What’s the news?
The Women’s Reservation Bill recently passed in Parliament after a 27-year journey, marking a crucial milestone for gender equality in politics.
Central idea
The Women’s Reservation Bill, recently approved by Parliament, signifies a pivotal step for women’s inclusion in politics after 27 years of deliberation. It addresses challenges of historical resistance and perceptions regarding equality while government initiatives like the 73rd Amendment and property rights extension aim to empower women at grassroots levels.
Theory of reflective autonomy given in the article states
- Definition: Reflective autonomy is the ability of women to critically examine and understand their values, beliefs, and choices in the realm of politics.
- Importance: This self-awareness empowers women to make political decisions based on their own understanding, free from external pressures or uninformed influences.
- Example: In the context of the Women’s Reservation Bill, reflective autonomy implies that women aspiring to be MPs should critically evaluate their motivations and political goals, ensuring they align with their personal values and aspirations.
- Commitment to Shared Values: Women’s commitment to shared values emphasizes a collective responsibility for gender equality, inclusivity, and the empowerment of women in the political landscape.
- Importance: This commitment provides a foundation for cooperation, fostering unity and aligning individual actions with the broader societal goal of women’s empowerment.
- Example: In the article, shared values could revolve around advocating for gender equality, creating an inclusive political space, and actively working towards the empowerment of women in India.
Three “E”s – Engagement, Emancipation, and Empathy:
- Engagement: Women aspiring to be MPs need to actively participate in addressing societal issues and engage in political processes to contribute meaningfully.
- Emancipation: Seeking freedom and empowerment for women, particularly those from marginalized groups, becomes a crucial goal in the pursuit of political leadership.
- Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of fellow citizens, particularly those with diverse perspectives, is essential for creating a harmonious and inclusive political environment.
- Example: Women aspiring to be MPs in India should engage with local issues, actively contribute to the emancipation of marginalized women, and cultivate empathy for the diverse challenges faced by different segments of society. This approach ensures that their political journey is not only self-aware but also deeply rooted in shared values and a commitment to women’s empowerment.
Key Challenges:
- Historical Resistance: Women’s reservation faced prolonged resistance, evident in debates from Sarojini Naidu to contemporary concerns about power balance.
- Perception of Equality: Addressing skepticism regarding quotas and their alignment with the principle of equality.
- Masculinist Dominance: Overcoming the historical dominance of men in politics and shifting towards a more inclusive representation.
Government Schemes and Initiatives:
- Women’s Reservation Bill (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam): A landmark legislation passed in September, marking a historic commitment to women’s empowerment.
- 73rd and 74th Amendments: Empowering women at the grassroots level through panchayati raj institutions.
- Extension of Property Rights: Measures benefiting women in tribal communities and initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.
Way Forward:
- Training and Education: Encouraging women to pursue higher education in relevant fields such as public policy, political science, and law.
- Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship initiatives with experienced women politicians guiding aspiring leaders.
- Local Engagement: Emphasizing the importance of engaging with local issues and providing solutions, fostering confidence and commitment.
Conclusion:
Advocating the theory of reflective autonomy, the focus should be on engagement, emancipation, and empathy. Women aspiring for political roles must actively participate in local problem-solving, gaining confidence, and nurturing empathy for societal harmony. The Women’s Reservation Act, a formal step towards equality, should translate into substantive equality through these concerted efforts.
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Central idea
The Supreme Court is exploring the Himalayan region’s carrying capacity to address environmental concerns. Critics advocate a broader, inclusive approach involving multiple institutes and citizen representation for a sustainable, people-centric strategy. The focus is on engaging local communities and assessing the social dimensions for lasting solutions.
Carrying Capacity Definition
Carrying capacity refers to the maximum sustainable population size an ecosystem can support without significant harm. It’s crucial for balancing human activities with environmental preservation.
- Biodiversity Hub: The Himalayas host diverse flora and fauna, making the region crucial for the conservation of numerous endemic and endangered species.
- Water Source for Asia: As the “Water Tower of Asia,” the Himalayas contribute to major river systems, providing water to millions downstream, emphasizing the importance of ecological health.
- Climate Regulation: The Himalayas play a pivotal role in global climate regulation, influencing weather patterns, monsoons, and serving as a natural buffer against the impacts of climate change.
- Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Beyond ecology, the Himalayas hold cultural and spiritual importance, and their ecological well-being is intertwined with the traditional practices and beliefs of local communities.
| Some interesting facts
The Himalayas harbor over 50% of the world’s plant species.
Himalayan glaciers supply water to major rivers, supporting nearly 1.5 billion people.
Snow leopards, a rare and endangered species, find refuge in the Himalayan mountain ranges.
The Himalayan region is a biodiversity hotspot with unique species like the Himalayan monal, a vibrantly colored pheasant. |
Key Challenges and Ineffective Past Initiatives:
- Despite previous efforts, progress on assessing and implementing carrying capacity plans has been minimal.
- Flawed recommendations from the Ministry, with the same individuals responsible for environmental damage now tasked with finding solutions.
- The suggested reliance on the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment overlooks the significance of other relevant institutes in policymaking.
- A myopic emphasis on towns and cities, without considering the broader impact of infrastructure, like road networks creating spontaneous settlements.
Government Schemes and Initiatives:
- National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (2010).
- Indian Himalayas Climate Adaptation Programme.
- Secure Himalaya Project.
- Guidelines on ‘Carrying Capacity in the IHR’ circulated on January 30, 2020.
- Ministry’s reminder on May 19, 2023, urging States to submit carrying capacity action plans if not undertaken.
Way Forward:
- Holistic Regional Focus: Include under-explored areas like the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, where rapid tourism growth may impact the local ecosystem. Similarly, consider the less urbanized parts of Sikkim, such as Dzongu, facing challenges in waste management due to an increase in population.
- Emphasize Sustainable Population: Prioritize assessing the carrying capacity with a focus on “Sustainable Population.” For instance, examine the impact of population growth on water sources in regions like Lachen in Sikkim, known for its pristine lakes and rivers.
- Citizen Representation: Include citizens from diverse backgrounds, like the Gaddis in Himachal Pradesh or the Lepchas in Sikkim, ensuring that indigenous knowledge contributes to sustainable solutions.
- Biological Diversity: Evaluate the overall sustainable capacity by considering the rich biological diversity in areas like the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand. Understand the delicate balance in ecosystems supporting various species.
- Water Management: Assess the sustainable capacity of water resources, acknowledging concerns raised by citizens in regions like Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Here, water plays a crucial role in agriculture, and any disruption affects the livelihoods of the Monpa community.
Conclusion:
The imperative for sustainable development in the Himalayan region requires a comprehensive assessment of carrying capacity. The Supreme Court’s intervention serves as a catalyst for a people-centric, inclusive, and holistic approach, emphasizing long-term environmental health and citizen involvement. With united efforts we will restore Himalayan glory again
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What’s the news?
The Supreme Court of India’s line, with respect to same sex persons, that there is no fundamental right to marry, is incorrect.
Central idea
The Supreme Court’s decision in Supriyo Chakraborty judgement is unfair as it denies same-sex couples the right to marry. This reinforces discrimination and stigma against LGBTQI communities. It’s crucial to correct this for equal rights.
Debate and controversy on Same-sex marriage
- Same-sex marriage is the legal recognition of a marriage between two individuals of the same sex.
- It grants same-sex couples the same legal and social recognition, rights, and privileges that are traditionally associated with marriage, including property rights, inheritance rights, and the ability to make decisions for each other in medical emergencies.
- The recognition of same-sex marriage varies around the world, with some countries legalizing it while others do not.
- The issue has been the subject of much debate and controversy, with arguments for and against same-sex marriage based on religious, cultural, social, and legal considerations.
- Same-sex marriage is currently not legally recognized in India.
- Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized homosexuality, was struck down by the Supreme Court of India in 2018, which was a landmark decision for LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
- However, there is still no law that allows same-sex couples to legally marry or have any legal recognition of their relationships.
Key Challenges and Legal Maze
- Background and Section 377: The legal journey began with the Delhi High Court’s 2009 decision in Naz Foundation, striking down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. However, the Supreme Court’s 2013 ruling in Suresh Kumar Koushal reinstated the criminalization of non-heterosexual relationships, only to be overturned in 2018 with Navtej Singh Johar.
- Stigmatization and Societal Perception: The LGBTQI communities faced severe challenges, including blackmail, torture, and violence, under the oppressive Section 377. The societal perception that a relationship less than marriage lacks legitimacy fueled strong demands for the right to marry.
- Global Legal Shifts: The Supreme Court’s reluctance to consider foreign jurisprudence contrasts with global trends. Many countries, including the United States, have evolved their legal frameworks by drawing on international experiences and human rights principles to recognize same-sex marriage.
Government Schemes and Initiatives
- NALSA and Transgender Rights: The NALSA judgment recognized the right of individuals to identify their gender, paving the way for the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act. While this Act addresses gender identity, the recent judgment on same-sex marriage presents a contradiction in the application of rights.
- International Commitments: India’s commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) has been vital in shaping legislation. However, the recent verdict seemingly ignores India’s pledge to accord with international human rights standards.
| Highly important points for critical analysis in mains and essay
· Pioneering Activism: The fight against Section 377 and for LGBTQI rights in India has a long history. The Lawyers Collective, led by activists like Anand Grover, initiated legal challenges against Section 377 as early as 2001, setting the stage for future legal battles.
· Unique Transgender Recognition: While the recent judgment denies same-sex marriage, it recognizes the legality of marriages involving transgender individuals. This reveals an interesting legal nuance, emphasizing the evolving understanding of gender identity in Indian law.
· Symbolism of Marriage: The demand for the right to marry goes beyond legal recognition. It symbolizes the quest for social acceptance, legitimacy, and equal standing in society. The denial of this right perpetuates stigmatization and reinforces societal prejudices.
· Resilience of LGBTQI Community: Despite setbacks, the LGBTQI community has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The progression from challenging Section 377 to advocating for the right to marry showcases the community’s determination to overcome legal barriers and societal biases.
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Way Forward
- Correcting the Legal Framework: There is an urgent need to revisit the foundational decision that there is no fundamental right to marry in India. Aligning the legal framework with the principles of equality and non-discrimination is paramount.
- Incorporating International Jurisprudence: While the Court has rejected the use of foreign jurisprudence, there is a compelling case to reconsider this stance. Introducing global perspectives, such as the doctrine of intimate association, can enhance inclusivity and align Indian legal principles with evolving global standards.
- Empowering LGBTQI Communities: Beyond legalities, empowering LGBTQI communities involves addressing societal perceptions. Recognition of same-sex marriage is crucial not only for legal rights but also for dismantling stigmas and prejudices.
Conclusion
The LGBTQI community’s call for equality in marriage is not just a legal battle but a societal transformation. A correction of the recent judgment is a step towards ensuring that no citizen is deemed “not fit for marriage” based on their sexual orientation.
The journey involves falls and rises. Learning from past victories, the LGBTQI community must persist in the fight for equal rights, ensuring that the wrongs are corrected, and the path to equality is firmly established.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Edakkal Caves
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Kerala Tourism has launched a project to improve civic amenities around the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad, known for its rock art from prehistoric times.
About Edakkal Caves
- The Edakkal Caves are situated in the Wayanad district of Kerala on Ambukutty Mala, a prominent hill in the region
- It is not a typical cave but rather a natural cleft, rift, or rock shelter created by a piece of rock splitting away from the main body.
- It was discovered in 1890 by Fred Fawcett, a British police official.
- The caves are also known as “Ampukuthy Mala,” with a local belief that they were created by Rama’s sons, Lava and Kusha, who struck arrows on the mountain.
Significance of the caves
- Historical Significance: The caves are historically significant as they are situated near an ancient trade route connecting the high mountains of Mysore to the ports of the Malabar Coast.
- Pictorial Writings: Inside the Edakkal Caves, there are pictorial writings believed to date back to at least 6,000 BCE during the Neolithic period.
- Unique Stone Age Carvings: The Stone Age carvings are rare and represent the only known examples from South India, which belong to the Mesolithic era.
- Cultural Significance: The petroglyphs found include depictions of human and animal figures, tools used by humans, and enigmatic symbols yet to be deciphered, indicating a rich cultural and historical heritage.
- Indus Valley Connect: Some of the paintings found in the Edakkal Caves, particularly those of a “man with jar cup,” have led to speculation about a possible connection to the Indus Valley civilization.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Visa Shopping
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The practice of ‘visa shopping’ is on the rise across various Indian states, most notably in Punjab, where travel agencies facilitate this process.
Understanding Visa Shopping
- Definition: ‘Visa shopping’ entails obtaining visas for countries one may or may not intend to visit during the visa’s validity period.
- Purpose: Individuals opt for this practice to secure access to their preferred countries, especially in Europe, even if they possess visas for other European nations.
- Planning for the Future: Some acquire visas for countries they do not plan to visit immediately, strategically increasing their chances of obtaining visas for their desired destinations later, given the lengthy and uncertain visa application processes.
Exploiting the Schengen System
- Schengen Visa: This visa exemplifies ‘visa shopping’ as it offers a unique opportunity to explore multiple European countries without the need for separate visas.
- Schengen Agreement: Established in 1985, the Schengen system allows free movement between member countries, comprising over 24 nations, sans border controls.
- Single Visa, Multiple Countries: Obtaining a Schengen Visa from one of its member countries, such as Germany, France, or Italy, grants entry into the entire Schengen region.
Case Scenarios
- Easier Application Process: Many applicants prefer to secure a Schengen Visa from a country with a more straightforward application process.
- Success Stories: Instances include individuals who, after facing rejection for a Spanish or German visa, obtained visas for other Schengen nations, enabling them to reach their intended destinations.
Visa Shopping and Legal Issues
- Compliance with Norms: The practice is legal as long as travellers adhere to visa process norms and obtain legitimate permission to stay in the country.
- Intent Matters: Legal complications arise when individuals seek visas for one country but actually intend to stay in another or use it merely as an entry point.
- Estonian Embassy’s Caution: The Embassy of Estonia in New Delhi cautioned against visa shopping, emphasizing that travellers must apply for a visa from the country where they plan the maximum stay.
Consequences of Suspected Visa Shopping
- Thorough Scrutiny: Embassies now conduct comprehensive checks of travel plans to detect visa shopping.
- Potential Consequences: Suspected individuals may face visa refusal, being offloaded from flights, or deportation from EU borders.
- Official Suspicion: Repeated engagement in visa shopping can arouse suspicion among immigration officials, leading to potential problems during travel.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bidenomics
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The year 2024 is poised to be a momentous one for the global economy, marked by significant elections in some of the world’s largest economies, including India, Russia, the UK, the EU, and the US.
- “Bidenomics” is the nickname for the economic vision of President Joe Biden. It’s used to convey his administration’s economic gains, policies and plans.
Bidenomics and its Relevance
- Policy Shifts: The potential election outcome in the US could have far-reaching consequences, especially concerning ‘Bidenomics’—President Biden’s distinctive economic policy approach.
- Radical Departures: Trump’s policies diverged significantly from established US and global norms, with actions like withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and adopting protectionist trade policies against nations like China.
- Bidenomics: President Biden introduced a policy shift aimed at reversing decades of economic trends, emphasizing income equality and reducing the influence of big corporations.
- 3 major aspects of Bidenomics:
- Public Investments: Focus on smart investments in infrastructure and clean energy.
- Empowering Workers: Prioritizing workers’ rights and education to strengthen the middle class.
- Promoting Competition: Encouraging competition to reduce costs and foster small business growth.
Performance of Bidenomics
- Macro Indicators: On a macroeconomic level, Bidenomics has shown positive results, as indicated by GDP growth, unemployment rates, and inflation trends.
- GDP Growth: The US has outperformed major developed nations in terms of GDP growth, with a rapid post-pandemic recovery.
- Unemployment: Unemployment rates have decreased significantly under Biden’s leadership, with job creation outpacing the number of job seekers.
- Inflation: However, inflation spiked due to external factors but has since moderated.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bats and their ecological significance
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Bats, by many measures, are truly remarkable organisms.
- Their lives are notably extended, and they enjoy a unique defense against a range of diseases, including cancer.
Bats in Numbers
- Significant Population: Bats constitute a substantial part of the mammal world, making up 20% of all mammal species globally. The planet is home to over 1,400 bat species, each exhibiting its own unique characteristics.
- Diverse Characteristics: Bats exhibit a wide range of sizes, from the tiny 2-gram bumblebee bat to the formidable flying foxes, boasting a 1.5-meter wingspan and weighing up to 1.6 kg.
- Ecological Importance: Bats play pivotal roles in maintaining ecological balance by contributing to essential processes such as pollination and insect population control.
Bats as Virus Reservoirs
- Notorious Reputation: Bats have come under scrutiny primarily due to their role as hosts for various deadly viruses, including coronaviruses, Nipah, Ebola, Marburg virus, and Hendra virus.
- COVID-19 Spotlight: The COVID-19 pandemic has thrust bats into the spotlight, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health.
- Natural Pathogen Hosts: Bats are unique in their ability to harbour numerous pathogens without falling victim to infections, sparking scientific interest in understanding the source of their resistance.
Unlocking Bat Genomes
- Genomic Exploration: Scientists have embarked on comprehensive studies of bat genomes, revealing invaluable insights into their distinctive biology.
- Compact Genomes: Bats boast relatively small genomes, typically consisting of around 2 billion bases, making them ideal subjects for genomic research.
- Metagenomic Sequencing: The ambitious Bat1K global genome consortium is currently undertaking the task of sequencing genomes of all bat species worldwide, promising further revelations about their genetic makeup.
Immune Insights from Bat Genomes
- Crucial Immune Genes: The immune-related genes of bats have been a major focus of research, with these creatures exhibiting unique genomic features.
- Reduced Immune Genes: Bats possess a smaller percentage of immune-related genes, approximately 2.7-3.5% compared to humans, who have around 7%.
- Positive Selection: Certain immune genes in bats have undergone positive selection, equipping them to control the spread of viruses while mitigating the inflammatory responses that often prove detrimental to humans.
Long-Read Sequencing and Deeper Insights
- Sequencing Advancements: Long-read sequencing technologies have revolutionized our ability to assemble complete genomes quickly and accurately.
- Immune Response Alterations: Recent research employing long-read technology has revealed significant changes in genes responsible for immune responses in bats.
- Interferon Dynamics: There has been a shift in the relative proportions of interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and interferon-omega (IFN-ω) in bats, impacting their immune properties.
- Tumor Suppression and Longevity: Genes linked to tumor suppression and DNA repair in bats exhibit signs of positive selection, contributing to their extended lifespans and reduced cancer risk.
Future Prospects
- Emerging Zoonotic Threats: The ongoing processes of deforestation, ecological degradation, and heightened human-animal interactions are anticipated to result in more frequent zoonotic disease outbreaks.
- Genomic Tools: Advanced genome sequencing techniques hold the promise of aiding in the management of these outbreaks while preserving ecological balance, providing insights without disrupting the delicate equilibrium of nature.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Tax Evasion Report
Mains level: Call for tax on billionaires
Central Idea
- The release of the ‘Global Tax Evasion Report’ marks a pivotal moment in the global fight against tax evasion.
- This report serves as a comprehensive analysis of the state of global taxation and its implications.
About Global Tax Evasion Report
- The ‘Global Tax Evasion Report’ is compiled by the EU Tax Observatory, a research institution specializing in international tax matters, established in 2021.
- This inaugural edition of the report is the result of collaborative efforts involving over 100 researchers from across the globe, working alongside tax authorities.
- It represents the first systematic attempt to analyze available data in the field of taxation.
Global Minimum Tax for MNCs
- Established in October 2021 by 136 countries, including India, setting a 15% global minimum tax rate for MNCs.
- Major economies are aiming to discourage multinational companies from shifting profits – and tax revenues – to low-tax countries regardless of where their sales are made.
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Tax Haven
A tax haven is a foreign country or corporation used to avoid or reduce income taxes, especially by investors from another country. A tax haven is a country or place that has a low rate of tax so that people choose to live there or register companies there in order to avoid paying higher tax in their own countries. |
Key Findings of the GTE Report
The report uncovers the following pivotal findings:
- Reduction in Offshore Tax Evasion: Wealthy individuals’ offshore tax evasion has significantly declined over the past decade, primarily due to the automatic exchange of bank information, resulting in a three-fold reduction in evasion.
- Profit Shifting to Tax Havens: MNCs shifted approximately $1 trillion to tax havens in 2022, accounting for 35% of their global profits. This has led to a substantial loss in global corporate tax revenues, impacting approximately 10% of total collections, with U.S. multinationals playing a prominent role.
- Global Minimum Tax Impact: The expected positive impact of the 15% global minimum tax rate on MNCs has been weakened by various loopholes.
- Low Taxation for Billionaires: Billionaires globally often experience effective tax rates ranging from 0% to 0.5% of their wealth, utilizing shell companies to evade income taxes.
- Aggressive Tax Competition: New forms of aggressive tax competition have emerged, eroding government revenues and exacerbating inequality.
Proposed solutions
- Empowering ‘Automatic Exchange of Bank Information’: Launched in 2017 to combat offshore tax evasion by affluent individuals. Facilitated the sharing of deposit information with foreign tax authorities.
- Global Minimum Tax on Billionaires: Proposes a 2% global minimum tax on billionaires, mirroring the model for MNCs, ensuring minimum tax rates for the wealthiest individuals.
- Strengthening Global Minimum Tax for MNCs: Advocates for reinforcing the global minimum tax for MNCs while eliminating existing loopholes, potentially augmenting global corporate tax revenues by $250 billion annually.
- Fair Allocation of Additional Revenues: Proposes mechanisms for equitable distribution of additional tax revenues generated by these measures among countries.
Conclusion
- The GTE report illuminates substantial progress in curbing tax evasion while underscoring persistent challenges and reform opportunities.
- The proposed solutions aim to foster international collaboration in addressing tax-related issues and promoting fiscal equity on a global scale.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Food Production stats
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Recent data from the agriculture ministry has revealed that India achieved record-high food production in the 2022-23 fiscal year.
- However, this surge in production appears to be at odds with the government’s decision to restrict the export of key staples like wheat and rice, as well as the persistent trend of rising food inflation.
Food Production Statistics
- Record-High Food Production: The agriculture ministry estimates food production for 2022-23 at a historic 329.7 million tonnes, marking a 4.5% increase from the previous year.
- Cereal Production: Major cereal production, including rice and wheat, rose by 4.9% and 2.6%, respectively. Coarse grain production surged by 12%, while pulses production experienced a 4.4% year-on-year decline but remained 6% higher than the five-year average.
- Challenges Faced: These estimations were made despite adverse conditions such as subpar monsoons affecting rice output and late rains causing damage during crop harvesting.
Inconsistencies in the Data
- Export Curbs: In September 2022, India imposed export curbs on broken rice and imposed a 20% duty on certain varieties due to expected domestic production challenges. These curbs have since intensified.
- Wheat Export Ban: Last year, a miscalculation of wheat harvest, primarily due to a heatwave, led to export bans in May 2022, despite promises to bridge global supply gaps after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
- Rising Food Prices: Despite record production and export restrictions, retail prices for cereals have continued to surge. Wheat and rice prices have been in double digits, with consumer cereal prices up by 11% year-on-year, and pulses registering a 16.4% increase. As of October 21, retail prices for rice and wheat flour were 12.7% and 5% higher year-on-year, respectively.
Prospects for 2023-24
- Kharif Production Estimate: The first advance estimate for kharif production, typically released in September, is yet to be published. This year’s monsoon, with the lowest rainfall in five years and uneven distribution, is expected to impact rice production, the main kharif crop.
- Pulses and Oilseeds: Additionally, reduced rainfall in several states may affect pulses and oilseeds production. Retail prices for specific pulse varieties like tur (pigeon peas) have already surged by 38% compared to the previous year.
Challenges in Robust Crop Estimations
- Reliability of Data: National crop yield estimates rely on crop-cutting experiments conducted by state revenue and agriculture departments, raising concerns about the accuracy of data collection, particularly in understaffed state departments.
- Remote Sensing: India is using remote sensing to cross-verify the data, yet reliability remains a challenge, especially for crops with multiple harvests.
- Horticulture Crops: Estimating yield for horticulture crops, which are harvested in stages, is even more complex than for food grains.
Conclusion
- India’s agricultural landscape presents a perplexing scenario with record-high food production, export restrictions, and stubborn food inflation.
- The government’s efforts to stabilize prices through export curbs have not yielded the expected results.
- As India navigates the complexities of its agricultural sector, it must address the discrepancies in data collection and explore innovative approaches to ensure accurate estimates and sustainable food security.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: EIA
Mains level: vulnerability of the Indian Himalayan Region and need for EIA
What’s the news?
- In light of the recent Teesta dam breach in Sikkim and floods in Himachal Pradesh, the potential negative impact of developmental activities on our ecology, especially in the mountains, is evident.
Central idea
- The recent Teesta dam breach in Sikkim and devastating floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh have underscored the destructive consequences of our current development model. It is crucial to evaluate the environmental repercussions of significant human endeavors in order to strike a balance between development and ecological preservation.
What is EIA?
- Definition: EIA, or Environment Impact Assessment, is a process defined by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to gauge the environmental, social, and economic impacts of a project before implementation.
- Functions: It contrasts various project alternatives, predicts environmental consequences, and suggests appropriate mitigation strategies.
EIA’s Historical Development in India
- 1976–77: A precursor to EIA began with an evaluation of river valley projects.
- 1994: The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change introduced the first EIA notification.
- 2006: The 2006 notification decentralized the process, allowing states to issue EC (Environmental Clearance) in specific cases. This policy was later amended for refinement.
- The 2020 draft EIA was criticized as favoring industries while neglecting ecological concerns.
EIA 2006 Notification’s Scope and Limitations
- It establishes the procedure for giving EC.
- Only specific projects listed in the attached schedule require an EC.
- It categorizes projects (e.g., mining, power generation). However, the threshold limits for requiring an EIA remain consistent nationwide.
The Potential of EIA for Sustainable Development
- Informed Decision-Making: EIA provides data for informed choices that balance development with environmental concerns.
- Early Risk Identification: EIA identifies and mitigates potential environmental harm, promoting sustainable project designs.
- Public Participation: EIA’s public consultations enhance transparency and inclusive decision-making.
- Legal Framework: EIA is part of the legal framework for environmental protection, ensuring adherence to standards.
- Long-Term Focus: EIA emphasizes long-term sustainability by assessing projects’ lasting impacts.
Ignoring the Himalayan region
- Inconsistency: Despite understanding the unique needs of the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), its vulnerabilities aren’t addressed separately in the EIA.
- Issue: Both the old and 2020 draft notifications don’t differentiate the IHR from the rest of India in terms of development needs.
- Impact: This oversight results in the Himalayan States facing yearly devastation from extreme weather conditions.
Flaws in the Graded Approach
- The current approach differentiates risk based on location (e.g., reserved forest, national park). But the IHR, despite its ecological significance, is treated the same as other regions.
Proposed Solutions
- Differentiate environmental standards for projects in the IHR.
- Address IHR-specific concerns at all EIA stages.
- Include provisions about the IHR in general conditions for all projects.
Existing Issues with the EIA
- Lack of Oversight: There is no national regulator for transparent project appraisal and monitoring.
- Reactive Nature: EIA currently reacts to proposals rather than preempting them.
- Biased Assessments: Often, EIAs are in favor of projects because they’re funded by the project proponent.
- Limited Scope: The current process doesn’t adequately consider the cumulative impacts of multiple projects in a region.
Conclusion
- The EIA process, especially concerning the IHR, requires a comprehensive review. Exploring tools like strategic environmental assessment can be more effective in addressing the cumulative impact of development in regions like the IHR. Policymakers should prioritize the environment and ecology in their developmental plans.
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