From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
Why in the News?
PM Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) on 28th August 2014. It has now completed a decade of successful implementation.
About PMJDY
Details
Objective
• Banking the Unbanked: Open basic savings bank deposit (BSBD) accounts with minimal paperwork, relaxed KYC, e-KYC, account opening in camp mode, zero balance & zero charges.
• Securing the Unsecured: Issue Indigenous Debit cards with free accident insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh.
• Funding the Unfunded: Provide micro-insurance, overdraft, micro-pension, and micro-credit facilities.
Initial Features
• Universal Access to Banking Services: Access through branches and BCs.
• Basic Savings Bank Accounts: With an overdraft facility of up to ₹10,000 for every eligible adult.
• Financial Literacy Program: Promote savings and credit usage.
• Insurance: Accident cover up to ₹1 lakh and life cover of ₹30,000 for accounts opened between Aug 2014 to Jan 2015.
• Pension Scheme: For the unorganized sector.
• Creation of Credit Guarantee Fund.
Key Provisions
• Inter-operability: Through RuPay debit card or Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS).
• Fixed-point Business Correspondents.
• Simplified KYC / e-KYC.
Extension and New Features (Post-2018)
• Focus Shift: From ‘Every Household’ to ‘Every Unbanked Adult’.
• RuPay Card Insurance: Increased accidental insurance cover to ₹2 lakh for new accounts.
• Overdraft Facilities Enhanced: Limit doubled from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000; up to ₹2,000 without conditions.
• Increase in upper age limit for OD: From 60 to 65 years.
Eligibility for Other Programs
PMJDY accounts are eligible for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY).
Successes of PMJDY
Financial Inclusion: PMJDY is recognized as the largest financial inclusion initiative globally, with over 53 crore bank accounts opened as of August 2024.
It has facilitated access to credit for individuals without a formal financial history, as evidenced by the rise in Mudra loan sanctions at a compounded annual rate of 9.8% from FY 2019 to FY 2024.
Social Empowerment: 55.6% of Jan Dhan account holders are women, and 66.6% of accounts are in rural and semi-urban areas, demonstrating the program’s reach among marginalized communities.
Deposit Growth: The total deposits in PMJDY accounts have reached Rs. 2.31 lakh crore, showing a 15-fold increase since August 2015.
Digital Transaction Growth: Digital transactions under PMJDY have surged, with UPI financial transactions growing from 535 crore in FY 2018-19 to 13,113 crore in FY 2023-24.
Effective DBT Mechanism: The Jan-Dhan Aadhaar Mobile (JAM) trinity has enabled a diversion-proof subsidy delivery mechanism, with subsidies and social benefits directly transferred into the bank accounts of the underprivileged.
Savings and Financial Discipline: The average deposit in the PMJDY account has increased 4 times since August 2015, indicating improved saving habits among account holders.
PYQ:
[2015] ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana’ has been launched for
(a) Providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates.
(b) Promoting women’s Self-Help Groups in backward areas.
(c) Promoting financial inclusion in the country.
(d) Providing financial help to the marginalized communities.
[2016] Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poorer section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Plea Bargaining
Why in the News?
According to a report by the Ministry of Law and Justice, only 0.11% of cases were settled through “plea bargaining” in 2022.
Key Findings of the Report:
In 2022, only 19,135 out of 1,70,52,367 cases (about 0.11%) in Indian courts were disposed of through plea bargaining, indicating its minimal use.
Despite legal restrictions, 119 cases of crimes against women and only4 cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) were resolved through plea bargaining in 2022, showing a deviation from the intended exclusions.
What is Plea Bargaining?
Details
Definition
Plea bargaining allows an accused person to negotiate with the prosecution for a lesser punishment by pleading guilty to a less serious offence.
This involves pre-trial negotiations on the charge or the sentence.
Provision in India
• Introduced in 2006 as part of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2005 under Chapter XXI-A (Sections 265A to 265L).
• Limited to offences thatdo not attract the death sentence, life sentence, or a term above seven years.• Not applicable to offences affecting socio-economic conditions or committed against women or children under 14. (applies only to offences punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment)
Procedure in India
• Only the accused can initiate plea bargaining.
• The accused must apply to the court to start the process. If permitted, a meeting involving the prosecutor, investigating officer, and victim (if any) is held for a satisfactory case disposition.
• Includes possible reduced sentences and compensationpayments to the victim by the accused.
Benefits Offered
• Speeds up trials, reduces litigation costs and ends uncertainty over case outcomes.
• Helps reduce prison overcrowding and the number of prolonged imprisonments of undertrials.
• Offers a chance for offenders to make a fresh start.
• Could improve conviction rates, as seen in the USA.
• Recommended by the Malimath Committee (2000) for its potential to dramatically impact conviction rates and ensure a speedy trial.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:
1. Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such accused is locked up in police station, not in jail.
2. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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: Polygraph Test, Judments mentioned
Why in the News?
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) concluded polygraph tests on the accused in the Kolkata Rape and Murder Case.
About Polygraph Tests in India
Details
Definition
A procedure measures physiological responses like blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and skin conductivity while a subject answers questions to detect deception.
Physiological Indicators
• Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Monitored for changes.
• Respiratory Rate: Tracks breathing patterns.
• Galvanic Skin Response (GSR): Measures skin’s electrical conductance, which varies with moisture levels.
Procedure
• Sensor Connection: Attached to the chest, fingertips, and arm.
• Baseline Questions: Establish physiological response baselines.
• Control and Relevant Questions: Analyzed to identify deceptive responses by comparing physiological changes.
Constitutional Provisions
• Article 20(3): Protects against self-incrimination; necessitates consent for polygraph tests.
• Article 21: Concerns about potential violations of the right to life and privacy due to mental torture aspects of polygraph tests.
Legal and Judicial Rulings
• Selvi vs. State of Karnataka (2010): Tests must be voluntary with informed consent.
• D.K. Basu vs. State of West Bengal (1997): Involuntary tests could violate the Right to Life and Privacy.
Admissibility in Court
According to the Indian Evidence Act, 1871, results from polygraph tests are not admissible as evidence in court.
Guidelines
National Human Rights Commission Guidelines (1999): Establish consent and procedural requirements for administering polygraph tests to align with human rights standards.
PYQ:
[2018] Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement?
(a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution.
(b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV.
(c) Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III.
(d) Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution.
Indian citizens with a business plan for non-farm sector income-generating activities in manufacturing, processing, trading, or services, requiring less than ₹10 lakh.
Types of Loans
• Shishu: Loans up to ₹50,000.
• Kishor: Loans above ₹50,000 and up to ₹5 lakh.
• Tarun: Loans above ₹5 lakh and up to ₹10 lakh.
Subsidy
No direct subsidy;
Loans linked to Government schemes providing capital subsidies are eligible under PMMY.
Achievements of MUDRA 1.0
Financial Inclusion: Disbursed over Rs 27.75 lakh crore to 47 crore small entrepreneurs, improving access to formal credit.
Support for Marginalized Groups: 69% of loans went to women, and 51% to SC/ST and OBC entrepreneurs, enhancing social equity and gender equality.
Job Creation: Helped create jobs and encouraged self-employment, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
Reduction in NPAs: Reduced non-performing assets (NPAs) from 3.61% in FY21 to 2.1% in FY24, showing better loan management.
Challenges Faced by MUDRA 1.0
Unequal Loan Distribution: In 2021-22, the top 10 districts received Rs 26,000 crore, about the same as the bottom 318 districts, showing uneven credit distribution.
High NPAs in Early Categories: The Shishu (loans up to Rs 50,000) and Kishore (loans between Rs 50,001 and Rs 5 lakh) categories had NPAs above 4% from FY20 to FY22 due to a lack of business skills among early-stage entrepreneurs.
Low Financial Literacy: Only 27% of the population is financially literate, leading to poor loan management and higher defaults.
Monitoring and Credit Appraisal Issues: Increased lending led to challenges in maintaining quality credit appraisal processes and monitoring, resulting in some misuse of funds.
What is MUDRA 2.0?
MUDRA 2.0 is the proposed next phase of the scheme, aiming to expand and enhance support for micro-entrepreneurs, especially in underserved regions.
Features of MUDRA 2.0:
Expanded Outreach: Establish new centers in rural and semi-urban areas to provide financial literacy, mentorship, and business support.
Enhanced Financial Literacy: Launch nationwide programs covering budgeting, savings, credit management, and digital literacy to help entrepreneurs manage their finances better.
Improved Credit Support: Introduce the Enhanced Credit Guarantee Scheme (ECGS) to reduce risks for banks and encourage more lending to small enterprises.
Stronger Monitoring: Implement a robust monitoring framework using data analytics to track loan disbursements, usage, and repayments in real-time, ensuring transparency and reducing misuse.
PYQ:
[2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at:
(a) Bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system.
(b) Providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops.
(c) Providing pension to old and destitute persons.
(d) Funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Great Moon Hoax
Why in the News?
The Great Moon Hoax of 1835 is a series of fabricated news reports published by The New York Sun, an American newspaper, claiming that life had been discovered on the moon.
What is the Great Moon Hoax of 1835?
The Great Moon Hoax was a series of newspaper articles falsely claiming that John Herschel, an astronomer, had discovered life on the moon.
The hoax was created and published by The New York Sun, a daily newspaper in New York City, starting on August 25, 1835.
It described various fantastical creatures, such as bat-winged humanoids (called Vespertilio-homo), unicorns, and upright beavers, along with detailed landscapes and other features of the moon.
These reports were entirely fictional and intended as satire.
However, they were widely believed by the public and reprinted in other newspapers.
Why the Hoax was conceived?
To Mock Religious Influence on Science: It aimed to satirize the blend of religious beliefs with scientific claims, especially in astronomy.
Boost Readership: The hoax was a tactic to increase The New York Sun’s circulation from 8,000 copies a day.
Challenge Public Credulity: It highlighted how easily the public could be deceived by sensational stories without verifying their accuracy.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Medical devices mentioned and their working
Why in the News?
These medical tools—thermometers, stethoscopes, weighing scales, and sphygmomanometers—are essential for diagnosing and monitoring basic health parameters.
Each tool has its own function and specific way of operation, which helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions about patient care.
Here is the list of tools used in a Doctor’s Diagnosis:
Function
Description and Working Principle
Thermometer
Measures body temperature.
Mercury Thermometer: Features a mercury-filled bulb and a glass capillary with numerical markings. Temperature changes cause the mercury to expand or contract, moving through the capillary to indicate temperature.
Digital Thermometer: Utilizes sensors like infrared or thermistors to detect temperature changes, which are then converted into digital readings.
Stethoscope
Listens to internal body sounds.
Acoustic Stethoscope: Comprises a diaphragm for high-frequency sounds and a bell for low-frequency sounds, connected by a tube to earpieces.
Electronic Stethoscope (Stethophone): Amplifies body sounds electronically and may include recording capabilities and additional diagnostics such as electrocardiograms. These devices transmit sound data to smartphones or other devices.
Weighing Scale
Measures body weight.
Spring Scale: Uses a spring under a plate; weight is measured by the degree of spring compression or extension. Requires calibration to account for local gravity variations.
Electronic Scale: Converts the mechanical force of weight into electrical signals using load cells or strain gauges, displayed as weight readings on a digital screen.
Sphygmomanometer
Measures blood pressure.
Manual Sphygmomanometer: Includes an inflatable cuff, linked to a mercury or aneroid manometer. Uses a stethoscope to detect blood flow sounds (Korotkov sounds) for determining systolic and diastolic pressures.
Electronic Sphygmomanometer: Uses oscillometric technology to sense pressure oscillations caused by arterial blood flow, automating blood pressure measurement. Easier for home use but may have accuracy issues in patients with certain cardiovascular conditions.
PYQ:
[2019] In the context of wearable technology, which of the following tasks is/are accomplished by wearable devices?
Location identification of a person
Sleep monitoring of a person
Assisting the hearing-impaired person
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Pali, Persian, Prakrit, and Farsi (Persian) as per the National Education Policy-2020.
Criteria for Classical Language Status
– High Antiquity: Recorded history of 1500-2000 years.
– Valuable Heritage: Possesses ancient literature and texts.
– Originality: Unique literary tradition, not borrowed from other languages.
– Distinctness: Language and literature distinct from modern forms.
Promotion of Classical Languages
– International Awards: Two major awards for scholars in classical Indian languages.
– Centre of Excellence: For studies in classical languages.
– Professional Chairs: UGC requested to create chairs in Central Universities.
The Eighth Schedule
Lists 22 official languages, governed by Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Constitution. Includes Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Verma Committee Recommendations
Why in the News?
The recent brutal rape and murder case in Kolkata has sparked widespread calls for the death penalty for the accused.
The Justice J.S. Verma Committee, formed in response to the 2012 Delhi gang rape, recommended against the death penalty for rape, even in the rarest of rare cases, arguing that it would be a regressive step.
About Justice J.S. Verma Committee Recommendations
Recommendations on
Explanation
Rape
• It recognized rape as a Crime of Power, not just passion.
• Expand definition to include all forms of non-consensual penetration.
• Remove marital rape exception; marriage should not imply automatic consent. (European Commission of Human Rights in C.R. vs U.K)
Sexual Assault
• Broaden definition to include all non-consensual, non-penetrative sexual acts.
• Penalty: Up to 5 years of imprisonment or fines.
Verbal Sexual Assault
• Criminalize unwelcome sexual threats.
• Punishable by up to 1 year in prison or fines.
Sexual Harassment at Workplace
• Include domestic workers under protections.
• Replace internal complaint committees with Employment Tribunals.
• Employers to compensate victims of sexual harassment.
Acid Attacks
• Propose a 10-year minimum punishment, separate from grievous hurt.
• Establish a compensation fund for victims.
Women in Conflict Areas
• Review AFSPA; exclude government sanction for prosecuting sexual offenses by armed forces.
• Appoint special commissioners to monitor offenses.
Trafficking
• Comprehensive anti-trafficking laws beyond prostitution.
• Protective homes for women and juveniles overseen by High Courts.
Child Sexual Abuse
• Define ‘harm’ and ‘health’ in the Juvenile Justice Act to include both physical and mental aspects.
Death Penalty
• Opposed chemical castration and death penalty for rape.
• Recommend life imprisonment.
Medical Examination of Rape Victims
• Ban the two-finger test; victim’s past sexual history should not influence the case.
Reforms in Case Management
• Set up Rape Crisis Cells, increase police accountability, allow online FIR filing.
• Encourage community policing and increase police personnel.
Union Cabinet’s Decision on the Death Penalty
The Union Cabinet, while clearing an ordinance on sexual assault in 2013, chose NOT to adopt the committee’s recommendation against the death penalty.
Key amendments included:
Section 376A: Death penalty for rape leading to the death of the victim or reducing her to a persistent vegetative state.
Section 376E: Death penalty for repeat offenders.
2018 Amendments: Death penalty for gang rape of a victim under 12 years (Section 376DB) and life imprisonment for rape of a victim under 16 years (Section 376DA).
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) includes similar provisions for rape, with specific sections detailing the punishment, including the death penalty for certain cases.
PYQ:
[2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sonoluminescence
Why in the News?
Recent studies have provided deeper insights into the mechanics of Sonoluminescence, particularly the conditions under which light is emitted from collapsing bubbles in liquids.
What is Sonoluminescence?
Sonoluminescence is a phenomenon in which small gas bubblesin a liquid emit short bursts of light when exposed to intense sound waves.
The light is produced when thebubble undergoes rapid compression and expansion.
This is due to the alternating high- and low-pressure phasesof the sound waves, causing the gas inside to heat up and emit light.
This phenomenon was discovered in 1934 by two German engineers while they were studying sonar technology, which uses sound waves to detect objects underwater.
They noticed that when a tiny bubble in a liquid was hit by strong sound waves, it emitted a brief flash of light.
Mystery behind Sonoluminescence
Although the general mechanism is understood, the exact details of how the light is produced remain a mystery.
Scientists are still exploring the precise processes that cause the gases inside the bubble to ionize and emit light at such high temperatures.
Examples of Sonoluminescence
Controlled Experiments: In laboratory settings, scientists create sonoluminescence by trapping a bubble in a liquid and subjecting it to high-frequency sound waves.
Pistol Shrimp: When the shrimp (marine creature with a specialized claw) snaps its claw shut, it shoots out a jet of water that moves so fast it creates a low-pressure bubble. The bubble then collapses, producing a loud sound, intense heat, and sometimes a brief flash of light.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BHISHM Cube
Mains level: ‘Aarogya Maitri’ Diplomacy
Why in the News?
Prime Minister Modi has presented the BHISHM Cube, a state-of-the-art mobile hospital designed for rapid deployment in disaster zones to Ukraine.
What is the BHISHM Cube?
The BHISHM Cube is an advanced mobile hospital unit designed for rapid deployment in disaster zones and emergency situations.
It is developed under the “Project BHISHM” (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri), reflecting India’s commitment to providing swift medical assistance in crisis areas.
The unit is capable of treating up to 200 casualties.
Key Features:
It weighs 720 kg and is composed of 72 components that can be easily transported by hand, bicycle, or drone.
The unit can be fully operational within 12 minutes of deployment, a critical feature in emergencies where every second counts.
It includes an operating theatre, X-ray machines, ventilators, and facilities for treating a wide range of injuries.
It incorporates AI and data analytics for real-time monitoring and coordination of medical services.
It also uses RFID-tagged equipment for efficient tracking and management of medical supplies.
The unit is robust and waterproof, making it suitable for diverse environments and capable of withstanding various weather conditions.
Significance of the move
By providing the BHISHM Cube to countries in need, such as Ukraine, India demonstrates its commitment to global humanitarian efforts.
The project aligns with India’s broader initiatives like ‘Aarogya Maitri’, aimed at supporting developing countries affected by natural disasters or crises.
The deployment of the BHISHM Cube enhances disaster preparedness by ensuring that essential medical services are available when and where they are needed most.
The gifting serves as a tool of soft diplomacy, strengthening India’s international relations by contributing to global health and safety.
PYQ:
[2022] With reference to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:
Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
As it aims to achieve universal, health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Polaris Dawn Mission
Why in the News?
Polaris Dawn is set to be the first privately-funded mission to conduct a spacewalk, aiming to reach an altitude of about 700 kilometers above Earth, the highest altitude for a human space mission to date.
What is Polaris Dawn Mission?
Polaris Dawn is a privately-funded space mission led by billionaire entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, in collaboration with SpaceX.
It is set to be the first non-government mission to conduct a spacewalk.
This 700km altitude will surpass the current record held by NASA’s Gemini 11 mission in 1966.
The mission will test new spacesuits designed by SpaceX to protect astronauts from high radiation levels encountered in the Van Allen Belts.
What are the Van Allen Belts?
The Van Allen Belts are two zonesof charged particles that surround Earth, held in the magnetosphere.
These belts were discovered in 1958 by American physicist James Van Allen.
Inner Belt: This belt is located approximately 680 to 3,000 km above Earth’s surface and is primarily composed of high-energy protons. It is formed by cosmic rays interacting with Earth’s atmosphere.
Outer Belt: Located about 15,000 to 20,000 km above Earth’s surface, the outer belt mainly consists of high-energy electrons captured from solar wind.
Why are the Van Allen Belts dangerous for Humans?
The Van Allen Belts are dangerous for humans because they contain high levels of radiation that can pose significant health risks to astronauts.
The belts are filled with charged particles that can cause radiation sickness, damage human tissues, and increase the risk of cancer.
PYQ:
[2011] What is the difference between asteroids and comets?
Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by rocky and metallic material.
Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.
Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Human Rights Commission
Why in the News?
The NHRC India has taken suo motu cognizance of the two alleged incidents of food poisoning related deaths in an orphanage in Andhra Pradesh.
About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
Details
Establishment
As a Statutory Body and established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
Functions
Inquire into any violation of human rights
Recommend immediate interim relief to victims or their families
Intervene in court proceedings involving human rights violations
Review constitutional and legal safeguards for human rights
Study international instruments on human rights
Support the efforts of NGOs working in the field of human rights
Powers
Regulate its own procedure
Possess all the powers of a civil court
Proceedings have a judicial character
May take any of the following steps upon the completion of an inquiry:
To recommend to the concerned government or authority to make payment of compensation or damages to the victim.
To recommend to the concerned government/authority the initiation of proceedings for prosecution or any other action against the guilty public servant.
To recommend to the concerned government/authority for the grant of immediate interim relief to the victim.
To approach the SC or the HC concerned for the necessary directions, orders, or writs.
Chairperson
Must be a former Justice of the Supreme Court or CJI(appointed by the President of India)
Members
Four full-time members;
Chairperson: former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice;
Other Member: former Judge of the Supreme Court;
Other Member: former Chief Justice of a High Court;
Three Members: with knowledge or experience in human rights, including at least one woman –
Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions viz., National Commission for Scheduled Castes, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, National Commission for Women , National Commission for Minorities, National Commission for Backward Classes, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights; and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment
Appointed by the President based on a committee recommendation including the Prime Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and others
Consultation with the Chief Justice of India for judicial appointments
Removal
By order of the President of India
Consultation with the Supreme Court before removal
Terms of Office
Hold office for a term of three years or until the age of 70
Ineligibility for further government employment after office
Eligible for reappointment
Salaries
Determined by the Central government
Reporting
Submits annual or special reports to the Central government and the concerned State government
Reports laid before the respective legislatures, along with a memorandum of action taken on the recommendations and reasons for non-acceptance of any recommendations
Limitations
The commission is not empowered to inquire into any matter after the expiry of one year from the date on which the act constituting the violation of human rights is alleged to have been committed
Functions are recommendatory in nature, with no power to punish or award relief to violators
Limited role concerning armed forces violations
PYQ:
[2011] Consider the following:
Right to education.
Right to equal access to public service.
Right to food.
Which of the above is/are Human Right/Rights under “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various space missions mentioned
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
Since Chandrayaan 3’s successful moon landing on August 23, 2023 and its declaration of National Space Day, ISRO has remained highly active with several key missions, despite a quieter phase at Sriharikota.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES)
Why in the News?
Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting has launched 25 challenges as part of the ‘Create in India Challenge – Season 1’ for the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES).
About WAVES
It is an international summit organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India.
The first edition will take place from 20-24 November 2024 in Goa.
The summit will be hosted in Goa in collaboration with the State Government of Goa.
The Entertainment Society of Goa will act as the Nodal Agency for the event, following an MOU with Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
It is supported by industry partners like the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
Purpose:
WAVES aims to be a pivotal forum for fostering dialogue, trade collaboration, and innovation within the evolving media and entertainment industry.
The summit will showcase India as a hub for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment sector, attract investments, and position India as a global leader in the entertainment business.
Location & Collaboration:
WAVES is designed to promote sustainable growth in the media and entertainment industry.
It will help attract global trade and investment to India, positioning the country as a key player in the global entertainment landscape.
The summit will bring together industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to explore new opportunities, tackle challenges, and shape the future of the sector.
PYQ:
[2014] Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non-news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the government is mulling over the proposal for increased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Orangutan Diplomacy
Why in the News?
Malaysia, after initially introducing its version of soft power called “Orangutan Diplomacy” following China’s successful “panda diplomacy,” has now reversed its decision.
What is Orangutan Diplomacy?
It is a Malaysian strategy that seeks to use orangutan conservation as a tool of soft power, inspired by China’s “panda diplomacy.”
It had first announced plans to gift orangutans (IUCN Status: Critically Endangered) to palm oil-buying countries.
It engages other countries in conservation efforts, focusing on symbolic adoptions rather than sending animals abroad.
Reasons behind:
Palm Oil Industry Criticism: Malaysia faces criticism for deforestation due to palm oil plantations, threatening orangutans.
Enhance Image: It aims to counter negative perceptions and showcase commitment to sustainability and position Malaysia as a leader in wildlife protection.
Global Cooperation: It seeks to strengthen ties with major palm oil importers like China, India, and the EU through conservation partnerships.
Criticisms:
Habitat Concerns: Critics argue real conservation requires protecting habitats, not just symbolic actions.
Comparisons to Panda Diplomacy: Malaysia’s effort lacks the infrastructure and commitment seen in China’s panda conservation.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to ‘palm oil’, consider the following statements :
1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia.
2. The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes.
3. The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Biosimilar;
Mains level: Outdated Biosimilar Guidelines in India;
Why in the News?
The government has introduced two import-based initiatives to meet domestic needs, which could potentially dampen the growth of the domestic industry.
New medicines are generally under patent protection, preventing Indian companies from producing affordable generics/biosimilars.
Impact of two initiatives on Domestic Industry:
Global Tendering for 120 Medicines: The Department of Expenditure (DoE) allowed the Ministry of Health to buy 120 medicines, including popular anti-diabetes and anti-cancer drugs, through global tenders for government programs. This decision, which specifies certain brands for over 40 of these medicines, could increase the monopoly of foreign companies in India.
Customs Duty Removal on Cancer Medicines: The 2024-25 Union Budget proposed removing the 10-12% customs duty on three cancer medicines marketed by AstraZeneca. While intended to reduce prices, this measure is unlikely to significantly lower costs and may instead increase reliance on imports, further disadvantaging domestic producers.
Status of Indian Pharma
India is a leading manufacturer of vaccines, accounting for 60% of global production.
India supplies 70% of vaccines used by the WHO.
India is a major exporter of generic drugs, accounting for 20% of global exports.
The industry is expected to grow to over $130 billion by 2030.
What are Biosimilar guidelines?
Biosimilar guidelines in India are regulatory frameworks established by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and theDepartment of Biotechnology (DBT) to govern the development, approval, and marketing of biosimilars.
Biosimilars are biologic medical products that are highly similar to an already approved original biologic (known as the reference product), with no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety, purity, and potency.
Status Biosimilars:
Significant Market Size: The biosimilar market in India is valued at approximately $2.2 billion, and it is projected to reach $40 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by the expiration of patents for several key biologics, which opens the door for biosimilar development.
Product Approvals: As of now, over 70 biosimilars have been approved in India, covering a range of therapeutic areas, including oncology, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. Notable examples include:
Adalimumab (for rheumatoid arthritis)
Trastuzumab (for breast cancer)
Filgrastim (for neutropenia)
Insulin glargine (for diabetes)
Outdated Biosimilar Guidelines in India:
Obsolete and Resource-Intensive:
India’s biosimilar guidelines are outdated, requiring mandatory animal studies, which are no longer necessary in developed countries like the U.S. and EU with stringent regulatory standards.
The guidelines also mandate clinical trials, while WHO and U.K. guidelines treat clinical trials as an exception rather than a rule.
Barrier for Domestic Producers:
The stringent requirements for animal studies and mandatory clinical trials create significant barriers for Indian producers, making it difficult for them to compete with their global counterparts.
Impact on Patient Access:
According to the International Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association, eliminating these duplicative requirements could lead to significant savings in time and resources, ultimately improving patient access to affordable biosimilars.
Way forward:
Update Regulatory Guidelines: Modernize India’s biosimilar guidelines by removing unnecessary requirements like mandatory animal studies and clinical trials, aligning them with global standards to reduce barriers for domestic producers.
Support Local Production: Utilize provisions in the Patents Act to promote domestic manufacturing of affordable medicines, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening the local pharmaceutical industry.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tera Hertz (THz) Spectrum
Why in the News?
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released its recommendations on the Tera Hertz Spectrum.
About Tera Hertz (THz) Spectrum
The THz Spectrum refers to a range of electromagnetic waves with frequencies between 100 GHz (gigahertz) and 10 THz (terahertz).
This spectrum lies betweenmicrowaves and infrared light.
It is known as the “THz gap” because it has been less explored compared to other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Key Features:
Unique Properties: THz waves can pass through many materials like clothing, paper, and wood but are absorbed by water and metals.
Applications: Used for advanced technologies like imaging, communications, and spectroscopy.
Potential Uses: Security scanning, medical imaging, and high-speed wireless communication.
Impact of recent recommendation:
THEA will encourage innovation in Tera Hertz technologies, supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The opening of specific frequency bands will boost the development and deployment of next-generation wireless technologies and automotive safety systems in India.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to Visible Light Communication (VLC) technology, which of the following statements are correct?
1. VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780 nm.
2. VLC is known as long-range optical wireless communication.
3. VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth.
4. VLC has no electromagnetic interference.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Polio and its eradication
Why in the News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) is investigating a suspected new strain of polio in a two-year-old child from Tikrikilla, Meghalaya.
What is Vaccine-Derived Polio?
The Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) contains a weakened form of the poliovirus that activates an immune response in the body.
The vaccine-virus is excreted after vaccination and can circulate in the environment.
In rare cases, if the population is under-immunized, the excreted virus can mutate over time and revert to a form capable of causing paralysis.
This mutated virus is known as circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV).
About Polio:
Details
Nature of Disease
Crippling and potentially deadly viral infectious disease affecting the nervous system.
Types of Poliovirus
– WPV1 (Wild Poliovirus type 1)
– WPV2 (Wild Poliovirus type 2, eradicated globally)
– WPV3 (Wild Poliovirus type 3, eradicated globally)
Current Status
WPV1 remains in circulation in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Transmission
Primarily through the faecal-oral route or contaminated water/food.
Affected Population
Largely affects children under 5 years of age.
Impact
Virus multiplies in the intestine, may invade the nervous system, causing paralysis.
Prevention
– No Cure: Preventable through immunization.
– Vaccines:
– OPV: Oral Polio Vaccine given at birth, with doses at 6, 10, 14 weeks, and a booster at 16-24 months.
– IPV: Injectable Polio Vaccine given with the 3rd dose of DPT under UIP.
India’s Status
Pulse Polio Immunization Initiative (1995)
Declaredpolio-free by WHO in 2014, with the last wild poliovirus case reported in 2011.
PYQ:
[2016] ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to:
(a) immunization of children and pregnant women
(b) construction of smart cities across the country
(c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
