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Type: Prelims Only

  • Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.

    Places of Worship Act and Ongoing Disputes: Explained

    ExplainedPrelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Communalism, Secularism, Regionalism

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Places of Worship Act

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Introduction

    • The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, has once again come into focus due to ongoing civil suits challenging the religious character of mosques in Varanasi and Mathura.

    Enactment of the Places of Worship Act

    • Background: The Act was enacted in September 1991, during the Babri-Masjid Ram Janmabhoomi dispute, to address issues related to the status of places of worship.
    • Objectives: It aimed to freeze the religious character of places of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947, and prevent the conversion of places of worship from one denomination to another.

    Key Provisions of the Act

    • Continuity of Religious Character: The Act ensures that the religious character of a place of worship remains unchanged from its status on August 15, 1947.
    • Prohibition on Conversion: It prohibits the conversion of a place of worship of any religious denomination into one of a different denomination.
    • Abatement of Pending Cases: All pending legal proceedings regarding the conversion of a place of worship, initiated before August 15, 1947, would abate upon the Act coming into force, and no new proceedings can be initiated.

    Exceptions to the Rule

    • Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites: The Act does not apply to ancient and historical monuments and archaeological sites protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
    • Settled Disputes: It does not apply to suits that were already settled or disposed of or to conversions by acquiescence.

    Status of Ongoing Cases on the Gyanvapi Mosque

    • Current Litigation: Ongoing civil suits in Varanasi involve claims by Hindu worshippers asserting their right to worship deities within the Gyanvapi mosque premises.
    • Basis for Suits: The Hindu side claims that an old temple of Lord Vishweshwar existed at the center of the mosque compound, demolished by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1669.
    • Court Orders: Court orders have favored the position that these suits are not barred by the Places of Worship Act. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a survey that reported the existence of a temple before the mosque.

    Implications of the Act in the Mathura Dispute

    • Shahi Idgah Mosque: Civil suits in Mathura pertain to the Shahi Idgah mosque near the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, with claims that it was built over Lord Krishna’s birthplace.
    • Challenging Compromise: The suits challenge a compromise reached in 1968 between Sri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan and the Shahi Idgah Trust. The Allahabad High Court has transferred all Mathura dispute suits to itself.
    • Act’s Applicability: Court decisions have held that the Act does not bar these suits. In the Mathura dispute, the Act is not applicable as the compromise decree predates its enactment.

    Conclusion

    • The Places of Worship Act, enacted to freeze the status of places of worship, is facing challenges in ongoing disputes, particularly in Varanasi and Mathura.
    • Courts have ruled that the Act does not prohibit these suits, emphasizing the need for a case-by-case examination to determine religious character.
    • These developments underscore the complexities and legal interpretations surrounding the Act’s application in the context of evolving disputes.

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  • New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

    Rare Dusted Apollo Butterfly Spotted in Himachal Pradesh

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Rare Dusted Apollo Butterfly

    Mains level: Not Much

    butterfly

    Introduction

    • In a remarkable discovery, the elusive Dusted Apollo butterfly (Parnassius stenosemus) was sighted and photographed for the first time in Himachal Pradesh.

    Dusted Apollo

    • Historical Rarity: Dusted Apollo is a rare high-altitude butterfly, initially discovered in 1890.
    • Sighting Details: The butterfly was spotted and photographed in September 2023 during a trek to Manimahesh Lake in Chamba.
    • Wide Range: The Dusted Apollo’s distribution extends from Ladakh to West Nepal.
    • Altitude Preference: This unique butterfly thrives at altitudes ranging from 3,500 to 4,800 meters in the inner Himalayas.
    • Comparing Species: Dusted Apollo closely resembles Ladakh Banded Apollo (Parnnasius stoliczkanus) but exhibits distinct features.

    Implications for Conservation

    • Rare Find: Dusted Apollo had never been photographed in Himachal Pradesh before.
    • Additional Discovery: Another rare species, Regal Apollo (Parnnasius charltonius), was also photographed at Manimahesh, protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
    • Commercial Significance: Apollo butterflies are commercially valuable and are targeted by poachers, emphasizing the need for conservation.
    • Endangered Species: Many Apollo butterfly species are endangered and require immediate conservation efforts.
    • Community Awareness: Raising awareness about poaching and the significance of these species is vital for their protection.
    • Conservation Measures: Suggested measures include establishing butterfly parks and conservation reserves in the state to safeguard these fragile creatures.

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  • Jallikattu Debate

    Moh-Juj: Traditional Animal Fights in Assam

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Buffalo and bulbul fights

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Introduction

    • The Assam government’s bid to revive traditional ‘Moh-Juj’ buffalo and bulbul (songbird) fighting during Magh Bihu has encountered a legal challenge from People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in the Gauhati High Court.
    • PETA India seeks to ban these activities.

    Buffalo and bulbul fights: Age-Old Tradition

    • Folk Culture: Buffalo and bulbul fights are part of the folk culture during the Assamese winter harvest festival of Magh Bihu.
    • Location: Buffalo fights are prominent in places like Ahatguri in Nagaon district, while bulbul fights are held at the Hayagriv Madhab Mandir in Hajo.
    • Religious Significance: Bulbul fights are tied to religion, involving rituals, lamps, and offerings to Lord Vishnu.
    • Historical Legacy: The practice has roots in the traditions of the Ahom rulers.

    Discontinuation after SC Ruling

    • Supreme Court’s Intervention: The fights were discontinued after the Supreme Court’s 2014 judgment banned the use of bulls as performing animals in events like jallikattu.
    • Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI): Following the SC ruling, the AWBI urged the Assam government to stop animal and bird fights during Bihu celebrations.
    • Resistance: Despite the prohibition, some continued to hold buffalo fights in defiance, leading to legal challenges.

    Revival Efforts after SC Clears Path

    • SC Ruling in 2021: The Supreme Court overturned its 2014 judgment, allowing states like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to conduct traditional events involving bulls and animals.
    • Assam Government’s SOPs: The Assam Cabinet approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for buffalo and bulbul fights without deliberate cruelty.
    • Guidelines: SOPs permit fights in traditional locations, set specific dates, forbid harm to animals, and ban the use of intoxicating substances.
    • Revival: Buffalo and bulbul fights were resumed in Magh Bihu, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma supporting the revival as part of Assam’s Bihu traditions.

    PETA’s Legal Challenge

    • PETA’s Petitions: PETA India filed petitions in the Gauhati High Court seeking a ban on both activities and an interim stay during the proceedings.
    • Allegations: PETA claimed that buffalo owners instigated fights through slapping, shoving, and using wooden sticks, resulting in injuries. Bulbuls were allegedly captured and forced to fight.
    • Court’s Response: The court heard PETA’s application and noted that organizing buffalo fights beyond January 25 violates government guidelines. It instructed the petitioners to inform the relevant authorities to prevent the event in violation of SOPs.

    Conclusion

    • The legal battle over the revival of traditional animal fights in Assam reflects the clash between cultural traditions, religious significance, and animal welfare concerns.
    • The Gauhati High Court’s decision will shape the future of these practices in the region.

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  • Uniform Civil Code: Triple Talaq debate, Polygamy issue, etc.

    Uttarakhand readies Final UCC draft

    Prelims Only | 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: Uniform Civil Code (UCC)

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    ucc

    Introduction

    • Uttarakhand is taking important steps to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
    • The state has received the final report from a committee, which is a significant move towards fulfilling its commitment to equality and justice.

    Tap to read everything about Uniform Civil Code:

    India needs a Uniform Civil Code: PM

    Uttarakhand UCC

    • Expert Committee: Uttarakhand appointed a committee, led by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, to draft the UCC.
    • In the State Assembly: The UCC report will be presented in the State Assembly on February 5 for discussion. It will go through a detailed review before becoming law.

    Key Recommendations

    • Gender Equality: The final UCC draft focuses on achieving gender equality and removing unfairness in various areas, including property rights and adoption rules.
    • Language Choice: Notably, the UCC draft is around 750 pages long, entirely written in Hindi, without any Urdu or other languages.
    • Protection of Tribal Community: The report suggests that the tribal community should not be included in the UCC. Their specific needs and concerns will be addressed separately.

    Ensuring Equal Rights

    • Ban on Regressive Practices: The UCC draft recommends strong punishments for practices like triple talaq, iddat, and halala, which relate to marriage and divorce in Muslim personal law. It also proposes banning polygamy and polyandry.
    • Legalizing Live-In Relationships: The draft suggests making live-in relationships legal, with mandatory registration for such couples.
    • Equal Inheritance Rights: Women are granted the same rights as men when it comes to inheritance under the proposed UCC.
    • Minimum Marriage Age: The UCC draft suggests setting the minimum age for women’s marriage at 21 years.

    Conclusion

    • Uttarakhand’s efforts to establish a Uniform Civil Code demonstrate its commitment to ensuring equal rights and justice for all.
    • The careful drafting process, inclusive approach, and strong recommendations underscore the state’s determination to promote gender equality and eliminate regressive practices.

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  • Electoral Reforms In India

    How Political Parties are created in India?

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Political Parties

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    political parties

    Introduction

    • Tamil superstar Thalapathy Vijay’s announcement of his political party has sparked interest in the process of registering political entities in India.

    Creating a Political Party

    • Legal Framework: Article 324 of the Indian Constitution and Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 empower the Election Commission to lay down guidelines for party registration.
    • Application: A party seeking registration must apply to the Election Commission within 30 days of its formation.
    • Public Notice: The applicant must publish the proposed party name in two national and two local daily newspapers. The notice is also posted on the Election Commission’s website.
    • Documentation: The application, in a prescribed format, must be sent to the Election Commission Secretary within 30 days of party formation. It should include a demand draft of Rs. 10,000, a printed copy of the party’s memorandum, rules, or constitution, and the latest electoral rolls for at least 100 party members.
    • Affidavits: An affidavit, duly signed by the President or General Secretary and sworn before a Magistrate/Notary Public, is required. Additionally, individual affidavits from 100 members confirming non-membership in any other registered political party are essential.

    Need for Registration

    • Not Mandatory: Registration with the Election Commission is not mandatory but comes with advantages under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
    • Symbol Allotment: Registered party candidates receive priority in the allotment of free symbols over independent candidates.
    • State or National Recognition: Parties can achieve recognition as ‘state parties’ or ‘national parties,’ subject to fulfilling conditions laid out in the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.

    Recognition Criteria

    • State Party: To be recognized as a state party, a registered party must meet any of these five conditions:
      1. Secure at least 6% of valid votes and win at least 2 seats in an Assembly General Election.
      2. Secure at least 6% of valid votes and win at least 1 seat in a Lok Sabha General Election.
      3. Win at least 3% of the seats or at least 3 seats, whichever is more, in an Assembly General Election.
      4. Win at least 1 out of every 25 seats from a state in a Lok Sabha General Election.
      5. Secure at least 8% of the total valid vote in an Assembly or Lok Sabha General Election.
    • National Party: To attain national party status, a registered party must meet any of these three conditions:
      1. Secure at least 6% of valid votes in an Assembly or Lok Sabha General Election in four or more states and win at least 4 seats in a Lok Sabha General Election from any state.
      2. Win at least 2% of total Lok Sabha seats in a Lok Sabha General Election, spanning at least 3 states.
      3. The party is recognized as a State Party in at least four states.

    Benefits of Recognition

    • Reserved Symbol: State parties receive a reserved symbol within the state, while national parties can use the reserved symbol across the country.
    • Nomination Ease: Such parties require only one proposer for filing nominations.
    • Free Electoral Rolls: They are entitled to two sets of electoral rolls free of cost.
    • Media Access: Recognized parties can use state-owned Akashvani/Doordarshan facilities for broadcasting/telecasting during general elections.
    • Additional Perks: Recognized parties can avail of other advantages such as subsidized land for party offices, among others.

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  • Wetland Conservation

    Five more Wetlands added to Ramsar List

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Ramsar Wetlands

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    wetland

    Introduction

    • Five more Indian wetlands have been added to the global list of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, taking the total number of such highly recognised waterlogged ecosystems in the country to 80.
    • India is now the fourth-largest nation on the Ramsar map, trailing only behind the UK (175), Mexico (144), and China (82).
    • Tamil Nadu continues to have the maximum number of Ramsar sites (16) followed by Uttar Pradesh (10).

    List of newly designated Ramsar Sites:

    [1] Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (Karnataka):

    • Spread over 98.76 hectares adjoining Ankasamudra village.
    • A biodiversity hotspot with over 210 plant species, 8 mammals, 25 reptiles, and 240 bird species.
    • Vital nesting and roosting ground for over 30,000 waterbirds, including the Painted Stork and Black-headed Ibis.

    [2] Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka):

    • Covers 4,801 hectares at the confluence of Aghanashini River with the Arabian Sea.
    • Offers flood and erosion risk mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and livelihood support.
    • Sustains 6,000-7,500 families through fishing, agriculture, and traditional fish farming.
    • Acts as a natural barrier against storms and cyclones.

    [3] Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (Karnataka):

    • A human-made wetland spanning nearly 50 hectares, originally designed for rainwater storage.
    • Home to 166 bird species, including 130 migratory birds.
    • Sanctuary for vulnerable and near-threatened species like the Common Pochard, River Tern, and Oriental Darter.
    • A crucial wintering ground for the Bar-headed Goose.

    [4] Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu):

    • Encompassing 453.72 hectares, it’s one of Tamil Nadu’s largest inland wetlands.
    • Facilitates groundwater recharge and supports agricultural activities.
    • Hosts around 198 bird species, including the Bar-headed Goose and Common Teal.

    [5] Longwood Shola Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu):

    • Named after “Solai,” meaning tropical rainforest in Tamil.
    • Integral to the Western Ghats’ unique biodiversity.
    • Provides sanctuary to globally endangered and vulnerable bird species like the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, Nilgiri Blue Robin, and Nilgiri Wood-pigeon.
    • Home to 14 of the 26 endemic bird species of the Western Ghats.

    Back2Basics: Ramsar Convention

    Explanation
    Purpose International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands.
    Establishment Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    Participating Countries 171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021.
    India and Ramsar Convention The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981.

     

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  • Fertilizer Sector reforms – NBS, bio-fertilizers, Neem coating, etc.

    Nano DAP: Revolutionizing Fertilizers in Indian Agriculture

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Nano DAP

    Mains level: Not Much

    Introduction

    • The interim budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduces the expansion of Nano DAP application in agriculture.

    Understanding Nano DAP

    • DAP: DAP, or di-ammonium phosphate, is a widely used fertilizer in India, rich in phosphorus for plant root development.
    • Nano DAPL: Introduced by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO), it is a liquid form of DAP with particle sizes less than 100 nanometers, enhancing its efficiency.

    Advantages of Nano DAP

    • Efficiency: Nano DAP’s small particle size allows it to penetrate seeds and plant openings more effectively, leading to higher seed vigor, increased chlorophyll, better photosynthetic efficiency, improved crop quality, and higher yields.
    • Affordability: Nano DAP is cost-effective compared to conventional DAP, with a 500 ml bottle equivalent to a 50 kg bag of DAP, priced at only Rs 600.
    • Convenience: The liquid form is easier to transport, store, and apply, making it farmer-friendly.
    • Reduced Imports: Adoption of domestically-produced Nano DAP from Kalol, Gujarat, reduces the need for importing fertilizers, enhancing self-reliance and benefiting Indian agriculture.

    Government’s Perspective

    • Subsidy Relief: Nano DAP’s cost-effectiveness alleviates the government’s subsidy burden on fertilizers, offering fiscal relief.
    • Self-Reliance: Producing Nano DAP domestically aligns with the goal of self-sufficiency in fertilizer production, reducing dependency on imports.
    • Agricultural Advancement: Wider Nano DAP adoption supports agricultural growth, increasing food grain production and benefiting farmers.

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Budgetary increase for Lakhpati Didi Scheme

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Lakhpati Didi Scheme

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Introduction

    • The interim budget for 2024-25 has introduced an expansion of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, designed to empower women’s self-help groups.

    About ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme

    • Launch: The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme was inaugurated on August 15, 2023.
    • Objective: The government aims to create two crore prosperous sisters in rural villages, aligning with the broader mission of poverty alleviation and economic empowerment.
    • Skill Training: Women participants receive skill training to enable them to earn an income exceeding Rs 1 lakh annually.
    • Technology Integration: Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) will have access to drones for agricultural activities, harnessing technology to transform rural agriculture while empowering women.

    Leveraging Drone Technology

    • Drone Training: Approximately 15,000 women’s SHGs will undergo training in operating and repairing drones.
    • Income Generation: This initiative not only opens new avenues for income generation but also equips women with cutting-edge skills.
    • Agricultural Revolution: Drones hold the potential to revolutionize agriculture, facilitating precision farming, crop monitoring, and pest control.

    Skill Diversification

    • Skill Development: Women under this scheme receive training in diverse skills such as LED bulb making, plumbing, and more.
    • Eligibility Criteria: Participants must be active members of self-help groups.

    Application Process

    • Self-Help Groups: To apply for the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme, women should be part of self-help groups.
    • Local Anganwadi Centres: Additional information and application forms are available at local Anganwadi centres.

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  • Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

    Interim Budget mentions Blue Economy 2.0

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Blue Economy

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Introduction

    • The Interim Budget presented by Finance Minister underscores the importance of promoting an environment-friendly ‘blue economy’ for sustainable development.

    Understanding Blue Economy

    • Definition: The blue economy encompasses economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coastal regions, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
    • Global Perspective: The European Commission defines it as a wide range of established and emerging sectors linked to ocean resources, while the World Bank emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and livelihoods.

    Significance for India

    • India’s Coastal Abundance: With its extensive coastline, diverse marine resources, and tourism potential, India stands to benefit significantly from the blue economy.
    • Balancing Growth: The blue economy seeks to achieve economic growth while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

    Budget Proposals

    • Restoration and Adaptation: A scheme focusing on climate-resilient activities, restoration, adaptation measures, and integrated coastal aquaculture and mariculture will be launched.
    • Integrated Aquaparks: The budget outlines plans for setting up five integrated aquaparks to boost aquaculture productivity.
    • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): PMMSY will be intensified to double exports to Rs 1 lakh crore and generate 55 lakh employment opportunities.

    India’s Blue Economy Policy

    • Blue Economy 2.0: The budget introduces the concept of Blue Economy 2.0, building upon a draft policy framework released in July 2022.
    • Policy Framework: The framework encompasses various aspects such as marine resources, coastal planning, tourism, fisheries, aquaculture, trade, technology, infrastructure, and international engagement.

    Global Engagement

    • G20 Summit: India, as the host of the G20 summit, prioritized blue economy discussions, emphasizing its significance on the global stage.
    • Responsibility and Collaboration: India recognizes the importance of responsible artificial intelligence and sustainable ocean governance in the context of the blue economy.

    Conclusion

    • India’s commitment to promoting the blue economy aligns with global efforts for sustainable development.
    • The Interim Budget’s proposals aim to harness the potential of India’s coastal resources while preserving the marine ecosystem, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities.
    • This strategic shift underscores India’s dedication to responsible and inclusive development.

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  • RBI Notifications

    Payments Banks: A Closer Look at Their Features and Objectives

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Payments Banks

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Introduction

    • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed additional curbs on Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL), prohibiting it from operating its mobile wallet after February.
    • This article provides insights into what payments banks are, their objectives, features, and the regulatory framework governing them.

    Understanding Payments Banks

    • Definition: Payments banks are financial institutions similar to regular banks but operate on a smaller scale without engaging in credit risk.
    • Origin: The concept of payments banks was recommended by the Nachiket Mor Committee.
    • Objective: The primary goal is to advance financial inclusion by providing banking and financial services to unbanked and underbanked areas, catering to migrant laborers, low-income households, small entrepreneurs, and more.
    • Legal Framework: Payments banks are registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act 2013 and licensed under Section 22 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949.
    • Regulation: They are governed by various legislations, including the Banking Regulation Act, 1949; RBI Act, 1934; Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, among others.

    Key Features of Payments Banks

    • Differentiation: Payments banks are distinct entities, not universal banks.
    • Scale: They operate on a smaller scale compared to traditional banks.
    • Capital Requirements: Payments banks are required to have a minimum paid-up equity capital of 100 crores.
    • Promoter Contribution: The promoter must contribute at least 40% of the paid-up equity capital for the first five years from the commencement of business.

    Permissible Activities

    • Accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000.
    • Offer demand deposits in the form of savings and current accounts.
    • Invest deposits in secure government securities as Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR), accounting for 75% of the demand deposit balance.
    • Place the remaining 25% as time deposits with other scheduled commercial banks.
    • Provide remittance services, mobile payments/transfers/purchases, ATM/debit cards, net banking, and third-party fund transfers.
    • Act as a banking correspondent (BC) for other banks to offer credit and services beyond their capabilities.

    Activities Not Permitted

    • Loans and Credit Cards: Payments banks cannot issue loans and credit cards.
    • Time and NRI Deposits: They are not authorized to accept time deposits or NRI deposits.
    • Non-Banking Subsidiaries: Payments banks cannot establish subsidiaries to engage in non-banking financial activities.

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