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Type: Prelims Only

  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    [pib] Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grows by 5.7% in February, 2024

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Core Industries etc.

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) increased by 5.7% in February, up from 3.8% in January, according to data from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

    What is Index of Industrial Production (IIP)?

    • IIP as it is commonly called is an index that tracks overall manufacturing activity in different sectors of an economy.
    • It is currently calculated using 2011-2012 as the base year.
    • It is compiled and published by Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) every month.
    • CSO operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

    Components of IIP:

    • Three broad sectors in IIP:
    1. Manufacturing (77.6%),
    2. Mining (14.4%)
    3. Electricity (8%).
    • Electricity, crude oil, coal, cement, steel, refinery products, natural gas, and fertilizers are the eight core industries that comprise about 40 per cent of the weight of items included in the IIP.

    Basket of products:

    There are 6 sub-categories:

    1. Primary Goods (consisting of mining, electricity, fuels and fertilisers)
    2. Capital Goods (e.g. machinery items)
    3. Intermediate Goods (e.g. yarns, chemicals, semi-finished steel items, etc)
    4. Infrastructure Goods (e.g. paints, cement, cables, bricks and tiles, rail materials, etc)
    5. Consumer Durables (e.g. garments, telephones, passenger vehicles, etc)
    6. Consumer Non-durables (e.g. food items, medicines, toiletries, etc)

    Who uses IIP data?

    • The factory production data (IIP) is used by various government agencies such as the Ministry of Finance, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), private firms and analysts, among others for analytical purposes.
    • The data is also used to compile the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the manufacturing sector in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on a quarterly basis.

    IIP base year change:

    • The base year was changed to 2011-12 from 2004-05 in the year 2017.
    • The earlier base years were 1937, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1960, 1970, 1980-81, 1993-94 and 2004-05.

    What are the Core Industries in India?

    • The main or the key industries constitute the core sectors of an economy.
    • In India, there are eight sectors that are considered the core sectors.
    • They are electricity, steel, refinery products, crude oil, coal, cement, natural gas and fertilizers.

    About Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI)  

    • The monthly Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) is a production volume index.
    • ICI measures collective and individual performance of production in selected eight core industries: Coal (10%), Crude Oil (8.98%), Natural Gas (6.88%), Refinery Products (28.04%), Fertilizers (2.63%), Steel (17.92%), Cement (5.37%), and Electricity (20.18%).
    • Prior to the 2004-05 series six core industries namely Coal, Cement, Finished Steel, Electricity, Crude petroleum and Refinery products constituted the index basket.
    • Two more industries i.e. Fertilizer and Natural Gas were added to the index basket in 2004-05 series. The ICI series with base 2011-12 will continue to have eight core industries.

    Components covered in these eight industries for compilation of index are as follows:

    1. Coal – Coal Production excluding Coking coal.
    2. Crude Oil – Total Crude Oil Production.
    3. Natural Gas – Total Natural Gas Production.
    4. Refinery Products – Total Refinery Production (in terms of Crude Throughput).
    5. Fertilizer – Urea, Ammonium Sulphate (A/S), Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN), Ammonium chloride (A/C), Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), Complex Grade Fertilizer and Single superphosphate (SSP).
    6. Steel – Production of Alloy and Non-Alloy Steel only.
    7. Cement – Production of Large Plants and Mini Plants.
    8. Electricity – Actual Electricity Generation of Thermal, Nuclear, Hydro, imports from Bhutan.

    How is IIP different from ICI?

    • IIP is compiled and published monthly by the National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation six weeks after the reference month ends.
    • However, ICI is compiled and released by Office of the Economic Adviser (OEA), Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), and Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
    • The Eight Core Industries comprise nearly 40.27% of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). These are Electricity, steel, refinery products, crude oil, coal, cement, natural gas and fertilisers.

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the Index of Eight Core Industries, which one of the following is given the highest weight?

    (a) Coal Production

    (b) Electricity generation

    (c) Fertilizer Production

    (d) Steel Production

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, Rowlatt Act, Hunter Commission

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    On April 13, 1919, Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer ordered British troops to open fire on a peaceful gathering in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, leaving a deep scar on India’s collective memory.

    Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

    1. Background: Protesting the contentious Rowlatt Act
    • The act officially known as the Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act, 1919 was passed in 1919 by the Imperial Legislative Council.
    • It had authorized the British government to arrest anybody suspected of terrorist activities.
    • It also authorized the government to detain such people arrested for up to 2 years without trial.
    • It empowered the police to search a place without a warrant. It also placed severe restrictions on the freedom of the press.
    • The primary intention of colonial govt. was to repress the growing nationalist movement in the country.
    • The British were also afraid of a Ghadarite Revolution in Punjab and the rest of the country.
    1. The day
    • The massacre took place on 13 April 1919 when troops of the British Indian Army (Gurkha and Sikh infantry regiments) under the command of Col. Reginald Dyer fired rifles into a crowd of Indians.
    • The civilians had assembled for a peaceful protest to condemn the arrest and deportation of two national leaders, Satya Pal and Saifuddin Kitchlew.
    • Dyer without warning ordered his troops to fire at the unarmed crowd which included children as well.
    • The indiscriminate firing went on for about 10 minutes which resulted in the deaths of at least 1000 people and injured more than 1500 people.
    1. Aftermath
    • In protest against the massacre, Rabindranath Tagore gave up his knighthood.
    • Gandhiji relinquished his title ‘Kaiser-e-hind’ bestowed on him by the British for his services during the Boer War in South Africa.
    • Michael O’Dwyer, the then Lieutenant-Governor of Punjab, who had approved the actions of Dyer, was assassinated by Udham Singh in London in 1940 as revenge against the massacre.
    • The heroic treatment of Dyer’s heinous act again set a benchmark of colonial arrogance.

    Hunter Commission for Inquiry

    • In October 1919 the Secretary of State for India, Edwin Montagu, ordered the formation of a committee of inquiry into the events in Punjab.
    • Referred to as the Disorders Inquiry Committee, it was later more widely known as the Hunter Commission (Not to be confused with Hunter Education Commission).
    • The commission inquiry was concluded without any significant conclusion.
    • Still, there are long-standing demands in India that Britain should apologize for the massacre.

    PYQ:

    [2012] The Rowlatt Act aimed at:

    (a) Compulsory economic support to war efforts

    (b) Imprisonment without trial and summary procedures for trial

    (c) Suppression of the Khilafat Movement

    (d) Imposition of restrictions on freedom of the press

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  • Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

    What is Doxxing and what can you do if it happens to you?

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Doxxing

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    In mid-February, a woman reported an incident of doxxing to Mumbai Police after a man shared a video of her dancing and subjected her to harassment online.

    What is Doxxing?

    • Doxxing involves publicly disclosing an individual’s private information without consent, including personal details like addresses, phone numbers, and more.
    • It can lead to severe consequences, including physical, digital, and emotional harm, such as stalking, threats, and loss of privacy.

    Legality and Intentions

    • While sharing public content may be legal, the intentions behind sharing such content can be malicious and harmful.
    • Social media platforms like X take action against users who share information with abusive intent or to harass others.

    Consequences of Doxxing

    • Victims of doxxing may face numerous challenges, including securing their physical location, clarifying situations with employers, and dealing with a barrage of threats.
    • Security measures such as changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting incidents to social media platforms are crucial for safeguarding against doxxing.

    Legal Remedy Against Doxxing

    • Victims of doxxing can report incidents through platforms like the:
    1. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and
    2. File FIRs (with law enforcement authorities).
    • Social media companies like Meta and Google have tools and mechanisms in place to assist individuals who have been doxxed.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1.    Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer

    2.    Cost of a new computer if some miscreant willfully damages it, if proved so

    3.    Cost of hiring a specialized consultant to minimize the loss in case of cyber extortion

    4.    Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third-party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

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  • Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc

    Adjudication Process under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2:

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PMLA, 2002; Adjudication Process under PMLA, ED, FIU

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • The Adjudicating Authority under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) has confirmed the attachment of assets worth Rs 751.9 crore linked to a politician family.
    • The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had provisionally attached these properties in PMLA case.

    About Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002

    Details
    Precursor Enacted to fulfill India’s global commitments to combat money laundering, aligning with international conventions such as:

    1. UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic; Substances 1988;
    2. Basle Statement of Principles, 1989;
    3. Financial Action Task Force’s Forty Recommendations, 1990;
    4. UN General Assembly’s Political Declaration and Global Program of Action, 1990.
    What is it?
    • Criminal law targeting money laundering and property confiscation from illicit activities.
    • Central to India’s anti-money laundering legal framework.
    • Applicable to financial institutions, banks (including RBI), mutual funds, insurance companies, and their intermediaries.
    Amendments Amended in the year 2005, 2009 and 2012.
    Objectives
    • Confiscate proceeds of crime involved in money laundering.
    • Establish legal mechanisms to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.
    • Strengthen investigation and prosecution of money laundering offenses.
    • Enhance international cooperation in combating money laundering.
    Regulating Authorities
    1. Directorate of Enforcement (ED) enforces PMLA provisions and investigates money laundering cases.
    2. Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) receives, processes, analyses and disseminates information related to suspect financial transactions.
    Salient Features
    • Punishment and Jail Term: Provides rigorous imprisonment from 3 to 7 years for money laundering, extendable up to 10 years.
    • Powers of Attachment: Director or officer above Deputy Director rank can provisionally attach suspected “proceeds of crime” property.
    • Adjudicating Authority: Appointed by the central government to determine involvement of attached or seized property in money laundering.
    • Presumption in Inter-Connected Transactions: Transactions are presumed interconnected in money laundering cases.
    • Burden of Proof: Accused must prove alleged proceeds of crime are lawful.
    • Appellate Tribunal: Empowered to hear appeals against Adjudicating Authority and other orders under the Act.
    • Special Court Establishment: Ensures expedited trials.

     

    In news: Adjudicating Authority under PMLA

    • The ED, empowered by Section 5 of the PMLA, provisionally attaches assets suspected to be acquired through criminal proceeds.
    • These provisional orders, valid for 180 days, require confirmation by the Adjudicating Authority within the stipulated period to maintain legal validity.
    1. Role of the Adjudicating Authority:
    • The Adjudicating Authority, appointed by the central government, reviews the attachment orders to ensure compliance with legal standards and procedural requirements.
    • Failure to confirm the attachment within the prescribed timeline results in automatic release of the attached property.
    1. Legal Ramifications Post-Confirmation:
    • Once confirmed, the accused retains the right to challenge the order within 45 days at the PMLA’s Appellate Tribunal.
    • If the order is upheld, the accused may pursue further legal avenues, while the attached property remains inaccessible until the conclusion of legal proceedings.
    1. Impact on Property Owners and Enforcement Agencies:
    • Confirmed attachments may lead to the ED taking possession of residential properties, compelling owners to evacuate.
    • Attached properties, including vehicles, may deteriorate over time as legal battles prolong, with significant financial implications for both parties.

    PYQ:

     

    [2013] Money laundering poses a serious security threat to a country’s economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to control this menace?

     

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1.    The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a ‘Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air’.

    2.    The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument.

    3.    A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly.

    4.    The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

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  • Monsoon Updates

    India, US to reactivate Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS)

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS)

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    India and the US have decided to reactivate the Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS).

    What is IndOOS?

    • Established in 2006, the Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS) comprises moored buoys strategically placed across the Indian Ocean.
    • It consists of a network of 36 moored buoys in the high seas to collect high-resolution ocean and atmospheric data for weather forecasts.
    • These buoys measure various parameters like seawater temperature, salinity, ocean currents, atmospheric humidity, and wind speed.
    • IndOOS originally focused on understanding and predicting the monsoon.
    • It now aids in climate modelling under changing climatic conditions and predicts extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and cyclones.

    Objectives of IndOOS include:

    1. The primary objective of IndOOS is to provide continuous and high-quality oceanographic and meteorological data to support informed decision-making and improve scientific understanding of weather and climate.
    2. It aims to foster partnerships among Indian Ocean countries and beyond to enhance long-term monitoring and forecasting capabilities.

    Need for IndOOS

    • The Indian Ocean region, home to nearly one-third of the global population, faces significant vulnerabilities due to climate change and extreme weather events.
    • Fisheries and rain-dependent agriculture in these regions are heavily influenced by the monsoon, making accurate weather forecasts crucial for mitigating potential damage to crops and livelihoods.
    • The Indian Ocean’s influence extends beyond its boundaries, redistributing heat across the planet and modulating the climate in the Pacific, North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea.

    Observing Networks under IndOOS

    • The framework for IndOOS comprises five observing networks:
    1. Research Moored Array for African-Asian-Australian Monsoon Analysis and Prediction (RAMA)
    2. Profiling floats (part of the global Argo array)
    3. Surface drifters (Global Drifter Program, GDP)
    4. Repeat temperature lines (eXpendable Bathy Thermograph (XBT) network)
    5. Tide gauges
    • These networks are complemented by satellite observations of surface wind, sea level, temperature, salinity, rainfall, and ocean color.

    Partnerships and Support:

    • IndOOS originated from discussions among scientists during the First International Conference on the Ocean Observing System for Climate (OceanObs) in 1999.
    • An implementation plan for IndOOS was developed by the Indian Ocean Panel, established under the Climate and Ocean Variability, Predictability, and Change (CLIVAR) and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission – Global Ocean Observing System (IOC-GOOS) programs.

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  • Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.

    Patanjali Misleading Advertisement Case

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Obiter Dicta Lexicon, Misleading Advertisements

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • The Supreme Court ruling refusing to accept Patanjali’s MD’s unconditional apologies underscores the gravity of intentionally misleading advertisements and their repercussions.
    • Despite apologies, Patanjali’s breach of its commitment not to disseminate false claims about curing various illnesses led to this decision.

    The Concept of Obiter Dicta Lexicon:

    • In the context of the criticism directed towards the Hon’ble Supreme Court Bench’s statement in the Patanjali case, the concept of “obiter dicta lexicon” may find relevance.
    • “Obiter dicta” is a Latin term that translates to “things said by the way” and refers to statements made by a judge in passing, which are not essential to the decision of the case at hand.
    • It refers to the use of language or expressions that are not directly relevant to the legal reasoning or decision-making process in a court judgment or opinion.

    SC Bench Statement on Patanjali’s Apology:

    • The statement “we will rip you apart” is being criticized for being overly aggressive and potentially inappropriate for a judicial setting.
    • Therefore, in this case, the use of language that deviated from the core legal issues at hand and instead conveyed a sense of aggression or hostility could be viewed as part of the “obiter dicta lexicon.”

    Understanding Misleading Advertisements:

    • The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 prohibits unfair trade practices, including misleading advertisements, and provides mechanisms for consumers to seek redressal for grievances related to misleading advertising.

    Following are the types of Misleading Ads:

    1. False Claims: Advertisements with untrue statements about a product’s features or benefits.
    2. Exaggerated Claims: Ads that overstate a product’s benefits beyond reason.
    3. Omission of Material Information: Ads that hide important details consumers need to know.
    4. Comparative Advertising: Ads unfairly attacking competitors’ products.
    5. Endorsements and Testimonials: Ads using fake endorsements or testimonials.
    6. Health and Safety Claims: Ads with unproven health or safety benefits.
    7. Bait-and-Switch Tactics: Ads luring with false promises and switching to different offers.

    Key Legislation dealing with Misleading Ads:

    1. Bureau of Indian Standards (Certification) Regulations, 1988
    2. Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006
    3. The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1955 (DOMA)
    4. The Drug and Cosmetics Act of 1940
    5. The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003

     

    Regulatory Authorities dealing with the Issue:

    1. Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI): Ensures fairness and compliance with the ASCI Code in Indian commercials.
    2. Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): Regulates consumer rights violations, unfair trade practices, and misleading marketing detrimental to public interests. It has issued the Guidelines for the Prevention and Endorsement of Misleading Advertisements, 2022.

    About the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1955 (DOMA):

    • The Magic Remedies Act encompasses the definition of “drug”.
    • It extends to include articles like talismans, mantras, and charms purportedly possessing miraculous healing powers.

    Here are the key provisions of the Act:

    1. Prohibition of Certain Advertisements: The Act prohibits advertisements that claim to prevent or cure certain diseases or ailments listed in Schedule J of the Act through drugs or remedies. These diseases include conditions like cancer, tuberculosis, diabetes, and epilepsy.
    2. Prohibition of Misleading Advertisements: The Act prohibits advertisements that are false or misleading in any material particular regarding the nature, substance, quality, or potency of any drug or remedy.
    3. Cognizance of Offences: No court shall take cognizance of any offence under the Act except on a complaint made by the government or by a person authorized by the government.
    4. Exemptions: The Act provides exemptions for advertisements of drugs or remedies containing certain substances or preparations listed in Schedule J if the advertisement conforms to the conditions specified in the Schedule.

    Violations made by Patanjali Ayurveda

    1. Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954 (DOMA): By disseminating deceptive advertisements, Patanjali breached Section 4 of the DOMA, which prohibits the publication of false drug ads.
    2. Consumer Protection Act of 2019 (CPA): Patanjali made false claims in their advertisements about curing different illnesses, contravening Section 2(28) of the CPA, which defines “misleading advertisement”.
    3. Violation of MoU between Ministry of AYUSH and ASCI: Patanjali’s actions breached the memorandum signed between the Ministry of AYUSH and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), indicating non-compliance with agreed-upon standards for advertising practices.

    PYQ:

    [2012] With reference to consumers’ rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1.    Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.

    2.    When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.

    3.    In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Judicial Reforms

    Doctrine of Harmonious Construction

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Executive & Judiciary

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Principles for Condonation of Delay, Doctrine of Harmonious Construction

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    The Supreme Court refused to condone a delay of 5659 days in an appeal filing, setting forth eight guiding principles by interpreting Sections 3 and 5 of the Limitation Act, 1963, in ‘Harmonious Construction’.

    What is the Doctrine of Harmonious Construction?

    • The doctrine of harmonious construction means figuring out how to understand different parts of a law that seem to disagree with each other.
    • This doctrine helps maintain consistency and coherence in legal interpretation, ensuring that legislative intent is upheld while resolving apparent conflicts within statutes.
    • Origin: The Origin of the Doctrine of Harmonious Construction dates back to the landmark Judgement of Sri Shankari Prasad Singh Deo v. Union of India (1951), when there existed conflict between Fundamental Rights and DPDP.
    • In the present context, the SC harmoniously construed Sections 3 and 5 of the Limitation Act, ensuring that the strict interpretation of limitation periods under Section 3 was balanced with the liberal approach to condonation of delay under Section 5.

    What is Limitation Act, 1963?

    • The Limitation Act, 1963 is a statute enacted by the Parliament that prescribes the time limits within which legal proceedings can be initiated for various civil and criminal matters.
    • The Act sets out the specific time periods, known as limitation periods, within which a person must file a lawsuit or take legal action to enforce their rights or claim remedies for a particular cause of action.
    • Once the limitation period expires, the right to initiate legal proceedings becomes barred by law, and the aggrieved party loses the right to seek legal redress.

    Here are its key features:

    • Applicability: The Limitation Act, 1963 applies to civil suits, appeals, and applications filed in courts across India, with exceptions for cases where specific statutes provide for different limitation periods.
    • Limitation Periods: The Act sets a limitation period of 3 years for filing suits related to recovery of debts, breach of contract, or injury to a person.
    • Commencement of Limitation: The limitation period typically begins from the date when the cause of action arises, which is when the aggrieved party becomes entitled to sue.
    • Extension and Suspension: The Act allows for certain circumstances where the limitation period may be extended or suspended. For instance, if the plaintiff is under a disability or if fraud is discovered, the limitation period may be extended.

    Principles for Condonation of Delay

    Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal presided over the bench that delineated these principles.

    1. Public Policy Basis: Limitation law aims to conclude litigation by forfeiting the remedy rather than the right itself.
    2. Temporal Limitation: Rights or remedies unexercised for a prolonged duration should cease to exist.
    3. Strict vs. Liberal Construction: Section 3 (limitation period) requires strict interpretation, while Section 5 (condonation of delay) demands a liberal approach.
    4. Substantial Justice: While promoting substantial justice, the core of limitation law (Section 3) must not be undermined.
    5. Discretionary Power: Courts may condone delay if sufficient cause is explained but may refrain due to factors like inordinate delay and negligence.
    6. Individual Justification: Relief granted to some does not mandate the same for others if delay justification is unsatisfactory.
    7. Merit Irrelevance: Merits of the case need not influence delay condonation decisions.
    8. Condonation Parameters: Applications for delay condonation must adhere to statutory provisions; overlooking conditions amounts to disregarding the law.

    Why were these guidelines laid out?

    • These principles emerged from a case where legal heirs sought to challenge a High Court decision dismissing their plea to condone delay in filing an appeal against a Trial Court’s reference dismissal.
    • The litigant’s heirs argued insufficient knowledge about the dismissal due to her stay in the matrimonial house, leading to a delayed filing.
    • However, the Supreme Court rejected this argument, citing negligence in pursuing the reference and appeal, lack of procedural diligence, and acceptance of the reference court’s decision by most claimants.

    PYQ:

     

    [2021] With reference to Indian judiciary, consider the following statements:​

    1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with prior permission of the President of India.​

    2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does.​

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Air Pollution

    NGT Intervention to prevent Stubble Burning

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: National Green Tribunal (NGT), Pusa-Biodecomposer

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Punjab government to devise a comprehensive strategy for managing the estimated 19.52 million tonnes of paddy stubble in the state.

    About National Green Tribunal (NGT)

    Description
    Establishment Formed in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act as a statutory body.
    Objective

     
    • To deal with cases related to environmental issues and ensure speedy implementation of decisions.
    • Responsible for making many prominent decisions aimed at environmental protection, including addressing air pollution in Delhi and cancelling coal block clearances.
    Composition
    • Headquartered in Delhi, chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge
    • Included Judicial Members and Expert Panel.
    Powers Empowered to decide on questions related to various environmental laws and hear civil cases concerning environmental issues:

    1. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974;
    2. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977;
    3. The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;
    4. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981;
    5. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986;
    6. The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991;
    7. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
    Exceptions Prohibited to hear any issues which are covered under:

    1. The Indian Forest Act, 1927,
    2. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and
    3. Any other laws made by States which are related to protection of trees, forests, etc.
    Places
    • Principal bench in Delhi;
    • Additional benches in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai.
    Governing Principles
    • Governed by principles of natural justice, not bound by Indian Evidence Act.
    • Applies principles of sustainable development, precautionary, and polluter pays.
    Review and Challenge
    • NGT orders can be reviewed as per Rule 22 of NGT Rules.
    • Can be challenged before the Supreme Court within ninety days.

    NGT intervention in Punjab

    • The ban and action against people burning crop residue are regulated under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
    • Punjab is required to provide details on the steps taken to utilize paddy straw in the previous year, including the mode and manner of removal, transportation, and utilization in various units.
    • Punjab estimated an increase in paddy straw generation to 52 million tonnes in 2024, with a projected utilization of 18.66 million tonnes.
    • Notably, the off-site utilization is expected to see a significant 60% increase, with 5.96 million tonnes being utilized in industrial and energy plants.

    Alternatives used for Stubble Burning

    • In-Situ Treatment: This involves managing crop residue directly in the field. Examples include using zero-tiller machines and bio-decomposers to break down stubble.
    • Ex-Situ Treatment: This method involves treating crop residue outside the field. An example is using rice straw as cattle fodder.
    • Turbo Happy Seeder (THS) Technique: This can uproot stubble and sow seeds while clearing the field. The stubble can then be used as mulch.

    Pusa-Biodecomposer

    • Pusa-Biodecomposer is a fungi-based liquid solution developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
    • It softens hard stubble, making it easy to mix with soil as compost.
    • It produces enzymes to digest cellulose, lignin, and pectin in paddy straw, rapidly converting crop residues and other waste into organic manure.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following:

    1.    Carbon monoxide

    2.    Methane

    3.    Ozone

    4.    Sulphur dioxide

    Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Microbial Formulations for Enhanced Agricultural Productivity

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Bactolime, Bactogypsum, and Trichogypsum; Soil Microbes

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), located in Kozhikode, has introduced and validated three new microbial formulations (Bactolime, Bactogypsum, and Trichogypsum) aimed at improving agricultural productivity.

    IISR Microbial Formulations

    • It leverages granular lime and gypsum to address soil pH issues while simultaneously delivering beneficial microorganisms.
    • These are developed using IISR’s proprietary patent-applied technology.
    • The formulations are:
    1. Bactolime:
    • Bactolime, the flagship product, combines beneficial bacteria, specifically plant growth-promoting Rhizobacteria, with liming material in a single formulation.
    • This integration ensures not only the correction of soil acidity but also the provision of essential nutrients to plants.
    1. Bactogypsum and Trichogypsum:
    • The other two formulations, Bactogypsum and Trichogypsum, utilize gypsum as a base material to buffer soil pH to a near-neutral level.
    • By creating an optimal environment for beneficial microbes, these formulations improve soil structure, enhance the availability of secondary nutrients, and boost overall microbial activity.

    Back2Basics: Soil Microbes

    Soil microbes refer to microorganisms that inhabit the soil environment and play vital roles in soil health, nutrient cycling, and plant growth. These microorganisms are diverse and include bacteria, fungi, archaea, protozoa, and algae.

    Function Benefits
    Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria Convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, making it available to plants Enhance soil fertility, improve plant growth and yield
    Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria Solubilize insoluble phosphorus, making it available to plants Increase phosphorus availability, promote root development and flowering
    Mycorrhizal Fungi Form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, facilitate nutrient uptake Improve soil structure, enhance nutrient absorption, increase plant resilience
    Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Stimulate plant growth, enhance nutrient uptake, suppress pathogens Promote root development, improve nutrient efficiency, increase stress tolerance
    Actinomycetes Decompose organic matter, produce antibiotics Enhance soil fertility, control soil-borne diseases and pests
    Azotobacter Fix atmospheric nitrogen, produce growth-promoting substances Increase nitrogen availability, stimulate root growth and nutrient uptake
    Azospirillum Fix atmospheric nitrogen, produce phytohormones Enhance nitrogen availability, promote root growth and stress tolerance
    Bacillus spp. Produce antimicrobial compounds, enzymes Control plant diseases and pests, improve soil health and fertility

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Why does the Government of India promote the use of ‘Neem-coated Urea’ in agriculture?

    (a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms

    (b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil

    (c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into atmosphere by crop fields

    (d) It is a combination of a weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops

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  • Electoral Reforms In India

    Candidates have a Right to Privacy from Voters: SC

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Representation Of People’s Act

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Right to Privacy, RPA

    Mains level: NA

    Why in the news?

    • The Supreme Court affirmed a candidate’s right to privacy from voters, stating that candidates need not divulge every aspect of their personal lives and possessions to the electorate.
    • It held that Voters Right to Know about the electors is NOT ABSOLUTE.

    Right to Privacy in India:

    • The Right to Privacy under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution is interpreted as an intrinsic part of the fundamental right to life and personal liberty.
    • Article 21 states that “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.”
    • In the landmark judgment of Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union of India (2017), the Supreme Court explicitly recognized the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21.
    • The court held that privacy is an essential aspect of personal liberty and dignity, encompassing informational privacy, decisional autonomy, bodily integrity, and spatial privacy.
    • This right protects individuals against unwarranted intrusions into their private lives by the state or any other entity.
    • It includes the right to keep personal information confidential, to make decisions about one’s life and body without interference, and to maintain physical and spatial autonomy.

     

    A candidate doesn’t need to declare every item of movable property, such as clothing, shoes, crockery, stationery, and furniture, unless these items are of such value as to constitute a sizeable asset in itself or reflect upon the candidate’s candidature in terms of their lifestyle – Supreme Court. 

    What are Corrupt Practices under the RPA?

    • Section 123 of the Representation of People Act, 1951 defines “corrupt practices” to include bribery, undue influence, false information, and promotion of enmity among citizens based on religion, race, caste, etc.
    • Section 123(2) deals with “undue influence,” involving interference with electoral rights through threats or promises.
    • Undue influence can manifest in various forms, including threats of physical harm, coercion, intimidation, promises of reward or benefit, or exploitation of vulnerabilities.

    Supreme Court’s Verdict

    1. Emphasis on Candidate’s Right to Privacy:
    • Upholding the appeal, the Supreme Court emphasized the candidate’s right to privacy, stating that not every non-disclosure automatically constitutes a defect.
    • The court highlighted that a candidate is not required to disclose every item of movable property unless it reflects upon their candidature or lifestyle.
    1. Case-specific Evaluation:
    • The court emphasized that each case must be judged on its own merits, without applying a blanket rule.
    • The Court emphasized that non-disclosure of certain personal possessions does not amount to a “defect of a substantial nature” under Section 36(4) of the 1951 Act.
    1. Example of “High-value” Assets:
    • Suppression of high-priced assets, indicating a lavish lifestyle, would constitute undue influence.
    • However, ownership of simple, low-value items may not be considered a defect.

    PYQ:

    [2017] For election to the Lok Sabha, a nomination paper can be filed by-

    (a) Anyone residing in India.

    (b) A resident of the constituency from which the election is to be contested.

    (c) Any citizen of India whose name appears in the electoral roll of a constituency.

    (d) Any citizen of India.

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