Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 44
Mains level: Uniform Civil Code analysis
Central Idea
- The constitutional provision for a uniform civil code (UCC) necessitates careful deliberation due to its intricate nature and prevailing misgivings. Regrettably, it is often discussed superficially and without regard for its underlying logic and rationale. Hence, a reality check is imperative to comprehend the true intentions of this constitutional mandate.
Relevance of the topic
The debate around UCC has gained momentum. Discussion over its impact on socioeconomic dynamics of the country is crucial.
Also Recently, The 22nd Law Commission of India has sought fresh suggestions from various stakeholders, including public and religious organisations, on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
Background
- Constitutional Provision: The constitutional provision for a uniform civil code (UCC) is outlined in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution. It falls under Part IV, which comprises the Directive Principles of State Policy. These principles serve as guiding principles for the governance of the country.
- Directive Principles of State Policy: The Directive Principles of State Policy are not enforceable by the courts but hold significant importance in shaping legislation and government policies. Article 37 of the Constitution states that although these principles are not legally binding, they are fundamental in the governance of the country.
- Gradual Implementation: Article 44 emphasizes the gradual implementation of a uniform civil code. It directs the State to endeavour to secure a uniform civil code, indicating that the goal is to be pursued over time through suitable amendments to existing laws and the enactment of new ones.
- Amendments and Enactments: Over the years, several laws of general applicability have been enacted to address specific issues and promote uniformity to some extent. Examples include the Special Marriage Act 1954, Dowry Prohibition Act 1961, Foreign Marriage Act 1969, and laws related to maintenance, domestic violence, child marriage, and the welfare of parents and senior citizens.
How the implementation of UCC will impact the society?
- Equality and Justice: One of the primary objectives of the UCC is to establish equality and justice in matters of personal laws. By ensuring a uniform set of laws applicable to all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations, the UCC can eliminate discrimination based on religion and promote equal rights and opportunities for all individuals.
- Gender Empowerment: Many personal laws in India exhibit gender biases and inequalities. The UCC aims to address these disparities and promote gender justice. By providing equal rights and protections to individuals of all genders, the UCC can contribute to empowering women and ensuring their social, economic, and legal equality.
- Social Cohesion: The UCC can foster social cohesion by promoting a sense of unity and commonality among diverse religious communities. By removing the perceived preferential treatment of one religious’ community over another in personal laws, the UCC can bridge religious divides and strengthen social harmony.
- Simplification and Certainty: The existence of multiple personal laws can lead to legal complexities and confusion. Implementing the UCC streamlines and harmonizes various family laws, providing legal certainty and simplifying legal procedures. This simplification can benefit individuals and families by reducing ambiguity and ensuring consistent application of laws across the country.
- Modernization and Adaptation: Personal laws in India are often rooted in traditional customs and practices that may no longer align with modern societal values and needs. The UCC provides an opportunity to modernize and adapt family laws to reflect contemporary realities. It allows for the incorporation of progressive principles and practices that are more in line with the aspirations of individuals and families in today’s society.
- Secularism and National Identity: The UCC aligns with the secular fabric of India, emphasizing equal treatment under the law irrespective of religious beliefs. Its implementation reinforces the secular principles of the Indian Constitution and promotes a sense of national identity that transcends religious divisions.
- Legal Uniformity: The UCC establishes legal uniformity by bringing all citizens under the same set of laws for personal matters. This can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the legal system, as well as facilitate ease of understanding and compliance for individuals and legal professionals.
Existing Flaws in personal laws
- Gender Inequalities: Many personal laws exhibit gender biases and inequalities. For example, in certain inheritance laws, the rights of women are limited based on their gender, resulting in unequal distribution of property. Similarly, provisions related to marriage, divorce, maintenance, and guardianship often have discriminatory aspects that disadvantage women.
- Religious Biases: Personal laws are specific to different religious communities and are influenced by religious customs and traditions. While these laws aim to protect the religious rights of individuals, they can also perpetuate biases based on religious identity. This can lead to differential treatment and unequal rights for individuals belonging to different religious communities.
- Complex and Contradictory Provisions: With multiple personal laws in existence, there is a lack of uniformity and consistency in family law matters. The presence of contradictory provisions across different laws creates confusion and legal complexities. Individuals and families often face challenges in navigating the legal system due to these inconsistencies.
- Outdated Practices: Some personal laws still incorporate outdated practices and customs that may not align with contemporary societal values and principles of equality. These practices can perpetuate inequality and hinder progress towards a more equitable and inclusive society.
- Lack of Uniformity: The absence of a uniform civil code results in different personal laws being applicable to individuals based on their religious identity. This lack of uniformity can lead to differential treatment and unequal rights, undermining the principles of equality and justice.
- Inconsistencies in Adoption Laws: Adoption laws can vary based on religious personal laws. For example, in certain personal laws, a man may require his wife’s consent for adoption, while in others, this requirement may not exist. Such inconsistencies create confusion and challenges in the adoption process.
Misconceptions surrounding UCC
- Targeting Muslim Law: One common misconception is that the UCC is solely aimed at doing away with Muslim personal law. This perception has created a misbelief that the UCC is intended to undermine or replace Islamic practices. However, the article clarifies that the objective of the UCC is to establish uniformity in family laws across all communities, not just Muslim law.
- Archaic and Anti-Women Perception: Another misconception is that Muslim personal law is seen as archaic and anti-women. This misperception overlooks the fact that Islamic law, in its authentic form, recognizes the sanctity of family life and provides grounds for divorce based on irretrievable breakdown. The article points out that distortions and misinterpretations have obscured the true essence of Islamic law.
- Exclusively Hindu Law Acts: Some proponents of the UCC view the four Hindu law Acts of 1955-56 as the ideal model. However, this perception disregards the fact that these Acts initially contained provisions conflicting with constitutional ideals of religious equality and gender justice. Recent amendments have improved the situation, but there is still room for further progress.
- Neglecting Local Laws: There are misconception that the UCC ignores certain local laws protected by parliamentary legislation or constitutional safeguards. This perception arises from a lack of consideration for the closing words of Article 44, which state that the UCC should be applicable “throughout the territory of India.” It is important to acknowledge and address the diversity of customary and local laws in the process of implementing a uniform code.
- Lack of Progress: There is a misconception that there has been no progress towards a uniform civil code. However, the article highlights the enactment of several laws of general application, amendments to personal laws, and the ongoing efforts to bring about gradual uniformity in family laws. These advancements demonstrate progress in the direction of a UCC.
Way Forward
- Inclusive and Consultative Approach: The process of formulating a UCC should involve an inclusive and consultative approach. It is important to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including legal experts, social reformers, religious leaders, community representatives, and the public at large. This ensures that multiple perspectives are considered and the concerns of different communities are addressed.
- Drafting a Comprehensive Code: A representative group of acclaimed social reformers and legal academics should collaborate to draft a comprehensive UCC. This draft should be free from religious discrimination and gender inequality, encompassing the principles of equality, justice, and modern societal values.
- Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions: There should be efforts to address the concerns and misconceptions surrounding the UCC. Clear communication and public discourse can help dispel misconceptions and create a better understanding of the objectives and benefits of a uniform civil code. Engaging with religious leaders and communities in a respectful manner can also help alleviate apprehensions.
- Gradual Implementation: Given the complexity of personal laws and the diversity of the Indian society, the implementation of the UCC should be gradual. It should involve phased reforms, allowing for a smooth transition and ensuring that the necessary legal infrastructure and awareness are in place. This approach acknowledges the need for careful consideration and adaptation to specific social and cultural contexts.
- Legislative Process: The draft of the UCC should be presented to the legislature for discussion, debate, and refinement. The involvement of lawmakers in the legislative process ensures democratic scrutiny and allows for amendments based on the inputs and recommendations of various stakeholders.
- Sensitization and Awareness: Public awareness campaigns and sensitization programs should be conducted to educate the public about the UCC, its objectives, and its potential benefits. This can help build a consensus and generate support among the masses, promoting a smooth implementation process.
- Judicial Review: The UCC, once enacted, may face legal challenges. The judiciary’s role is crucial in interpreting and upholding the constitutionality of the UCC. Judicial review ensures that the code is consistent with the fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution and maintains a fair balance between personal freedom and societal interests.
Conclusion
- Given the intricacies surrounding the constitutional provision for a uniform civil code, it is crucial to exercise caution and clarity while discussing its aims, objects, and means of implementation. The progress made thus far, as well as the existing flaws in family laws, indicate the need for gradual reforms.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Related provisions and important Judgements
Mains level: Channing prospects of freedom of speech and expression
Central idea
- The recent judgment by the Karnataka High Court dismissing Twitter’s challenge to blocking orders issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) raises serious concerns about the erosion of free speech and unchecked state power. By imposing an exorbitant cost on Twitter and disregarding established procedural safeguards, the judgment sets a worrisome precedent for content takedowns and hampers the exercise of digital rights.
*Relevance of the topic
The concerns raised in the Karnataka High Court judgment are in contrast to the principles established in the Shreya Singhal case.
Highly relevant with the principles of natural justice and expanded scope of online speech and expression
Concerns raised over the judgement
- Ignorance of Procedural Safeguards: The court’s interpretation undermines the procedural safeguards established under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Blocking Rules of 2009. By disregarding the requirement to provide notice to users and convey reasons for blocking, the judgment enables the state to restrict free speech without proper oversight, leading to potential abuse of power.
- Unchecked State Power: The judgment grants the state unchecked power in taking down content without following established procedures. This lack of oversight raises concerns about potential misuse and arbitrary blocking of content, which could lead to the suppression of dissenting voices and curtailment of free speech rights.
- Expansion of Grounds for Restricting Speech: The court’s reliance on combating “fake news” and “misinformation” as grounds for blocking content goes beyond the permissible restrictions on free speech under Article 19(2) of the Constitution. This expansion of grounds for blocking content raises concerns about subjective interpretations and the potential for suppressing diverse viewpoints and dissent.
- Chilling Effect on Free Speech: The acceptance of wholesale blocking of Twitter accounts without specific justification creates a chilling effect on free speech. This can deter individuals from expressing their opinions openly and engaging in meaningful discussions, ultimately inhibiting democratic discourse and stifling freedom of expression.
- Deviation from Judicial Precedent: The judgment deviates from the precedent set by the Supreme Court in the Shreya Singhal case, which upheld the constitutionality of Section 69A while emphasizing the importance of procedural safeguards.
Shreya Singhal case for example
- The Shreya Singhal case is a landmark judgment by the Supreme Court of India that has significant implications for freedom of speech and expression online.
- In this case, the Supreme Court struck down Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, as unconstitutional on grounds of violating the right to freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
- The judgment in the Shreya Singhal case is significant in the context of freedom of speech and expression because it reinforces several principles:
- Overbreadth and Vagueness: The court emphasized that vague and overly broad provisions that can be interpreted subjectively may lead to a chilling effect on free speech. Section 66A, which allowed for the punishment of online speech that caused annoyance, inconvenience, or insult, was considered vague and prone to misuse, leading to the restriction of legitimate expression.
- Requirement of Procedural Safeguards: The Supreme Court highlighted the importance of procedural safeguards to protect freedom of speech. It stated that any restriction on speech must be based on clear and defined grounds and must be accompanied by adequate procedural safeguards, including the provision of notice to the affected party and the opportunity to be heard.
- Need for a Direct Nexus to Public Order: The judgment reiterated that restrictions on speech should be based on specific grounds outlined in Article 19(2) of the Constitution. It emphasized that there must be a direct nexus between the speech and the threat to public order, and mere annoyance or inconvenience should not be a ground for restriction.
Its impact on freedom of speech and expression
- Undermining Freedom of Speech: The judgment undermines freedom of speech and expression by allowing the state to exercise unchecked power in taking down content without following established procedures. This grants the state the ability to curtail speech and expression without proper justification or recourse for affected parties.
- Prior Restraint: The judgment’s acceptance of wholesale blocking of Twitter accounts, without targeting specific tweets, amounts to prior restraint on freedom of speech. This restricts future speech and expression, contrary to the principles established by the Supreme Court.
- Lack of Procedural Safeguards: The judgment disregards procedural safeguards established in previous court rulings, such as the requirement for recording a reasoned order and providing notice to affected parties. This lack of procedural safeguards undermines transparency, accountability, and the protection of freedom of speech and expression.
- Unchecked State Power: Granting the state unfettered power in content takedowns without proper oversight or recourse raises concerns about abuse and arbitrary censorship. It allows the state to remove content without clear justifications, potentially stifling dissenting voices and limiting the diversity of opinions.
- Restricting Online Discourse: By restricting the ability of users and intermediaries to challenge content takedowns, the judgment curtails the online discourse and hampers the democratic values of open discussion and exchange of ideas on digital platforms.
- Disproportionate Impact on Digital Rights: The judgment’s disregard for procedural safeguards and expanded grounds for content takedowns disproportionately affect digital rights. It impedes individuals’ ability to freely express themselves online, limiting their participation in public discourse and impacting the vibrancy of the digital space.
Way forward
- Strengthen Procedural Safeguards: It is essential to reinforce procedural safeguards in the process of blocking content. Clear guidelines should be established, including the provision of notice to affected users and conveying reasons for blocking. This ensures transparency, accountability, and the opportunity for affected parties to challenge the blocking orders.
- Uphold Judicial Precedents: It is crucial to adhere to established judicial precedents, such as the principles outlined in the Shreya Singhal case. Courts should interpret laws relating to freedom of speech and expression in a manner consistent with constitutional values, protecting individual rights and ensuring a robust and inclusive public discourse.
- Review and Amend Legislation: There may be a need to review and amend relevant legislation, such as Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, to address the concerns raised by the judgment. The legislation should clearly define the grounds for blocking content and ensure that restrictions are based on constitutionally permissible grounds, protecting freedom of speech while addressing legitimate concerns.
- Promote Digital Literacy: Enhancing digital literacy among citizens can empower individuals to navigate online platforms responsibly, critically evaluate information, and exercise their freedom of speech effectively. Educational initiatives can focus on teaching digital literacy skills, media literacy, and responsible online behavior.
- Encourage Public Discourse and Open Dialogue: It is important to foster an environment that encourages open discourse and dialogue on matters of public interest. Platforms for discussion and debate should be facilitated, providing individuals with opportunities to express their opinions, share diverse perspectives, and engage in constructive conversations.
- International Collaboration: Collaboration with international stakeholders and organizations can contribute to promoting and protecting freedom of speech and expression in the digital realm. Sharing best practices, lessons learned, and cooperating on global norms and standards can strengthen the protection of these rights across borders
Conclusion
- The Karnataka High Court’s judgment undermines procedural safeguards, erodes the principles of natural justice, and grants unchecked power to the state in removing content it deems unfavorable. This ruling, coupled with the recently amended IT Rules on fact-checking, endangers free speech and digital rights. It is crucial to protect and uphold the right to free speech while ensuring that restrictions are justified within the confines of the Constitution
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various Economic indicators
Mains level: India's economic position compared to China and the Lessons learned from China
Central Idea
- The Indian economy has reached a milestone, surpassing $3.5 trillion in size, reminiscent of China’s position in 2007. While India shows similarities with China, such as comparable per capita income, the two countries diverge significantly in their growth drivers. This divergence has implications for India’s growth trajectory and its ability to achieve upper middle-income status.
Relevance of the topic
India lags behind China on multiple fronts such as investment ratios, export performance, labor force participation, and manufacturing employment. For instance, Female Labor Force Participation of China is 61% (2022) whereas in India it stands at 24% (2022).
The stark disparities provide valuable insights to analyze and propose strategies for India’s future development in areas like investment promotion, export competitiveness, and inclusive growth.
India’s positive growth
- Economic Size: The Indian economy has recently crossed $3.5 trillion in size, according to Moody’s. This indicates a significant expansion of the economy and reflects positive growth.
- Per Capita Income: India’s per capita income is projected to rise from $2,379 in 2022 to $2,601 in 2023, as estimated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This upward trend indicates an improvement in individual income levels and suggests positive growth in the economy.
- Exports: India’s exports of goods and services exceeded $770 billion in 2022-23. This demonstrates the country’s ability to compete in the global market and generate revenue through international trade.
- Investment Momentum: While India’s investment ratio has been lower than China’s, there are signs of activity picking up in certain sectors after a slowdown induced by the twin balance sheet problem. This indicates positive momentum in investment and the potential for future growth.
- Services Sector: India has witnessed a growth in the services sector, particularly in areas such as IT and business process outsourcing (BPO). The expansion of the services sector contributes to economic growth and job creation.
- Increase in Formal Manufacturing: India aims to boost formal manufacturing, which has higher productivity compared to other sectors. The focus on manufacturing can lead to increased employment opportunities and overall economic growth.
- Rise in Female Labor Force Participation: Although India’s female labor force participation rate remains lower than China’s, there have been efforts to increase women’s participation in the workforce. This can contribute to enhanced productivity, economic empowerment, and overall growth
Comparison: India’s economic position with China
| Aspect |
China (2007) |
India (2023) |
| GDP Size |
Comparable to India |
$3.5 trillion |
| Per Capita Income |
$2,694 |
$2,601 (estimated) |
| Investment-to-GDP Ratio |
Average 40% |
Average around 33% |
| Exports |
$1.2 trillion (goods) |
$770 billion (goods and services) |
| Tariff Rate |
10.69% (2003) to 5.32% (2020) |
25.63% (2003) to 8.88% (2017) |
| Labor Force Participation Rate |
Almost 73% |
Estimated around 50% (2022) |
| Female Labor Force Participation |
66% (2007) to 61% (2022) |
30% (2007) to 24% (2022) |
| Passenger Car Sales |
6.3 million |
3.8 million |
| Manufacturing Productivity |
Twice as productive as transport |
Less productive than industry and construction |
The disparities between India and China
- Investment Ratio: China’s investment-to-GDP ratio averaged 40% between 2003 and 2011, while India’s investment ratio during the same period averaged around 33%. This indicates that China had a higher level of investment, which contributed to its rapid economic growth.
- Export Performance: In 2022-23, India’s exports of goods and services surpassed $770 billion, while China’s exports had already crossed $1.2 trillion in 2007. China’s deeper integration with the global economy and higher export volumes indicate a more robust export-driven growth model compared to India.
- Tariff Rates: China experienced a decline in tariff rates, with the simple mean falling from 10.69% in 2003 to 5.32% in 2020. In contrast, India’s tariff rate decreased from 25.63% in 2003 to 8.88% in 2017 but has risen thereafter. China’s lower tariff rates have facilitated its emergence as a global supply chain hub.
- Labor Force Participation: China had a considerably higher labor force participation rate, with almost 73% in 2007, while India’s rate stood at around 50% in 2022. The disparity, primarily driven by female labor force participation, impacts spending capacity and economic growth potential.
- Sectoral Employment: Both countries have similar sectoral distribution, but China experienced a faster decline in agricultural employment compared to India. India’s challenge lies in finding alternative employment opportunities for its declining agricultural workforce, with the construction and service sectors historically providing more jobs than formal manufacturing.
Implications of these disparities for future development of India
- Growth Trajectory: The disparities in investment ratios indicate that India may face challenges in achieving rapid economic growth and reaching its developmental goals without increasing investment levels.
- Export Competitiveness: The disparities in export performance suggest that India needs to enhance its global competitiveness to expand its export base and capitalize on international trade opportunities.
- Job Creation: The disparities in labor force participation rates, particularly the low female participation rate, have implications for employment generation and inclusive growth in India.
- Sectoral Shift: The slower decline in agricultural employment compared to other sectors raises concerns about the need for alternative employment opportunities for the declining agricultural workforce
- Investment Climate: The disparities in investment ratios underscore the importance of creating a favourable investment climate in India to attract domestic and foreign investments necessary for sustained economic growth.
Lessons learned from China
- Emphasis on Investment: China’s high investment-to-GDP ratio played a crucial role in its rapid economic growth. India can benefit from prioritizing investments in infrastructure, industries, and human capital development to drive economic expansion and productivity.
- Export-Led Growth: China’s success in becoming a global manufacturing and exporting powerhouse highlights the importance of export-led growth. India can focus on enhancing its export competitiveness, diversifying export markets, and promoting value-added exports to boost economic growth and job creation.
- Trade Liberalization: China’s gradual reduction of tariffs and its efforts to integrate into global supply chains helped it become a major player in international trade. India can learn from this and work towards reducing trade barriers, improving trade infrastructure, and actively participating in regional and global trade agreements to enhance its integration into the global economy.
- Manufacturing Development: China’s strategic focus on developing its manufacturing sector contributed significantly to its economic growth and job creation. India can prioritize the growth of formal manufacturing, foster a business-friendly environment, and provide targeted support to enhance manufacturing capabilities and competitiveness.
- Infrastructure Development: China’s investments in infrastructure, such as transportation networks, energy systems, and telecommunications, played a vital role in supporting its economic growth. India can invest in modernizing and expanding its infrastructure to create a solid foundation for economic development and attract further investments.
- Human Capital Development: China’s emphasis on education, skills training, and research and development (R&D) has contributed to its technological advancement and innovation capabilities. India can focus on improving the quality of education, enhancing vocational training programs, and promoting research and development to nurture a skilled workforce and foster innovation.
- Long-Term Planning: China’s long-term development plans, such as its Five-Year Plans, provided a roadmap for sustained economic growth and policy continuity. India can develop comprehensive and strategic plans that align with its development goals and ensure consistent implementation of economic policies.
- Infrastructure for Special Economic Zones (SEZs): China’s establishment of SEZs played a pivotal role in attracting foreign direct investment and promoting export-oriented manufacturing. India can learn from this model and develop specialized zones with the necessary infrastructure, incentives, and supportive policies to attract investments and promote targeted sectors.
Conclusion
- In the coming years, India’s growth may continue at a moderate pace, even if low- and semi-skilled job creation in manufacturing falls short. However, achieving the explosive growth witnessed by China between 2007 and 2021 would require increased investment activity, a resurgence in exports (particularly goods), a rise in female labor force participation, and greater employment opportunities in formal manufacturing. India must strive to replicate the success story of its neighbor if it aims to achieve rapid economic advancement.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: D4R Tool
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Diversity for Restoration (D4R) tool, has been modified to adapt to the Indian context by researchers from Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE).
- The tool aims to support restoration programs in India by improving decision-making and promoting sustainable development.
What is D4R tool?
- The Diversity for Restoration (D4R) tool is a tool developed by Bioversity International.
- It is designed to assist in promoting effective agroforestry and ecosystem restoration.
- The tool aims to improve decision-making in restoration programs by providing information on tree species selection and their ecological benefits.
Key features and functions of the D4R
- Species Identification: Helping users identify tree species that align with their restoration objectives.
- Geographic Suitability: Assisting in determining which plant species are best suited for specific geographic locations.
- Resilience and Adaptation: Identifying species that can withstand local stresses and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
- Seed Procurement: Providing information on areas and regions to obtain seeds for the required species.
- Plant Functional Traits: Incorporating information on economic and ecological uses of tree species to guide selection.
- Habitat Suitability Modeling: Predicting suitable habitats for specific tree species based on present and future climate scenarios.
- Comprehensive Information: Providing details on commercial benefits, physiological resilience, windbreaking capabilities, nitrogen-fixing, and pollinator support of tree species.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PRISM Hotline
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Lok Sabha Speaker has established ‘PRISM’ a 24-hour research reference telephone hotline for Members of Parliament (MPs) to provide assistance with policy issues.
What is PRISM?
- The Parliamentary Research and Information Support for Members of Parliament (PRISM) offers round-the-clock services, including weekends during Parliament Sessions.
- It aims to support first-term MPs and those without extensive secretarial teams who may find it daunting to speak in Parliament on policy matters.
- A team of 30-32 officers serves on the hotline on a rotational basis to provide research and reference support.
Usage and Enquiries
- Between 2019 and 2023, 87% of MPs have utilized either online or offline reference services, which are also shared through WhatsApp and email.
- Enquiries mainly focused on bills such as the Juvenile Justice Bill, Wildlife Protection Bill, and short-duration discussions on topics like climate change, drug abuse, and price rise.
Need for PRISM
- First-term MPs often face challenges when asked to speak on bills without extensive research support.
- The hotline and reference services have proven invaluable in assisting MPs, allowing them to contribute effectively to debates and discussions.
- The initiative has particularly aided MPs who may not be proficient in English or Hindi, enabling them to raise pertinent issues in Parliament.
Significance
- Parliament can be a fragmented environment, with various cliques and clubs forming over the years.
- Backbenchers, in particular, often spend much time in obscurity.
- The research and reference services provided by PRISM can make these years on the backbench more productive by facilitating informed participation in policy debates.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Har Ghar Jal Initiative
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Har Ghar Jal initiative, part of the Jal Jeevan Mission, aims to provide potable water connections to all rural households in India by 2024.
- However, multiple sources and data analysis indicate that the initiative is likely to fall short of its target, with only 75% of village homes expected to have drinking water taps by April 2024.
Har Ghar Jal Initiative: A quick recap
- Har Ghar Jal (translation: Water to Every Household) is a scheme initiated by the Ministry of Jal Shakti under Jal Jeevan Mission in 2019.
- It aimed to provide tap water to every rural household by 2024.
- Finance Minister announced the scheme in 2019 Union budget.
- In August 2022, Goa and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu became the first ‘Har Ghar Jal’ certified State and UT respectively with 100% tap-water access.
- As of January 2023, other states and UTs Gujarat, Puducherry and Telangana have also achieved 100% tap-water access.
- Since its inception, the scheme has significantly improved household clean tap water availability in India.
Challenges Faced by the Initiative
- Delayed Progress: The COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of qualified manpower in states have contributed to the delayed implementation of the scheme.
- Shortages of Essential Materials: The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war resulted in major shortages of steel and cement, crucial for manufacturing and connecting metal pipes, leading to delays and price revisions.
- Manpower Shortage: Some states faced challenges in finding skilled workers to construct tanks, cisterns, and water connections of acceptable quality.
- State-Specific Issues: Certain states, such as Rajasthan, face challenges in ensuring the availability of water, while West Bengal and Kerala struggle with water contamination issues.
- Certification Gap: While the states report high coverage figures, there is a significant gap between reported and verified connections.
Expectations and Progress
- Revised Expectations: The officials now expect about 75% of households to be covered by March 2024 and 80% by December 2024.
- Work Yet to Begin: Around one crore households (5% of the total) have not even begun work under the scheme.
- Timeframe Challenges: Connecting all households in villages that already have access to water sources takes an average of eight months, making it unlikely to finish in some places before 2025-26.
Political Factors and Connection Status
- Political Angle: Some states, like Bihar and Telangana, did not rely on central funds and did not certify their connection status due to political considerations.
- Significance of Certification: “Har Ghar Jal” villages certified as 100% compliant prominently display the images of the Prime Minister and Chief Minister, especially if Central funds were used.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hul Diwas, Santhal Revolt
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Prime Minister commemorated Hul Diwas, honoring the sacrifice of Santhals in their fight against British colonial authorities.
What is Hul Divas?
- The Santhal rebellion, known as the ‘Hul,’ was an organized war against colonialism led by the Santhals, who stood against various forms of oppression inflicted upon them by the British.
- This article explores the significance of the Santhal rebellion, their identity, the reasons behind the Hul, its organization, and its lasting impact.
Santhals and their Migration
- The Santhal people, or Santhalis, migrated from the Birbhum and Manbhum regions of Bengal to modern-day Santhal Pargana.
- The British relocated the Santhals to the forested area of Damin-i-Koh, dislodging the indigenous Pahariya community, as part of their revenue collection strategy.
- However, the Santhals faced severe colonial oppression, including exploitative moneylenders and the police.
Reasons behind the Hul
- The Santhals rebelled against the British due to extortions, oppressive extractions, dispossession of property, false measurements, and other illegalities.
- Tribal councils and meetings discussed the possibility of rebellion, leading to a massive assembly of over 6,000 Santhals on June 30, 1855, marking the beginning of the rebellion.
- Led by Sidhu and Kanhu, the Santhals rose against the British, attacking symbols of colonial rule and executing moneylenders and zamindars.
Organization of the Hul
- Contrary to popular belief, the Hul was a well-planned and organized political war.
- Evidence from documents and historical accounts reveals preparations such as guerrilla formations, military teams, detectives, secret bases, logistics, and a network of message carriers for coordination.
- Non-Adivasi Hindu castes also participated in the rebellion, highlighting the diverse nature of the movement.
Lesser-Known Facts about the Hul
- The rebellion saw participation from 32 communities, both tribals and non-tribals, challenging the notion that it was solely a Santhal rebellion.
- Phulo-Jhano, two sisters, led an army of 1,000 women, playing crucial roles in providing food supply, gathering information, and attacking British camps.
- The East India Company’s army was defeated twice during the rebellion, debunking the belief that they were invincible.
British Narratives and Accounts
- British reports and personal narratives provide insights into the causes of the Santhal rebellion, including excessive taxation, falsehood, and negligence of British officials, extortion by moneylenders, corruption, and oppression.
- The sufferings inflicted by moneylenders or ‘mahajans’ on the Santhals were a primary cause of the uprising.
Accounts from Prisoners and Divine Intervention
- Similar to other tribal uprisings, accounts exist of deities appearing in dreams or before the rebels.
- Judicial proceedings of captured Santhals revealed instances where deities instructed rebellion leaders to fight against the British and oppressors.
Lasting Impact of the Hul
- The Santhal rebellion did not end with its suppression in 1855; it continued to inspire future uprisings, such as the Santhal involvement in the 1857 mutiny.
- The Hul rebellion symbolized resistance against British colonialism and laid the foundation for subsequent movements in Jharkhand.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: New Species and New Records 2023
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- India’s faunal database expands with the addition of 664 animal species in 2022.
- The database also includes 339 new plant taxa, comprising new species and distributional records.
Report- New Species and New Records 2023
- The faunal discoveries have been compiled in a publication by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) titled “Animal Discoveries – New Species and New Records 2023.”
[A] Faunal Discoveries
- Major discoveries include new species and records of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
- Mammals: Three new species and one new record, including two species of bats from Meghalaya.
- Birds: Two new records, such as the yellow-rumped flycatcher in the Andaman archipelago.
- Reptiles: Thirty new species and two new records.
- Amphibians: Six new species and one new record.
- Fish: Twenty-eight new species and eight new records.
- Invertebrates constitute the majority of new faunal discoveries, with insects comprising 384 species.
- Vertebrates account for 81 species, with fish being the most dominant group.
Notable species
- Sela macaque (Macaca selai): A new macaque species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Macaca leucogenys: A white-cheeked macaque sighted in India for the first time.
- Glischropus meghalayanus: A bamboo-dwelling bat species from Meghalaya.
- Ficedula zanthopygia: The yellow-rumped flycatcher recorded in the Andaman archipelago.
Distribution of New Faunal Discoveries
The fauna diversity of the country increased to 1,03,922 species.
- Kerala: Recorded the maximum number of new species, accounting for 14.6% of all new discoveries.
- Karnataka: Followed with 13.2% of new species and records.
- Tamil Nadu: Contributed 12.6% of all new discoveries and records.
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Accounted for about 8.4% of the discoveries.
- West Bengal: Represented 7.6% of the new discoveries.
- Arunachal Pradesh: Contributes 5.7% of the new discoveries.
[B] Floral Discoveries
- The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) published “Plant Discoveries 2022,” which includes 339 new plant taxa.
- These discoveries consist of new species and distributional records.
- The discoveries encompass seed plants, fungi, lichen, algae, bryophytes, microbes, and pteridophytes.
- Seed plants comprise the majority, with dicotyledons contributing 73% and monocotyledons 27%.
- Western Himalayas and Western Ghats are prominent regions for plant discoveries.
- Kerala recorded the highest number of plant discoveries (57), accounting for 16.8% of all discoveries.
- The plant discoveries include wild relatives of potential horticultural, agricultural, medicinal, and ornamental plants.
Notable Floral Discoveries
- Nandadevia Pusalkar: A genus common in the Uttarakhand Himalayas.
- Nilgiriella Pusalkar: An endemic genus found in the southern Western Ghats.
- Calanthe lamellosa: An orchid species recorded for the first time in India, found in Nagaland.
Conclusion
- By compiling these new discoveries and records, India continues to expand its knowledge of its faunal and floral diversity, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Criminalization of Politicians
Central Idea
- The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), an electoral watchdog, has written to the Election Commission seeking action against political parties that fail to disclose details of candidates’ criminal cases as mandated by the Supreme Court.
- The ADR highlights the non-compliance of parties in publishing such information and urges strict action to be taken against defaulting parties.
About ADR
Concerns raised by ADR
- Alarming Statistics: It revealed 43% of newly-elected MPs in 2019 had pending criminal cases.
- Non-Compliance: ADR reveals political parties flouting Supreme Court’s orders and ECI’s directions.
- Shortcomings in Forms: ADR identifies shortcomings in the prescribed forms (C2 and C7) used by parties.
- Inaccessible Information: Many parties lack functional websites or fail to provide accessible links.
- Improper Justifications: Parties cite “winnability” and popularity as reasons for selecting candidates with criminal records, contrary to the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Supreme Court’s Mandate (2018)
- Disclosure Directive: Supreme Court has mandated parties to disclose candidates’ criminal cases on their websites.
- Prescribed Format: Election Commission of India (ECI) specifies the format for publishing this information.
- Bold Publication: Supreme Court ordered parties to publish criminal case details prominently.
- Candidate Obligation: Candidates with pending cases must inform the party about their criminal antecedents.
- Multiple Publications: Parties and candidates must publish the information multiple times after filing nominations.
ADR’s Action and Demands
- Adherence Supreme Court’s Directive: ADR directed to pursue remedies with the ECI.
- Demanding Strict Action: ADR urges the ECI to take strict action against defaulting parties, including possible de-registration.
- Transparency and Accountability: ADR calls for the publication of a list of defaulting parties and the imposition of fines.
Conclusion
- Urgent Action Needed: ADR’s letter emphasizes the need for action against parties failing to disclose candidates’ criminal cases as mandated by the Supreme Court.
- Upholding Transparency: Strict enforcement of these orders is essential to maintain transparency and prevent the criminalization of politics.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Drug standards control in India
Central Idea
- The Indian pharmaceutical industry has faced international scrutiny for exporting allegedly contaminated drugs, leading to adverse health outcomes and deaths in several countries.
- Instances of sub-standard drugs, including cough syrups and anaesthetic medications, have raised concerns about the quality and safety of Indian pharmaceutical products.
Lack of Regulatory Action
- Probing Contamination: Despite reports of deaths and adverse reactions linked to contaminated drugs, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has not provided information on the investigations launched.
- Regulatory Responsibility: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is responsible for licensing and prosecuting pharma companies, while State governments handle regulatory enforcement.
Loss of Confidence and Independent Assessments
- Loss of Confidence: Countries like Gambia, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Cameroon have raised red flags on drugs manufactured in India due to safety concerns and sub-standard quality.
- Independent Assessments: Some countries, such as Mozambique, have established independent systems to check drug samples before export, highlighting the need for rigorous inspections.
Punishment and Prosecution
- Inadequate Punitive Measures: Merely suspending or cancelling manufacturing licenses is deemed insufficient to deter pharmaceutical companies from non-compliance.
- Legal Provisions: The Drugs and Cosmetics Act allows for imprisonment for life for manufacturers violating good manufacturing practices, but prosecutions are often delayed and convictions are rare.
Challenges in Drug Regulation
- Shortage of Drug Inspectors: The CDSCO faces a shortage of drug inspectors, hindering effective oversight and inspections.
- Administrative Errors: Errors committed by drug inspectors, such as incomplete testing processes and improper documentation, contribute to poor conviction rates.
Conclusion
- To restore its reputation and ensure the safety of pharmaceutical products, India needs to strengthen its regulatory framework and inspection processes.
- Robust inspections, timely reporting of non-compliance, and effective prosecution of offenders are necessary to address the concerns regarding contaminated drugs.
- Adequate allocation of resources and addressing the shortage of drug inspectors will play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of drug regulation in India.
Also read:
[Sansad TV] Perspective: Common Drugs Standards
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Census of India
Mains level: Evidence-based decision making
Central Idea
- Deadline extension: The deadline to freeze administrative boundaries for the Census in India has been extended till December 31, ruling out the possibility of conducting the Census before the 2024 General Elections.
What is Census of India?
- The Census of India is a large-scale population survey conducted by the Government of India.
- It aims to gather detailed information about the population, demographics, and socio-economic characteristics of the country.
Historical Background
- Inaugural Census: The first complete Census of India was conducted in 1881 during British rule.
- Institutional Framework: Since 1949, the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, have been responsible for conducting the Census.
- Legal Framework: The Census of India Act, 1948 provides the legal basis for conducting the census.
Extension of Deadline and Administrative Changes
- Order by Registrar General: The office of the Registrar General of India issued an order extending the date of freezing boundaries for the Census to January 1, 2024.
- Instructing State governments: The Directorate of Census Operations has been instructed to inform State governments to make any necessary administrative changes by December 31 and notify the Census office of the jurisdictional changes.
Reasons for Delay
- Training time: After the boundaries are frozen, at least three months are required to train enumerators for the Census.
- Timing constraint: The exercise cannot begin before April 2024 due to simultaneous General Elections, as the same workforce will be deployed for election duties.
- Transition to digital: The coming Census will be the first digital Census, allowing citizens to self-enumerate.
Phases of Census and Population Projections
- Two-phase process: The Census is carried out in two phases: the Houselisting and Housing Census and the Population Enumeration phase, which typically takes around 11 months.
- National Population Register (NPR): The NPR is updated with the first phase of the Census.
- Population projections: Based on Census 2011 data, population projections indicate an expected increase from 121.1 crore to 151.8 crore during 2011-2036, with a density increase from 368 to 462 persons per square kilometer.
Purpose and Importance of the Census
- Data for planning and policymaking: The Census provides information for central and state governments to plan and formulate policies.
- National identity and future planning: It helps identify the nation’s demographic composition and guides future development and resource allocation.
- Funding distribution: Census data assists in determining how funds and assistance are distributed to states and localities.
- Wide-ranging applications: The data is used by various national and international agencies, scholars, businesses, and policymakers.
Significance and Impact of the Census
- Governance and statistics: The Census is a vital source of statistics for governance and serves as a foundation for official statistics.
- Detailed demographic insights: It provides data on demography, economic activity, literacy, housing, migration, and other socio-cultural factors.
- Delimitation of constituencies: The Census data is used for delimitation and reservation of parliamentary, assembly, and local body constituencies.
- Policy formulation and administration: The Census helps review progress, monitor government schemes, and plan for the future.
- Welfare schemes and beneficiaries: It identifies actual beneficiaries, supports identity creation, and ensures inter-temporal comparability.
Impact of Delay in Census 2021
- Discrepancies in PDS identification: Delayed census data affects the identification of beneficiaries under the public distribution system, depriving people of subsidised food entitlements.
- Poor targeting of welfare schemes: The delay hampers policy planning, budgeting, and administration of schemes that rely on accurate demographic data.
- Inadequate migration data: Outdated census data fails to capture accurate migration patterns and impacts policy and planning in various sectors.
Reasons for Delay
- Administrative boundaries: Census can only be conducted after freezing the boundaries of administrative units, which takes time.
- COVID-19 pandemic: The pandemic is officially cited as the reason for the delay, although restrictions have been lifted.
- CAA and NRC issues: The plan to use the census for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has further delayed the process.
- Lack of political will: The government’s lack of urgency and clarification on the census timeline contribute to the delay.
Way Forward
- Complete pre-census work: Expedite house-listing and other necessary activities.
- Digital census and self-enumeration: Utilize mobile apps and self-enumeration to streamline data collection and processing.
- Ensure data quality: Address concerns regarding data quality and completeness of coverage during self-enumeration.
Conclusion
- The delay in conducting the Census poses challenges for accurate population data and planning in India.
- The next Census, to be conducted after the 2024 General Elections, will mark a significant milestone as the first digital Census, providing citizens the opportunity to self-enumerate.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 377
Mains level: LGBTQI Rights
Central Idea
- The context of the article revolves around the celebration of Pride Month and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights globally.
- It begins by highlighting the duality of Pride Month, which is celebrated as a recognition of progress made in LGBTQ rights while also serving as a protest against the persisting discrimination and challenges faced by the community.
History of the LGBTQ Movement: Stonewall Riots
- Historical Significance: The Stonewall Riots, which took place in 1969, are widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ rights movement, igniting a wave of activism and mobilization.
- Illegal Homosexuality: In the 1960s, engaging in homosexual activity was illegal in major American cities, leading to the creation of underground gay bars and secret gathering places.
- Stonewall Inn: The Stonewall Inn, located in Greenwich Village, New York City, became a popular gathering spot for the LGBTQ community due to its acceptance and tolerance.
- Police Raids and Resistance: The frequent police raids on gay bars, including the Stonewall Inn, prompted the LGBTQ patrons to resist, resulting in the spontaneous uprising known as the Stonewall Riots.
- Turning Point: The Stonewall Riots marked a turning point in LGBTQ activism, as they galvanized the community to demand equal rights, visibility, and an end to discrimination.
Early LGBTQ Rights Initiatives
- Pioneering Organizations: Organizations like the Society of Human Rights (1924), the Mattachine Society (1950), and the Daughters of Bilitis (1955) were among the earliest advocates for LGBTQ rights in the United States.
- Anti-Homosexual Policies: During World War II and the McCarthy era, anti-homosexual policies in the military and society prompted the emergence of LGBTQ advocacy groups.
- Activism: Frank Kameny, an astronomer fired for being gay, became a prominent activist and founded the Mattachine Society of Washington, D.C., advocating for LGBTQ rights and challenging discriminatory policies.
- Protests in US: In 1969, a year after the Stonewall Riots, the first pride march was organized in New York City, marking a significant milestone in the LGBTQ rights movement.
Pride Celebrations Worldwide
- Pride Month Origins: Pride Month is celebrated in June to commemorate the Stonewall Riots and honor the LGBTQ community’s resilience, history, and the ongoing struggle for equal rights.
- LGBTQ History Month: LGBTQ History Month takes place in October and aims to educate and raise awareness about LGBTQ history, achievements, and challenges.
- Pride Parades: Pride parades, often held during Pride Month, are colourful and joyous celebrations that allow LGBTQ individuals and allies to openly express their identities and demand equality.
- Global Pride Days: Various countries celebrate their own Pride-equivalent days, such as Christopher Street Day in Germany, to promote LGBTQ rights and visibility.
LGBTQ History in India
- India’s First Protests: The AIDS Bhedbhav Virodhi Andolan (ABVA) organized India’s first-ever protests for gay rights on August 11, 1992, in Delhi, following the arrest of men suspected of homosexuality.
- Fight Against Section 377: LGBTQ activists and organizations in India have long fought against Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, a law that criminalized consensual same-sex relations until it was struck down in 2018.
- Decriminalization and Progress: The decriminalization of homosexuality in India in 2018 marked a significant milestone in LGBTQ rights, paving the way for increased visibility, acceptance, and advocacy.
Post-Section 377 Judgement
- Struggles for Marriage Recognition: Post the decriminalization of homosexuality, efforts have been made to seek legal recognition of same-sex marriages in India, with couples filing writ petitions and pushing for equal rights.
- Supreme Court’s Stance: The Supreme Court of India has been involved in various cases related to LGBTQ rights and is instrumental in shaping the legal landscape for the community.
- Legislative Attempts: Several legislative attempts have been made to further protect and promote LGBTQ rights, including bills advocating for same-sex marriage and policies to safeguard the rights of the LGBTQIA community.
- Progress on Conversion Therapy: India has taken steps to address the harmful practice of conversion therapy, with the National Medical Commission banning it and classifying it as “professional misconduct.”
Global LGBTQ Rights
- Varying Legal Status: LGBTQ rights vary across the globe, with some countries fully embracing equality and protecting LGBTQ rights, while others maintain discriminatory laws and practices.
- Same-Sex Marriage: A growing number of countries have legalized same-sex marriage or recognized civil unions, granting LGBTQ couples the right to marry and access legal protections.
- Anti-LGBTQ Laws: Unfortunately, many nations still have laws that criminalize homosexuality, and in some cases, impose severe penalties, including imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Continuing the Fight for LGBTQ Rights
- Global Advocacy: The fight for LGBTQ rights remains a global issue, necessitating ongoing advocacy, awareness, and support to achieve full equality.
- Achievements and Setbacks: Acknowledging the progress made in LGBTQ rights while recognizing the setbacks and challenges that still persist.
- Importance of Advocacy: Emphasizing the crucial role of continued advocacy in ensuring the protection and advancement of LGBTQ rights worldwide.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Semiconductors and its applications
Mains level: India's semiconductor industry and challenges and its potential advantages
Central Idea
- The recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington DC has solidified the US-India technology partnership, marking technology as the new frontier in geopolitics. One crucial aspect of this partnership is the joint commitment to diversify the global semiconductor supply chain, which lies at the heart of the rivalry between the United States and China. This op-ed examines the significance of this collaboration and its potential implications for India’s semiconductor industry.
*Relevance of the topic
*India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) builds a vibrant semiconductor and display ecosystem to enable India’s emergence as a global hub for electronics manufacturing and design
Semiconductors: The New Strategic Resource
- Technological Dependence: Semiconductors are essential components in various advanced technologies, including smartphones, computers, artificial intelligence, and defence systems. Countries heavily rely on these technologies for economic growth, national security, and global competitiveness.
- Critical Infrastructure: Semiconductors are considered critical infrastructure due to their role in powering and enabling essential sectors such as telecommunications, energy, transportation, healthcare, and finance. Disruptions in semiconductor supply chains can have far-reaching consequences.
- Limited Manufacturing Capability: Only a few countries possess the advanced manufacturing capabilities required to produce semiconductors. These manufacturing processes involve complex fabrication plants and specialized equipment, making it difficult for new entrants to establish a foothold in the industry.
- Global Supply Chain: The semiconductor industry relies on a global supply chain, with various stages of production taking place in different countries. Certain regions, such as Taiwan, South Korea, and the United States, play a dominant role in semiconductor fabrication, assembly, and testing.
- National Security Concerns: The control and security of semiconductor supply chains have become matters of national security for many countries. Dependence on foreign sources for critical technologies raises concerns about vulnerabilities, potential disruptions, and the risk of compromising sensitive information.
- Economic Competitiveness: Semiconductors contribute significantly to a country’s economic competitiveness. Advanced semiconductor industries can attract high-value investments, foster innovation, and create skilled job opportunities, contributing to economic growth and technological leadership.
- Technological Sovereignty: Countries view the development of indigenous semiconductor capabilities as crucial for technological sovereignty and reducing dependence on external sources. Achieving self-sufficiency in semiconductor manufacturing enables greater control over technological advancements and mitigates potential risks.
India-US iCET Initiative
- Announcement: The India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) was announced during the Quad summit held in Tokyo in 2022. It reflects the shared commitment of India and the United States to enhance cooperation in critical and emerging technologies.
- Areas of Cooperation: The iCET initiative focuses on fostering collaboration between India and the United States in various domains, including semiconductor technology, resilient supply chains, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and other critical and emerging technologies.
- Bilateral Engagement: The iCET initiative involves regular bilateral engagements between India and the United States to discuss and advance cooperation in the identified areas. High-level officials, including National Security Advisers and counterparts from relevant ministries, participate in these discussions.
- Semiconductor Collaboration: Within the iCET framework, India and the United States have expressed a commitment to collaborate in the development of a semiconductor design, manufacturing, and fabrication ecosystem in India. The aim is to enhance India’s capabilities in the semiconductor sector and promote the growth of a skilled workforce.
- Skill Development and Workforce: The iCET initiative also emphasizes the importance of skill development and workforce training in critical and emerging technologies. India and the United States seek to promote the development of a skilled talent pool capable of driving innovation and contributing to the growth of these sectors.
US-China rivalry in the context of semiconductor chips
- Technological Leadership: Both the US and China recognize the strategic importance of semiconductor chips in driving innovation and economic growth. The United States has long been a leader in semiconductor design and manufacturing, while China has made significant efforts to catch up and become more self-sufficient in chip production.
- Intellectual Property Concerns: Intellectual property theft and forced technology transfer have been areas of concern in the US-China rivalry regarding semiconductor chips. The US accuses China of engaging in unfair practices to acquire advanced chip technologies and intellectual property, undermining the competitiveness of American semiconductor companies.
- Trade Tensions: The US-China trade tensions have had a significant impact on the semiconductor industry. The US government-imposed restrictions on Chinese technology companies like Huawei, limiting their access to American-made chips and semiconductor equipment. This has had implications for China’s domestic chip manufacturing capabilities.
- Export Controls: The United States has tightened export controls on semiconductor-related technologies to prevent their transfer to China, citing national security concerns. These controls have restricted Chinese access to advanced chip-making equipment and technologies, impacting China’s ability to develop its semiconductor industry.
- Self-Sufficiency Goals: Both the US and China have set goals to enhance their self-sufficiency in semiconductor chips. The US has aimed to bolster domestic chip manufacturing capabilities, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and secure its supply chain. China’s Made in China 2025 plan emphasizes developing indigenous semiconductor technologies to become a global leader in chip production.
- Geopolitical Implications: The semiconductor industry’s geopolitical implications are significant. Control over chip technologies and supply chains can provide a country with economic advantages, technological superiority, and potential leverage in trade disputes or geopolitical conflicts. The US and China view the semiconductor industry as crucial for maintaining their global influence and national security.
India’s Semiconductor Challenge
- Lack of Domestic Manufacturing: India has limited domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The country heavily relies on imports to meet its demand for semiconductors, which poses challenges in terms of supply chain vulnerabilities, dependence on foreign suppliers, and potential risks to national security.
- Absence of Chip Ecosystem: Building a complete chip ecosystem involves not only semiconductor manufacturing but also the development of ancillary industries, specialized infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. India currently lacks a comprehensive chip ecosystem, which is crucial for attracting investments and fostering innovation in the semiconductor industry.
- Power and Water Supply: Semiconductor manufacturing requires uninterrupted and uninterruptible power supply, as well as a steady and ample supply of pure water. India faces challenges in providing 24×7 power and water supply, which are critical infrastructure requirements for establishing semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs).
- Skill Gap: Developing a skilled workforce for the semiconductor industry is essential but poses a challenge in India. The complex nature of chip manufacturing requires specialized expertise, and India needs to bridge the skill gap by investing in training programs, educational institutions, and research and development initiatives.
- Investment and Collaboration: Attracting major international chip makers to establish fabrication plants in India has proven to be challenging. While the government has allocated funds for the semiconductor industry and incentivized investments, India needs to enhance its value proposition to attract big players and forge international collaborations.
- Regulatory Framework: Creating a favorable regulatory environment, including policies, intellectual property rights protection, and ease of doing business, is crucial for the growth of the semiconductor industry. India needs to address regulatory challenges and provide a supportive framework to encourage investments and foster innovation.
- Free Trade Agreements: India’s reluctance to enter into free trade agreements, such as with Taiwan, has hindered its efforts to attract major chip manufacturers. Such agreements can provide advantages in terms of technology transfer, market access, and attracting investments from established players
Way ahead
- Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing: India should continue to invest in semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs) and create a conducive environment for both domestic and foreign companies to establish semiconductor manufacturing facilities. This requires robust infrastructure, reliable power supply, access to advanced equipment, and a favorable regulatory framework.
- Skill Development and Research: The focus on skill development should continue, with emphasis on nurturing a skilled workforce specialized in chip design, manufacturing, and fabrication. Collaborations between industry and academia can play a crucial role in promoting research and development, knowledge sharing, and fostering innovation in the semiconductor field.
- Strategic Partnerships: India should actively pursue strategic partnerships and collaborations with global semiconductor companies, industry associations, and research institutions. These partnerships can facilitate technology transfer, access to advanced manufacturing processes, and market opportunities. Government incentives and support can further encourage international players to invest in India’s semiconductor ecosystem.
- Enable Ancillary Industries: To create a comprehensive chip ecosystem, India needs to develop ancillary industries that support the semiconductor sector. This includes nurturing electronics manufacturing capabilities, promoting indigenous demand for chips, and fostering a supportive environment for related industries, such as packaging, testing, and materials.
- Policy Reforms: The Indian government should continue to focus on policy reforms that promote a favorable business environment for the semiconductor industry. This includes streamlining regulatory processes, protecting intellectual property rights, improving ease of doing business, and providing incentives for research, development, and investment in the semiconductor sector.
- International Collaborations: Strengthening collaborations within the Quad framework, particularly with the United States, Japan, and Australia, can provide access to expertise, technology, and market opportunities. Engaging with other semiconductor-rich countries, such as Taiwan, South Korea, and Israel, can also open avenues for knowledge sharing, partnerships, and technology transfer.
Conclusion
- The US-India technology partnership, with a focus on diversifying the semiconductor supply chain, holds immense potential for India’s growth in the industry. While India faces challenges in establishing a robust chip ecosystem, investments from companies like Micron Technology, along with collaborative initiatives, can pave the way for a more self-reliant and technologically advanced India. By positioning itself in the global chip war, India has embarked on a journey that promises to shape its technological landscape and strengthen its ties with the United States.
Also read:
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Aspartame
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The cancer research arm of the World Health Organization (WHO) is reportedly considering listing aspartame, a popular sugar substitute ‘Aspartame’ as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”
- This potential listing by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has generated controversy as it contradicts previous studies that found no evidence linking aspartame to cancer.
What is Aspartame?
- Aspartame is widely used as an artificial sweetener in various food and beverage products.
- It is made from the dipeptide of two amino acids, L-aspartic acid and L-phenylalanine.
- It is approximately 200 times sweeter than table sugar and is commonly used in diet soft drinks, sugar-free gum, and other sugar-free products.
- It is favored by those seeking to reduce calorie intake or manage diabetes.
Safety Record and Regulatory Approvals
- Aspartame has undergone extensive studies over 40 years, with over 100 studies finding no evidence of harm caused by its consumption.
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has permitted its use in food since 1981, and it has been reviewed multiple times for safety.
- The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), as well as national regulators in various countries, also deem aspartame safe for consumption.
- However, individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder, should avoid aspartame due to the presence of phenylalanine.
Controversies and Impact of WHOs Listings
- Past IARC rulings have raised concerns, led to lawsuits, and influenced manufacturers to seek alternatives due to public confusion.
- The potential listing of aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic” by the IARC contradicts previous scientific consensus on its safety.
- Critics argue that IARC assessments can be confusing to the public and may create unnecessary fear and misinformation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Intergovernmental Negotiations Framework (IGN)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Intergovernmental Negotiations Framework (IGN) meetings, which aim to reform the United Nations Security Council, are now being webcasted for the first time in history.
What is IGN?
- The Intergovernmental Negotiations framework (IGN) is a collective effort by various nation-states within the United Nations to advance the reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
- This article provides an overview of the composition of the IGN and highlights the progress made in achieving consensus among its members.
Evolution of the Reform Agenda
- The issue of reforming the UN Security Council has been under discussion since 1993, with successive reports published in 2001 and 2007.
- The current agenda for this issue within the UN General Assembly can be accessed online.
Composition of the IGN
- The IGN consists of several international organizations representing different perspectives on UN Security Council reform, including:
- African Union
- G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan)
- Uniting for Consensus Group (UfC), also known as the “Coffee Club”
- 69 Group of Developing Countries
- Arab League
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Each group presents unique positions regarding the reform of the UN Security Council, reflecting the diverse interests and perspectives of its member states.
Establishment of Consensus
- On July 27, 2016, the United Nations General Assembly adopted an “oral decision” by general acclamation, approving the “elements of convergence” declaration.
- This declaration outlined the status of the consensus achieved by the IGN members at that time.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Senegal has joined the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) deal, becoming the fourth country to sign after South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
- The deal aims to mobilize 5 billion euros in new financing for Senegal.
What is Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP)?
- JETP is a financing mechanism that aims to support developing countries in their transition from fossil fuel-based energy systems to clean and renewable energy sources.
- JETP is designed to bridge the gap between wealthier nations and coal-dependent developing nations, addressing both the environmental and social aspects of the energy transition.
JETP Mechanism and Social Considerations
- JETPs provide financing to developing countries to phase out coal and transition to clean energy.
- Social aspects, such as protecting affected communities and providing job opportunities, are crucial in JETP plans.
- Reskilling, upskilling, and creating new jobs are essential components of a just energy transition.
Funding Sources and Donor Pool
- JETP funding can be provided through grants, loans, or investments.
- The International Partners Group (IPG) and the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) Working Group are key contributors.
- The IPG includes countries such as Japan, the USA, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, the EU, and the UK.
- The GFANZ Working Group comprises multilateral and national development banks and finance agencies.
JETP Success Stories
- South Africa was the first country to enter into a JETP at COP 26 Glasgow, with a pledge of 8.5 billion USD in financing.
- Indonesia announced its JETP at the G20 Bali Summit, receiving an initial 20 billion USD in public and private financing.
- Vietnam joined the JETP initiative, securing an initial fund of 15.5 billion USD over the next three to five years.
Prospects for India’s Participation
- Talks of a JET-P deal with India are ongoing but have not reached a final conclusion.
- Challenges include the complexity of India’s coal-based power sector and financing in the form of loans.
- India seeks favorable conditions and no compromise on energy security and development.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IceCube Neutrino Observatory , Ghost Particle
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The IceCube Neutrino Observatory, a gigaton detector located at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, has achieved a significant scientific breakthrough by producing an image of the Milky Way using neutrinos.
- Neutrinos are minuscule particles and serve as ghostlike astronomical messengers.
IceCube Neutrino Observatory
- The IceCube Neutrino Observatory is a unique detector encompassing a cubic kilometer of Antarctic ice with over 5,000 light sensors.
- It detects high-energy neutrinos, which possess energies millions to billions of times higher than those produced by stellar fusion reactions.
What are Neutrinos?
- Neutrinos are fundamental particles in the Standard Model of particle physics.
- They belong to the family of elementary particles called leptons, which also includes electrons and muons.
- Neutrinos have extremely low mass, and they interact very weakly with matter, making them challenging to detect.
Properties of Neutrinos
|
| Electric Charge |
Electrically Neutral |
| Mass |
Extremely Low (Exact Masses Not Known) |
| Flavors |
Electron Neutrino, Muon Neutrino, Tau Neutrino |
| Interaction |
Weak Interaction |
| Speed |
Close to the Speed of Light |
| Spin |
Fermion, Half-Integer Spin |
| Neutrino Oscillations |
Neutrinos Change Flavor during Travel |
| Interactions |
Very Weak Interaction with Matter |
| Abundance |
Among the Most Abundant Particles in the Universe |
| Cosmic Messengers |
Can Carry Information from Distant Cosmic Sources |
Neutrino Emission from the Milky Way
- The IceCube Collaboration’s research reveals evidence of high-energy neutrino emission from the Milky Way.
- This emission, unlike light, allows researchers to observe the universe beyond nearby sources within our galaxy.
- The detection of neutrinos from the galactic plane of the Milky Way confirms its status as a source of cosmic rays and high-energy particles.
Challenges and Breakthroughs
- Detecting neutrinos from the Milky Way’s southern sky presented challenges due to background interference from cosmic-ray interactions with Earth’s atmosphere.
- IceCube researchers developed advanced data analysis techniques, including machine learning algorithms, to identify and analyze neutrino events.
- These methods improved the identification of neutrino cascades and enhanced the accuracy of energy and direction reconstruction.
Implications and Future Prospects
- The study utilized 60,000 neutrinos from ten years of IceCube data, providing a more comprehensive analysis than previous studies.
- The research confirms the Milky Way as a source of high-energy neutrinos, leading to further investigations to identify specific sources within the galaxy.
- Neutrino astronomy offers a unique perspective to explore the universe, complementing traditional observations using light.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Horizontal and Vertical Reservations
Central Idea
- Maharashtra government said it was difficult to provide additional reservations to transgender persons in education and public employment due to existing reservations for various communities in India.
- Transgender individuals in Mumbai protested against this statement.
Courts’ rulings on reservations for transgender community
- National Legal Services Authority of India (NALSA) v Union of India (2014) case: The Supreme Court ruled that transgender persons have a right to reservation as they are considered a socially and educationally backward class.
- Direction for reservations: The court directed the Centre and State Governments to treat transgender persons as socially and educationally backward and extend all kinds of reservation for admission to educational institutions and public appointments.
- Lack of clarity on the nature of reservations: The NALSA judgment does not specify whether reservations for transgender persons should be vertical or horizontal.
Understanding horizontal reservations
- Distinction between vertical and horizontal reservations: Reservation in India is divided into two categories—vertical and horizontal.
- Vertical reservations: Aimed at addressing social asymmetry arising from caste hierarchy and backwardness, including reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
- Horizontal reservations: Cut across all vertical groups to provide affirmative policies for disadvantaged groups within categories. For example, disabled persons are guaranteed horizontal reservation in all vertical categories.
Demand for horizontal reservation for transgender community
- Recognition of marginalization: Transgender individuals have faced long-term marginalization in society, warranting specific provisions and recognition of their social identity.
- Employment challenges: A study reveals that only 6 percent of transgender people were formally employed in 2017, and many engage in informal work due to societal factors and survival needs.
- Interpreting the NALSA verdict: The NALSA judgment has been interpreted as directing reservations for transgender individuals in the OBC category due to their identification as a socially and educationally backward class.
- Concerns and choice: The demand for horizontal reservation raises concerns that Dalit, Bahujan, and Adivasi transgender individuals may have to choose between availing reservation based on caste and gender identities, leading to competition and exclusion.
Progress on horizontal reservations
- Lack of action by the Central government: Since the NALSA judgment, the Central government has not taken steps to implement the right to reservation for transgender persons.
- Legislative developments: The Rights of Transgender Persons Bill, 2015, which included provisions for reservations, was rejected in the Lok Sabha. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, does not mention reservations.
- Parallel provisions for disabled persons: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, ensures horizontal reservation for disabled individuals under the Central government.
- State-level initiatives: Tamil Nadu categorized trans-women under the Most Backward Classes (MBC) category, and Karnataka introduced 1% horizontal reservation for transgender persons. Madhya Pradesh included transgender persons in the OBC category.
- Legal challenges and petitions: Transgender persons have filed petitions in various High Courts, seeking horizontal reservation in education and jobs.
Way forward
- Need for legal action: The lack of progress in implementing horizontal reservations for transgender individuals requires legal challenges to ensure their rights are upheld.
- Intersectionality and inclusive policies: Ensuring horizontal reservation while considering the diverse identities within the transgender community, including caste and tribal backgrounds, is crucial for equitable representation.
- Promoting employment opportunities: Implementation of horizontal reservations can contribute to addressing employment challenges and empowering transgender individuals in various sectors.
- Public awareness and support: Creating awareness about the need for horizontal reservation and garnering public support can strengthen the advocacy for inclusive policies.
- Collaboration with civil society and stakeholders: Engaging with activists, community leaders, and organizations working on transgender rights can drive collective efforts to achieve meaningful horizontal reservations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dark patterns advertising
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) have joined forces to tackle unethical advertising practices in India.
- Within the next two months, the authorities plan to release guidelines to combat dark patterns in Indian advertising.
Understanding Dark Patterns
- Dark patterns are manipulative marketing techniques that deceive customers through unethical practices.
- They encompass a wide range of tactics, including creating false urgency, employing subscription traps, and sneaking items into the checkout basket, using disguised advertising, and manipulating prices during checkout.
Types of dark patterns advertising
- Disguised ads: Presenting advertisements in a way that makes them look like regular content or organic recommendations, deceiving users into engaging with promotional material unknowingly.
- False urgency: Creating a sense of urgency by displaying countdown timers, limited-time offers, or stock availability to pressure consumers into making quick decisions without fully considering their options.
- Sneak into basket: Adding additional products or services to the shopping cart without the user’s explicit consent or knowledge, often through pre-selected checkboxes or hidden options.
- Hidden costs: Concealing or downplaying additional fees, charges, or subscriptions until the final stages of the checkout process, misleading consumers about the actual cost of a product or service.
- Confirm-shaming: Using manipulative language or guilt-tripping tactics to pressure users into taking a specific action they may not want to, such as subscribing to newsletters or sharing personal information.
- Roach motel: Making it easy for users to sign up for a service but intentionally creating barriers or complexities when they try to cancel or unsubscribe, making it difficult for them to leave.
Consequences of such ads
Dark patterns can lead to unintended purchases, addiction and overuse of products or services, and privacy violations.
- Unintended purchases: Dark patterns can manipulate consumers into making purchases they did not intend to make, leading to unnecessary expenses and financial strain.
- Addiction and overuse: Some dark patterns are designed to create addictive behaviors, keeping consumers engaged with a product or service beyond what is healthy or necessary.
- Privacy violations: Dark patterns may deceive consumers into unknowingly sharing sensitive personal information, compromising their privacy and leaving them vulnerable to data breaches or identity theft.
- Psychological manipulation: Dark patterns exploit cognitive biases and psychological vulnerabilities to manipulate consumer behavior, leading to decisions that are not based on informed choices but rather on emotional manipulation.
Why discuss this?
- Rapid growth of the Indian online space: The substantial expansion of the online sector in India raises concerns about the potential harm caused by dark patterns.
- Dominance of digital platforms: With digital platforms becoming the primary source of information, goods, and services for consumers, the manipulation of UI/UX design and online choice architecture can significantly impact consumer well-being.
Industry’s Role in Self-Regulation
- Importance of self-regulation: The consensus among stakeholders is that self-regulation within the industry is crucial to effectively address and counter dark patterns.
- Sectors to self-regulate: Various sectors, including online shopping, e-ticketing, restaurants, and travel, can adopt self-regulatory measures.
Way forward
- Providing tools for informed choices: Stakeholders suggested equipping users with browser extensions that can help detect and block dark patterns, enabling them to make more informed decisions.
- Encouraging reporting: Users are encouraged to report instances of dark patterns, and efforts will be made to raise awareness among small and medium-scale merchants about these deceptive practices.
- Consensus on self-regulation: All stakeholders unanimously agreed that industry self-regulation plays a pivotal role in countering deceptive online practices and protecting consumers’ interests.
- Commitment to consumer protection: The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue exploring ways to counter dark patterns and safeguard consumer rights and interests.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IMF Bailout Packages
Mains level: Pakistan's prospected economic default and collapse
Central Idea
IMF and its Bailout
- The IMF is an international organization that provides loans, technical assistance, and policy advice to member countries.
- Established in 1944 to promote international monetary cooperation, exchange rate stability, balanced economic growth, and poverty reduction.
- Headquarters located in Washington, D.C., and it has 190 member countries.
- An IMF bailout, also known as an IMF program, is a loan package provided to financially troubled countries.
- Bailout programs have specific terms and conditions that borrowing countries must meet to access the funds.
Types of IMF Bailout Packages
|
|
Description |
Duration |
Conditionality |
| Stand-by Arrangements |
Short-term lending programs for countries with temporary balance of payments problems. |
1-2 years |
Specific macroeconomic policies for stabilization |
| Extended Fund Facility |
Medium-term lending programs to address balance of payments difficulties from structural weaknesses. |
Longer-term |
Extensive conditionality and significant reforms |
| Rapid Financing Instrument |
Loan program providing quick financing for countries with urgent balance of payments needs. |
Flexible |
Fewer conditions and shorter application process |
Quick recap: Pakistan Economic Crisis
- The 2022-2023 economic crisis in Pakistan coincides with political unrest in the country.
- Rising food, gas, and oil prices have aggravated the economic challenges faced by Pakistan.
- The IMF’s decision to halt disbursement of funds under the 2019 Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program exacerbated the financial crisis.
Causes of the Economic Crisis
- Impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Worldwide fuel price hike affecting Pakistan’s import-dependent economy.
- Excessive external borrowings: Raised concerns of default, leading to currency depreciation and expensive imports.
- High inflation and food prices: By June 2022, inflation reached record levels, adding pressure on the economy.
- Poor governance and low productivity: Contributing factors to the balance of payment crisis and insufficient foreign exchange earnings.
Impact on the Pakistani Economy
- Balance of payment crisis: Inability to generate enough foreign exchange to cover import expenses.
- Currency depreciation: Weakening of the Pakistani rupee against major currencies, further exacerbating import costs.
- Rising inflation: Placing a burden on the population, particularly with escalating food prices.
- Economic instability: The crisis is considered the most significant since Pakistan’s independence.
What’s’ the new SBA Deal?
- Electricity subsidies: The agreement calls for the discontinuation of historically heavy subsidies in the power sector. There will be a timely rebasing of power tariffs to ensure cost recovery, which may lead to inevitable price hikes for consumers.
- Import restrictions and exchange rate: Pakistan’s central bank will be required to remove import restrictions and adopt a fully market-determined exchange rate, aligning with the IMF’s directive.
- Inflation control measures: The IMF emphasizes the need for the central bank to be proactive in curbing inflation, especially its impact on vulnerable segments of society. This may involve further interest rate hikes.
- Fiscal discipline: The Pakistani authorities are urged to resist pressures for unbudgeted spending or tax exemptions, ensuring responsible fiscal management.
Obligations laid on Pakistan
- The $3 billion IMF support is part of the overall financial aid required to address Pakistan’s external payment obligations.
- Pakistan will continue to seek additional multilateral and bilateral assistance to meet its financial commitments.
- Support from countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and China is expected, further contributing to Pakistan’s financial stability.
Reaction to the Deal
- The response from analysts and economists has been mixed, with some expressing optimism that the agreement will restore investor confidence in Pakistan’s economy.
- However, there are concerns regarding the government’s ability to adhere to the rigorous conditions imposed by the IMF.
Conclusion
- The IMF deal provides a temporary respite and financial support to address Pakistan’s economic challenges.
- However, the successful implementation of the agreement and the long-term stability of Pakistan’s economy will require sustained efforts, adherence to conditions, and comprehensive structural reforms.
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