entire population.
- Judicial Oversight: Independent judicial oversight is crucial to ensuring that any restrictions on internet access align with constitutional principles and international human rights standards.
- Transparency and Accountability: Governments should provide clear and transparent justifications for internet shutdowns, including detailing the specific risks or threats that justify such measures. Accountability mechanisms should be in place to address any abuses or violations during shutdowns.
- Targeted Measures: Rather than resorting to complete shutdowns, governments should explore alternative measures that target specific content or platforms that pose risks to public order. Content moderation, selective blocking, or targeted interventions can help address concerns without unduly infringing on individual rights or stifling access to essential services.
Conclusion
- The impact of shutdowns on livelihoods, education, and the economy underscores the urgency to seek alternative solutions. It is imperative that stakeholders reconsider the necessity and consequences of internet shutdowns to ensure a just and balanced approach to maintaining law and order.
Also read:
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's major surveys and its findings
Mains level: Issues in India's major surveys, faulty sampling and its consequences for policy making
Central Idea
- In India, the accuracy and reliability of data related to poverty, growth, employment, and unemployment are crucial for effective policy formulation. To ensure the well-being of its vast population, it is essential that surveys generating these estimates are conducted regularly, adhering to predetermined schedules, and maintain the highest standards of quality.
*Relevance of the topic*
There is significant gap in the data quality of India’s major surveys such as NSS, NFHS, and PLFS
For Instance, Major surveys conducted post-2011, which utilized the Census 2011 as the sampling frame, have consistently overestimated the proportion of the rural population.
There is need for a comprehensive sampling overhaul to accurately reflect India’s real economy.
The Significance of Sample Surveys
- Data for Policy Formulation: Sample surveys, such as the NSS, NFHS, and PLFS, are vital sources of data that policymakers rely on to evaluate the effectiveness of past policies and design new ones.
- Identifying Socio-Economic Indicators: Sample surveys provide estimates related to household consumption expenditure, health outcomes, education, employment status, asset ownership, poverty levels, and more. These indicators help policymakers identify areas that require attention and allocate resources accordingly.
- Representative Data: Sample surveys through carefully selected samples, they aim to capture the diversity and heterogeneity of different regions, communities, and socio-economic groups.
- Monitoring Progress and Development: By conducting surveys at regular intervals, sample surveys facilitate the monitoring of progress and development over time. It helps to identify areas where progress is lagging or where interventions are needed.
- Evidence-based Decision-making: Sample surveys provide policymakers with empirical evidence that supports evidence-based decision-making. Instead of relying solely on anecdotal evidence or assumptions, policymakers can access reliable data to understand the impact of policies and make informed choices that are backed by robust statistical analysis.
- Transparency and Accountability: Sample surveys promote transparency and accountability in policy-making. The availability of detailed survey methodologies and data allows for scrutiny and peer review, ensuring that the processes and findings are subject to rigorous analysis.
Issues in India’s major surveys
- Outdated Sampling Frames: The surveys utilize outdated sampling frames, which means they do not accurately reflect the current population distribution in India. As a result, the surveys may underestimate the proportion of the urban population and overestimate the rural population, leading to biased estimates.
- Inadequate Representation: The surveys’ sampling mechanisms are not adapted to rapid changes in India’s population and economy.
- Data Quality: While there is a general consensus on the robustness and representativeness of the survey methodology, there is a lack of attention and scrutiny regarding the data quality of these surveys.
- Non-Sampling Errors: The response rate in these surveys is not consistent across different wealth levels. This issue can introduce biases in the survey estimates, particularly with regards to the representation of wealthier households.
- Underestimation of India’s Progress: In a dynamic economy like India, where there have been significant policy reforms and rapid urbanization, relying on outdated surveys can impede effective policy-making by creating a gap between ground realities and survey estimates.
Consequences of faulty sampling
- Biased Estimates: Faulty sampling can introduce biases into survey estimates, leading to inaccurate representations of the target population. Biases can result in misleading findings and hinder effective policy decision-making.
- Underrepresentation and Exclusion: Faulty sampling may lead to underrepresentation or exclusion of specific population groups. This can result in neglecting their needs and perspectives, leading to inadequate policy interventions for those marginalized or underrepresented groups.
- Lack of Generalizability: Inaccurate or non-representative sampling hampers the generalizability of survey results. When the sample does not accurately reflect the population, it becomes challenging to make valid inferences about the broader population based on the survey findings.
- Compromised Data Quality: Faulty sampling undermines the overall quality of the collected data. Sampling errors introduce uncertainty and reduce the precision of estimates, impacting the reliability and trustworthiness of the data.
- Misguided Resource Allocation: Biased estimates resulting from faulty sampling can lead to misallocation of resources. If policy decisions are based on inaccurate information, resources may be allocated inefficiently, missing opportunities to address the actual needs of the population.
- Erosion of Confidence: Faulty sampling erodes confidence in the survey process and the credibility of the data collected. Stakeholders may question the reliability and integrity of the surveys, leading to decreased trust and potentially hindering the utilization of the data for decision-making.
Way forward: Need for Reforms in Major surveys
- Updating Sampling Frames: There is a need for a major sampling overhaul to address outdated sampling frames. Reforms should focus on ensuring that the sampling frames used in surveys like the NSS, NFHS, and PLFS accurately reflect the current population distribution in India.
- Improved Survey Mechanisms: There is a necessity of adapting survey mechanisms to rapid changes in the population and economy. Reforms should be aimed at modernizing and streamlining the survey methodologies to better capture the true status of India’s real economy.
- Addressing Data Quality Concerns: There is a lack of attention and scrutiny regarding the data quality of the major surveys. Reforms should prioritize enhancing data quality assurance measures throughout the survey process, including data collection, processing, and analysis.
- Mitigating Non-Sampling Errors: Non-sampling errors, particularly related to low response rates correlated with wealth levels, need to be addressed. Reforms should focus on understanding and correcting for these errors to ensure more accurate and representative survey estimates.
- Accurate Population Projections: Given the rapid pace of change, reforms should aim to improve population projections to align with ground realities. This would involve refining projections based on past trends and incorporating the current pace of urbanization and other demographic shifts.
Conclusion
- To ensure effective policy-making and accurate assessments of India’s socioeconomic landscape, it is imperative to address the existing data quality gap. By prioritizing data quality alongside data availability and size, India can better inform policies and bridge the gap between statistical estimates and ground realities, facilitating holistic and inclusive development.
Also read:
Poverty Estimates: Issues With PLFS Data
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Currency swap agreements, Rupee Internationalization and its direct and indirect impact on economy
Mains level: Rupee Internationalization, its significance of Indian economy, challenges and learnings from China and reforms
Central Idea
- The recent announcement by the Indian government regarding a long-term road map for the internationalization of the rupee holds immense potential for the country’s economic growth. This move aims to revive the rupee’s historical prominence as a widely accepted currency in the Gulf region and strengthen its position in the global foreign exchange market.
*Relevance of the topic*
The Indian government has been consistently focused on promoting the internationalization of the rupee.
India has been exploring the use of the rupee for bilateral trade settlements with its trading partners, for instance amidst Russian oil ban, India explored Rupee-Rubel settlement for oil imports.
China, Russia and a few other countries have become more vocal in questioning the US dollar-dominated global currency system
Historical Context
- Indian Rupee as Legal Tender in the Gulf Region: In the 1950s, the Indian rupee held the status of legal tender in several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar. It was widely used for various transactions, and these Gulf monarchies purchased rupees using the pound sterling.
- Introduction of the Gulf Rupee: To tackle challenges related to gold smuggling, the Reserve Bank of India (Amendment) Act was enacted in 1959. This legislation led to the creation of the Gulf Rupee, which was intended for circulation only in the West Asian region. The central bank issued notes specific to the Gulf region, and individuals holding Indian currency were given a six-week window to exchange their rupees for the new Gulf rupee.
- Devaluation of Indian Rupee and Transition to Local Currencies: In 1966, India devalued its currency, which eventually had repercussions on the acceptance of the Gulf rupee. The devaluation eroded confidence in the stability of the Indian rupee, prompting some West Asian countries to replace the Gulf rupee with their own sovereign currencies. The introduction of sovereign currencies in the region was driven by both economic factors and concerns about the Indian rupee’s stability.
- Impact of Demonetisation: In 2016, the Indian government implemented a demonetisation exercise, which involved invalidating high-value currency notes, including the ₹1,000 and ₹500 denominations. This move aimed to curb black money, corruption, and counterfeit currency. However, it also had an impact on the confidence in the Indian rupee, both domestically and among neighboring countries such as Bhutan and Nepal.
- Withdrawal of ₹2,000 Note: In recent times, the decision to withdraw the ₹2,000 note from circulation has further affected confidence in the rupee. This move has led to concerns and uncertainties among the public and businesses, particularly regarding the stability and continuity of currency denominations.
What does it mean by Internationalizing the Indian Rupee?
- Internationalizing the Indian Rupee refers to the process of increasing the acceptance, use, and recognition of the Indian rupee as a global currency. It involves making the rupee more widely used and traded in international markets, increasing its convertibility, and promoting its adoption for cross-border transactions, trade settlements, and investment activities
Advantages of internationalization of the rupee
- Enhanced Trade and Investment: Internationalization of the rupee can facilitate smoother trade transactions between India and other countries. This can lead to increased bilateral trade, attract foreign investment, and boost economic growth.
- Reduced Exchange Rate Risks: Internationalisation reduces exchange rate risks associated with fluctuations in major global currencies. When the rupee becomes more widely accepted and used in international transactions, it reduces the vulnerability of the Indian economy to external currency volatility.
- Lower Transaction Costs: Greater international acceptance of the rupee can reduce transaction costs for businesses and individuals engaged in cross-border trade and remittances.
- Strengthening Financial Markets: A more internationalized rupee would lead to the development of deeper and more liquid rupee-denominated financial markets. This includes rupee bond markets and derivatives markets. It helps diversify funding sources and provide greater stability and opportunities for investors and businesses.
- Reserve Currency Status: The internationalisation of the rupee can potentially lead to its recognition as a reserve currency. Reserve currency status enhances a country’s monetary and financial influence globally and promotes stability in international financial systems.
- Boosting India’s Global Standing: Internationalisation of the rupee signals the country’s economic strength, reforms, and openness to international trade and investment. It can improve India’s reputation as an attractive investment destination and strengthen its role in regional and global economic decision-making forums.
The Challenge of International Demand for the rupee
- Low Daily Average Share: The daily average share of the rupee in the global foreign exchange market is approximately 1.6%. This indicates that the rupee is not extensively traded or widely used for international transactions compared to currencies like the US dollar or the euro.
- Limited International Transactions: Although India has taken steps to promote the internationalisation of the rupee, such as enabling external commercial borrowings in rupees and encouraging trade in rupees with select countries, the volume of such transactions is still limited. For instance, India continues to purchase oil from Russia in dollars, and efforts to settle trade in rupees with Russia have faced challenges.
- Capital Account Convertibility Constraints: India imposes significant constraints on capital account convertibility, which refers to the movement of local financial investments into foreign assets and vice versa. These restrictions are in place to mitigate risks of capital flight and exchange rate volatility, given India’s current and capital account deficits. However, they limit the ease of converting rupees into other currencies, reducing international demand.
- Lack of Reserve Currency Status: For a currency to be considered a reserve currency, it needs to be fully convertible, readily usable, and available in sufficient quantities. The rupee does not currently enjoy reserve currency status, and its limited convertibility and usage hinder its attractiveness for central banks and international institutions to hold significant amounts of rupees as part of their foreign exchange reserves.
Learning from China’s Experience
- Phased Approach: China adopted a phased approach to internationalise the Renminbi (RMB). It initially allowed the use of RMB outside China for current account transactions, such as commercial trade and interest payments, and gradually expanded it to select investment transactions. This gradual approach helped in managing risks and ensuring a smooth transition.
- Offshore Markets and Clearing Banks: China established offshore markets, such as the “Dim Sum” bond and offshore RMB bond market, which allowed financial institutions in Hong Kong to issue RMB-denominated bonds. Additionally, China permitted central banks, offshore clearing banks, and offshore participating banks to invest excess RMB in debt securities. These measures enhanced the RMB’s liquidity and facilitated its usage in international transactions.
- Currency Swap Agreements: China entered into currency swap agreements with several countries, including Brazil, the United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, and Thailand. These agreements enabled the exchange of equivalent amounts of money in different currencies, facilitating trade and investment transactions in RMB and reducing reliance on other currencies.
- Free Trade Zones: China launched the Shanghai Free Trade Zone, which facilitated free trading between non-resident onshore and offshore accounts. This zone provided a platform for international businesses to transact in RMB and boosted the currency’s international usage.
- Reserve Currency Status: China’s efforts towards internationalisation of the RMB led to its recognition as a reserve currency. By the second quarter of 2022, the RMB’s share of international reserves reached approximately 2.88%. This status further solidified the RMB’s acceptance and usage in global financial markets.
Way forward: Reforms for Rupee Internationalisation
- Full Convertibility: The rupee should be made more freely convertible, with a goal of achieving full convertibility by 2060. This would involve allowing financial investments to move freely between India and abroad, removing significant restrictions on currency exchange and capital flows.
- Deeper and More Liquid Rupee Bond Market: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should focus on developing a deeper and more liquid rupee bond market. This would enable foreign investors and Indian trade partners to have more investment options in rupees, enhancing the attractiveness and usage of the currency.
- Trade Settlement in Rupees: Indian exporters and importers should be encouraged to invoice their transactions in rupees. Optimising the trade settlement formalities for rupee import/export transactions would facilitate greater usage of the rupee in international trade, reducing reliance on foreign currencies.
- Currency Swap Agreements: India can establish additional currency swap agreements with trading partners. These agreements would allow India to settle trade and investment transactions in rupees, eliminating the need for reliance on reserve currencies like the US dollar.
- Tax Incentives for Foreign Businesses: The government can provide tax incentives to foreign businesses operating in India, encouraging them to utilize the rupee in their operations. This would boost the demand for the rupee and promote its usage in international transactions.
- Currency Management Stability: The RBI and the Ministry of Finance should ensure consistent and predictable issuance and retrieval of notes and coins, promoting currency management stability. This stability is crucial for building confidence in the rupee’s value and maintaining trust among market participants.
- Exchange Rate Regime Improvement: Improving the exchange rate regime by adopting transparent and market-based mechanisms can enhance the stability and credibility of the rupee’s exchange rate. This would instill confidence among investors and businesses dealing in rupee-denominated transactions.
- Higher Profile in International Organizations: Efforts should be made to push for making the rupee an official currency in international organizations. This would raise the profile and acceptability of the rupee globally, contributing to its internationalisation.
- Pursuing Expert Committee Recommendations: Recommendations from expert committees, such as the Tarapore Committees, should be pursued. These recommendations include reducing fiscal deficits, lowering gross inflation rates, and addressing banking non-performing assets. Implementing these measures would enhance macroeconomic stability and strengthen the rupee’s attractiveness.
Conclusion
- The government’s road map for the internationalisation of the rupee holds immense potential for Indian businesses, financial stability, and the government’s ability to finance deficits. With predictable currency management policies and a phased approach, the rupee’s journey towards internationalisation can contribute to India’s economic growth and strengthen its position in the global economy.
Also read:
Using a rupee route to get around a dominating dollar
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