Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

Providing clean water to all

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Poverty & Hunger

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Jal Jeevan Mission
Mains level: commendable progress in addressing rural water needs
Central Idea: The Jal Jeevan Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, has made significant strides in providing tap water to rural households in India, with a focus on addressing diverse regional challenges. The mission aims to ensure clean water access to every rural household, promoting health, hygiene, and overall well-being. The approach is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity, community involvement, and sustainable development.

Key Highlights:
- Tap water provided to 73% of rural households, benefiting over 14 crore households.
- Diverse strategies employed, including insulated pipes, multi-village schemes, and community water purification plants.
- Notable improvements observed in areas such as reduced migration, minimized human-animal conflicts, and revived celebratory events.
- Impact extends beyond clean water provision to encompass safety, health, and environmental benefits.
- Studies indicate potential reduction in infant deaths, prevention of diarrhoeal deaths, and significant economic savings.
Key Challenges:
- Infrastructural challenges due to diverse terrains and geographical variations.
- Customizing solutions for different regional needs.
- Ensuring sustainability and community involvement in the long term.
Key Terms:
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Government initiative aimed at providing tap water to rural households.
- Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas: Guiding principle emphasizing inclusive development.
- Nal Jal Mitra: Initiative empowering villagers with skills for maintaining water supply systems.
Key Phrases:
- “No one is left behind”: Core theme emphasizing inclusivity.
- “Elixir of life”: Reference to the importance of water for well-being.
Key Quotes:
- “The growth story of the Jal Jeevan Mission is not confined to data; changes can be seen on the ground.”
- “True development is not just about infrastructure; it is about bringing in a sense of community.”
Key Statements:
- The mission focuses on long-term, regular access to quality water for every rural household.
- Community involvement, especially of women and youth, is integral to the mission’s success.
Key Examples and References:
- Kyarkuli Bhatta in Uttarakhand, Kusumdih in Jharkhand, and Chandpur in Maharashtra cited as examples of positive changes due to the mission.
- Studies by Dr. Michael Kremer and the World Health Organization provide evidence of the mission’s positive impact.
Critical Analysis:

The Jal Jeevan Mission has made commendable progress in addressing rural water needs. The tailored approach to diverse challenges, inclusion of communities, and the focus on holistic development contribute to its success. Continuous monitoring, transparency, and data-driven decision-making are strengths. Challenges lie in sustaining community involvement and ensuring long-term infrastructure stability.

Way Forward:
- Continue prioritizing community involvement and inclusivity.
- Strengthen monitoring mechanisms for long-term sustainability.
- Emphasize skill development for rural communities to ensure self-reliance in maintaining water supply systems.
- Explore innovative solutions for regions with unique challenges.
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Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.

India’s problem — different drugs, identical brand names

op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Intellectual Property Rights
Central Idea:

The article highlights the longstanding issue of identical or similar brand names for drugs in India, posing serious risks of confusion and prescription errors. Despite past recommendations, the problem persists due to poor regulatory oversight and a lack of comprehensive databases. The consequences are particularly alarming in a country with a multilingual population and lax pharmacy regulations.

Key Highlights:
- Identical brand names for drugs treating different conditions, such as ‘Linamac,’ raise concerns about patient safety.
- The problem of similar names extends beyond identical matches to include phonetically and visually similar names.
- The article points out that India’s pharmacies are poorly regulated, increasing the likelihood of errors, especially with drug names being predominantly in English.
- Previous recommendations from the Supreme Court and Parliamentary Committee were ignored until 2019 when the Ministry of Health introduced rules, but they seem ineffective.
Key Challenges:
- Lack of comprehensive data on prescription errors in India hampers understanding and acknowledgment of the problem.
- Weak regulatory mechanisms and self-certification by pharmaceutical companies contribute to the persistence of confusing drug names.
- The absence of a centralized database for pharmaceutical brand names complicates efforts to prevent confusingly similar names.
- Limited political will within the Ministry of Health’s Drug Regulation Section to implement reforms exacerbates the issue.
Key Terms:
- Pharmaceutical Trademark Infringement: Legal disputes among pharmaceutical companies over trademarks.
- Undertaking: A commitment or assurance made by pharmaceutical companies regarding the uniqueness of their drug brand names.
- CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation): The central regulatory body for pharmaceuticals and medical devices in India.
Key Phrases:
- “Identical trade names for drugs with different active ingredients”
- “Phonetically and visually similar trade names”
- “Poorly regulated Indian pharmacies”
- “Flimsy system” for preventing confusing drug names
Key Quotes:
- “The consequences of confusion between these medications at the pharmacy can be serious for patients.”
- “The problem of similar or identical trade names for drugs has been known for several decades.”
Key Statements:
- “The Ministry of Health brought in the Drugs and Cosmetics (Thirteenth Amendment) Rules, 2019, putting in place a flimsy system…”
- “As a country, India has no data on prescription errors. And for the Ministry of Health, the absence of data is the absence of a problem.”
Key Examples and References:
- Dr. Vincent Rajkumar’s shock over drugs with identical names treating different conditions.
- Example of the brand name ‘Medzole’ used by different companies for drugs treating various medical conditions.
Key Facts:
- English language used on drug packaging, spoken by less than 10% of the population.
- Poor regulation of Indian pharmacies dispensing drugs without prescriptions.
Critical Analysis:

The article critically assesses the inadequacies of the regulatory framework, emphasizing the ineffective self-certification system and the absence of a centralized database. It underscores the lack of political will to address a long-standing issue that jeopardizes patient safety.

Way Forward:
- Establish a comprehensive database of pharmaceutical brand names.
- Strengthen regulatory mechanisms to prevent confusingly similar drug names.
- Implement effective measures, possibly modeled after systems in the United States and Europe, to minimize prescription errors.
- Increase awareness among pharmaceutical companies about the importance of unique and easily distinguishable drug names.
- Advocate for policy changes that prioritize patient safety in drug nomenclature.
In conclusion, addressing the issue requires a multi-faceted approach involving regulatory reforms, data collection, and industry awareness to ensure patient safety in the pharmaceutical landscape in India.
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Human Rights Issues

The issue of genocide and the world court

op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Erga Omnes Obligation
Mains level: rules-based international order
Central Idea:

The article discusses the legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) initiated by South Africa against Israel, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention in the conduct of military operations in Gaza. The international legal context, arguments presented by both sides, and potential provisional measures are highlighted.

Key Highlights:
- South Africa’s legal action against Israel based on the Genocide Convention.
- Debate and international reactions to the case, with Bangladesh and Jordan supporting South Africa, and Germany supporting Israel.
- The significance of provisional measures in protecting rights before a final determination.
- Challenges in proving the specific intent for genocide and contrasting arguments from South Africa and Israel.
- Potential outcomes and the broader context of international law legitimacy.
Key Challenges:
- Demonstrating specific intent for genocide.
- Varying international reactions and political divisions.
- Crafting effective provisional measures acceptable to both parties.
- Addressing the split between formerly colonial powers and others in international law opinions.
Key Terms:
- Genocide Convention: An international treaty prohibiting acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.
- Provisional Measures: Interim orders issued by a court to protect rights pending a final determination of a case.
- Erga Omnes Obligation: The obligation of states to take action to prevent genocide, a duty owed to the international community as a whole.
- Dolus Specialis: Specific intent required to establish the crime of genocide.
- International Criminal Court (ICC): An international tribunal that prosecutes individuals for the international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.
- Rules-Based International Order: A system where international relations are governed by agreed-upon rules and principles.
Key Phrases:
- “Provisional measures” as interim orders.
- “Erga omnes obligation” for states to prevent genocide.
- “Dolus specialis” indicating specific intent for genocide.
- “Rules-based international order” questioned by the proceedings.
Key Quotes:
- “Provisional measures are issued pending the final determination of a case.”
- “The split seems to track the divide between formerly colonial or imperial powers and others.”
- “The legitimacy of international law itself is at stake.”
Key Statements:
- South Africa’s claim based on being unrelated to the conflict but having an obligation to prevent genocide.
- Israel’s defense focused on the absence of a dispute and the multiple interpretations of statements.
- International law viewed as invented by the imperial “West.”
Key Examples and References:
- The Gambia versus Myanmar case.
- Germany’s contrasting positions in different legal cases.
- Alleged genocidal statements by Israeli politicians echoed by soldiers on TikTok.
Key Facts:
- December 29, 2023: South Africa initiates ICJ proceedings against Israel.
- January 11-12, 2024: ICJ hearing on provisional measures.
- 24,000-plus deaths in Gaza during the present war.
- Destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza.
- Germany’s intervention in The Gambia versus Myanmar case.
Key Data:
- Data includes 24,000-plus deaths in Gaza during the present war and destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza.
Critical Analysis:

The article critically examines the challenges of proving genocide, the international split in opinions, and questions the legitimacy of the “rules-based international order.” It underscores the broader implications of the ICJ’s decision on the perception of international law.

Way Forward:
- Await the ICJ’s ruling on provisional measures.
- Consider potential alternatives for provisional measures, such as a humanitarian ceasefire or facilitating resource entry into Gaza.
- Observe how nation-states respond to the ICJ’s decision and its impact on international law legitimacy.
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How Basic Structure doctrine became one of the strongest safeguards for Indian democracy

op-ed snap | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Kesavananda Bharati case
Mains level: relevance and importance of the Basic Structure doctrine in maintaining a balance of power in a democracy
Central Idea:

The article underscores the significance of the Kesavananda Bharati case in Indian constitutional history, highlighting how it established a crucial safeguard against potential tyranny and dictatorship. The case introduced the concept of the Basic Structure doctrine, asserting that even constitutional amendments passed by a parliamentary majority could be declared unconstitutional if they violated the fundamental principles integral to the Indian Constitution.

Key Highlights:
- The Kesavananda Bharati case marked a turning point by introducing the Basic Structure doctrine, preventing the constitutionalization of gross aberrations or tyranny through amendments.
- The Basic Structure doctrine empowers the judiciary to act as a check against potential misuse of power by the majority, safeguarding democracy.
- The article traces the evolution of this doctrine from earlier cases, such as Shankari Prasad, Sajjan Singh, and Golaknath, leading up to the Kesavananda Bharati judgment.
Key Challenges:
- The Basic Structure doctrine has faced challenges from those seeking to dilute or ignore its significance, posing a threat to the enduring democratic principles it upholds.
- The potential for misuse or misinterpretation of the Basic Structure doctrine could lead to controversies and confrontations in politics and governance.
Key Terms:
- Basic Structure: The fundamental principles and core features of the Indian Constitution that cannot be altered by constitutional amendments.
- Parliamentary Majority: The voting majority in the Parliament required to pass constitutional amendments.
- Constitutional Amendments: Changes made to the constitution, often requiring a special majority in the Parliament.
Key Phrases:
- “Basic Structure makes it impossible to constitutionalize gross aberrations.”
- “Anti-majoritarian safeguards”: Mechanisms in place to protect against the potential tyranny of the majority in a democracy.
Key Quotes:
- “Even a constitutional amendment can be declared unconstitutional if it violates the Basic Structure.”
- “The power of amendment… does not include the power to abrogate the Constitution.”
Anecdotes:
- The unsavoury episode of Chief Justice A N Ray attempting to unilaterally review the Kesavananda Bharati judgment in 1975 is highlighted, adding drama to the historical significance of the case.
- The description of Nani Palkhivala’s arguments as “divinity speaking through him” during the case adds a personal touch to the historical narrative.
Key Statements:
- “The highest bulwark of such safeguards is the Indian Constitution.”
- “Long live Basic Structure, despite the attempt of constitutional pygmies to jettison, dilute or ignore it.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the Shankari Prasad, Sajjan Singh, and Golaknath cases to illustrate the evolution of the Basic Structure doctrine.
- Mention of the 24th to 26th constitutional amendments enacted in 1971 to overrule specific judgments and provide context to the Kesavananda Bharati case.
Key Facts and Data:
- The Kesavananda Bharati case involved 703 pages of judgment spread over 11 judicial opinions, making it India’s longest argued case with the largest bench.
- The Golaknath case in 1967 had a 6-5 majority holding the entire Part 3 of the Constitution unamendable.
Critical Analysis:

The article presents a critical analysis of the Kesavananda Bharati case, highlighting its significance as a safeguard against potential misuse of power. It underscores the importance of the Basic Structure doctrine in preserving democratic principles and preventing constitutional aberrations.

Way Forward:
- Emphasize the continued relevance and importance of the Basic Structure doctrine in maintaining a balance of power in a democracy.
- Advocate for a nuanced understanding and application of the doctrine to ensure its integrity while addressing any legitimate concerns about its misuse.
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Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

The truth about India’s booming toy exports

op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Issues relating growth and development, employment

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Non-tariff barriers (NBTs). Quality control order (QCO)
Mains level: success of 'Make in India' policies in the toy industry
Central Idea:

The article discusses India’s toy industry’s recent shift to net exports, attributing the success to protectionist measures under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It raises questions about the efficacy of these policies and calls for a public release of an officially sponsored research study by the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM-L) to facilitate a more informed policy discussion.

Key Highlights:
- Between 2014-15 and 2022-23, India’s toy exports increased significantly, turning the country into a net exporter, while imports declined.
- An unpublished IIM-L case study, sponsored by DPIIT, credits the export success to promotional efforts under ‘Make in India.’
- The article questions the reported success and analyzes official statistics to understand the factors behind the industry’s turnaround.
Key Challenges:
- Lack of transparency regarding the IIM-L case study, creating ambiguity about the actual impact of ‘Make in India’ on the toy industry.
- Concerns about the sustainability of protectionist measures and the potential for “rent-seeking” behavior in the absence of complementary policies.
- The decline in labor productivity and other indicators in the toy industry despite protectionist measures.
Key Terms:
- ‘Make in India’ initiative.
- Net exports (exports minus imports).
- Protectionism.
- Non-tariff barriers (NBTs).
- Quality control order (QCO).
- Annual Survey of Industries (ASI).
- Fixed capital per worker.
- Gross value of output.
Key Phrases:
- “Turnaround in the labour-intensive industry.”
- “Rising protectionism since 2020-21.”
- “Infant industry argument.”
- “Learning by doing.”
- “Virtuous circle of expanding domestic capabilities.”
Key Quotes:
- “India has turned into a net toys exporter since 2020-21. ‘Make in India’ policies made it possible.”
- “Perhaps the IIM-L’s study uses different evidence to buttress its contention.”
- “Rising tariff and non-tariff barriers have made it possible.”
Key Statements:
- The article questions the correlation between ‘Make in India’ policies and the reported success in the toy industry.
- Concerns are raised about the impact of protectionism on the industry’s long-term competitiveness.
- Calls for transparency and public release of the IIM-L case study to facilitate informed policy discussions.
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the tripled customs duty on toys in February 2020 and the imposition of non-tariff barriers since January 2021.
- Mention of the decline in labor productivity and other indicators in the toy industry despite protectionist measures.
Key Facts and Data:
- Toy exports increased significantly between 2014-15 and 2022-23, making India a net exporter.
- The trade balance for toys turned positive in 2020-21 after a gap of 23 years.
- Customs duty on toys was raised to 70% in March 2023.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically examines the reported success of ‘Make in India’ policies in the toy industry, emphasizing the role of protectionism.
- Concerns are raised about the sustainability of protectionist measures and the need for complementary policies to enhance domestic capabilities.
- The decline in labor productivity challenges the notion that protectionism has led to improved industry competitiveness.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for transparency by making the IIM-L case study public to inform meaningful policy discussions.
- Emphasize the need for a comprehensive policy approach, combining protectionism with investment policies and infrastructure development.
- Encourage a dialogue on the long-term impact of protectionist measures on the toy industry’s competitiveness and the potential for “rent-seeking” behavior.
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Start-up Ecosystem In India

The need to overhaul a semiconductor scheme

op-ed snap | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Indigenization Of Technology

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL)
Mains level: Semiconductor global value chain (GVC)
Central Idea:

The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme in India, designed to foster semiconductor design capabilities, faces challenges due to limited results and structural issues. The article suggests a comprehensive revamp, addressing key challenges, emphasizing the importance of the design ecosystem, and proposing a shift in focus to cultivate indigenous semiconductor design capabilities.

Key Highlights:
- The DLI scheme, part of the $10 billion Semicon India Program, has approved only seven start-ups, falling significantly short of the target to support 100 over five years.
- India’s semiconductor strategy aims to reduce dependence on imports, build supply chain resilience, and leverage its comparative advantage in chip design.
- The article underscores the need to prioritize the design stage for stimulating India’s semiconductor industry.
Key Challenges:
- The DLI scheme has witnessed lackluster results and low participation.
- Barriers include restrictions on foreign funding and ownership for beneficiary start-ups.
- Modest incentives and a challenging funding landscape impede semiconductor start-ups in India.
- Concerns are raised about the nodal agency’s role, posing potential conflicts of interest.
Key Terms:
- Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme.
- Semiconductor global value chain (GVC).
- Foundry and assembly stages of the semiconductor GVC.
- Electronic design automation (EDA) tools.
- Production-Linked Incentive schemes.
- Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL).
- India Semiconductor Mission.
Key Phrases:
- “Cultivate semiconductor design capabilities.”
- “Build supply chain resilience.”
- “Delink ownership from semiconductor design development.”
- “Shift focus to facilitate design capabilities for a wide array of chips.”
- “Revise policy to boost financial stability and provide global exposure.”
Key Quotes:
- “Stimulating the design ecosystem is less capital-intensive than foundry and assembly stages.”
- “The primary aim should be to cultivate semiconductor design capabilities in India.”
- “Enhance the financial outlay of the scheme substantially to support this policy shift.”
Key Statements:
- The article critiques the DLI scheme for its limited results and highlights barriers hindering effectiveness.
- Challenges faced by semiconductor start-ups, including funding issues and policy restrictions, are discussed.
- The need for a revamped DLI scheme, focusing on broader objectives and increased financial support, is emphasized.
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the Karnataka government’s Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL) as a potential model for an implementing agency.
- Mention of the Union government’s recent statement emphasizing the importance of “India-designed chips.”
Facts and Data:
- Only seven start-ups approved under the DLI scheme, significantly below the target of supporting 100.
- Modest incentives under the DLI scheme, capped at ₹15 Crore for Product DLI and ₹30 Crore for Deployment Linked Incentive.
- The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme is a part of India’s $10 billion Semicon India Program.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically evaluates the current DLI scheme, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive and effective approach.
- Concerns about the nodal agency’s role and potential conflicts of interest are highlighted.
- The article stresses the significance of cultivating indigenous semiconductor design capabilities in India for sustained success.
Way Forward:
- Revise the DLI scheme to delink ownership, enhance financial incentives, and broaden the focus on semiconductor design capabilities.
- Consider a new implementing agency, such as the Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL), for a more effective approach.
- Emphasize the importance of cultivating indigenous semiconductor design capabilities in India for long-term success.
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Coal and Mining Sector

Fired up and plugged in

op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: COP-28:
Mains level: indigenize supply chains for clean energy
Central Idea:

India aims to balance economic growth and environmental concerns as it strives to become the fastest-growing economy, focusing on decarbonizing the power sector, ensuring development, and securing energy needs. Coal remains crucial, but strategies involve managing existing assets, enhancing coal fleet flexibility, incentivizing energy storage, and promoting domestic manufacturing of renewable energy technologies.

Key Highlights:
- India is actively involved in climate action, reducing fossil fuel subsidies, and planning a threefold increase in renewable power capacity by 2030.
- Coal, despite being essential, is slated to persist until India attains developed country status.
- Strategies include better managing thermal plant outages, increasing coal fleet flexibility, incentivizing energy storage, and promoting domestic clean energy manufacturing.
Key Challenges:
- Balancing economic growth with the imperative to phase down unabated coal.
- Uncertainty in predicting India’s coal reliance due to rising electricity demand.
- Adapting existing coal plants for flexibility in integrating renewable energy.
- Compensating entities for energy storage services and boosting domestic value and job creation in clean energy.
Key Terms:
- COP-28: The 28th Conference of the Parties, relevant to global climate change negotiations.
- Unabated Coal: Coal burning without a reduction in carbon emissions.
- Renewable Power Generation: Electricity from sustainable sources like wind, solar, and hydropower.
- Atmanirbhar: A Hindi term signifying self-reliance, commonly used in promoting domestic manufacturing.
Key Phrases:
- “Decarbonizing the power sector while ensuring economic development and energy security.”
- “Reducing overall fossil fuel subsidies” and “tripling installed renewable power generation capacity by 2030.”
- “Managing thermal plant outages during peak demand periods.”
- “Increasing the flexibility of the existing coal fleet to integrate more renewable energy into the grid.”
- “Indigenizing supply chains for battery storage and renewable energy technologies.”
Key Quotes:
- “India has reduced overall fossil fuel subsidies by 76% between FY14 and FY22.”
- “Coal will remain a vital energy source until India reaches the status of a developed country.”
- “Entities deploying batteries must be compensated for the value they bring to grid operation.”
- “Boosting domestic value and job creation in clean energy will mitigate concerns associated with disruptions in the global supply chain.”
Key Statements:
- “To keep the economy powered while decarbonizing, India must use existing assets better and invest in energy storage capabilities.”
- “Improving availability and utilization of existing plants can mitigate the need for investments in new thermal assets.”
- “Indigenizing supply chains for clean energy will support exports and domestic value additions, mitigating concerns of global supply chain disruptions.”
Key Examples and References:
- “In 2023, coal-based power plants in India witnessed unplanned outages during peak demand days.”
- “The PLI scheme committed funds to solar manufacturing, supporting domestic value additions.”
Key Facts and Data:
- “India reduced overall fossil fuel subsidies by 76% between FY14 and FY22.”
- “India produced coal worth substantial amounts in FY22, providing significant revenues to the government.”
- “The PLI scheme committed funds to solar manufacturing, supporting potential domestic value addition.”
Critical Analysis:
- The article underscores the tension between economic growth and environmental concerns in India’s energy strategy.
- Emphasizing strategies for managing existing assets and enhancing coal fleet flexibility reflects a pragmatic approach to the transition to renewables.
- Highlighting the importance of incentivizing energy storage services and promoting domestic manufacturing underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustainable energy policy.
Way Forward:
- Prioritize transparent assessments of long-term opportunity costs of conventional power sources.
- Focus on affordable electricity for all segments of the economy.
- Build on the success of the PLI scheme to further indigenize supply chains for clean energy.
- Implement policies encouraging flexibility in the coal fleet and compensating entities for energy storage services.
- Continue investing in renewable energy and storage technologies to align with global decarbonization commitments while ensuring energy security.
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One Nation, One Election: Prospects and Challenges

The idea of one nation, one election is against federalism

op-ed snap | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Representation Of People’s Act

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: S.R. Bommai case
Mains level: potential consequences of One Nation, One Election
Central Idea:

The article discusses the formation and potential implications of the ‘High Level Committee on One Nation, One Election’ set up by the Union Government in September 2023. It delves into the reasons for and against the concept, focusing on the financial aspects and governance downtime. The author raises legal concerns, particularly regarding the constitutional autonomy of states, linguistic bias in consultations, and the role of the Election Commission. The looming possibility of a constitutional showdown in the Supreme Court is emphasized, drawing parallels with the U.S. case of Baker v. Carr.

Key Highlights:
- Formation of the ‘High Level Committee on One Nation, One Election’ chaired by former President Ramnath Kovind.
- Reasons supporting the concept include reducing election expenses and minimizing governance downtime caused by the Model Code of Conduct.
- Opposition argues that democratic processes, including elections and the Model Code of Conduct, are essential for a functioning democracy.
- Legal concerns raised, citing potential violation of state autonomy and constitutional provisions, particularly as stated in the S.R. Bommai case.
- The linguistic bias in consultations, with the committee’s website available only in English and Hindi, is highlighted.
- The Election Commission’s seemingly passive role and lack of involvement in the process are questioned.
Key Challenges:
- Constitutional and legal concerns regarding the potential alteration of the duration of State Legislative Assemblies.
- Linguistic bias in consultations, limiting the inclusivity of the decision-making process.
- Potential compromise of the Election Commission’s independence and autonomy.
- Balancing financial considerations with the fundamental principles of democracy.
- The challenge of ensuring a fair and unbiased decision-making process amid political interests.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- One Nation, One Election
- High Level Committee
- Model Code of Conduct
- S.R. Bommai case
- Constitutional autonomy
- Governance downtime
- Baker v. Carr moment
- Linguistic bias
- Election Commission
- Constitutional showdown
Key Quotes:
- “The cost of holding free and fair elections… is a price that can never be high.”
- “The introduction of a common election process would necessarily require alteration of the existing duration of a number of State Legislatures.”
- “Similar to demonetisation, when the Reserve Bank of India was kept in the dark, the Election Commission seems to be a silent spectator.”
Key Statements:
- “The Supreme Court would be called upon to determine the ultimate fate of Indian democracy.”
- “The potential alteration of the duration of State Legislatures would be anti-federal and unconstitutional.”
- “The stage is set for a constitutional showdown in the not-too-distant future.”
Key Examples and References:
- Baker v. Carr case in the U.S. as a reference for the potential role of the Supreme Court in a constitutional showdown.
- Comparison with demonetization to highlight concerns about the Election Commission’s apparent lack of involvement.
Key Facts and Data:
- The estimated cost of the 2014 general elections was ₹3,870 crore.
- The High Level Committee’s website is available only in English and Hindi.
Critical Analysis:

The article critically examines the potential consequences of One Nation, One Election, questioning its feasibility and highlighting legal and constitutional concerns. It underscores the importance of democratic processes and the need for the Supreme Court to play a pivotal role in preserving India’s constitutional architecture.

Way Forward:
- Ensure comprehensive and inclusive consultations in multiple languages to address linguistic bias.
- Strengthen the autonomy of the Election Commission and ensure its active participation in decision-making processes.
- Balance financial considerations with the preservation of democratic principles.
- Address legal concerns, particularly those related to state autonomy and constitutional provisions.
- Encourage public discourse to raise awareness and engage citizens in the decision-making process.
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Tax Reforms

Tax contribution by States needs to be revisited

op-ed snap | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: 16th Finance Commission
Mains level: inclusion of tax contribution, particularly from Goods and Services Tax (GST) and petroleum consumption, as a significant efficiency indicator in the distribution formula used by Finance Commissions to allocate Union tax revenue among states.
Central Idea:

The article advocates for the inclusion of tax contribution, particularly from Goods and Services Tax (GST) and petroleum consumption, as a significant efficiency indicator in the distribution formula used by Finance Commissions to allocate Union tax revenue among states. The authors argue that these measures provide a fair and stable representation of a state’s economic contribution to the national exchequer.

Key Highlights:
- Finance Commissions play a crucial role in recommending the distribution of Union tax revenues among states.
- Historically, tax contribution had less weight in the distribution formula, but it was completely dropped since the 10th Finance Commission.
- The article contends that tax contribution, especially under the GST regime, is a reliable measure of efficiency, unlike other indicators like tax effort and fiscal discipline.
- The authors propose that GST and petroleum consumption, being stable and indicative of income, should be given a substantial weight in the distribution formula.
Key Challenges:
- Resistance from states that may perceive a potential shift in their shares based on tax contribution.
- The stability of indicators like tax effort and fiscal discipline is questioned, making it challenging to assign them higher weights.
- The need to ensure that the inclusion of tax contribution does not lead to unfair outcomes or discourage states from adopting progressive tax policies.
Key Terms:
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): A unified consumption-based destination tax equally divided between the State and Central governments.
- Tax Contribution: The amount of revenue generated by a state through taxes, considered as an efficiency indicator.
- Finance Commission: A body responsible for recommending the distribution of Union tax revenues among states in India.
Key Phrases:
- “Equity and efficiency in tax revenue transfers.”
- “Tax contribution as an efficiency indicator.”
- “GST and petroleum consumption as fair measures of states’ contributions to the national exchequer.”
Key Quotes:
- “Tax contribution is an efficiency indicator because a State’s level of development and economic structure decides its tax contribution.”
- “GST satisfies the criterion of stability in tax structure, making it an ideal efficiency indicator.”
- “There is a persuasive case for the 16th Finance Commission to debate and include these ratios as a measure of efficiency.”
Key Statements:
- “Since the 10th Finance Commission, tax contribution was dropped from the distribution formula.”
- “GST is a consumption-based destination tax that is equally divided between the State and Central governments.”
- “The Finance Commissions have always favored assigning more than 75% weight to equity indicators.”
Key Examples and References:
- The article references the 15th Finance Commission’s distribution formula, which included tax effort, fiscal discipline, and demographic performance.
- The stability of GST as an efficiency indicator is supported by calculations presented by the authors.
Key Facts:
- The share of personal and corporate income taxes is 64% in Central tax revenue in 2021-22.
- Finance Commissions historically assigned 10% to 20% weight to tax contribution in the distribution formula.
Key Data:
- The weightage of tax effort in the 15th Finance Commission’s distribution formula was 2.5%, with demographic performance receiving a weight of 12.5%.
- The recommended weight for equity indicators in the same formula was 85%.
Critical Analysis:

The article provides a compelling argument for the inclusion of tax contribution in the distribution formula, highlighting the stability and fairness of GST as an efficiency indicator. However, potential challenges such as resistance from states and the need for careful consideration to prevent unintended consequences are acknowledged.

Way Forward:

The authors suggest that the 16th Finance Commission should actively debate and consider including GST and petroleum consumption with a substantial weight in the distribution formula. This, they argue, would better represent states’ contributions to the national exchequer and promote efficiency in resource allocation.
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Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

Better use of technology needs free access

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: ASER 2023
Mains level: ASER 2023 report underscores the importance of smartphone ownership in shaping deeper access and skills, with a focus on gender disparities
Central Idea:

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023 highlights the widespread access to smartphones among 14-18 year olds in India, emphasizing the ownership gap between boys and girls. While most youth can use smartphones for basic tasks, ownership significantly impacts the depth of access to information and services. The study suggests that motivation, often fueled by entertainment during the COVID-19 pandemic, drives learning technology skills. Gender disparities in smartphone ownership contribute to variations in online participation, especially in certain services. Access to devices without constraints promotes self-learning, as evidenced by an earlier Pratham experiment.

Key Highlights:

Widespread Smartphone Access: ASER 2023 reveals that 92% of surveyed 14-18 year olds in India know how to use a smartphone.

Ownership Disparities: Nearly half of boys own smartphones, while only 20% of girls possess one.

Impact on Skills: Ownership influences skills like using social media safety features, indicating deeper access and understanding.

Motivation and Learning: Motivation, driven by entertainment and the COVID-19 pandemic, plays a crucial role in acquiring smartphone skills.

Gender Disparities: Girls may show less participation in certain online activities, potentially due to social obstacles rather than technological barriers.

Educational Use: Regardless of ownership and gender, around 70% of youth report using phones for studies, but the impact on academic learning is unclear.

Key Challenges:

Gender Disparities in Ownership: The significant gap in smartphone ownership between boys and girls may limit girls’ access to certain online services and skills.

Social Obstacles: Girls may face social barriers that affect their participation in online activities and use of certain features.

Impact on Learning: The ASER 2023 report does not conclusively determine the impact of smartphone use on academic learning and performance.

Inequality in Skills: Ownership disparities contribute to differences in skill levels, particularly in tasks requiring ownership, such as sharing videos.

Key Terms and Phrases:

Smartphone Skills: Refers to the ability to effectively use and navigate smartphones, encompassing various tasks and applications.

Gender Disparities: Differences between boys and girls in terms of smartphone ownership, access, and skills.

Social Obstacles: Challenges related to societal norms and expectations that may hinder certain groups’ access to and use of technology.

Key Quotes:

“Access to a common smartphone can be described as basic, but owning a smart device is necessary for deeper access to information and services.”

“Motivation to use and learn new technology came during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Girls seem to show less participation than boys in certain online services, which may have more to do with social obstacles than technological barriers.”

Key Examples and References:

ASER 2023 Report: Provides comprehensive data on smartphone access, ownership, and skills among 14-18 year olds in India.

Pratham Experiment (2017): Demonstrates how children, given unfettered access to technology, can learn and adopt digital skills on their own.

Key Facts and Data:

92% of surveyed 14-18 year olds in India know how to use a smartphone.

Nearly half of boys and 20% of girls own smartphones.

Nearly 70% of youth, both boys and girls, report using phones for studies.

Critical Analysis:

Ownership Impact: Ownership of smartphones significantly influences the depth of access to information and services.

Motivation and Learning: Motivation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, plays a pivotal role in driving self-learning of technology skills.

Gender Disparities: While access is widespread, gender disparities in ownership contribute to variations in online participation.

Way Forward:

Addressing Gender Disparities: Initiatives to bridge the gender gap in smartphone ownership and access.

Promoting Digital Literacy: Educational programs emphasizing digital literacy, especially for girls, to overcome social obstacles.

Integration into Education: Exploring ways to integrate smartphones into education to enhance learning opportunities.

Understanding Impact: Further research to understand the impact of smartphone use on academic learning and performance.

In summary, the ASER 2023 report underscores the importance of smartphone ownership in shaping deeper access and skills, with a focus on gender disparities. Motivation and overcoming social obstacles are crucial in promoting self-learning, and initiatives to address ownership gaps can contribute to a more inclusive digital landscape
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Type: op-ed snap