Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 3
Mains level: Sub-regionalism issue in India
Central Idea
- Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of Kuki tribes, issued a statement calling for a separate state under Article 3 of the Constitution.
Manipur violence: A quick recap
- The ethnic conflict in Manipur originated on May 3 between the Meitei people (valley-based) and the Kuki-Zomi people (hills-based Scheduled Tribe groups).
- The violence resulted in the forced migration of the two populations, prompting Kuki-Zomi MLAs and various groups to call for separation.
What is Article 3 of the Indian Constitution?
- Article 3 grants the Parliament the authority to create new states, modify boundaries, and rename existing states in India.
- It establishes the legal framework for the reorganization of states within the country.
- Here is the text of Article 3: Parliament may by law—
- Form a new State by separation of territory from any State or by uniting two or more States or parts of States or by uniting any territory to a part of any State
- Increase the area of any State
- Diminish the area of any State
- Alter the boundaries of any State
- Alter the name of any State
Procedural Requirements
Certain procedural requirements must be fulfilled before enacting changes under Article 3:
- Presidential Recommendation: No Bill pertaining to these matters can be introduced in Parliament without the recommendation of the President.
- State Legislature Consultation: If a proposed bill affects the area, boundaries, or name of any state, it must be referred by the President to the concerned state legislature.
- Time frame: The state legislature is given a specific period to express its views on the proposed changes. Additional time may be granted by the President, if necessary.
Significance of Article 3
- Alteration for reasons: Article 3 provides a mechanism to adapt the political boundaries of states in India as per the evolving needs of the nation.
- Power Sharing: While the Parliament holds the authority to initiate state reorganization, the consultation with the state legislature ensures a democratic process and considers the views of the affected state.
- Regional Aspirations: Article 3 acknowledges the aspirations of various regions by allowing the formation of new states, thereby promoting regional development and administration.
- Flexibility: The provision for altering state boundaries enables the government to address demographic changes, regional imbalances, and administrative efficiency.
Why is the demand by Kukis not feasible?
- Social and Political Cohesion: The consideration of endorsing separate administrative setups or a greater Mizoram based on ethnic lines raises concerns about social and political cohesion in Manipur.
- Tensions with Naga Community: Tensions between the Kuki and Naga communities in Manipur complicate the situation and have the potential to escalate conflicts.
- Unique Cross-Border Presence: The demand for a separate homeland for the Chin-Kuki-Mizo community requires careful evaluation due to its unique cross-border presence and potential for Pan-Nationalism.
- Implications on Regional Stability: Recognition of a separate homeland would strain relations with Myanmar and Bangladesh, impacting regional stability.
Conclusion
- Cautious Decision-Making: The Indian government must navigate the complexities by considering the broader implications on Manipur’s stability, cross-border relations, and the risk of future conflicts stemming from ethnic separatism.
- Inclusive Dialogue and Peace: Inclusive dialogue, addressing grievances, and promoting peace and unity among all ethnic communities involved are crucial for long-term stability and harmonious coexistence.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CBDC's
Mains level: Private digital currencies, challenges to monetary sovereignty, and counter measures
What is the news?
- The emergence of Private digital currencies presents a challenge to central banks’ control and can disrupt the established order by introducing new dynamics and possibilities.
Central idea
- The control over money supply, circulation, and value holds significant influence over economic systems and national trajectories. Governments and central banks play a crucial role in managing currency, shaping economic policies, and ensuring macroeconomic stability. However, the rise of private digital currencies introduces new dynamics and challenges to this control, potentially disrupting the established order.
What are Private digital currencies?
- Private digital currencies, also known as cryptocurrencies, are digital or virtual currencies that utilize cryptographic technology to secure transactions and control the creation of new units.
- They operate independently of traditional financial institutions and are typically decentralized, meaning they are not controlled or regulated by a central authority like a government or central bank.
- Some of the most well-known private digital currencies include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), and Litecoin (LTC)
What are stable coins?
- Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency that are designed to maintain a stable value relative to a specific asset or a basket of assets.
- Unlike many other cryptocurrencies that experience significant price volatility, stablecoins aim to provide stability and minimize price fluctuations.
- They achieve this stability by pegging their value to an underlying asset, such as a fiat currency (like the U.S. dollar), commodities (like gold), or a combination of assets.
What is mean by monetary sovereignty?
- Monetary sovereignty is the country’s ability to exercise control over its own currency and monetary policy without external interference.
- It is the authority of a nation’s government and central bank to determine and manage the value, supply, and circulation of its currency, as well as to shape and implement monetary policies that promote economic stability and growth.
Challenges posed by Private digital currencies to monetary sovereignty
- Private digital currencies- utilizes blockchain technology– bypasses the need for central intermediaries like banks and central banks
- Alternative systems of value transfer- peer-to-peer transactions – diminish the relevance of banks and other financial institutions.
- Operate outside the regulatory frameworks– challenges in terms of enforcing financial regulations- Anti Money Laundering and KYC requirements, which are designed to prevent illicit activities.
- The volatility and speculative nature– risks to financial stability.
- Sharp price fluctuations and market instability- adverse effects on investors, consumers, and the broader economy- particularly developing economies– less robust financial systems.
- Facilitate illicit activities- money laundering, tax evasion, and terrorist financing
Case study 1: Myanmar’s digital dynamics of power
- In Myanmar, the National Union Government (NUG) has utilized- cryptocurrency to – circumvent the military controlled economy- raise funds for the resistance.
- The NUG issued- Digital Myanmar Kyat (DMMK) -evade military oversight-independent determination of exchange rates.
- The DMMK- cross-border payments – easier to collect donations from diaspora communities.
- Serves as- means of fundraising- challenges the legitimacy of the military-issued kyat.
- The split financial system in Myanmar highlights the risks and consequences of digital currencies on sovereign legitimacy.
Case study 2: China’s Cautious Monetary Security Approach
- Contrasting views on cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs)
- Cryptocurrencies- strict restrictions- not recognized as legal tender
- Actively promotes its digital yuan- internationalize the currency- reduce reliance on US-controlled financial networks.
- Acknowledges the potential of digital money to reshape the financial ecosystem and sees it as a catalyst for global monetary decentralization.
- China’s comprehensive ban- cryptocurrencies- commitment to safeguard monetary sovereignty.
Case study 3: India’s apprehensions
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has underscored the need for decisive actions to address the escalating risks associated with the crypto-assets ecosystem.
- The primary concern- risks associated with stablecoins– susceptible to potential risks of redemptions and investor panics- necessitating careful mitigation measures.
- The RBI has further cautioned- private currencies, emphasising their historical propensity to generate instability– undermine sovereign control over money supply, interest rates, and macroeconomic stability- especially in developing economies.
- India’s own CBDC- Digital Rupee- perceived as a strategic response- counter the challenges- crypto-assets ecosystem.
Way forward
- Clear and comprehensive regulatory frameworks for private digital currencies- address consumer protection, investor safeguards, financial integrity, and risk management.
- International coordination and collaboration- engage in dialogue- information sharing- standardization efforts
- Continue exploring the potential of CBDCs as regulated digital currency alternatives
- Public education and awareness-building trust- benefits and risks- foster responsible usag
- Invest in research and development- development of solutions- enhance financial systems- increase efficiency.
Conclusion
- Private digital currencies present both opportunities and challenges to monetary sovereignty. The examples of Myanmar, China, and India demonstrate the complex interplay between currency control, legitimacy, and trust. As the world navigates the development of digital currencies, the balance between innovation and maintaining sovereign control will continue to shape the future of monetary systems
Also read:
India’s Central bank digital currency (CBDC) in detail
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: recent developments and bilateral partnerships
Mains level: Outcomes of the recent visit of Prime minister to US and France, opportunities for India
What’s the News?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visits to the US and France have focused on enhancing strategic and economic cooperation in the technology sector. These visits took place against the backdrop of global political and economic instability, including the Ukraine war and concerns surrounding China’s rise.
Central Idea
- Prime Minister Modi’s visits to the US and France have bolstered India’s tech diplomacy efforts, enabling cooperation in critical areas such as defence technology and digital advancements. The partnerships formed during these visits are set to define the trajectory of tech usage, management, and proliferation in the years leading up to the centenary of these bilateral relationships in 2047.
What is mean by tech diplomacy?
- Tech diplomacy refers to the strategic use of technology and digital diplomacy to foster international relations, promote cooperation, and address global challenges.
- It involves leveraging technology as a tool for diplomacy, enabling countries to engage with each other, build alliances, and shape the global technology landscape
Defence Technology Partnerships established during the visits
- United States:
- General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
- MoU- General Electric and HAL – indigenous manufacture of GE F-414 jet engines in India.
- These engines are intended for use in the Light Combat Aircraft Mk 2, and the partnership involves the transfer of technology (TOT).
- This collaboration strengthens India’s indigenous defence production capabilities and supports the development of advanced combat aircraft
- General Atomics: India procured- 31 MQ-9B HALE (High-Altitude Long Endurance) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from General Atomics.
- These advanced UAVs provide critical surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to bolster India’s defense preparedness.
- France:
- Safran and Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO):
- Safran, a French aerospace company, and DRDO- jointly develop a military jet engine in India– Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
- Enhance India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities– strengthen its air superiority
- Safran and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
- Safran and HAL- co-develop the engine for the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH)
- Advancing India’s capabilities in helicopter technology and reinforces its defense preparedness
Advancing Digital Technology Cooperation
- United States:
- The Indo-US iCET initiative- foundation for discussions and agreements- digital technology.
- Framework for cooperation- cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing (QC), semiconductors, and high-performance computing (HPC).
- MoU- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)- US- foster cooperation in digital technologies.
- Collaboration- semiconductor capabilities, developing AI and QC systems, and establishing standards for global cooperation.
- France:
- Based on the Indo-French roadmap on Cyber Security and Digital Technology adopted in 2019, an MoU on cooperation in digital technologies was signed between the MeitY and the French Ministry of Economy.
- This agreement aimed to strengthen collaboration in areas such as cybersecurity, AI, and QC.
Addressing Cybersecurity and Digital Infrastructure
- United States:
- The US and India- importance of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)- reducing the global digital divide.
- The US expressed support for India’s DPI initiatives, recognizing their potential to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth.
- France:
- The MoU- Indo-French roadmap on Cyber Security and Digital Technology- strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity.
- Agreement- critical infrastructure protection, cybersecurity education, and skills development
- France joined the US – endorsing India’s efforts to bridge the digital gap and promote digital inclusion.
How India can capitalize on these partnerships?
- Invest in research and development – enhance its technological capabilities.
- Leverage the expertise and resources available.
- Training programs, educational reforms, and skill development– nurture a talented pool – AI, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and digital technology.
- Encouraging entrepreneurship- favourable ecosystem for startups- incentives to startups
- Clear policies and regulations that promote collaboration, protect intellectual property rights, facilitate technology transfer, and ensure data security.
- State-of-the-art research facilities, testing laboratories, and advanced digital infrastructure to support collaborative projects and attract investments.
Conclusion
- Prime Minister Modi’s historic visits to the US and France have laid the groundwork for strengthening India’s technological diplomacy. By focusing on capacity-building and leveraging these partnerships, India can navigate the strategic journey of technological advancements in the coming years, cementing its position as a key player on the global stage
Also read:
iCET: Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies between India and US
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project RPwD Generation, Mission Accessibility
Mains level: India's disability law jurisprudence, challenges, Project RPwD Generation, Mission Accessibility and way forward
What’s the news?
- Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, serves as a global platform to acknowledge the identities of individuals with disabilities and affirm their rights and visibility.
Central idea
- Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, emphasized the importance of diversity and plurality as the essence of India’s narrative. However, India’s disability law jurisprudence has faced challenges that hindered the narratives and identities of persons with disabilities.
Challenges in India’s disability law jurisprudence
- Lack of Reasonable Accommodations: The implementation of policies and approaches by government departments and private institutions often disregarded the need for reasonable accommodations, resulting in the exclusion of persons with disabilities from various aspects of daily life.
- Inadequate Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: The absence of swift and effective grievance redressal mechanisms has made it challenging for persons with disabilities to seek justice and resolve disputes related to their rights. Bureaucratic red tape further complicated the process, hindering individuals’ ability to voice their grievances.
- Digital Exclusion: The transition to online platforms and technology-based services during the pandemic exacerbated digital barriers faced by persons with disabilities. The accessibility needs of disabled individuals were often overlooked, preventing them from fully participating in the digital realm and accessing essential services, education, employment opportunities, and information.
- Inadequate Implementation of Legislation: Although the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, recognized and safeguarded the rights of persons with disabilities, its implementation has been insufficient. Many provisions remain unenforced, limiting the legislation’s effectiveness in ensuring accessibility, rights, and inclusion.
- Lack of Awareness and Sensitization: Limited awareness and sensitization about disability rights and the unique needs of persons with disabilities contribute to misconceptions, stigma, and discrimination. Addressing this challenge requires efforts to promote awareness and educate the public about disability rights and inclusivity.
A Growing Concern of Digital Exclusion
- Accessibility Barriers: Many digital platforms and technologies lack adequate accessibility features, making them inaccessible to individuals with disabilities. Challenges such as non-compliance with accessibility standards, poor user interface design, lack of alternative text for images, and limited compatibility with assistive technologies prevent persons with disabilities from fully utilizing digital services and platforms.
- Assistive Technology Compatibility: Persons with disabilities often rely on assistive technologies to access and navigate digital content. However, compatibility issues between these assistive technologies and digital platforms can hinder their effectiveness and limit access to information and services.
- Digital Skills and Awareness: Limited digital skills and awareness among persons with disabilities contribute to their digital exclusion. Some individuals may lack the knowledge or resources to effectively use digital tools or access assistive technologies, further widening the gap between disabled and non-disabled individuals in the digital space.
- Affordability and Accessibility: The cost of assistive technologies and internet access can be a significant barrier for persons with disabilities, particularly those from marginalized communities. The lack of affordable and accessible technology further exacerbates digital exclusion, hindering their participation in online activities
How Mission Accessibility is Driving Change?
- Engaging with Developers: Mission Accessibility proactively engages with developers of digital platforms that are inaccessible to disabled users. By working closely with these developers, they aim to raise awareness about accessibility needs and advocate for necessary changes to ensure inclusivity.
- Advocacy through Litigation: Mission Accessibility actively pursues change through legal means, including litigation if necessary. They participate in litigation cases, such as the Pathaan litigation, where they advocate for directions to make OTT (Over-The-Top) content accessible for persons with disabilities. Their involvement in such cases brings attention to the accessibility needs of disabled individuals and can result in positive changes.
- Capacity Building: Mission Accessibility conducts capacity-building workshops for web developers, particularly those working on government websites. By providing knowledge and skills related to creating accessible digital experiences, they empower developers to implement inclusive design practices and make government websites more accessible to persons with disabilities.
- Collaboration with Government Bodies: Mission Accessibility collaborates with government bodies responsible for accessibility. For example, they work with the office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) in issuing notices to digitally inaccessible platforms, urging them to make their platforms accessible within a specified timeframe. This collaboration helps drive the adoption of accessibility practices at a systemic level.
- Promoting Accessibility Audits: Mission Accessibility advocates for accessibility audits of digital platforms and services. By highlighting the importance of involving persons with disabilities in evaluating the accessibility of platforms, they push for thorough assessments that can identify and address accessibility barriers effectively.
Striving for Dignity and Rights of persons with disabilities through Project RPwD Generation
- Accessing Spaces: Project RPwD Generation works towards ensuring that persons with disabilities have equal access to public spaces. They aim to eliminate physical barriers and promote inclusive infrastructure to create an environment that is accessible to all individuals.
- Housing: The project focuses on addressing the housing needs of persons with disabilities. They strive to advocate for accessible and inclusive housing options, including barrier-free housing and the inclusion of accessibility features in housing policies.
- Education: Project RPwD Generation emphasizes inclusive education opportunities for persons with disabilities. They work to ensure that disabled individuals have access to quality education by advocating for accessible learning environments, reasonable accommodations, and inclusive practices in schools and educational institutions.
- Employment: The project aims to promote equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. They advocate for inclusive workplace policies, reasonable accommodations, and initiatives that foster diversity and inclusion in the workforce. Their efforts focus on eliminating discrimination and barriers to employment faced by disabled individuals.
- Rights Enforcement: Project RPwD Generation actively works towards the effective enforcement of the rights of persons with disabilities. They engage in strategic litigation, if necessary, to protect and uphold the rights of disabled individuals when they are violated. This includes taking legal actions to address instances of discrimination, lack of accessibility, or denial of rights.
- Grievance Redressal: The project places importance on strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms to ensure that disabled individuals have access to high-quality and swift justice. They aim to improve the accessibility and efficiency of the grievance redressal process, allowing persons with disabilities to effectively address their grievances
Way forward
- Strengthening the Legal Framework: Enhancing the existing legal framework related to disability rights and accessibility is crucial. This includes ensuring that legislation, such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, is effectively implemented, enforced, and updated as needed. Continuous evaluation and improvement of legal provisions can drive institutional change.
- Developing Clear Procedures: Establishing clear procedures and guidelines for institutions regarding accessibility and inclusion is essential. This can include creating accessibility standards, design guidelines, and protocols for reasonable accommodations.
- Capacity Building and Training: Conducting training programs and capacity-building initiatives for government officials, private sector employees, educators, and service providers can raise awareness about disability rights and accessibility requirements.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster collaboration between government bodies, civil society organizations, disability rights activists, and experts in the field of accessibility.
- Accessibility Audits and Monitoring: Regular accessibility audits and monitoring of institutions, including government departments, private organizations, and digital platforms, can ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
- Promoting Inclusive Technology: Encouraging the development and adoption of inclusive technologies is crucial for digital inclusion. Institutions should prioritize accessibility in their technological solutions, ensuring that digital platforms, websites, and applications are designed with universal design principles and meet accessibility standards.
- Public Awareness and Sensitization: Conducting awareness campaigns and sensitization programs to foster a more inclusive and accepting society is essential. Promoting positive attitudes towards disability, debunking misconceptions, and encouraging empathy and understanding will contribute to the overall inclusivity of institutions.
Conclusion
- As Disability Pride Month encourages us to celebrate the identities of persons with disabilities, it is imperative to recognize the challenges they face and work towards transformative change. By embracing an inclusive mindset, pursuing systemic reforms, and implementing institutional solutions, we can create a society that respects and upholds the rights of all individuals. Let us take pride in our progress while striving for a future where disability does not hinder one’s ability to fully participate in society.
Also read:
Promoting Inclusive Cities through Innovative Technology and ICT
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Iriomote Island , Coral Bleaching
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A notable example of colony resilience during a bleaching event is found near Japan’s Iriomote Island, where a colony bleached in 2016 exhibited signs of recovery by 2020.
About Iriomote Island
- Iriomote Island is a picturesque island located in the Yaeyama Islands, part of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan.
- It is the largest and southernmost inhabited island in the Yaeyama archipelago.
- With its lush jungles, mangrove forests, and diverse wildlife, Iriomote Island is often referred to as the “Galapagos of the East.”
- It is home to the Iriomote Yamaneko, or Iriomote cat, which is a critically endangered species of wildcat found only on this island.
- The dense mangrove forests along the island’s rivers and estuaries serve as an important habitat for numerous species of birds, fish, and other wildlife.
- To preserve the island’s unique ecosystem and cultural heritage, Iriomote Island is part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park.
Back2Basics: Coral Reefs and Coral Bleaching
- Corals are marine invertebrates that form colonies of polyps, which multiply and create reef structures.
- Hard corals extract calcium carbonate to build hard exoskeletons, while soft corals add their skeletons to create coral reefs.
- Corals have a mutually beneficial relationship with single-celled algae called zooxanthellae.
- The zooxanthellae provide food and nutrients through photosynthesis, while corals provide a home and essential nutrients.
- The zooxanthellae give corals their vibrant colors.
Understanding Coral Bleaching
- Causes of Bleaching: Environmental stressors like temperature changes, pollution, and high ocean acidity lead to coral bleaching.
- Bleaching Process: Stressed corals expel the zooxanthellae, revealing their pale exoskeletons and disrupting the symbiotic relationship.
- Impacts of Bleaching: Severe and prolonged bleaching events can result in coral death and the loss of biodiversity.
Climate Change’s Impact on Coral Reefs
- Warming Seas: Rising carbon emissions and greenhouse gases have caused increased global warming, resulting in warmer ocean temperatures.
- Mass Bleaching: The frequency and intensity of mass bleaching events have risen in recent decades due to climate change.
- Projections: Even with greenhouse gas reduction efforts, temperatures are expected to rise by 1.5°C to 2°C by the end of the century.
Significance of Coral Reefs
- Biodiversity Hotspots: Coral reefs support over 25% of marine biodiversity despite covering only 1% of the seafloor.
- Economic Value: Reefs contribute $2.7 trillion annually through trade, tourism, and employment opportunities.
- Environmental Protection: Coral reefs provide habitat and serve as a natural defense against storm waves.
- Regeneration Potential: Dead reefs can recover if sufficient fish species graze on the weeds that settle on dead corals, although the process takes several years.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CPTTP
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The UK has formally signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a major Indo-Pacific trade deal.
- Joining the bloc is seen as the UK’s biggest trade deal since leaving the European Union.
What is CPTPP?
- The CPTPP, established in 2018, reduces trade barriers among 11 countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Vietnam.
- Objectives of CPRPP include-
- Tariff Reduction and Market Opening: The agreement requires countries to eliminate or significantly reduce tariffs and make commitments to open services and investment markets.
- Addressing Competition and Intellectual Property: The CPTPP includes rules on competition, intellectual property rights, and protections for foreign companies.
- Expanding Membership: While the CPTPP aims to counter China’s regional dominance, China and other countries such as Taiwan, Ukraine, Costa Rica, Uruguay, and Ecuador have applied to join.
Importance of CPTPP for the UK
- Cutting Tariffs and Expanding Trade: The UK government anticipates reduced tariffs for UK exports to Asia Pacific countries. Joining the CPTPP expands trade opportunities, as the bloc represents 15% of global trade and a combined GDP of £12 trillion.
- Post-Brexit Trade Strategy: After leaving the EU, the UK seeks to deepen trade ties with the Pacific region through its “Global Britain” strategy.
- Seeking Faster-Growing Economies: The UK aims to establish trade deals with countries and blocs with faster-growing economies than the EU, given limitations in achieving agreements with major powers like China and the United States.
Challenges and Criticisms
- Economic Impact of Brexit: Critics argue that trade deals like the CPTPP will struggle to compensate for the economic damage caused by leaving the EU, which remains the UK’s largest trading bloc.
- Long-Term Productivity Forecast: Brexit is projected to reduce the UK’s long-term productivity by 4%, according to the Office for Budget Responsibility.
- Existing Trade Deals and Economic Boost: The UK already has trade deals with most CPTPP members, and the projected economic boost from joining the agreement is relatively modest at 0.08% annually.
Recent Developments
- Information Gathering Process: CPTPP members are assessing aspiring economies’ ability to meet the bloc’s high standards as part of the decision-making process for future membership.
- Collective Decision-Making: The decision on new members and the timeline for their inclusion will be made collectively by existing CPTPP participants.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lightning
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A senior government official stated that lightning deaths can be prevented through education and awareness, and thus, the government is against declaring it a natural disaster.
Why discuss this?
- State Demands: States like Bihar and West Bengal have requested that lightning-related deaths be considered natural disaster, making victims eligible for compensation from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).
- Increased fatalities: According to the National Crime Records Bureau, lightning caused 2,880 deaths in 2021, accounting for 40% of all accidental deaths from “forces of nature.”
What is Lightning?
Lightning is a rapid and powerful discharge of electricity in the atmosphere, often directed towards the Earth.
- Genesis: Lightning discharges occur in giant, moisture-bearing clouds that are several kilometers tall.
- Ice Crystal Formation: Water vapor in the clouds condenses into small ice crystals as temperatures drop below 0°C.
- Electron Release and Collision: Collisions between ice crystals generate a release of electrons, leading to a chain reaction and the formation of a positive and negative charge within the cloud.
- Types: Lightning can occur within clouds (inter-cloud and intra-cloud) or between the cloud and the ground (cloud-to-ground).
Intensity of Lightning Strikes
- Voltage and Amperage: A typical lightning flash can reach around 300 million volts and 30,000 amps, significantly higher than household current.
- Comparisons: Household current is 120 volts and 15 amps, highlighting the immense power of lightning.
Mitigating Lightning Incidents
- Early Warning System: India has established an early warning system for lightning, saving numerous lives.
- Focus on Rural Areas: Over 96% of lightning deaths occur in rural areas, necessitating mitigation and awareness programs targeted at these communities.
- Deployment of Protection Devices: Low-cost lightning protection devices need to be deployed more widely, especially in rural areas.
- Lightning Action Plans: States are encouraged to develop and implement lightning action plans, similar to heat action plans, to mitigate lightning-related risks.
- International Centre for Excellence: Efforts are underway to establish an international center for excellence in lightning research to enhance detection and early warning systems.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Office of the Governor
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The recent termination of a state minister’s appointment by Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has sparked renewed debates on the role and necessity of Governors in Indian states.
- While conflicts between state governments and the Governor’s office are not new, it is important to examine the position of the Governor and its constitutional implications.
Who is a State Governor?
- In India, the position of State Governors is established by the Constitution of India.
- The constitutional provisions regarding State Governors can be found primarily in Articles 153 to 162 of the Indian Constitution.
Here are the key aspects of the constitutional position of State Governors in India:
- Appointment: The Governor of a state is appointed by the President of India. The President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
- Executive Power: The Governor is the head of the state executive and exercises executive powers on behalf of the President. The Governor is the representative of the President at the state level.
- Constitutional Head: The Governor acts as the constitutional head of the state and performs ceremonial functions such as the opening and closing of the state legislature, giving assent to bills, and issuing ordinances.
- Administrative Role: The Governor plays a crucial role in the administration of the state. The Governor appoints the CM and other members of the Council of Ministers, as well as certain high-ranking state officials.
Powers and Functions
- Legislative Functions: The Governor has a role in the legislative process. The Governor summons and prorogues the state legislature, addresses the legislature at the beginning of its first session after each general election, and gives assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
- Discretionary Powers: The Governor has certain discretionary powers. For example, the Governor can reserve certain bills passed by the state legislature for the consideration of the President. The Governor can also withhold assent to bills under certain circumstances.
- Emergency Powers: In cases of breakdown of constitutional machinery in a state, the Governor can recommend the imposition of President’s Rule, where the state government is temporarily suspended, and the Governor acts as the executive head of the state.
- Link with Central Government: The Governor serves as a vital link between the state government and the central government. The Governor communicates with the President and the central government on various matters related to the state.
Arguments for the Existence of the Governor’s Post
- Preservation of Provincial Autonomy: The Constituent Assembly aimed to maintain the Governor as the constitutional representative of states in post-independence India.
- Need for Centralization and Impartiality: Supporters argue that a certain level of centralized power is essential for a developing nation like India, and the Governor ensures impartiality in governance.
- Continuity and Stability: The Governor’s presence provides stability and continuity in governance, and they play a significant role in administering oaths and delivering inaugural addresses.
Arguments against the Governor’s Post
- Interference and Politicization: Critics claim that Governors often interfere in the functioning of state governments, especially those led by opposing political parties, leading to politicization of the office.
- Lack of Impartiality: Concerns arise about the impartiality of Governors appointed from political backgrounds, potentially influencing their decisions and actions.
- Redundancy and Inefficiency: Some argue that the role of the Governor can be carried out by alternative mechanisms, and the office incurs unnecessary expenditure.
Supreme Court’s Stand and Judicial Review
- Limited Powers and Aid-Advice: The Supreme Court has established that Governors are required to exercise their powers upon the aid and advice of their ministers, except in exceptional circumstances.
- Judicial Oversight: Through landmark cases, the Supreme Court has set limits on gubernatorial powers, ensuring their actions adhere to the Constitution and the law.
Recommendations by Commissions and Committees
- Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC): The ARC, in its report in 1969, emphasized harmonious relations between Governors and state governments, suggesting enhanced cooperation and limited interference.
- Sarkaria Commission (1983): The commission proposed modifications to augment the responsibilities and influence of Governors while emphasizing impartiality and fixed tenures.
- Punchhi Commission (2010): Recommendations included consultation with the Chief Minister during the appointment of Governors and expanding their responsibilities in specific areas.
- Other Proposals: Various recommendations have been made, such as appointing Governors through a collegium, limiting their role to ceremonial duties, or abolishing the post in smaller states or union territories.
Conclusion
- The debate surrounding the role of Governors in Indian states continues to evolve.
- While arguments for the existence of the Governor’s post revolve around preserving provincial autonomy, centralization, and stability, critics highlight concerns of interference, politicization, and redundancy.
- Judicial oversight and recommendations from commissions and committees have aimed to strike a balance between the Governor’s constitutional responsibilities and the need for impartiality.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NSO
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Revamping the SCES: Standing Committee on Economic Statistics (SCES) set up in late 2019 faced criticism for data quality issues in previous surveys.
- Broader Mandate: The government establishes the Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) to replace the SCES, with a mandate to review all surveys conducted under the National Statistical Office (NSO).
Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS): Composition and Mandate
- Chairperson: Pronab Sen, India’s first chief statistician and former chairman of the National Statistical Commission (NSC), appointed as the chair of the new committee.
- Membership: SCoS consists of 10 official members and four non-official members, including eminent academics.
Need for SCoS
- Concerns from Economic Advisory Council: Members, including Bibek Debroy, called for an overhaul of India’s statistical machinery.
- Lack of technical Expertise: SCoS aims to address critiques by providing technical advice on survey design and methodology.
- Issues with Indian Statistical Service: Questions raised about the expertise of the Indian Statistical Service in survey design.
Roles and Responsibilities of the SCoS
- Reviewing Framework and Results: SCoS is responsible for reviewing the framework and results of all surveys conducted under the NSO.
- Data Gap Identification: SCoS identifies data gaps in official statistics and develops strategies to fill those gaps.
- Use of Administrative Statistics: Committee mandated to explore the use of administrative statistics to improve data outcomes.
Back2Basics: National Statistical Office (NSO)
(a) Historical Background:
- The NSO was established in 1950 as the Central Statistical Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Planning.
- It was later renamed the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 1970 and subsequently became the NSO in 2019.
- Over the years, it has evolved to become the primary statistical agency in India.
(b) Organizational Structure:
- The NSO consists of several divisions and units responsible for different statistical functions.
- These include the Survey Design and Research Division, Field Operations Division, Data Processing Division, National Accounts Division, Price Statistics Division, and Social Statistics Division, among others.
(c) Key organizations under NSO: Central Statistical Office (CSO)
- The CSO is a part of the NSO and focuses on macroeconomic statistics and national income accounting.
- It is responsible for producing key economic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
(d) Important Surveys Conducted
- Population Census: The NSO conducts a decennial Population Census in collaboration with the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. The census collects data on population size, composition, and other demographic characteristics.
- National Sample Survey (NSS): The NSS is a large-scale household survey conducted by the NSO to collect data on various socio-economic aspects. It provides valuable information on employment, consumer expenditure, poverty, education, health, and other important indicators.
- Economic Census: The NSO conducts the Economic Census periodically to collect data on the number of business establishments, their distribution across sectors and regions, employment, and other relevant economic variables.
- Annual Survey of Industries (ASI): The ASI is conducted by the NSO to collect data on the performance and structure of the industrial sector in India. It covers various aspects such as employment, wages, production, and financial indicators.
- Agricultural Census: The NSO conducts the Agricultural Census periodically to collect comprehensive data on agricultural holdings, cropping patterns, land use, irrigation, livestock, and other relevant agricultural variables.
- Health and Morbidity Survey: The NSO conducts surveys on health and morbidity to gather data on healthcare utilization, access to healthcare services, prevalence of diseases, and other health-related indicators.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Related Constitutional provisions
Mains level: Significance of constitutional tenets in safeguarding individual rights and personal choice, Constitutional morality and personal liberty and various Supreme court Judgment's in this regard
What is the news?
- A recent judgment by the Allahabad High Court in the case of Kiran Rawat vs State of UP.
- The court declined the prayer of an inter-faith couple in a live-in relationship for protection from police harassment.
- The court deemed the live-in relationship as a “social problem” and relied on personal laws on marriage
Central Idea
- A recent judgment by the Allahabad High Court has garnered significant national attention. The ruling in Kiran Rawat vs State of UP undermines the principles of constitutional morality in personal relationships, a notion repeatedly affirmed by the Supreme Court of India. The judgment, has been criticised for its departure from constitutional principles, disregard for precedent, and reliance on irrelevant personal laws.
What is the case?
- The case of the petitioners, a Muslim man and a Hindu woman, was short and simple. They are around 30 years of age, living together and their relation is based on mutual love and affection.
- They alleged that the local police have been torturing them while living in a rented house, and sought protection from police harassment, allegedly done on the basis of a complaint made by a family member
What is mean by constitutional morality?
- Constitutional morality refers to the principles and values embedded in a constitution that guide the interpretation and application of its provisions.
- It encompasses the spirit and objectives of the constitution, promoting justice, equality, freedom, and the protection of fundamental rights.
- Constitutional morality goes beyond conventional social norms and customs, emphasizing the adherence to constitutional principles even in the face of opposition or prevailing societal beliefs.
What is personal liberty?
- Personal liberty refers to the individual’s freedom to make choices, decisions, and actions without undue interference or coercion from external forces, including the state or other individuals.
- It is a fundamental right that is protected by various legal frameworks, including constitutions and human rights declarations.
- Personal liberty encompasses various aspects of an individual’s life, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being, as well as their autonomy and privacy.
- However, personal liberty is not an absolute right and may be limited in certain circumstances,
Main factors that make the judgment unacceptable in the constitutional sense
- Prioritizing Conventional Social Morality: The High Court is accused of being influenced by conventional social morality rather than upholding constitutional principles. This undermines individual autonomy and personal liberty, which are essential components of constitutional morality.
- Disregard for Supreme Court Judgments: Despite citing Supreme Court judgments on live-in relationships, the High Court rejects their intended purpose without providing sound reasons. This undermines the binding nature of Supreme Court judgments and the consistency of legal interpretation.
- Irrelevant Reliance on Personal Laws: The judgment relies on personal laws related to marriage that are deemed irrelevant to the case. By doing so, the High Court deviates from the constitutional framework and fails to prioritize the fundamental rights of individuals.
How the judgement shows an inclination towards orthodoxy?
- Assuming Marriage as a Condition Precedent: Though there were many deficits in the petition, the High Court could not have assumed that marriage is a condition precedent for constitutional protection and the exercise of fundamental rights.
- Acting as a Theological Court: In effect, The High Court acted as a theological court, as if the very idea of individual liberty and autonomy are alien to the writ jurisdiction. The verdict shows a clear inclination towards social orthodoxy and religious revivalism.
- Reiteration of Traditional Beliefs:
- The court tried to reiterating traditional beliefs on marriage and morals, rather than embracing a progressive and inclusive approach. By relying on and reinforcing traditional views, the court fails to accommodate changing societal norms and the importance of personal choices and freedoms
- Rejection of Supreme Court Precedents: The law laid down by the Supreme Court is binding on all the courts in the country, as in Article 141 of the Constitution. The judgment of the Allahabad High Court rejects the precedential value of Supreme Court verdicts on live-in relationships, such as D. Velusamy (2010), Indra Sarma (2013), and Dhanu Lal (2015). By doing so, the High Court disregards the guidance provided by the apex court, which has recognized and protected the rights of individuals in live-in relationships.
The Judgements by the Supreme Court which upholds personal liberty
- Decriminalization of Adultery in Joseph Shine vs Union of India (2018): In the case of Joseph Shine vs Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court decriminalized adultery defined under Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The court held that individual moral aberrations should not be punished by the state’s police power. The judgment emphasized that fidelity is a value, but not one that the state should police.
- Striking Down of Section 377: In the case of Navtej Singh Johar (2018), the Supreme Court substantially struck down Section 377 of the IPC, which dealt with same-sex relations. The court’s judgment was a constitutional adjudication rather than a mere moral judgment. It recognized the importance of personal choices and limited the state’s power in the realm of personal relationships.
- In Lata Singh (2006) case: The SC t directed police authorities throughout the country to see to it that any adult undergoing inter caste or inter religious marriage is not harassed by anyone.
- Khushboo vs Kanniammal & Anr. (2010): The Supreme Court held, while it is true that the mainstream view in our society is that sexual contact should take place only between marital partners, there is no statutory offence that takes place when adults willingly engage in sexual relations outside the marital setting.
Note: Note down these judgements to support your argument when question asks you to critically analyse
Way forward
- Clear Guidance on Live-in Relationships: The Supreme Court should provide clear guidelines and legal recognition for live-in relationships, emphasizing the protection of individuals’ rights and dignity. This would prevent confusion and inconsistent interpretations by lower courts in the future.
- Judicial Training and Sensitization: There is a need to conduct training programs and sensitization workshops for judges at all levels. This would ensure a better understanding of constitutional principles, fundamental rights, and the evolving nature of societal norms, enabling judges to make informed and unbiased decisions.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate people about the rights and legal protections available to individuals in live-in relationships. This would help dispel social stigmas and promote acceptance of diverse personal choices.
- Legislative Reforms: The legislature should consider enacting specific laws or amending existing ones to address the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals in live-in relationships. This would provide clarity and protection to couples in such relationships and ensure equal treatment under the law.
- Strengthening Precedent: It is crucial to emphasize the binding nature of Supreme Court judgments on all courts in the country. Lower courts should be vigilant in adhering to established precedents, respecting the hierarchy of judicial decisions, and avoiding interpretations that deviate from constitutional principles.
- Dialogue and Engagement: Societal dialogue and engagement with stakeholders, including legal experts, activists, and religious leaders, can help promote a better understanding of individual rights, personal choices, and the importance of constitutional values in a diverse society
Conclusion
- The Allahabad High Court’s judgment in Kiran Rawat vs State of UP reflects a regressive view on personal relationships and disregards constitutional morality. By neglecting Supreme Court judgments, relying on irrelevant personal laws, and failing to uphold personal liberties, the High Court has erred in its duty to provide justice. It is crucial that the Supreme Court rectifies this judicial indiscipline and reaffirms the significance of constitutional tenets in safeguarding individual rights and personal choice
Also read:
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023
Mains level: Forest Conservation Act ,1980 and the Amendment Bill, 2023, key provisions , concerns and way ahead
What’s the news?
- The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023 is set to be presented during the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament.
Central idea
- Recently, a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) which was looking at amendments to the Bill has approved the version sent by the government with almost no comment, revisions or suggestions. However, multiple objections have been raised over the proposed amendments.
Definition- Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023
- The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill is a proposed legislation aimed at amending the Forest Conservation Act of 1980 in India.
- The proposed amendments seek to address certain issues and introduce changes to enhance forest conservation efforts and promote sustainable development.
Background-Forest Conservation Act, 1980
- The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 was enacted to protect the country’s forests and empower the central government to regulate the extraction of forest resources, including timber, bamboo, coal, and minerals, by industries and forest-dwelling communities.
- Prior to the implementation of the Forest Conservation Act, extensive deforestation and diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes were prevalent.
- From 1951 to 1975, approximately four million hectares of forest land were diverted. However, after the Act came into effect, from 1980 to 2023, only around one million hectares have been diverted.
The key objectives of the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023
- Definition and Demarcation of Forests: The amendments aim to provide a clear and comprehensive definition of forest and establish criteria for demarcating forest areas.
- Renaming of the Act: The proposed amendments include changing the name of the Act from Forest (Conservation) Act to Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, which translates to Forest Conservation and Augmentation.
- Applicability of the Act: The amendments specify that the Act will apply only to lands officially notified as forest in government records on or after 1980.
- Exemptions and Strategic Projects:
- The proposed amendments introduce certain exemptions from the Act’s provisions.
- Forest land located within 100 km of international borders and intended for strategic projects of national importance, as well as land ranging from 5 to 10 hectares for security and defense projects, would be exempted.
- Encouraging Reforestation and Carbon Sink Development:
- The amendments address the issue of disincentives faced by private parties interested in developing plantations in degraded forests or restoring tree patches.
- The proposed changes seek to incentivize reforestation efforts and support India’s commitment to developing a carbon sink of three billion tonnes by 2030, as per its obligations under the Paris Agreement.
Objections to the changes
- Impact on Ecologically Sensitive Areas:
- The exemptions introduced in the amendments could have detrimental effects on significant forests in the Himalayan, trans-Himalayan, and northeastern regions.
- Clearing these forests without proper assessment and mitigation plans may threaten the biodiversity of vulnerable ecological and geologically sensitive areas and potentially trigger extreme weather events.
- Exclusion of Forest Land:
- Limiting the Act’s applicability only to forest areas recorded on or after 1980 may leave out substantial forest land and biodiversity hotspots.
- This exclusion could potentially lead to the sale, diversion, clearance, and exploitation of these areas for non-forestry purposes, undermining forest conservation efforts.
- Renaming of the Act:
- Dissent has been expressed regarding the renaming of the Act as Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam.
- The use of sanskritik terminology in the name is untenable and may not be in alignment with the linguistic and cultural diversity of the country.
- Balance of Power:
- Concerns have been raised about the balance of power between the central and state governments.
- They argue that forest conservation falls under the concurrent jurisdiction of both levels of government, and the amendments may shift the balance towards the central government, potentially undermining the authority of state governments in forest conservation matters.
Environment Ministry’s stand on the issue
- Addressing Concerns: The Environment Ministry has submitted detailed explanations to the JPC to address the concerns that have been raised. The Ministry aims to clarify and alleviate the apprehensions surrounding the proposed amendments.
- Protection of Godavarman Judgment: The Ministry asserts that the new amendments do not dilute the Godavarman Thirumulpad judgment, indicating that the changes are consistent with the principles laid down in the landmark Supreme Court ruling.
- Preventing Misuse of Land: The Ministry emphasizes that there are provisions in place to ensure that forest land will not be misused. The amendments include safeguards to prevent unauthorized exploitation or inappropriate utilization of forest land.
- Specific Exemptions: The Ministry clarifies that the exemptions introduced in the amendments would be limited to specific linear projects of strategic importance identified by the Central government.
Way forward
- Inclusive dialogue: Facilitate inclusive dialogue with stakeholders, including Opposition parties, NGOs, tribal communities, and experts, to address concerns and objections.
- Impact assessment: Conduct thorough environmental impact assessments (EIAs) to assess potential consequences of the amendments and develop mitigation plans for ecological sensitivity.
- Strengthen safeguards: Enhance safeguards for significant forest areas and develop clear definitions of forest to ensure effective conservation measures.
- Balance conservation and development: Promote sustainable practices like private plantations and reforestation while regulating industrial and mining use of forest tracts.
- Central-state collaboration: Foster collaboration and coordination between Central and state governments to harmonize forest conservation efforts.
- Transparent implementation: Allocate resources for monitoring, prevention of illegal activities, and ensure transparency and accountability in forest-related activities.
Conclusion
- The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023, set to be introduced in the monsoon session of Parliament. As the bill moves forward for debate, it is crucial to consider the concerns raised and ensure a balanced approach that protects both forests and the rights of forest-dependent communities.
Also read:
Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Bill and the Forests rights
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Implications of cash transfers instead of grains
Central idea
- Three years ago, financial constraints prevented the Centre and states from providing cash transfers to vulnerable households during pandemic lockdowns. However, there was an abundance of wheat and rice in FCI’s warehouses, allowing distribution to 813.5 million people. However, the current scenario has reversed, with governments having funds but limited grain stocks, raising concerns for future provisions.
Grain Distribution and Export Scenario
Grain Distribution:
- During the pandemic-enforced lockdowns the government distributed 10 kg of grain per month practically free to 813.5 million people from April 2020 to December 2022.
- This distribution was made possible through the public distribution system (PDS) and aimed to support poor and vulnerable households suffering from job and income losses.
Offtake of Grains:
- 2020-21 (April-March): The offtake of wheat and rice totalled 92.9 million tonnes, surpassing the annual average of 62.5 million tonnes during the first seven years after the National Food Security Act (NFSA) implementation.
- 2021-22: The offtake further increased to 105.6 million tonnes.
- 2022-23: The offtake remained high at 92.7 million tonnes.
Grain Exports:
- Rice: In 2021-22, India exported 21.2 million tonnes of rice, valued at $9.66 billion. In 2022-23, rice exports reached 22.3 million tonnes, valued at $11.14 billion.
- Wheat: Wheat exports accounted for 7.2 million tonnes ($2.12 billion) in 2021-22 and 4.7 million tonnes ($1.52 billion) in 2022-23
Karnataka Case: Shift from Grain to Cash Transfers
- Change in Financial Situation: As economic activities resumed, the financial situation improved for both the Centre and the states. Gross GST revenues grew, indicating increased financial resources available to the governments.
- Reduction in Grain Quota: From January 2023, the monthly grain quota under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) was reduced from 10 kg to 5 kg per person.
- Additional grain demand: The government in Karnataka sought additional grain from the FCI to fulfill its election promise of providing 10 kg of free rice per month to all members of below-poverty-line (BPL) households.
- Centre’s Refusal: The Centre did not allow the state government to distribute the extra rice beyond the 5 kg provided under the National Food Security Act (NFSA)
- Resort to Cash Transfers: As a result the Karnataka government started giving cash transfers instead. They started transferring Rs 170 to the bank accounts of the BPL family heads in lieu of the extra 5 kg of rice
Implications of cash transfers
- Inflationary Pressures:
- When households receive cash instead of free grain, they have the flexibility to use the money for various purposes, including purchasing rice or other goods.
- Increased demand for rice in the market can lead to higher prices, potentially contributing to inflationary pressures.
- Deflationary Impact of Free Grain Distribution:
- When surplus grains are distributed without a monetary transaction, it can help stabilize or reduce the prices of grains in the market.
- This can mitigate inflationary pressures and ensure affordable access to essential food items for vulnerable populations.
- Budgetary Considerations:
- This allocation needs to be carefully managed to ensure that it aligns with overall fiscal goals and priorities.
- The availability of adequate financial resources for cash transfers can be a determining factor in choosing between cash transfers and free grain distribution.
- Flexibility for Beneficiaries:
- Instead of receiving a predetermined amount of grain, households can decide how to allocate the cash according to their priorities.
- This flexibility allows households to address their unique requirements beyond food, such as healthcare, education, or other essential expenses.
- Market Dynamics:
- Cash transfers can stimulate economic activity by injecting money into local markets. This can have positive multiplier effects, benefiting various sectors and local businesses.
- On the other hand, free grain distribution may limit the market demand for grains, potentially affecting the livelihoods of farmers and traders.
Depleted grain stocks and uncertain monsoon
- Depleted Grain Stocks:
- The total stocks of wheat and rice in the Central pool today stands at a five-year-low.
- While these stocks are still above the normative minimum required, there are concerns about the monsoon and its impact on this year’s rice crop, which may affect procurement and future stocks.
- Monsoon Impact on Production:
- The poorly distributed rain has resulted in lower-than-usual rice cultivation, with farmers having planted only 123.18 lakh hectares out of the normal total of 399.45 lakh hectares under rice during the monsoon season. Additionally, the cumulative area sown is 6.1% lower than the previous year.
- Insufficient rainfall in the monsoon’s second half can impact not only the kharif rice but also the upcoming rabi wheat crop.
The Export conundrum
- Record Export Quantities: Despite the imposition of restrictions on grain exports, India witnessed record-breaking exports of rice, wheat, and other cereals. Specifically, total exports amounted to 32.3 million tonnes in 2021-22 and 30.7 million tonnes in 2022-23, valued at $12.87 billion and $13.86 billion, respectively.
- Inflationary Pressures: The rising demand for rice, coupled with reduced domestic availability due to exports, can lead to higher prices for consumers within the country.
- Limited Import Capability for Rice: As India is the world’s largest rice exporter, importing rice in case of domestic production shortfalls becomes challenging. Unlike wheat, which can be imported due to ample global supplies, rice imports are restricted.
- Price Volatility and Potential Export Restrictions: The rising rice prices globally, indicating potential price volatility. Given concerns over depleted grain stocks and uncertainties related to the monsoon, the government is considering additional export restrictions.
Way forward: A balanced approach
- Targeted Cash Transfers: Implement focused cash transfer programs to support the most vulnerable households affected by economic hardships.
- Optimal Grain Procurement: Strengthen grain procurement mechanisms to ensure an adequate supply of grains for the Public Distribution System (PDS) and strategic reserves.
- Strategic Stock Management: Develop effective strategies to balance grain distribution for immediate consumption while maintaining sufficient reserves for emergencies.
- Diversify Food Sources: Explore diverse food options, such as millets, pulses, and vegetables, to reduce reliance on a single crop and enhance food and nutritional diversity.
- Enhance Food System Resilience: Improve supply chain efficiency, reduce food waste, and enhance coordination among stakeholders for a resilient food system.
- Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish robust monitoring and evaluation systems to track the effectiveness of cash transfer programs, grain procurement strategies, and food security initiatives.
Conclusion
- The current state of depleted grain stocks, coupled with the uncertainties surrounding monsoon performance and global market dynamics, presents a significant challenge for the government. Balancing the need for cash transfers to alleviate the plight of vulnerable households while ensuring adequate grain reserves to sustain the country’s food security is a delicate task.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- An exhibition, heritage walk, and talk will be held in Kolkata to commemorate the bicentenary year of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last king of Awadh.
Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
- Mirza Wajid Ali Shah (30 July 1822 – 1 September 1887) was the eleventh and final King of Awadh, reigning from 13 February 1847 to 11 February 1856.
- He is remembered as a poet, playwright, dancer, and patron of the arts who made significant contributions during his rule.
Reign and fall
- Ascension to the Throne: Wajid Ali Shah became the King of Awadh in February 1847, assuming the position during a period of decline for the kingdom.
- British Annexation: The British East India Company annexed Awadh on 11 February 1856, just two days before the ninth anniversary of Wajid Ali Shah’s coronation. He was subsequently exiled to Garden Reach in Metiabruz, near Kolkata, living on a pension.
Patron of the Arts
- Contributions to Music: Wajid Ali Shah was a generous patron of music and a talented composer. He nurtured the Lucknow Gharana of Kathak dance and enriched the light classical form of thumri. He composed ghazals and introduced new ragas, leaving a lasting impact on Hindustani music.
- Kathak Dance: Wajid Ali Shah’s patronage elevated Kathak dance in Lucknow. He emphasized artistic expression, incorporating drama, emotion, and literature. The king popularized Kathak as a court dance and made it accessible to the common people.
- Hindustani Theatre: The king established the Jogia Jashan, a grand pageant, and staged Rahas (dance-dramas) filled with poetry, lyrical compositions, and Kathak performances. His contributions laid the foundation for the development of Hindustani theatre.
Literary Pursuits
- Prose and Poetry: Wajid Ali Shah was a prolific writer in both Persian and Urdu. His works covered various subjects, including history, literature, and personal reflections. Notable works include “Huzn-i-Akhtar,” an autobiographical piece, and “Bani,” a treatise on music and dance.
- Patronage of Writers: The king patronized numerous poets and writers in his court, including Mirza Ghalib. He granted pensions to renowned literary figures and encouraged the production of works that reflected the culture and life of the era.
Exile Years and Legacy (1856-1887)
- Exile in Metiabruz: After losing his kingdom, Wajid Ali Shah settled in Metiabruz near Kolkata. He created a miniature version of Lucknow and maintained his lavish lifestyle. Matiya Burj, a magnificent complex, served as a reminder of his beloved city.
- Enduring Impact: Wajid Ali Shah’s compositions, including his famous thumri “Babul Mora Naihar Chhooto Jaay,” remain influential and have been performed by various artists. His contributions to music, dance, literature, and theatre continue to shape the cultural landscape, preserving his legacy.
Conclusion
- Mirza Wajid Ali Shah, the last King of Awadh, reigned from 1847 to 1856 before being exiled.
- His patronage of the arts, including music, dance, theatre, and literature, left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Awadh.
- Despite the challenges he faced and the loss of his kingdom, Wajid Ali Shah’s artistic endeavors and enduring legacy continue to inspire and enrich the region’s cultural identity.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rafale fighter jets
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- DAC Approval for Rafale: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared proposals to procure 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets and three Scorpene submarines for the Indian Navy.
Rafale Marine Fighter Jets
- Naval Variant: Rafale Marine fighters are the naval version of the Rafale jets, with the Indian Air Force operating 36 of them.
- Advanced Multirole Fighters: Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafales are advanced twin-engine, multirole fighter jets equipped with modern sensors, radar, and the latest weapon systems.
- India-Specific Enhancements: The jets feature India-specific enhancements and have the capability to carry out various missions.
- Differences in Marine Version: The naval variant has foldable wings, a longer airframe for carrier landings, a tail hook for arrested landing, and reinforced landing gear suitable for aircraft carriers’ conditions.
- Expanded Weapon Capabilities: Rafale Marine jets can carry a wider range of weapons, including anti-ship and air-to-surface missiles, and have specialized radar for maritime operations.
Current Fleet and Need for Additional Fighters
- MiG-29Ks: The Indian Navy currently operates MiG-29Ks from INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier, which are carrier-based multirole fighter aircraft.
- Procurement Requirement: With some MiG-29Ks expected to retire in a decade and the Navy having two operational carriers, additional deck-based fighters were needed to meet operational requirements until the indigenous Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) is developed.
- Criteria and Selection: Only Boeing’s F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet and Dassault Aviation’s Rafale-M met the Navy’s criteria, with Rafale-M having an advantage due to common spares and support with the Indian Air Force’s Rafale jets.
Export and Usage of Rafale Jets
- Importance for France: The Rafale is a key component of France’s nuclear deterrence capabilities.
- Orders and Deliveries: France has ordered a total of 192 Rafales, with 153 already delivered by the end of 2022.
- Future Orders: Plans for a further order of 30 fighters and additional Rafales to offset those sold to Greece and Croatia are in the pipeline.
- Flight and Operational Hours: The aircraft has accumulated a total of 405,000 flight hours, including 63,500 operational hours flown by French pilots since 2007.
Conclusion
- The Rafale Marine jets, with their advanced features and expanded weapon capabilities, will strengthen the Navy’s deck-based fighter fleet.
- This procurement decision marks another step towards bolstering India’s defense preparedness and self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AT-1 Bond
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Subscription Disappointment: State Bank of India (SBI)’s additional tier-1 (AT-1) bond issue saw a very low response from investors, raising ₹3,101 crore against an issue size of ₹10,000 crore.
- Market Sentiment Impact: The lackluster response is expected to dampen market sentiment and make fundraising more challenging for other PSU banks, potentially leading to delays in their fundraising plans.
What are AT1 Bonds?
- Definition: AT-1 bonds, or Additional Tier-1 bonds, are unsecured, perpetual bonds issued by banks to strengthen their core capital base in compliance with Basel-III norms.
- Complex Hybrid Instruments: AT-1 bonds are complex instruments suited for institutions and knowledgeable investors who can analyze their terms and determine if the higher rates compensate for the higher risks involved.
- Face Value: Each AT-1 bond typically carries a face value of ₹10 lakh.
- Acquisition Routes: Retail investors can acquire these bonds through initial private placement offers by banks or by purchasing already-traded AT-1 bonds in the secondary market based on broker recommendations.
Key Features and Importance of AT1 Bonds
- Perpetual Nature: AT-1 bonds do not have a maturity date. Instead, they include call options that allow banks to redeem them after a specific period, usually five or ten years. Banks can choose to pay only interest indefinitely without redeeming the bonds.
- Flexibility in Interest Payments: Banks issuing AT-1 bonds can skip interest payouts or even reduce the bonds’ face value if their capital ratios fall below certain thresholds specified in the offer terms.
- Regulatory Intervention: If a bank faces financial distress, the RBI has the authority to ask the bank to cancel its outstanding AT-1 bonds without consulting the investors.
Back2Basics: Basel Norms
- Basel is a city in Switzerland and the headquarters of the Bureau of International Settlement (BIS).
- The BIS fosters cooperation among central banks to achieve financial stability and common standards of banking regulations.
- Basel guidelines are broad supervisory standards formulated by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS).
- The Basel accord is a set of agreements by the BCBS that primarily focuses on risks to banks and the financial system.
- The purpose of the Basel accord is to ensure that financial institutions maintain sufficient capital to meet obligations and absorb unexpected losses.
- India has accepted the Basel accords for its banking system.
|
Basel I |
Basel II |
Basel III |
| Year Introduced |
1988 |
2004 |
2010 |
| Focus |
Credit Risk |
Credit, Market, Operational Risks |
Capital, Leverage, Funding, Liquidity |
| Capital Requirement |
Fixed at 8% of Risk-Weighted Assets (RWA) |
Minimum Capital Adequacy Requirement of 8% of Risk Assets |
Strengthening capital requirements |
| Pillars |
– |
1. Capital Adequacy Requirements 2. Supervisory Review 3. Market Discipline |
– |
| Objective |
Define capital and risk weights for banks |
Encourage better risk management and disclosure |
Promote a more resilient banking system |
| Implementation in India |
Adopted in 1999 |
Yet to be fully implemented |
March 2019 (postponed to March 2020 due to COVID-19) |
| Key Parameters |
– |
– |
Capital: 12.9% capital adequacy ratio, Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital ratios, capital conservation buffer, and counter-cyclical buffer; Leverage: minimum 3% leverage rate; Funding and Liquidity: LCR and NSFR ratios |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project-75, Scorpene Submarines
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Procurement Announcement: The three additional Scorpene submarines will be procured under the Buy (Indian) category. The Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai will build the submarines.
Scorpene Submarines and Project-75
- Project-75: MDL is already building six Scorpene class submarines under Project-75, with technology transfer from the French defense firm.
- Commissioned Submarines: Five out of the six Scorpene submarines have been commissioned, with the final one expected to be commissioned early next year.
- Delays and Challenges: Project-75 faced significant delays, as the first submarine was originally scheduled for delivery in 2012.
Need for Additional Submarines
- Addressing Delays and Fleet Strength: The procurement of three additional submarines is necessary to compensate for the delayed deliveries under Project-75 and strengthen India’s submarine fleet.
- Current Fleet Status: The Indian Navy currently operates 16 conventional submarines, but it needs a minimum of 18 submarines to carry out its full spectrum of operations.
- Refit Challenges: Around 30% of submarines are under refit at any given time, further reducing the number of operational submarines.
- Employment Opportunities: Procuring additional submarines with higher indigenous content will create employment opportunities and enhance MDL’s submarine construction capabilities.
Capabilities of Scorpene Submarines
- Attack Submarines: Scorpene submarines are designed as conventional attack submarines to target and sink enemy naval vessels.
- Weapons and Surveillance: They can launch a variety of torpedoes and missiles, equipped with surveillance and intelligence-gathering systems.
- Specifications: Scorpene submarines are approximately 220 feet long, with a height of about 40 feet. They have a top speed of 11 knots when surfaced and 20 knots when submerged.
- Diesel-Electric Propulsion: These submarines use diesel-electric propulsion systems, providing an endurance of around 50 days.
Comparison with Nuclear Submarines
- India’s Current Nuclear Submarines: India currently operates two nuclear-powered submarines (SSBMs) of the Arihant class.
- Endurance and Speed: Nuclear submarines have theoretically unlimited endurance and can operate for up to 30 years without refuelling. They can also achieve higher speeds.
- Cost and Expertise: Nuclear submarines are expensive and require specialized expertise to operate.
- Advancements in Conventional Submarines: Diesel-electric technology has significantly improved the range and stealth of conventional submarines.
- Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): Retrofitting Scorpene submarines with AIP systems will enhance their endurance and stealth capabilities.
Conclusion
- India’s decision to procure three additional Scorpene submarines enhances its naval capabilities and strengthens the indigenous manufacturing sector.
- The addition of these submarines will help meet the requirements of a growing fleet and improve operational readiness.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NGT
Mains level: NGT, concerns over it's underperformance and need for revival
What is the news?
- There are concerns regarding the underperformance of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) over the past five years which highlights the need for reform and revival.
Central idea
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) plays a crucial role in adjudicating environmental cases in India, upholding the principles of justice and fairness. However, over the past five years, the NGT has faced significant challenges and underperformance. There is need for reform and revival within the NGT, emphasizing the responsibility of lawyers to raise awareness about its shortcomings.
What is NGT?
- The NGT is a specialized judicial body in India established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
- Its primary purpose is to handle cases related to environmental issues and disputes.
- The NGT has jurisdiction over matters concerning the enforcement of environmental laws, conservation of natural resources, and the prevention and control of environmental pollution
Structure of NGT
- Chairperson: The NGT is headed by a Chairperson who is appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The Chairperson holds a significant position of authority and leadership within the tribunal.
- Judicial Members: The NGT consists of Judicial Members who possess legal qualifications and expertise. These members are responsible for adjudicating on environmental cases and applying legal principles to make informed decisions.
- Expert Members: Expert Members are appointed to the NGT to provide specialized knowledge and expertise in specific fields related to the environment. These members bring scientific, technical, or environmental expertise to assist in the decision-making process.
- Selection Committee: A Selection Committee is formed by the Central Government to appoint both the Judicial Members and Expert Members of the NGT. This committee plays a crucial role in the selection process, ensuring the appointment of qualified individuals.
- Tenure and Age Limit: Members of the NGT, including the Chairperson, serve a term of three years or until they reach the age of sixty-five, whichever comes earlier. They are not eligible for reappointment after completing their term.
- Number of Members: The NGT Act specifies that there should be a minimum of ten and a maximum of twenty full-time Judicial Members and Expert Members in the tribunal. The actual number of members may vary within this range based on the requirements and workload of the NGT
Powers & Jurisdiction of NGT
- Jurisdiction over Civil Cases: The NGT has jurisdiction over all civil cases that involve substantial questions related to the environment. This includes matters concerning the enforcement of legal rights associated with the environment.
- Suo Motu Powers: The NGT has been granted “unique” forum status by the Supreme Court, which empowers it with suo motu (on its own motion) powers. This means that the NGT can take up environmental issues across the country without requiring a specific case to be filed before it.
- Adjudicatory and Preventative Roles: The NGT not only performs an adjudicatory function but is also entrusted with vital roles that are preventative, ameliorative, or remedial in nature. This implies that the NGT has a broader mandate beyond purely resolving disputes and is empowered to take preventive or remedial measures to address environmental concerns.
- Appellate Jurisdiction: In addition to its original jurisdiction, where parties can file applications before the NGT, the tribunal also possesses appellate jurisdiction. This means that it can hear appeals as a court (tribunal) on matters within its purview.
- Guided by Principles of Natural Justice: While the NGT is not bound by the procedural rules outlined in the Code of Civil Procedure 1908, it is guided by the principles of natural justice. This ensures fairness and due process in its proceedings and decision-making.
- Principles of Sustainable Development: In making its orders, decisions, or awards, the NGT applies the principles of sustainable development, precautionary principle, and polluter pays principle. These principles guide the tribunal in achieving a balance between environmental protection and development.
- Relief and Compensation: The NGT has the power to provide relief and compensation to victims of pollution and other forms of environmental damage. It can order restitution of damaged property and restoration of the environment in specific areas as it deems appropriate.
- Execution of Orders: The orders, decisions, or awards of the NGT can be executed as decrees of a civil court. This ensures that the directions issued by the tribunal are enforceable and have legal weight.
- Penalty for Non-compliance: The NGT Act provides a procedure for penalties in case of non-compliance. This includes imprisonment for a term that may extend to three years, fines that may extend to ten crore rupees, or both, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
- Laws Covered: The NGT deals with civil cases arising from seven laws related to the environment, including the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977; the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; the Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991; and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
Concerns regarding NGT
- Lack of Judicial Oversight: One of the major concerns raised is the delegation of judicial work to expert committees, which resulted in a lack of judicial oversight. The reports of these committees were often accepted without hearing the affected parties, violating the principles of natural justice. This undermines the fair and transparent functioning of the NGT.
- Violation of Natural Justice: There are concerns regarding the failure to hear the parties affected by the orders issued by the expert committees goes against the basic principles of natural justice. Natural justice dictates that no one should be condemned behind their backs, and all parties should have the opportunity to present their arguments and evidence.
- Questionable Application of Polluter Pays Principle: The concerns have been raised about the application of the Polluter Pays principle by the NGT. There are discrepancies in the self-made report published by the NGT, which fails to acknowledge the outcome of challenges to the orders imposing Environmental Compensation.
- Bias Against Development and Industry: The concern expressed over the term compensation regime used to describe the NGT’s approach during the mentioned tenure. This term suggests a bias against development and industry, which may hinder the balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.
- Credibility and Transparency: The questions raised on the credibility and transparency of the NGT, particularly regarding the self-certification report published on its website. Such self-assessment raises doubts about the objectivity and reliability of the report and undermines the credibility of the NGT as an independent judicial body.
Need for reform and revival of the NGT
- Addressing Underperformance: The NGT has experienced underperformance over the past five years, as mentioned in the article. This can hinder its effectiveness in handling environmental cases and achieving its objectives. Reform is necessary to improve the NGT’s performance and ensure it fulfils its intended purpose.
- Judicial Oversight and Natural Justice: The delegation of judicial work to expert committees and the lack of proper judicial oversight raise concerns about the NGT’s decision-making process. It is important to reform the system to enhance judicial oversight and uphold the principles of natural justice, ensuring fair hearings and comprehensive evaluations of cases.
- Credibility and Transparency: The credibility and transparency of the NGT have been called into question. The publication of a self-made report card exclusively covering the tenure of the outgoing chairperson raises doubts about objectivity and transparency. Reform measures should focus on enhancing the credibility and transparency of the NGT’s operations and decision-making.
- Collaboration and International Standing: Reviving the NGT involves fostering collaborations with national and international organizations, research institutions, and experts. Such collaborations can strengthen the NGT’s knowledge base, exchange best practices, and enhance its standing on the global stage.
- Rebuilding Bar-Bench Relationship: The strained relationship between the bar (lawyers) and bench (NGT members) needs to be addressed. Reviving this relationship is crucial for effective representation of parties involved in environmental cases and to facilitate a constructive dialogue on environmental issues.
- Prioritizing Sustainability and Development Balance: While environmental protection is vital, the NGT’s approach should not be perceived as biased against development and industry. Reforms should strike a balance between environmental conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth and ecological concerns are harmonized.
- Transparent and Accountable Performance Evaluation: The NGT’s performance evaluation should be carried out in a transparent and accountable manner, avoiding any self-certification or subjective assessments. Establishing clear evaluation criteria and mechanisms can help monitor the NGT’s performance objectively.
Conclusion
- The NGT’s underperformance over the past five years necessitates urgent reform and revival. The next Chairperson must restore credibility, transparency, and respect within the institution, while also striking a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. Through these efforts, the NGT can fulfill its vital role in addressing environmental challenges and upholding principles of justice
Also read:
State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Vulnerabilities of urban India to climate change , Mitigation efforts
What is the news?
- The recent floods and extreme weather events in north-western India and Delhi highlight the urgent need for cities across the country to prepare for and adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change.
Central Idea
- As global and local warming intensify, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as floods, water scarcity, and heatwaves will grow exponentially. Our current governance, planning, and infrastructure systems are ill-equipped to handle these rapid changes, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate future disruption
Challenges in urban areas
- Inadequate Water, Sanitation, and Drainage Infrastructure: Urban areas face challenges in providing basic services such as water supply, sanitation, drainage, and wastewater management. The existing infrastructure is often insufficient and struggles to deliver these services effectively.
- Concentration of Population and Economic Output: Cities concentrate a large portion of the population and economic activities, which increases their vulnerability to climate impacts. The dense built-up areas, coupled with poor infrastructure, exacerbate the effects of extreme weather events like flooding, water scarcity, and heatwaves.
- Irrational Land Use and Planning Systems: The irrational land use practices and planning systems worsen the challenges faced by cities. Encroachments, illegal constructions, and improper zoning further amplify the vulnerability of urban areas to climate impacts.
- Vulnerability of Informal Settlements and Slums: Millions of people are forced to live in informal settlements and slums with inadequate infrastructure and services. These areas are highly vulnerable to climate impacts, leading to increased risks and hardships for the residents.
- Impacts on Sensitive Regions: Cities located in sensitive regions along coastlines, rivers, and hills face even more severe impacts due to higher exposure and locational vulnerability. They are more prone to flooding, landslides, and other extreme events.
How to prevent disruptions by flood and extreme weather events?
- Ensuring Effective Drainage Systems:
- Urban civic bodies must conduct regular audits ahead of the monsoon season to ensure stormwater drains, tanks, and lakes are functional and free from obstructions.
- Integrating drainage, water supply, and wastewater systems in the medium term can store intense rainfall, recharge groundwater, and provide better services, ultimately limiting waterborne diseases.
- Improving Road Infrastructure:
- Rapid urban expansion has outpaced planned drainage systems, resulting in roads functioning as makeshift stormwater drains.
- Addressing local flooding requires the improvement of road construction and repair practices. Infrastructure planning and coordination should account for the impact of new constructions, such as flyovers, underpasses, and metro lines, on existing drainage systems to prevent post-flooding traffic bottlenecks.
- Implementing Blue-Green-Grey Infrastructure:
- Adopting blue-green-grey infrastructure, such as green roofs, urban forests, and wetlands, can mitigate flooding, water scarcity, and heatwaves.
- Learning from initiatives like China’s sponge cities and the effective flood defense mechanism provided by East Kolkata’s wetlands, Indian cities should prioritize nature-based solutions.
- Reducing Flood Vulnerability:
- Leveraging high-resolution satellite and topographical data, India can map all its cities and identify flood-prone areas. The focus should then shift to addressing the vulnerability of communities living in these areas, such as those along riverbanks, low-lying regions, and unstable slopes.
- Building community-based resilience and enhancing evacuation strategies will be crucial in minimizing the dislocation of millions during extreme events.
- Strengthening Early Warning Systems:
- Building on the progress made in improving forecasting, early warning, and evacuation systems in large cities like Mumbai and Surat, India must extend these measures to other at-risk areas.
- Additionally, critical services such as cellphone, power, and water supply should be fortified to ensure their resilience and rapid recovery post-disaster
Way forward
- Integrated Climate Action Plans: Develop comprehensive climate action plans involving multiple stakeholders to address floods and extreme weather events.
- Upgrading Infrastructure: Invest in resilient infrastructure, including improved drainage systems, upgraded road infrastructure, and integration of green infrastructure to manage stormwater and reduce flood risks.
- Robust Early Warning Systems: Strengthen early warning systems by improving forecasting capabilities, enhancing communication channels, and conducting regular drills and awareness campaigns.
- Community Engagement and Resilience: Empower local communities, educate residents about flood risks, promote preparedness, and encourage sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and waste management.
- Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Develop and enforce robust policy and regulatory frameworks that integrate climate considerations to prevent encroachments and ensure resilient urban development.
- Climate Financing: Explore climate financing mechanisms and partnerships to secure funding for climate adaptation projects, leveraging national and international funds, private sector entities, and climate finance initiatives.
- Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange: Enhance capacity through training programs and knowledge exchange platforms for urban planners, officials, and community leaders to accelerate the adoption of effective flood and extreme weather mitigation strategies
Conclusion
- Protecting and preparing Indian cities for the future impacts of climate change is imperative. It is crucial to acknowledge that climate change is a harsh reality requiring collective adaptation efforts, regardless of socio-economic status. By implementing these measures, Indian cities can enhance their climate resilience and safeguard the well-being of their inhabitants
Also read:
The lesson from a monsoon-battered North India: Time to be prepared
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Age of Consent
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Empowering the Central Government: The upcoming data protection Bill in India could grant the Centre the authority to lower the age of consent from 18 for accessing Internet services without parental oversight.
- Exemptions for Certain Companies: The Bill may exempt specific companies from additional obligations in protecting children’s privacy if they can process data in a “verifiably safe” manner.
Must read:
Data Protection Bill approved by Cabinet: Content, concerns
Why in news?
- Departure from Previous Bill: This marks a departure from the previous data protection Bill, where the age threshold was hard-coded at 18 years.
- Aligning with global laws: The change aligns with data protection regulations in the Western world, such as the EU and US.
Journey of a Clause: Changing Definition of a Child
- Justice BN Srikrishna Committee Report: The committee’s 2018 report recommended seeking parental consent for individuals under 18 years but suggested that the age of consent could be reduced if amendments were made.
- Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019: The PDP Bill, 2019 retained the recommendation and defined a child as an individual under the age of 18.
- Joint Committee of Parliament Recommendations: The Joint Committee proposed reducing the age of consent to 13/14/16 years in its final recommendations in late 2021.
- Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022: The draft Bill defined children as those under 18 years of age, leading to dissatisfaction among social media companies.
- Final Change: The data protection Bill headed to Parliament’s Monsoon session reportedly changed the definition of a child to an individual who has not completed the age of eighteen years or a lower age notified by the Central Government.
Global Definitions of Children for Data Regulations
- EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): The age of consent is set at 16 but allows member states to lower it to as low as 13. Specific protections for children’s personal data exist.
- USA’s Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA): Children are defined as under 13 years, and parental consent is required for processing their personal data.
- Australia’s Privacy Act, 1988: The Act protects personal information regardless of age but requires organizations to assess an individual’s capacity to consent on a case-by-case basis.
- China’s Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL): Entities handling personal data of individuals under 14 years must obtain parental consent, and children’s data is categorized as sensitive.
Conclusion
- Lowering the age of consent in India’s data protection Bill reflects global trends seen in data protection regulations.
- Countries have different age thresholds for defining children and varying requirements for obtaining parental consent.
- The final change in the Bill represents a series of discussions and deliberations on determining the age of children in India’s data protection law, addressing concerns of industry stakeholders and aligning with international standards.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 6PPD in Tires
Mains level: Pollution caused by Tyres
Central Idea: Tire Pollution
- Meeting EVs’ Needs: Tire manufacturers strive to develop the perfect tire that balances performance and durability for electric vehicles (EVs).
- Weight and Torque Considerations: EVs’ increased weight and torque require sturdier tires to handle the load and efficiently transfer power to the road.
- Leading Manufacturers’ Efforts: Tire companies are improving designs and developing chemical formulas to meet the demands of EVs.
Environmental Impact of Tires
- Beyond Tailpipe Emissions: Tires significantly contribute to environmental degradation beyond exhaust emissions.
- Tire Wear and Particle Shedding: Worn tires release tiny particles, which can become airborne or settle on soil, posing risks to air and land quality.
- Microplastic Pollution: Tire particles entering waterways contribute to the growing problem of microplastic pollution.
- VOCs and Smog: Tires contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that react in the atmosphere, contributing to smog formation and air pollution.
Tire Emissions and Electric Vehicles
- Surpassing Tailpipe Emissions: Tire particulate pollution has exceeded emissions from vehicle tailpipes.
- EVs’ Weight Impact: EVs’ additional weight results in higher tire wear emissions compared to traditional vehicles.
- Tesla Model Y vs. Kia Niro: A study showed that the Tesla Model Y exhibited 26% greater tire wear emissions than the Kia Niro.
Environmental Hazards and Solutions
- Water Pollution and Microplastics: Tire particulate pollution contributes to water pollution and the accumulation of microplastics.
- Health Hazards and 6PPD: The chemical 6PPD in tires poses risks to aquatic life, edible plants, and human health.
- Balancing Climate Goals and Tire Emissions: Addressing tire emissions is crucial when transitioning to electric vehicles to mitigate overall pollution levels.
- Reducing Car Use vs. Economic Activity: Balancing environmental concerns and economic activity while reducing car usage is essential for sustainable mobility.
Market Mechanisms and Individual Actions
- Incentivizing Innovation: Market mechanisms can encourage tire companies to invest in developing low-emission tire formulations.
- VOC Toxicity Variations: Stricter industry standards are needed to regulate volatile organic compound (VOC) toxicity levels in tires.
- Individual Actions for Tire Wear Reduction: Responsible driving habits can reduce tire wear and particulate emissions.
- Maximizing Lifespan: Using tires to their full lifespan minimizes particulate emissions during the initial usage period.
Conclusion
- Innovating for a Sustainable Future: Tire design and manufacturing must balance EV performance and pollution reduction.
- Collaborative Efforts Needed: Market, industry, and individual actions are crucial to address tire and EV-related challenges.
- Striving for Sustainable Mobility: Comprehensive solutions integrating technology, environmental considerations, and responsible behavior can mitigate the environmental impact of tires.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now