Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

In cyber attacks, terror has a found a new face

op-ed snap | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: cyber attacks
Mains level: evolving landscape of terrorism emphasizes the shift to cyberspace
Central idea

The article underscores the transformation of terrorism into cyberspace, emphasizing the significance of robust cybersecurity measures in the face of escalating state-sponsored cyberattacks.

Key Highlights:
- Mumbai holds the unfortunate title of the most terror-attacked city globally.
- The November 26, 2008 (26/11) attacks were the most audacious, lasting three days.
- Intelligence was available before 26/11 attacks, but preventive measures failed.
- Post-attack, significant changes were made in the police department and security apparatus.
Key Challenges:
- Despite reforms, the landscape of terror warfare has shifted to cyberspace.
- The Russia–Ukraine and Israel–Hamas conflicts demonstrate the growing threat of cyber warfare.
- State-sponsored cyberattacks against India increased by 278% between March 2021-September 2023.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- 26/11 terror attacks, cyberspace, cyber warfare, state-sponsored cyberattacks.
Key Examples and References:
- November 26, 2008, terror attacks in Mumbai.
- Israel-Hamas conflict and the failure of the Iron Dome against cyber threats.
- 2023 India Threat Landscape Report by Cyfirma.
Key Facts and Data:
- State-sponsored cyberattacks on India increased by 278% from March 2021-September 2023.
- India faced 13.7% of all global cyberattacks.
- 13.91 lakh cybersecurity incidents in India in 2022.
Critical Analysis:
- Cybersecurity is of paramount importance in a highly digitized world.
- Recent incidents, including Apple’s warning, highlight the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures.
- The need for nationwide education and training on cyber threats is crucial.
Way Forward:
- Urgent investment in robust cybersecurity measures across government, private sector, and individual citizens.
- Comprehensive education programs, starting in schools, to raise awareness about cyber threats.
- Adequate training and financial support for government agencies to strengthen cybersecurity.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of terrorism emphasizes the shift to cyberspace, demanding urgent and comprehensive cybersecurity measures, education, and training to safeguard against potential online threats like a “cyber 26/11.”
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Special Category Status and States

Why are the Marathas mobilising now?

op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Social Empowerment

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: Maratha mobilization for reservation
Central Idea:
- The Maratha community’s demand for reservation in education and employment stems from a crisis of dominance, influenced by urban and rural challenges.
Urban Crisis:
- Well-paid jobs in urban areas, historically held by Marathas, have rapidly disappeared since the late 1990s.
- Large-scale manufacturing industries and establishments providing such jobs have closed or downsized, leading to increased competition for fewer opportunities.
- Marathas, historically socially superior, used their dominant caste position to secure a significant share of jobs, particularly in the public sector.
- Economic liberalization and the shrinkage of public sector jobs have intensified competition among Marathas for limited opportunities.
Rural Crisis:
- Closure of factories has led to the return of workers to villages, disrupting the pattern of workers retiring in villages and their offspring working in cities.
- Rural youth face challenges migrating to urban areas for better-paying jobs, impacting the financial support they traditionally provided to family members in villages.
- Informal sector jobs become the primary option for rural Maratha youth, diminishing their social standing and pride in rural settings.
- The focus on secure public sector jobs, which have also decreased, becomes crucial for rural Maratha youth.
Education Challenges:
- Increased aspirations for higher education among Marathas face a decline in government institutions and a rise in private unaided colleges with exorbitant fees.
- Marathas, with limited financial resources, compete for a limited number of open-category seats in public institutions.
- Decrease in government-run educational institutions exacerbates the challenges faced by Maratha aspirants.
Crisis of Dominance:
- The combination of urban and rural crises contributes to a crisis of dominance for the Marathas.
- Disturbance of caste hierarchy norms due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion adds to Marathas’ anxiety.
- The demand for reservation reflects the need for increased formal sector jobs and the expansion of public educational institutions to address the crisis.
Key Highlights:
- Maratha community demands reservation in education and public employment, intensifying since 2016.
- Historically, Marathas dominated well-paid jobs, but recent urban and rural crises have led to increased competition and challenges.
- Closure of manufacturing industries, decreasing public sector jobs, and rural youth’s struggles contribute to the crisis.
- Educational aspirations face challenges with a decline in government institutions and increased private college fees.
Key Challenges:
- Disappearance of well-paid urban jobs, increased competition, and shrinking public sector employment.
- Rural crisis disrupts the traditional pattern of workers retiring in villages and offspring working in cities.
- Decline in government-run educational institutions, limited open-category seats, and rising private college fees.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Urban crisis, rural crisis, crisis of dominance, economic liberalization, formal sector jobs.
- Reservation, Maratha mobilization, well-paid jobs, private unaided colleges, public sector employment.
Key Examples and References:
- Maratha protests since 2016, closure of manufacturing industries, decreased public sector jobs.
- Disturbance in traditional caste hierarchies due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion.
Key Facts and Data:
- Marathas historically occupied over 29% of open-category jobs in government.
- Jobs in the private formal sector increased from 2% to 3.5%.
- Contractual government jobs increased from 0.7 million to 15.9 million in 2017-18.
- Only 22.2% of colleges are managed by the government as of 2019.
Critical Analysis:
- Maratha crisis stems from economic shifts, urban-rural dynamics, and disturbance in caste hierarchies.
- Limited opportunities, competition, and declining public sector jobs contribute to the community’s mobilization.
- Educational challenges add to the complexity, demanding a comprehensive solution.
Way Forward:
- Address urban and rural crises by creating more formal sector jobs.
- Expand public educational institutions and implement large-scale scholarship programs.
- Focus on inclusive policies to reduce competition and restore traditional patterns of employment.
Conclusion:
- The Maratha mobilization for reservation is rooted in the challenges posed by the disappearance of well-paid jobs, urban-rural dynamics, and the disruption of traditional caste hierarchies. Addressing these challenges requires a focus on creating more opportunities in the formal sector and expanding accessible public education.
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Social Media: Prospect and Challenges

The challenge of maritime security in the Global South

op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: India's Maritime Vision 2030
Mains level: Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development
Central idea

The article underscores the evolving challenges in the maritime domain, emphasizing the shift from traditional military approaches to a developmental model for maritime security. It highlights the need for collaboration among developing nations to address unconventional threats, such as illegal fishing and climate change, while acknowledging the reluctance to prioritize collective action over political and strategic autonomy.

Key Highlights:
- Evolution of Maritime Challenges: New dimensions in hard security challenges, including asymmetrical tactics and grey-zone warfare. Use of land attack missiles and combat drones reshaping the security landscape.
- Shift in Demand for Maritime Security: Growing demand from states facing unconventional threats such as illegal fishing, natural disasters, and climate change. Need for a broader approach beyond military means to address diverse maritime challenges.
- India’s Developmental Approach: Maritime Vision 2030 focuses on economic growth and livelihood generation through port, shipping, and inland waterway development. Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative with seven pillars, including maritime ecology, marine resources, and disaster risk reduction.
New Threats in Maritime Domain:
- Recent developments include Ukraine’s asymmetrical tactics and China’s maritime militias, indicating a shift to improvised strategies.
- Emerging threats involve grey-zone warfare, land attack missiles, and combat drones.
Demand for Maritime Security:
- Majority of recent demand stems from unconventional threats like illegal fishing, natural disasters, and climate change.
- Addressing these challenges requires commitment of capital, resources, and specialized personnel.
Global South’s Perspective:
- Developing nations perceive Indo-Pacific competition among powerful nations as detrimental to their interests.
- Challenges involve interconnected objectives in national, environmental, economic, and human security.
Challenges in Global South:
- Rising sea levels, marine pollution, climate change disproportionately impact less developed states, leading to vulnerability.
- Unequal law-enforcement capabilities and lack of security coordination hinder joint efforts against maritime threats.
Creative Models for Maritime Security:
- Maritime security transcends military actions, focusing on generating prosperity and meeting societal aspirations.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030 emphasizes port, shipping, and inland waterway development for economic growth.
- Dhaka’s Indo-Pacific document and Africa’s Blue Economy concept align with a developmental approach.
Fight Against Illegal Fishing:
- Significant challenge in Asia and Africa marked by a surge in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- Faulty policies encouraging destructive methods like bottom trawling and seine fishing contribute to the problem.
India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative:
- Encompasses seven pillars, including maritime ecology, marine resources, capacity building, and disaster risk reduction.
- Advocates collective solutions for shared problems, garnering support from major Indo-Pacific states.
Challenges in Achieving Consensus:
- Implementation of collaborative strategy faces hurdles in improving interoperability, intelligence sharing, and establishing a regional rules-based order.
- Balancing sovereignty and strategic independence remains a priority for many nations, hindering consensus.
Key Challenges:
- Complexity of Unconventional Threats: Conventional military approaches insufficient; requires capital, resources, and specialist personnel. Challenges include illegal fishing, marine pollution, human trafficking, and climate change.
- Global South’s Coordination Challenges: Unequal law-enforcement capabilities and lack of security coordination among littoral states. Reluctance to prioritize collective action due to varying security priorities and autonomy concerns.
- Vulnerability of Less Developed States: Disproportionate impact of rising sea levels, marine pollution, and climate change on less developed states. Vulnerability stemming from inadequate resources to combat environmental and security challenges.
- Lack of Consensus and Reluctance: Reluctance among littoral states to pursue concrete solutions and collaborate. Paradox of non-traditional maritime security, where collective issues clash with political and strategic autonomy.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Grey-Zone Warfare: Tactics that fall between peace and war, creating ambiguity in conflict situations.
- Asymmetrical Tactics: Strategies that exploit an opponent’s weaknesses rather than confronting strengths directly.
- Maritime Vision 2030: India’s 10-year blueprint for economic growth in the maritime sector.
- Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development.
- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: India’s initiative with pillars like maritime ecology, marine resources, and disaster risk reduction.
- IUU Fishing: Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- Bottom Trawling and Seine Fishing: Destructive fishing methods contributing to illegal fishing.
Key Examples and References:
- Ukraine’s Asymmetrical Tactics: Utilization of unconventional strategies in the Black Sea.
- China’s Maritime Militias: Deployment in the South China Sea as an example of evolving threats.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030: Illustrates a developmental approach to maritime security.
- Illegal Fishing in Asia and Africa: Rising challenge with negative environmental and economic impacts.
Key Facts and Data:
- Maritime Vision 2030: India’s 10-year plan for the maritime sector.
- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: Seven-pillar initiative for collective solutions in the maritime domain.
Critical Analysis:
- Shift to Developmental Model: Emphasis on generating prosperity and meeting human aspirations in addition to traditional security measures.
- Comprehensive Maritime Challenges: Recognition of diverse challenges beyond military threats, including environmental and economic goals.
- Littoral State Reluctance: Paradox in the Global South, where collective issues clash with autonomy, hindering collaborative solutions.
Way Forward:
- Collaborative Strategies:Improved interoperability, intelligence sharing, and agreement on regional rules-based order.
- Prioritizing Collective Action: Developing nations must prioritize collective action over sovereignty for effective maritime solutions.
- Sustainable Development Goals: Prioritize sustainable development goals in littoral states, addressing challenges such as illegal fishing and climate change.
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Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

In international law, government cannot override Parliament

op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: constitutional principles in the execution of international obligations
Central idea

Tax treaties or protocols signed by the executive to alter or vary the provisions of the IT Act must withstand the rigours of the constitutional and statutory requirements

Key Highlights:
- Landmark Decision: The Supreme Court’s decision in Assessing Officer (International Tax) vs Nestle SA is a landmark ruling reaffirming the constitutional principle that international obligations assumed by the executive require specific legislative conditions for legal effect.
- Constitutional Framework: The judgment delves into the interplay between domestic law and international law within India’s constitutional framework, emphasizing the need for parliamentary approval when international obligations conflict with domestically enacted laws.
- Article 73 and Article 253: The powers of the Union executive, as per Article 73, are co-terminus with those of Parliament, allowing the executive to assume international obligations without legislation. However, Article 253 emphasizes the dualism between international law and municipal law, requiring a domestic legislative process for conflicting obligations.
- Delegated Powers: Parliament can delegate treaty-making powers to the executive, exemplified by tax treaties under section 90 of the Income Tax (IT) Act. The court clarifies that assuming international obligations and enforcing them domestically are distinct processes.
- Section 90 of IT Act: The judgment interprets section 90, titled “Agreement with foreign countries or specified territories,” emphasizing the necessity of a notification for the implementation of agreements related to the avoidance of double taxation.
- MFN Clauses: Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clauses, aimed at altering taxation provisions, must be notified for incorporation into domestic tax law. Failure to do so would create uncertainty in the tax system, with no constitutional or statutory backing for unnotified application.
- Chaos and Uncertainty: Unnotified application of MFN clauses could lead to chaos and uncertainty, with taxpayers and assessing officers interpreting and applying the clauses based on individual understanding, lacking legal foundation.
- Scope of Judgment: The judgment’s scope is limited to the need for a notification for the implementation of MFN clauses, and questions related to diplomatic accountability or the executive’s capacity to prolong the performance of international obligations were not addressed.
- Importance of Constitutional Principles: The Supreme Court’s decision is applauded for upholding democratic principles, ensuring that international obligations assumed by the executive align with constitutional and statutory requirements.
Challenges:
- Future Events Contingency: The activation of MFN clauses contingent upon future events poses challenges in their timely application and raises questions about the executive’s diplomatic accountability.
Key Phrases:
- Dualism of Legal Systems: The constitutional framework recognizes international law and municipal law as separate and distinct legal systems.
- Domestic Legislative Processes: International obligations conflicting with domestic laws must undergo legislative processes for enforceability in courts.
- Separation of Powers: The judgment underscores the importance of the doctrine of separation of powers in judicially incorporating international obligations into domestic law.
Critical Analysis:

The court’s decision provides a robust interpretation of constitutional principles, ensuring that assumed international obligations align with domestic legal processes. The focus on the necessity of notifications for the implementation of MFN clauses reflects the court’s commitment to maintaining clarity and avoiding chaos in the tax system.

Key Examples and References:
- Article 73 and 253 of the Constitution: The judgment extensively refers to constitutional provisions such as Article 73 and Article 253 to establish the legal framework.
Way Forward:
- Legislative Precision: Policymakers should ensure precision in legislative processes, especially concerning the implementation of international obligations, to avoid legal ambiguities.
- Clarity in Notification: The executive should prioritize clarity in notifications, particularly when activating clauses contingent upon future events, to prevent interpretational challenges.
- Review of Existing Treaties: Periodic reviews of existing tax treaties to ensure they align with constitutional and statutory requirements and to address any potential issues related to conflicting obligations.
- Enhanced Diplomatic Engagement: Diplomatic efforts should focus on ensuring that assumed international obligations are seamlessly integrated into domestic legal frameworks to uphold constitutional principles.
The Supreme Court’s judgment serves as a guide for maintaining the sanctity of constitutional principles in the execution of international obligations, particularly in the context of tax treaties.
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Direct Benefits Transfers

For government schemes, a path to dignity for the poor

op-ed snap | Agriculture | Mains Paper 1: Poverty & Development Issues

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) JAM Trinity
Mains level: DBT's success
Key Highlights:
- India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system lauded globally as a “logistical marvel.”
- DBT utilizes digital infrastructure to directly transfer government scheme benefits, covering 310 schemes across 53 ministries.
- The JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile) post-2017-18 maximized DBT’s impact.
Dignity of the Poor:
- DBT’s overlooked benefit is its preservation of the dignity of the poor.
- Without corruption or leakages, DBT eliminates the need for the poor to parade for government benefits.
- Shift in approach—government benefits reaching the poor directly without intermediaries.
Poverty Perspectives and Historical Context:
- Discussion on poverty perspectives, referencing Michael Young’s “The Rise of The Meritocracy.”
- Challenge to the prevailing view that poverty is an individual’s fault, offering an alternative, rights-based approach.
- Advocacy for understanding poverty from an individual rights perspective and addressing historical contexts.
Rights-Based Approach to Poverty:
- Recognition of basic security rights for citizens regarding food, shelter, and health.
- Emphasis on shared societal responsibility for poverty, especially by the rich and elite.
- Contrast with technical solutions, highlighting the need to work with the poor.
Preserving Dignity in Design:
- Importance of not just providing benefits but also considering how they are delivered.
- DBT as a mechanism that ensures rightful benefits reach the poor while preserving their dignity.
- Elimination of the poverty parade with the government reaching the poor.
Replicating DBT Success:
- Suggestion to replicate the DBT design in other areas, with a focus on the judiciary.
- Reference to the judiciary’s challenges and an appeal to ensure justice reaches the poor efficiently.
- Call for collective efforts to address complex problems.
Challenges:
- Unquantifiable nature of preserving dignity makes it challenging to measure its impact.
- The need for broader societal shifts in perspectives on poverty and shared responsibilities.
Key Phrases:
- JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile)
- Poverty parade
- Rights-based approach
- Shared societal responsibility
- Technical solutions vs. working with the poor
- Veil of ignorance (Rawlsian perspective)
- Dignity preservation in program design
Critical Analysis:
- Emphasis on the overlooked aspect of preserving dignity brings a unique perspective.
- The article challenges prevailing views on poverty, advocating for a rights-based approach.
- DBT is presented as a successful model, but challenges of replicating its success are acknowledged.
- The article connects poverty perspectives with societal responsibilities and justice delivery.
Key Examples and References for quality enrichment of mains answers:
- Michael Young’s “The Rise of The Meritocracy”
- The Tyranny of Experts by William Easterly
- Reference to the judiciary’s challenges and the appeal of the first woman tribal President.
Key Data and Facts:
- 310 government schemes across 53 ministries utilize DBT.
- Estimated savings of 1.14% of GDP attributed to DBT.
- 79,813 cases pending before 34 judges in the judiciary.
Key Terms:
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
- JAM Trinity
- Rights-based approach
- Poverty parade
- Veil of ignorance
- Shared societal responsibility
Way Forward:
- Advocacy for applying DBT’s success in other sectors, particularly the judiciary.
- Acknowledgment of complexity but a call for collective efforts to address challenges.
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Judicial Appointments Conundrum Post-NJAC Verdict

It’s time to revamp the structure of the Supreme Court

op-ed snap | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Executive & Judiciary

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Composition of Constitution Benches
Mains level: Suggestion to split the Supreme Court into a Final Court of Appeal and a permanent Constitution Bench
Central idea

The article discusses the challenges faced by the Supreme Court of India, the historical proposals for structural changes, and the recent proposal to create Constitution Benches as a permanent feature. It explores the need for regional benches to alleviate the overwhelming caseload and enhance the court’s efficiency, considering historical recommendations and current demands for reform.

Jurisdictions of the Supreme Court:
- Original, appellate, and advisory jurisdictions under the Constitution.
- Functions as a Constitutional Court and Court of Appeal.
Composition of Constitution Benches:
- Typically comprise five, seven, or nine judges.
- Deliberate on issues related to constitutional law.
- Article 145(3) mandates a minimum of five judges for substantial constitutional questions.
Broad Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court:
- Hears cases in Division Benches (two judges) or full Benches (three judges).
- Addresses diverse topics, from film prohibitions to allegations against public officials.
- Notable instances of entertaining frivolous public interest litigations.
Current Caseload and Need for Structural Change:
- 79,813 pending cases before 34 judges, prompting calls for structural reforms.
- CJI D.Y. Chandrachud’s recent announcement on establishing varied-strength Constitution Benches permanently.
Historical Proposals for Structural Change:
- Tenth Law Commission (1984) proposed splitting the Supreme Court into Constitutional and Legal Divisions.
- Eleventh Law Commission (1988) reiterated the need for division, aiming at wider justice availability.
- Bihar Legal Support Society v. Chief Justice of India (1986) expressed the “desirability” of a National Court of Appeal.
- 229th Law Commission Report (2009) recommended regional benches for non-constitutional issues.
Colonial Legacy and Evolution of the Supreme Court:
- Three Supreme Courts during colonial times (Bombay, Calcutta, Madras).
- Indian High Courts Act of 1861 replaced Supreme Courts with High Courts.
- Government of India Act, 1935, created the Federal Court of India.
- The Supreme Court, established on January 28, 1950, under Article 124 of the Constitution.
Increasing Judges and Overburdened Court:
- Evolution of the Supreme Court from eight judges in 1950 to 34 in 2019.
- Overburdened court issuing around 8-10 decisions yearly through Constitution Benches.
- Only four out of 1,263 decisions in 2022 from Constitution Benches.
Critical Analysis:
- Overburdened Judiciary: High number of pending cases (79,813) indicates the burden on the Supreme Court. The overwhelming workload affects the efficiency of the court in delivering timely justice.
- Historical Proposals: Historical proposals, like the Tenth Law Commission’s suggestion in 1984, proposed splitting the Supreme Court into Constitutional and Legal Divisions.The aim was to make justice more accessible and reduce litigants’ fees.
- Regional Benches Proposal: The 229th Law Commission Report (2009) recommended establishing regional benches to hear non-constitutional issues. The proposal aimed to decentralize workload and allow the Supreme Court to focus on constitutional matters.
- Historical Background: Evolution of the Supreme Court from colonial times with the creation of regional Supreme Courts. Transformation from three Supreme Courts (Bombay, Calcutta, Madras) to the current centralized structure.
Key Examples and References:
- Bihar Legal Support Society v. Chief Justice of India (1986) suggested establishing a National Court of Appeal.
- The 229th Law Commission Report (2009) recommended regional benches.
Key Facts:
- The Court sits in benches of varying sizes, as determined by the Registry on the directions of the Chief Justice of India (CJI), who is the Master of the Roster
- The Supreme Court was founded on January 28, 1950, under Article 124 of the Constitution.
- Workforce increased from 8 judges in 1950 to 34 judges in 2019 due to rising caseload.
Way Forward:
- Suggestion to split the Supreme Court into a Final Court of Appeal and a permanent Constitution Bench.
- A Constitution Bench (V. Vasanthkumar v. H.C. Bhatia) analyzing and proposing measures to protect citizens’ access to the Supreme Court.
- Opportunity to address structural gaps by designating appeal benches as regional benches under CJI’s guidance.
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VT Rajshekar: Journalist, anti-caste legend who spoke his mind

op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Post-Independence

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: Caste as a nation within the nation
Central idea

Vontibettu Thimmappa Rajshekar Shetty (VTR) authored 30 books centering on caste, nation and religion

Key Highlights:
- Vontibettu Thimmappa Rajshekar Shetty (VTR) is a renowned figure in the Ambedkarite, anti-caste movement, known for his fearless journalism.
- Born in 1932, VTR played a significant role in shaping the intellectual discourse of the anti-caste sphere since the 1970s.
- Founder of the world-famous periodical Dalit Voice in 1981, VTR advocated for Dalit rights and challenged the Brahminical state order.
Challenges:
- Faced opposition and legal challenges, including being booked under India’s Terrorism and Anti-Disruptive Activities Act.
- Dalit Voice was forced to shut down due to assault by the BJP, rechristened as Brahmana Jaati Party.
Key Phrases:
- “Triumph of Ambedkarism”: VTR envisioned the 21st century as a period of triumph for Ambedkarism.
- “Caste as a nation within the nation”: VTR viewed caste as a separate entity rather than a subsidiary of the nation-state.
Critical Analysis:
- VTR’s journalism focused on exposing Brahminical hypocrisies and advocating for the rights of the oppressed.
- Fearless critiques of the caste system and Brahminical state order marked his intellectual contributions.
- VTR’s alignment with international radical movements showcased a commitment to broader social justice issues.
- Alliances with African-American movements and international solidarity reflected a global perspective on caste-based discrimination.
- Booking under India’s Terrorism and Anti-Disruptive Activities Act highlighted the resistance faced by VTR for his outspoken journalism.
- Dalit Voice’s closure due to opposition from the BJP underscores the challenges anti-caste voices encounter in political landscapes.
- Despite significant contributions, VTR and many anti-caste legends are often inadequately honored and celebrated.
- The proposed establishment of a national award for fearless journalists in V T Rajshekar’s name aims to recognize and honor his impactful work.
Key Examples and References:
- Founded Dalit Voice in 1981 and authored 30 books, including “Dalit: The Black Untouchables of India.”
- Inspired solidarity between Dalits and contemporary African-American activists.
Key Data:
- Born on July 17, 1932.
- Founded Dalit Voice in 1981.
Key Facts:
- VTR faced legal challenges, including being booked under India’s Terrorism and Anti-Disruptive Activities Act.
- Dalit Voice shut down due to opposition from the BJP.
Key Terms:
- Ambedkarism,
- Brahminical state order,
- Dalit Voice,
- Caste-based violence,
- Internationalism,
- Brahmana Jaati Party.
Way Forward:
- Recognition and celebration of VTR’s contributions to anti-caste journalism and social justice.
- Proposed establishment of a national award for fearless journalists in the name of V T Rajshekar to honor his legacy.
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Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

Moulding the Himalayas needs caution

op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Char Dham Project
Mains level: Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)
Central idea

The Uttarkashi tunnel collapse has thrown light on the major flaws in the infrastructure development in the Indian Himalayan Region

Key Highlights:
- The Char Dham Project in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) has raised concerns about the sustainability of the current development model.
- The focus is on the carrying capacity of the IHR, questioning the extensive road widening, hydropower projects, and tourism promotion.
- The geological sensitivity of the Himalayas, marked by earthquakes and frictional shear rocks, makes such infrastructure projects dangerous.
Challenges:
- Lack of adherence to mountain construction codes and basic safety protocols in the rush for construction projects.
- The fragmentation of the Char Dham Project into smaller sections for Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) raises questions about its comprehensive evaluation.
- The need to address the broader issue of carrying capacity in the IHR, encompassing hydropower projects, tourism, and road development.
Key Phrases:
- “Construction in this zone is dangerous” due to the sensitive geological nature of the Himalayas.
- The Supreme Court should address the issue of carrying capacity in the Himalayas, considering the impact of infrastructure on the ecosystem.
- The transformative phase in the IHR requires a reevaluation of the integration approach with new geographies.
Critical Analysis:
- The article criticizes the lack of seriousness in implementing safety measures, citing the Silkyara tunnel incident in Uttarakhand.
- Emphasis on learning from failures, international protocols, and the inclusion of local communities in monitoring structures are suggested for safer infrastructure development.
Key Examples and References:
- The Atal tunnel in Himachal Pradesh is cited as an exception with a rigorous safety protocol, contrasting it with the safety lapses in the Char Dham Project.
- The flash floods of 2013 in Uttarakhand are mentioned as the basis for initiating the Char Dham Yatra and subsequent infrastructure projects.
Key Data:
- The Char Dham Project is approximately 900 km long, broken into 53 sections for separate EIAs.
- Geological and geotechnical studies highlight the dangerous nature of construction in the Himalayas.
Key Facts:
- The carrying capacity discussion extends beyond the number of people to include infrastructure aspects like hydropower projects and roads.
- The importance of a legislative architecture that involves local communities and adheres to international protocols for safer infrastructure development.
Key Terms for value addition in your answer:
- Carrying capacity
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Geological sensitivity
- Transformative phase
- Safety protocols
Way Forward:
- Urgent dialogue on carrying capacity in the Himalayas, considering the total impact of infrastructure development.
- Adoption of international protocols and legislative architecture for safer construction, involving local communities and civil society.
- Reevaluation of the integration approach in the transformative phase of the IHR, ensuring stability and safety standards in infrastructure projects.
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Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.

Fleet electrification to tackle urban pollution

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

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: PM2.5 and PM10
Mains level: critical role of transitioning to electric trucks to mitigate PM2.5 pollution
Central idea

The central idea revolves around the urgent need to address worsening air quality in Indian cities, focusing on the critical role of transitioning to electric trucks to mitigate PM2.5 pollution. Despite challenges like upfront costs, the article emphasizes the imperative of swift action, proposes green freight corridors as a demonstration, and calls for a concerted effort involving public and private sectors to accelerate the transition and ensure a healthier urban environment.
Key Highlights:

Air Quality Crisis: Rising air pollution in Indian cities necessitates prioritizing mitigation strategies, focusing on PM2.5 and PM10 pollution from the transport and construction sector.

Truck Fleet Expansion: The significant increase in the truck fleet poses a threat to air quality, and the transition to electric trucks is crucial for sustainability and energy security.

Challenges:

Air Pollution Impact: The annual addition of 9 lakh new trucks to Indian roads contributes to air pollution, consuming a substantial portion of oil imports and contributing to over 90% of road transport CO2 emissions.

Obstacles to Electric Adoption: Upfront costs and charging infrastructure constraints pose challenges to the adoption of electric trucks, despite the success in electrifying rail freight and buses.

Key Phrases:

Urgent Deployment: Urgent deployment of solutions is paramount in addressing the air quality crisis.

Targeted Mitigation: Diesel trucks and dust mitigation are identified as significant PM sources requiring immediate attention.

Corridor Demonstration: Green freight corridors are proposed as a demonstration effect to accelerate the transition to electric trucks.

Critical Analysis:

Swift Action Call: The need for swift action is emphasized, with a call to accelerate the pace of transition to electric trucks.

Financial Implications: Public funding alone is insufficient, and the importance of attracting private and institutional capital is highlighted.

Decarbonization Priority: Despite the success in electrifying three-wheelers, truck electrification is recognized as a pivotal step in transport sector decarbonization.

Key Examples and References:

E-truck Demand: The demand for 7,750 e-trucks in India by 2030 is cited as a potential measure to save over 800 billion liters of diesel till 2050.

Cost Disparity: The upfront cost disparity between mid-range electric trucks and diesel trucks is identified as a major hurdle.

Key Data:

Electric Penetration Rate: India’s electric vehicle penetration rate has crossed 6%, but electric trucks remain a challenge.

Fleet Projection: The Indian truck fleet is projected to reach 1.7 crore in 2050, emphasizing the urgency of transitioning to electric trucks.

Key Facts:

Corridor Proposal: Electrifying expressways and national highways as green freight corridors is proposed for demonstration and impact.

Financial Innovation: Innovative financial instruments and a conducive regulatory environment are deemed essential for the breakthrough in truck electrification.

Way Forward:

Concerted Efforts: Urges the need for concerted efforts, including feasibility studies, demand aggregation, and a conducive regulatory environment, to create green freight corridors.

Recognition of Urgency: Stresses the importance of recognizing the urgency in addressing air quality issues and transitioning to electric trucks for a healthier urban environment.
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Ram Madhav writes: Don’t rewrite the Constitution

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

Indian Constitution

Central idea

On Constitution Day, voices are emerging to replace India’s Constitution, a unique document created through extensive discussion and amendments.

Comparative Constitutionalism:

The comparison with other countries like France, Nepal, Chile, and Uzbekistan highlights India’s distinct process of constitution-making.
Critics label the present Constitution as “colonial,” citing similarities with the Government of India Act 1935, but the historical context and unique influences are acknowledged.

Historical Influences and Unique Drafting Process:

Dr. Rajendra Prasad asserted that India wasn’t bound to adhere strictly to global constitutional categories, emphasizing the influence of India’s historical realities.
The Nehru Report’s significance in shaping constitutional ideals, serving as a foundation for future constitutional struggles.

Challenges and Criticisms:

The challenge lies in addressing criticisms of the Constitution being “colonial” and responding to calls for a rewrite, balancing historical influences with contemporary needs.
Achieving political consensus, as witnessed in the unique drafting process, is a monumental task, especially considering the diverse opinions and interests.

Back2Basics: The Government of India Act (1935)

Under Lord Linlithgow’s leadership, a committee drafted the Government of India Act 1935, which was passed by the British Parliament and implemented.
The Act drew from the Simon Commission Report, Round Table Conferences, White Paper of 1933, and Joint Select Committees’ reports to formulate its provisions.

Provisions of the GoI Act, 1935:

All India Federation: Established an All-India Federation comprising British Indian Provinces and Indian States, although its implementation was hindered by lack of princely state participation.
Provincial Autonomy: Introduced provincial autonomy where provinces functioned as autonomous units with responsible governments, though governors retained significant powers.
Division of Subjects: Introduced three lists—Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent—to delineate legislative authority between the Centre and provinces, aiming to clarify jurisdictional matters:

	Description	Example Subjects
Federal List	Subjects of all-India interest requiring uniform treatment across British India. Only the Federal Legislature had the authority to legislate.	Defence, Foreign Affairs, Currency, Railways, Taxes on Income
Provincial List	Subjects of local interest where Provincial Legislatures had exclusive jurisdiction.	Public Health, Police, Local Government, Agriculture, Education
Concurrent List	Subjects of both Provincial and Federal interest, requiring uniformity across the country. Both levels of government could legislate.	Criminal Law, Marriage and Divorce, Bankruptcy, Trusts, Trade Unions

Key Terms and Phrases:

Nehru Report: Draft constitution prepared in 1928 as a response to the challenge posed by Lord Birkenhead, emphasizing fundamental rights and democratic principles.
Government of India Act 1935: Considered by some as a “colonial” precursor to the Indian Constitution, but viewed differently by considering historical context.

Critical Analysis:

The article navigates the complexities of assessing India’s Constitution, acknowledging historical influences while defending its efficiency in serving the nation.
The challenges of potential rewriting are highlighted, emphasizing the need for political consensus and the unique historical context.

Way Forward:

The way forward involves careful consideration of the Constitution’s strengths, historical foundations, and the feasibility of rewriting in the context of contemporary needs.
Any potential rewriting should uphold the principles of a “fair measure of general agreement” among India’s diverse population, echoing the spirit of the Nehru Report.

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