Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lokpal: Powers, Functions, Exceptions
Mains level: NA
In the news
- Former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar has been appointed as the chairperson of Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman of India.
- Justice Khanwilkar retired from the Supreme Court in July 2022, bringing a wealth of judicial experience to his new role.
About Lokpal
- Establishment: Lokpal is a statutory body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act of 2013.
- Mandate: It is tasked with investigating allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and related matters.
- Organisational Structure:
- The Lokpal comprises a chairperson and a maximum of 8 members.
- The chairperson must be a former Chief Justice of India, a former Supreme Court judge, or an eminent person meeting eligibility criteria.
- Half of the members must be judicial members, either former Supreme Court judges or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
- At least 50% members must be from SC / ST / OBC / Minorities and women.
- Members serve a term of 5 years or until they turn 70, whichever is earlier.
- Perks and Benefits: The salary, allowances, and other conditions of service for the chairperson are equivalent to those of the CJI, while members receive benefits similar to Supreme Court judges.
Appointment Process:
- The President of India appoints the chairperson and members based on the recommendation of a selection committee.
- The selection committee includes the PM as Chairperson, the Speaker of Lok Sabha, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a nominated judge, and one eminent jurist.
Jurisdiction:
- Lokpal has jurisdiction to investigate allegations of corruption against Prime Ministers, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials of the Union Government.
- It extends to individuals associated with government-funded entities and those receiving substantial foreign contributions.
Exceptions for Prime Minister:
- Lokpal cannot probe allegations against the PM related to certain sensitive areas like international relations, security, public order, atomic energy, and space without the approval of at least 2/3rds of its members.
- A full Lokpal bench must consider initiating inquiries into complaints against the PM.
Powers of Lokpal:
- Lokpal exercises superintendence over and provides directions to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in corruption cases.
- It can authorize the CBI for search and seizure operations linked to such cases.
- The Lokpal’s Inquiry Wing possesses powers akin to a civil court.
- It can recommend the transfer or suspension of public servants implicated in corruption allegations.
- Lokpal is empowered to prevent the destruction of records during preliminary inquiries and confiscate assets obtained through corruption.
Reporting and Accountability
- Annually, Lokpal submits a report on its activities to the President, which is then presented to both Houses of Parliament for scrutiny.
Try this PYQ from CS Mains 2013
Q.‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cannabis , THCBD, NDPS Act, Exception for 'Bhang'
Mains level: Therapeutic uses of narcotic substances
In the news
- Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) has long intrigued psychiatrists due to its impact on mood and cognition, prompting research into its potential therapeutic applications for conditions like schizophrenia and mood disorders.
Do you know?
- The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 regulates cannabis by defining it under Section 2(iii) of the act.
- Cannabis, also known as hemp, includes various forms such as charas (resin), ganja (flowering or fruiting tops), and any mixture or drink prepared from these forms.
- However, interestingly, bhang, a preparation of cannabis, is NOT covered under this act and remains beyond its purview.
- Bhang is permitted for production and sale by many States as it falls outside the definition of cannabis under the NDPS Act.
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What is Cannabis?
- Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, pot, or ganja, is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Cannabaceae family.
- It is primarily known for its psychoactive properties due to the presence of compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
- This THC interacts with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, resulting in various effects including relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, and increased appetite.
- The plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, with THC and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most well-known and studied.
Why discuss this?
- Researchers at the University of British Columbia initiated a clinical trial to explore the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) in treating bipolar depression, offering promise for addressing depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
- While delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD has garnered attention for its potential antipsychotic and neuroprotective effects.
Understanding the Cannabinoid System
- Receptor Mechanisms: The human cannabinoid system, comprising CB1 and CB2 receptors, plays a crucial role in modulating various bodily functions, including pain, memory, and appetite, with THC exerting acute effects on motor control and memory.
- Endo-cannabinoid System (ECS): The ECS, governed by endogenous molecules, regulates neurotransmitter activity, influencing mood and cognitive processes.
Therapeutic Applications
- Medical Uses: THC and synthetic cannabinoids are utilized to stimulate appetite, alleviate nausea, and manage pain associated with conditions like HIV-AIDS and cancer.
- Addiction and Withdrawal: Debate surrounds the addictive potential of THC, with animal studies suggesting addictive responses and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of heavy use.
Psychiatric Implications
- Mood Effects: Cannabis’ impact on mood is multifaceted, with reports suggesting associations with depression and bipolar disorder, although rigorous scientific scrutiny is lacking.
- Psychotic Risks: Individuals with psychotic illnesses, including schizophrenia, exhibit heightened susceptibility to cannabis-induced psychotic symptoms, with youth cannabis use potentially advancing the onset of schizophrenia in genetically vulnerable individuals.
Policy Considerations
- Global Trends: The global trend toward legalizing medical and recreational cannabis underscores the need for informed policymaking to mitigate risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and individuals with mental illnesses.
- Decriminalization Debate: Broader debates on decriminalization necessitate measures to prevent commercialization and ensure safeguards against misuse, emphasizing protection for vulnerable segments of society.
Conclusion
- Navigating the complexities of cannabis necessitates a balanced approach, leveraging its therapeutic potential while addressing associated risks through evidence-based policymaking and clinical interventions.
Back2Basics: Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985
- The NDPS Act is a comprehensive law that consolidates and amends the existing laws relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in India.
- The Act prohibits the manufacture, cultivation, possession, sale, purchase, transport, storage, or consumption of drugs without permission from appropriate authorities.
- Violations are punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of 10 years and a fine.
- Lesser punishments are mandated for illegal possession in small quantities for personal consumption.
- The Act also provides for the forfeiture of property derived from, or used in, illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
- Drugs covered include:
- Narcotic Drugs: Coca leaf, cannabis (hemp), opium, poppy straw, and their manufactured goods.
- Psychotropic Substances: Any substance that modifies the mind, including amphetamine, methaqualone, diazepam, alprazolam, ketamine, etc.
- Other substances: Cocaine, morphine, diacetylmorphine, or any other narcotic drug or any psychotropic substance as may be specified on this behalf by the Central Government.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Devolution of Taxes
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Recent agitations and concerns raised by state governments highlight critical issues in the practice of fiscal federalism in India.
- Kerala and Karnataka governments, supported by others, have underscored the urgency for the 16th Finance Commission (FC) to address vertical and horizontal inequalities in devolution
Also read:
Explained: Financial Devolution among States
Trends in Vertical Devolution
- Shrinking Divisible Pool: Historically, the divisible pool consisted mainly of income taxes and excise duties shared with states. However, recent changes have seen the exclusion of certain taxes, like corporation taxes, from the divisible pool, reducing the share available for states.
- Expansion of Cesses and Surcharges: Despite the GST implementation, new cesses and surcharges continue to be introduced, contributing to the exclusion of an increasing share of gross tax revenue from net proceeds, impacting vertical devolution.
- Conflicting Data: Discrepancies in government-released information on the quantum of cesses and surcharges have raised concerns about transparency and accurate reporting, which are vital for assessing the true extent of vertical devolution challenges.
Financial Implications
- Collection Trends: Disaggregated data analysis reveals a significant rise in the collection of cesses and surcharges over the past decade, with amounts not shared with states but retained solely by the Union government, exacerbating the vertical devolution imbalance.
- Cumulative Collection: Cumulatively, substantial amounts have been collected as cesses and surcharges, depriving states of their rightful share and necessitating corrective measures to address historical wrongs in vertical devolution.
Challenges in Tied Transfers
[A] Nature of Transfers:
- Central Schemes: The requirement for state contributions to centrally sponsored schemes and central sector schemes places a financial burden on states, undermining their fiscal autonomy and perpetuating a patron-client relationship with the Union government.
- Conditionalities: Grants provided to states often come with conditionalities, such as labelling requirements, further limiting states’ flexibility in utilizing funds according to their specific needs.
- Loan Nature: Most capital transfers to states are in the form of loans, adding to states’ debt burdens and constraining their financial freedom.
[B] Impact on Federal Dynamics:
- Centralizing Tendency: Imposed conditionalities and the reliance on centrally sponsored schemes reinforce a centralizing tendency, eroding the principles of cooperative fiscal federalism and undermining states’ autonomy in fiscal matters.
- Substitution of Untied Transfers: The substitution of untied transfers with centrally sponsored schemes introduces rigidity in Union-State relations, hindering effective collaboration and diluting the spirit of cooperative federalism envisioned in the Indian federal structure.
Scrutiny by Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
- Non-Transfer of Funds: Instances of non-transfer or short transfer of collected amounts, as highlighted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), raise concerns about the effective utilization of funds and the transparency of financial management practices.
- Consequences:
- Defeat of Collection Logic: The failure to transfer cesses and surcharges to the designated reserve funds undermines the intended purpose of their collection, leading to inefficiencies and potential misappropriation of funds.
- Ruse for Fund Diversion: The discrepancies in fund transfers raise suspicions regarding the true intent behind cesses and surcharges, with indications that they may serve as a means to divert funds away from the divisible pool for other government expenditures.
Deviations from Finance Commission (FC) Recommendations
[A] Assessment of Union Government’s Claims:
- Retention of Gross Tax Revenue: While the retention of a portion of gross tax revenue by the Union government has a basis in constitutional provisions, the failure to adhere to FC recommendations on sharing net proceeds raises questions about the government’s commitment to equitable fiscal federalism.
- Failure in Net Proceeds Sharing: Analysis of the share of central taxes devolved to states against FC-stipulated percentages reveals consistent underperformance by the Union government, indicating a significant deviation from FC recommendations.
[B] Quantitative Analysis:
- Shortfalls: Comparisons of actual devolutions with FC-recommended shares highlight substantial shortfalls, amounting to significant cumulative amounts over the years, representing a systemic failure in achieving equitable distribution of resources among states.
- Cumulative Impact: The cumulative amounts not devolved to states underscore the magnitude of the fiscal imbalance and the urgent need for corrective measures to rectify historical injustices in vertical devolution.
Way Forward: Reform Agenda for the 16th Finance Commission
[A] Corrective Measures
- Compensations to States: Addressing historical wrongs in vertical devolution requires compensatory measures to ensure fair resource distribution among states and rectify past imbalances.
- Accurate Reporting: Mandating accurate reporting of “net proceeds” in budget documents is essential for transparency and accountability in fiscal management, enabling stakeholders to assess the true extent of resource allocation.
- Addressing Shortfalls: Providing lump sum untied grants to states to offset past shortfalls in devolution is crucial to restoring states’ fiscal autonomy and promoting cooperative federalism.
[B] Legislative Action:
- Limiting Cesses and Surcharges: Enacting legislation to impose strict limits on the collection of cesses and surcharges, with provisions for automatic expiry and prevention of rechristening, is necessary to prevent misuse and ensure transparency in revenue generation.
Conclusion
- The stance of the 16th Finance Commission on vertical devolution is pivotal for the survival of fiscal federalism in India, requiring decisive action to address existing challenges and uphold the principles of cooperative federalism.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Karnataka Temple Bill, Article 26, 26
Mains level: Separation of State from Religion
In the news
- The Karnataka government’s recent move to amend the law governing the taxation of Hindu temples sparked significant debate and controversy.
- It aims to overhaul the existing framework, particularly in terms of income allocation and management.
Proposed Changes in Temple Taxation
The Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aimed to modify several provisions in the existing law:
- Income Allocation: The proposed change sought to divert 10% of the gross income of temples earning over Rs 1 crore annually to a common pool for temple maintenance. Section 19 of the Act outlines the purposes for which the common fund may be utilized, including religious studies, temple maintenance, and charitable causes.
- Shift in Calculation: This change would shift from the previous norm of allocating 10% of the net income of temples with earnings over Rs 10 lakh annually.
- Dedicated Common Pool: Additionally, 5% of the income of temples earning between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore annually would have been dedicated to the common pool.
- Priests Welfare: The Congress government proposed utilizing the enhanced funds to support lower-income temples, provide assistance to ailing priests, and offer scholarships to priests’ families.
Additional Amendments Proposed:
- Committee of Management: The Bill proposed including a member skilled in Vishwakarma Hindu temple architecture and sculpture within the committee of management for temples.
- Authority of Rajya Dharmika Parishat: It granted the Rajya Dharmika Parishat the power to appoint the chairman of temple management committees.
- Infrastructure Oversight: The Bill mandated the creation of district-level and state high-level committees to oversee infrastructural projects facilitating temple pilgrimage.
Criticism and Opposition
- Interference into Religious Matters: BJP leaders accused the government of attempting to “rob” Hindu temples and questioned the selective targeting of Hindu institutions.
- Questioning Motives: Concerns were raised regarding the selective taxation of Hindu temples, prompting questions about the government’s intentions.
Constitutional Insights into the Issue
The proposed Bill, which aimed to divert a percentage of temple income to a common pool, raised concerns about government interference in temple finances, potentially infringing on these constitutional rights under:
- Article 25: Ensures individuals’ freedom to profess, practice, and propagate religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
- Article 26: Grants religious denominations autonomy to manage their religious affairs and establish institutions for religious and charitable purposes.
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Comparison with Other States
- Telangana’s Model: Similar to Karnataka, Telangana also mandates temple contributions towards a common good fund, utilized for temple maintenance and related expenses.
- Kerala’s Devaswom Boards: Kerala’s temples are managed by state-run Devaswom Boards, each with its own budget and administrative laws, overseen by government-appointed nominees.
Issues with the Bill
- Government Interference: The appointment of members from Hindu and other religions to temple management committees raises concerns about state involvement in temple affairs.
- Contradiction to Secularism: Perceived as contradicting the principle of secularism advocating for a separation of religion and state involvement in religious matters.
- Conflict with Autonomy: Opposition to the diversion of temple income for a common pool fund highlights concerns about encroachment on religious autonomy and financial mismanagement by the state.
Conclusion
- The Karnataka temple bill controversy underscores the complex interplay between governance, religion, and finance.
- While intended reforms aimed to enhance temple infrastructure and support, differing interpretations and political alignments led to its rejection.
- As states grapple with temple management, a balance between tradition, governance, and public welfare remains a constant challenge.
Try this Question from CS Mains 2018:
Q.How the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism? Discuss. (10)
Post your responses here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 371A, Rat Hole Mining
Mains level: Special Provisions for NE States
In the news
- The Nagaland CM is facing pressure to regulate coal mining after a tragic incident where six miners died in an explosion.
- The unique land rights granted under Article 371A of the Indian Constitution have complicated efforts to control illegal coal mining activities.
Article 371A: Special Provisions for Nagaland
|
Details |
| Historical Context |
Established in 1963 for Nagaland, recognizing its autonomy after the Naga people’s struggle. |
| Religious & Social Practices |
Protects Naga tribes’ customs, traditions, and religious practices from external interference. |
| Customary Laws |
Allows continuation of indigenous legal systems and traditional methods of justice. |
| **Autonomy |
Grants Nagaland autonomy in managing its land, forests, and natural resources. |
| Legislation |
Reserves seats in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for various tribes and communities. |
| Special Rights |
Aims to protect Naga people’s rights and promote socio-cultural development within the state. |
Why discuss this?
- Rat-hole Mining: Nagaland’s coal mining policy, permitting rat-hole mining due to the scattered nature of coal deposits, presents challenges for effective regulation.
- Licensing Restrictions: Small pocket deposit licenses, awarded to individual landowners, impose limitations on lease duration, mining area, and machinery usage, as outlined in the Nagaland Coal Policy (First Amendment) of 2014.
Conclusion
- The intersection of constitutional provisions, traditional land rights, and regulatory frameworks poses complex challenges for the Nagaland government in its endeavour to address illegal coal mining activities.
- As legislative deliberations continue, concerted efforts towards public awareness, regulatory reforms, and enforcement actions remain imperative for safeguarding both natural resources and community welfare in the state.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP)
Mains level: Read the attached story
In the news
- Despite the recent agreement between India and Nepal, discussions over the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) remain deadlocked.
About Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP)
- It is a bi-national project between India and Nepal, aimed primarily at energy production and enhancing irrigation in both countries.
- It involves the construction of a 315-meter high dam across the River Mahakali (Sarada in India).
- It forms an 80 km long reservoir with a surface area of 116 km square and a total gross storage volume of about 11.35 billion cubic meters.
- Once completed, the PMP is expected to have a capacity of 5,040 megawatts (MW) and will be among the tallest dams globally, with an estimated cost ranging from Rs. 401.84 billion to Rs. 500 billion.
- The project’s objectives include energy production and irrigation enhancement, but environmentalists have raised concerns about its potential impact on the region’s ecology and local communities.
- This project underscores the progress of the Mahakali Treaty signed in February 1996 between India and Nepal includes provisions for the integrated development of the Mahakali River basin.
Obstacles to Progress
- Benefit Sharing: Disagreements arise over the distribution of benefits, with India receiving a larger share of irrigation benefits while Nepal emphasizes the value of water as a precious resource.
- Political and Bureaucratic Challenges: Political considerations, including impending elections in India and domestic political fragility in Nepal, hinder progress. Bureaucratic concerns further impede consensus-building.
Back2Basics: Mahakali Treaty
|
Details |
| Mahakali River |
Also known as Sharda River or Kali Ganga in Uttarakhand.
Joins Ghagra River in Uttar Pradesh, a tributary of the Ganga. |
| Signatories and Date |
Signed between Nepal and India on February 12, 1996. |
| Objective |
Aimed at the integrated development of the Mahakali River, including projects like the Sarada Barrage, Tanakpur Barrage, and Pancheshwar Project. |
| Ratification Process |
Required a two-thirds majority in the combined session of both houses of the Nepalese parliament.
Faced opposition and scrutiny from parliamentarians during the process. |
| Establishment of Commission |
Provision for the establishment of a Mahakali River Commission to oversee and regulate matters outlined in the treaty. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jacaranda Trees
Mains level: Impact of climate change on plants blossoms
Introduction
- Mexico City’s iconic jacaranda trees, known for their stunning purple blooms in spring, are experiencing an unusual phenomenon this year, with some trees blooming as early as January instead of their typical spring awakening.
About Jacaranda Trees
- Jacaranda is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Bignoniaceae.
- Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, with some species found in the Caribbean and Africa.
- Known for its stunning clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of purple, blue, or white, Jacaranda trees are prized as ornamental plants in parks, gardens, and urban landscapes worldwide.
- Jacaranda trees hold cultural significance in various regions, such as Brazil, where their blooming heralds the arrival of spring, and South Africa, where they are commonly planted in urban areas.
- Some species of Jacaranda produce valuable timber, prized for its lightweight nature, durability, and attractive grain pattern, suitable for furniture and decorative woodworking.
- While generally not invasive, Jacaranda trees can become weedy in introduced regions, though their ornamental value often outweighs any negative impacts, making them well-tolerated in urban landscapes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: West Asia and arising conflict;
Mains level: Recent Geopolitical issues in news;
Why in the News?
Recently, there are evolving dynamics surrounding Palestinian statehood, including global perspectives, Israeli leadership positions, and the potential implications for the region w.r.t two-state solution.
What are the Global Dynamics and Israeli Opposition towards Palestinian Statehood?
- Global Expectations: Western nations and Arab States are hopeful for Israel to act sensibly amidst the challenging situation in Gaza. The UK and France express readiness to recognize a Palestinian state independently of an agreement with Israel, prompting speculation about US involvement.
- Israeli stance: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu openly opposes a two-state solution and advocates for Israeli control over the entire area west of the Jordan River.
- Netanyahu rejects international pressure and warns against unilateral recognition, citing concerns about terrorism and his political standing.
- Netanyahu’s opposition to a Palestinian state without negotiations reflects his political strategy and the challenges within his ruling coalition.
- Netanyahu’s plan echoes sentiments previously condemned when expressed by Hamas, raising concerns about Israel’s intentions.
Global Response to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
- UN Secretary-General’s Call: UN emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Palestinian statehood and condemns the loss of life in Gaza.
- Hearings at ICJ: The International Court of Justice began hearing arguments concerning the legal status of a Palestinian state.
- Mixed Signals: The U.S.’s support for Israel’s security contradicts its calls for a two-state solution, as demonstrated by voting against a UN resolution regarding Israeli settlements. World leaders previously have largely neglected the Palestinian cause during the tenure of former Israeli PM Netanyahu and post-Abraham Accords era.
- Sudden Interest from various Nations: Recently, there has been renewed interest in a two-state solution following Israel’s military actions in Gaza and increasing pressure from international bodies. The U.S. too have imposed sanctions on individual settlers rather than addressing broader issues related to settlements and violence.
- Domestic Pressures: King Abdullah II of Jordan, along with Egypt, France, and Germany, issued a joint statement opposing Israel’s annexation plans. The U.S., EU, and Arab States face mounting pressure to address the crisis, hoping for positive changes within Israel’s leadership.
- Saudi Demand: Saudi Arabia demands an immediate peace process for a Palestinian state before resuming normalization talks with Israel.
- Threatening Proposal: Israel’s latest plan suggests dissolving the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which would compromise the two-state solution
| BEYOND EDITORIAL:
What are Abraham Accords?
- The Abraham Accords, established in September 2020, represent a series of bilateral agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations: the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco.
- These agreements marked a departure from traditional Arab League policies, which historically required resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict before establishing formal ties with Israel.
How Abraham Accords have influenced the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
Despite not directly involving parties in active conflict, the Abraham Accords have influenced the broader context in several ways:
- Normalization without Resolution: The Accords sidestepped the Palestinian issue, allowing Arab states to establish normalized relationships with Israel without addressing core issues like Palestinian self-determination and statehood
- Domestic Repercussions: The Accords led to internal conflicts within Arab societies, as some citizens felt betrayed by their leadership’s decision to prioritize normalization over Palestinian rights
- Regional Stability: While the Accords were promoted as increasing stability, critics argue that they have done little to address underlying causes of instability, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict itself
Critical Analysis of Accords towards the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict:
- Critics argue that the Accords have failed to bring lasting peace or stability, instead serving as a means of authoritarian conflict management that ignores the root causes of the conflict
- Supporters contend that the Accords offer opportunities for cooperation and economic growth, although these benefits may come at the expense of Palestinian rights.
- The Abraham Accords have altered the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by shifting focus away from the centrality of Palestinian rights and towards normalization between Israel and select Arab states. Despite initial optimism, the Accords have faced challenges in achieving sustainable peace and stability, and their success remains a subject of debate.
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What is the feasibility of a Single-State Solution?
If the two-state solution fails given recent developments and Israeli leadership positions, then:
- Equal Rights: In a single-state scenario, Israel must provide equal rights to Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza to remain a democracy. Providing equal rights would reduce the percentage of Jews below 50%, challenging Israel’s identity as a Jewish state.
- Apartheid or Ethnic Cleansing: Without equal rights, Palestinians risk becoming second-class citizens, resulting in either apartheid or ethnic cleansing.
- Preservation of Status Quo: Continuing the present conditions would perpetuate the occupation and deny Palestinians self-determination.
- Driving Out Palestinians: An alternative to providing equal rights might involve expelling Palestinians from the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem.
- Decline of Support: Increasingly, Israelis have distanced themselves from developments in the Occupied Territories, reducing support for a two-state solution.
- Rise of Right Wing: The growth of right-wing parties in Israel has led to the demise of groups supporting the Oslo Accords.
- Shifting Attitudes: Following attacks by Hamas, support for a two-state solution has dwindled, leaving Israelis questioning whether Palestinians truly desire peace.
- Recognition of Two-State Solution: Even Hamas once acknowledged a two-state solution based on 1967 borders, although this position has weakened over time.
How can be the ‘Afghan Model’ solution towards this issue?
The Afghan model refers to the acceptance of the Taliban’s return to power despite reservations. As the world grapples with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, comparisons have emerged between the Taliban’s ascension in Afghanistan and potential shifts in Hamas’ role in Palestine.
- Similarity between both cases: Both sides require transformative leadership changes. Israel needs to embrace a two-state solution, and Palestine requires an inclusive and representative leadership encompassing Gaza and the West Bank.
What are the Challenges and Implications if Afghan model is applied?
- Political stance: Centrist Israeli politicians have lost popularity due to their perceived inaction on the Palestinian issue. In short, replacing them as champions of a two-state solution is challenging.
- Hamas’ inclusion in Palestinian governance structures would necessitate significant ideological shifts and concessions, which may prove difficult.
- The international community’s reluctant approach to the two-state solution raises questions about their commitment to promoting meaningful change in the Middle East.
Conclusion:
The ‘Afghan model,’ while imperfect, offers insights into the possibilities and limitations of accommodating hard-line forces within mainstream political processes. Ultimately, the success of such efforts depends upon the ability of all stakeholders—including Israel, Palestine, and the international community to overcome deeply ingrained mistrust and pursue genuine reconciliation.
Prelims PYQs:
- The term “two-state solution” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of (UPSC CSE 2018)
- China
- Israel
- Iraq
- Yemen
Mains PYQs:
Too little cash, too much politics, leaves UNESCO fighting for life.’ Discuss the statement in the light of US’ withdrawal and its accusation of the cultural body as being ‘anti-Israel bias’ (UPSC CSE 2019)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Na
Mains level: need for eco-friendly elections
Mains Pyq: ‘Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people’ Discuss.
Prelims Pyq:
Consider the following statements :
1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
2. In 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies.
3. As per the existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a.1 only
b.2 only
c.1 and 3
d. 2 and 3
Why is it in news?
- Amidst the climate crisis, shifting to sustainable practices across every sphere of human activity has become inevitable and urgent. In August 2023, ahead of the Assembly elections in five States, the Election Commission of India (ECI) voiced its concern over the environmental risks associated with the use of non-biodegradable materials in elections.
What is the Concept of Green Elections?
- Green elections involve adopting eco-friendly practices throughout the electoral process, including campaign materials, rallies, and polling booths.
- Transitioning to sustainable alternatives can mitigate the environmental impact and promote citizens’ health.
Why there is need of Green Elections?
- Given that the conduct of every election results in an avoidable carbon footprint, there is a need for eco-friendly elections, which would be a boost to environmental stewardship alongside civic participation.
- Sri Lanka and Estonia, for instance, have conducted environmentally-conscious elections. As India, the world’s most populous democracy, gears up for the next general election, environmental considerations must be prioritised, paving the way for ‘green elections’.
Environmental Impact of Elections:
- In the 2016 US presidential elections, emissions from campaign flights of just one candidate equaled the annual carbon footprint of 500 Americans.
- Traditional election methods involve energy-intensive activities like rallies, use of loudspeakers, PVC flex banners, hoardings, and disposable items, contributing to environmental degradation.
- India’s massive elections involving crores of voters and large political rallies exacerbate the environmental impact.
- Paper-based materials and energy-intensive campaign practices further escalate the environmental footprint.
Challenges in India for green elections:
- Technological Challenges: Implementing electronic and digital voting systems requires robust infrastructure, especially in rural areas, to ensure reliable access to technology. Measures to prevent hacking and fraud must be put in place to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
- Access and Training: Ensuring fair access to new voting technologies for all voters, including marginalized communities, poses a significant challenge. Training election officials and voters alike on the use of new technologies is essential to facilitate smooth adoption.
- Financial Constraints: Governments may face substantial upfront costs for acquiring eco-friendly materials and implementing new technology, which could deter financially constrained administrations from pursuing such initiatives.
- Cultural and Behavioural Hurdles: Overcoming cultural inertia and the perception of physical presence at polling booths as sacrosanct poses a behavioural challenge. Public scepticism towards new approaches and concerns about compromises to vote security must be addressed to gain widespread acceptance.
- Transparency and Auditing: Ensuring transparency in the adoption of new technologies and implementing effective auditing mechanisms are crucial to building trust in environmentally-friendly election practices.
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| Research Findings for mains answer value addition: |
- Research by Willemson and Krips from Estonia (2023) identified transportation of voters and logistics to and from polling booths as the primary source of carbon emissions during elections.
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- The running of polling booths constitutes the secondary source of emissions.
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- Transitioning to digital voting systems could potentially reduce the carbon footprint by up to 40%.
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Successful examples of green elections
Kerala:
- Campaigning Restrictions: During the 2019 general election, the Kerala State Election Commission urged political parties to avoid single-use plastic materials.
- Ban on Non-Biodegradable Materials: The Kerala High Court imposed a ban on flex and non-biodegradable materials in electioneering, promoting the use of alternatives like wall graffiti and paper posters.
- Collaboration for Green Elections: Government bodies collaborated with the district administration in Thiruvananthapuram to ensure eco-friendly elections, including conducting training sessions for election workers in villages.
Goa:
- Eco-Friendly Election Booths: In 2022, the Goa State Biodiversity Board introduced eco-friendly election booths for the Assembly elections, utilizing biodegradable materials crafted by local traditional artisans.
Sri Lanka:
- Carbon-Sensitive Campaign: The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party launched the world’s first carbon-sensitive environmentally friendly election campaign in 2019.
- Carbon Emission Measurement: SLPP measured carbon emissions from vehicles and electricity used during political campaigns and compensated for them by planting trees in each district through public participation.
Estonia:
- Digital Voting Initiative: Estonia pioneered digital voting as an online alternative, promoting voter participation while reducing the environmental footprint of traditional paper-based elections.
- Robust Security Measures: The success of Estonia’s digital voting system demonstrates that accompanying robust security measures can ensure both eco- and electorate-friendly elections.
Suggested blueprint and Way-forward for Green elections
- Involving All Stakeholders: The green transition must involve all stakeholders, including political parties, Election Commissions, governments, voters, the media, and civil society.
- Integration of Directives: Success lies in integrating top-level directives with grassroots initiatives to foster a green transition effectively.
- Leadership Role: Political parties should take the lead in enacting legislation mandating eco-friendly electoral practices.
- Legislative Initiatives: This involves campaigning through digital platforms or door-to-door campaigning, reducing energy-intensive public rallies, and encouraging the use of public transportation for election work.
- Supporting Local Alternatives: Incentivizing the replacement of plastic and paper-based materials with sustainable local alternatives for polling booths, such as natural fabrics, recycled paper, and compostable plastics, aids waste management and supports local artisans.
- Advocacy for Digital Voting: The ECI can push for digital voting, despite the need for training and capacity building of officials.
- Ensuring Equal Participation: To ensure equal participation of all voters in the digital electoral process, the government must educate and support voters and ensure equitable access to digital technology.
- Catalyst Role: Civil society should act as a catalyst in promoting eco-conscious electoral practices.
- Media’s Crucial Role: The media can emphasize the environmental impact of conventional election methods and shed light on innovative eco-friendly alternatives.
- Setting an Example: Embracing eco-conscious electoral practices can help India set an example for other democracies around the world.
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