Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Water Day
Mains level: Issues related to water in rural areas and key measures
Why in the news?
Today, March 22, 2024, is the 31st World Water Day, with the theme, “Leveraging water for peace”
Context-
- In the context of climate change-related pressures, the world also needs to foster improved cooperation over water-sharing
- The global challenge for securing access to clean water persists for about two billion people and its demand keeps rising. Beyond threatening our basic human needs, this scarcity also risks our collective prosperity and peace.
Water diplomacy in a time of extremities-
- Climate Crisis Impact: Meteorological extremities like heat waves and floods exacerbate concerns about the climate crisis. In India, erratic monsoons affect agriculture, crucial for the $3 trillion economy.
- Need for Improved Cooperation: Amid climate change pressures, fostering cooperation over water-sharing and embracing universal principles of International Water Law is imperative.
- Water Diplomacy: Effective governance of shared waters and sustainable water use are essential for better water diplomacy, promoting peace and stability regionally and internationally.
- Collaborative Governance: Collaborative governance ensures equitable water allocation among nations, fostering regional stability and peace.
- Inclusive Approaches: Water diplomacy should include indigenous and local communities’ cross-border networks and involve civil society and academic networks to prevent, mitigate, and resolve water-related disputes.
- Water Quality Data Shortage: There’s a general shortage of water quality data globally, with a significant urban-rural divide, highlighting the need for better access to basic drinking water services, particularly in rural areas.
Addressing rural India’s needs-
70% of India’s rural population relies on water for household activities, with agriculture being the primary livelihood source. Globally, agriculture accounts for 70% of freshwater use.
- Water Accessibility: Improved water accessibility in rural areas can lead to positive outcomes in health, education, employment, and basic human needs and dignity.
- Water Investments: Increased water investments in rural areas can yield positive outcomes across various sectors, benefiting communities in multiple ways.
- AI Technology in Agriculture: The efficient use of emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technology in agriculture can aid in water conservation efforts. AI can help tackle crop and food loss, minimize chemical and fertilizer usage, and optimize water usage for sustainable and productive outputs.
The issue of transboundary waters
- Water Pollution: Transboundary rivers like the Meghna, Brahmaputra, Ganga, and Indus are experiencing worsening water pollution, posing significant environmental and health risks to communities relying on these water sources.
- Lack of Governance: There is a need for sophisticated cross-border water governance to address issues related to equitable water allocation, pollution control, and sustainable management of shared water resources among neighboring countries.
- Cooperation Challenges: Despite the importance of transboundary water cooperation, many countries face challenges in reaching agreements and implementing effective mechanisms for managing shared water resources. Disputes over water usage, infrastructure development, and environmental impacts hinder cooperation efforts.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Transboundary water management is crucial for achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). However, inadequate cooperation and governance frameworks pose obstacles to fulfilling SDG targets related to water security, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation.
- Peace and Security: Scarcity of freshwater in transboundary river basins can exacerbate tensions and conflicts among riparian states. Effective management and cooperation on shared water resources are essential for promoting regional stability and preventing water-related conflicts.
- Ecosystem Services: Transboundary rivers support diverse ecosystems and provide essential ecosystem services such as water purification, habitat for biodiversity, and regulation of water flow. Pollution and overexploitation of these waters threaten the integrity of ecosystems and the services they provide.
- Climate Change Impacts: Climate change exacerbates challenges related to transboundary water management by altering precipitation patterns, increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and affecting water availability and quality. Adaptation and resilience-building measures are needed to address climate-related risks in transboundary river basins.
Suggestive Measures to Resolve Transboundary Water Issues:
- Strengthen Governance Structures: Establish comprehensive cross-border water governance frameworks, including bilateral or multilateral agreements, to facilitate equitable water allocation, pollution control, and sustainable management of shared water resources.
- Enhance Cooperation Mechanisms: Foster dialogue and collaboration among riparian states through platforms such as joint commissions, river basin organizations, and diplomatic negotiations to address disputes and promote mutual understanding of water management challenges.
- Implement Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM): Adopt IWRM approaches that consider social, economic, and environmental factors to promote sustainable development and ensure the efficient use of transboundary water resources while minimizing negative impacts on ecosystems and communities.
- Enhance Monitoring and Data Sharing: Improve monitoring systems and data-sharing mechanisms to assess water quality, quantity, and usage trends in transboundary river basins. Enhanced transparency and information exchange can facilitate informed decision-making and cooperation among riparian states.
- Promote Community Engagement: Involve local communities, indigenous groups, and civil society organizations in decision-making processes related to transboundary water management. Empowering stakeholders at the grassroots level can enhance accountability, foster cooperation, and promote sustainable practices.
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Develop and enforce robust legal frameworks at national and international levels to regulate transboundary water resources effectively. Clear and enforceable laws can provide a basis for resolving disputes and ensuring compliance with agreed-upon water management principles.
- Build Climate Resilience: Implement adaptation measures to address climate change impacts on transboundary water resources, such as enhancing water storage infrastructure, promoting water-efficient technologies, and integrating climate resilience into water management strategies.
Conclusion-
Navigating the global waterscape’s challenges requires robust governance, enhanced cooperation, and sustainable practices. By addressing transboundary water issues collectively, we can promote peace, ensure water security, and achieve sustainable development goals.
Mains PYQ-
Q- The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: White Revolution 2.0
Mains level: Reason behind the need of White Revolution 2.0
Why in the news?
The government’s latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) for 2022-23 shows milk emerging as India’s top food spend item, both in rural and urban areas
Key facts as per survey-
- The monthly value of milk and dairy products consumed by an average person in rural India, at Rs 314, was ahead of vegetables (Rs 203), cereals (Rs 185), egg, fish & meat (Rs 185), fruits (Rs 140), edible oil (Rs 136), spices (Rs 113) and pulses (Rs 76).
- The HCES data reveals the same for urban India: Milk (Rs 466), fruits (Rs 246), vegetables (Rs 245), cereals (Rs 235), egg, fish & meat (Rs 231), edible oil (Rs 153), spices (Rs 138) and pulses (Rs 90).
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The challenges as per the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES)-
- Rising Milk Prices: Over the last five years, the all-India modal price of milk has surged from Rs 42 to Rs 60 per liter, with a notable increase from Rs 52 to Rs 60 in the past year alone. This upward trend in milk prices poses a challenge for consumers in terms of affordability.
- Inflationary Pressure: The increase in milk prices is attributed to inflationary pressures, impacting consumer demand. Higher prices may lead to reduced consumption or shifts to alternative products, affecting the dairy industry’s revenue and profitability.
- Increased Input Costs: The cost of fodder, feed, and raw materials/ingredients has risen significantly. Dairies are compelled to raise procurement prices paid to farmers to offset these increased input costs. Consequently, consumers bear the brunt of these cost hikes through higher retail prices for milk and dairy products.
- Pass-through to Consumers: To mitigate the impact of rising input costs, dairies pass on the increased procurement prices to consumers, leading to further price hikes in milk products. This pass-through mechanism exacerbates the financial burden on consumers already grappling with inflated prices.
- Impact on Farmers: While increased procurement prices may benefit farmers initially, they may face challenges in sustaining dairy farming operations if input costs continue to escalate. Balancing the interests of farmers, consumers, and the dairy industry becomes crucial amidst these challenges..
How can that be achieved?
- Use of Sex-Sorted Semen (SS) technology: The use of sex-sorted semen increases the probability of female calves being born to over 90%, compared to the 50:50 ratio with conventional semen. This technology ensures a higher proportion of future milk-producing cows, enhancing the productivity of dairy herds.
- Increased Adoption: Dairy cooperatives like Amul are actively promoting the use of sex-sorted semen among farmers. In 2022-23, Amul performed 2.86 lakh artificial inseminations (AIs) using sex-sorted semen out of a total of 13.91 lakh AIs, constituting 20.5% of the total. The cooperative aims to raise this ratio to 30% by 2024-25.
- Enhanced Conception Rate: Roughly one-third of artificial inseminations using sex-sorted semen lead to conception. This high conception rate, coupled with the assurance of female calves, contributes to a more efficient breeding strategy, resulting in a larger population of milk-producing cows.
- Long-term Impact: By increasing the number of female calves born through sex-sorted semen technology, dairy farmers can anticipate a higher yield of milk-producing cows in subsequent generations. This proactive approach ensures the sustainability and growth of the dairy industry by maximizing milk production efficiency.
- Cooperative Initiatives: Dairy cooperatives play a pivotal role in facilitating the adoption of advanced breeding technologies among farmers. Through initiatives like Amul’s targeted use of sex-sorted semen, cooperatives contribute to improving the genetic potential of dairy herds and enhancing overall milk yield per animal.
Taking to farmer/ significance of Breeding Centre-
- Establishment of Bovine Breeding Centre: Amul inaugurated a Bovine Breeding Centre in Mogar, Gujarat, in March 2020, to breed a nucleus herd of superior bulls and cows for artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) technologies.
- Objective of the Centre: The primary objective of the centre is to produce high-quality semen and in vitro-fertilised embryos, stored at ultra-low temperatures, for use in AI or transferring into farmers’ animals.
- Breeds and Milk Yield: The centre has produced various breeds, including exotic (such as Holstein-Friesian and Jersey), HF-Gir and HF-Sahiwal crossbred, and indigenous Gir, Sahiwal, and Murrah buffalo breeds, with varying milk yield capacities ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 liters per year.
- Utilization of Male and Female Genetics: Through AI and sex-sorted semen, the centre exploits male genetics, while IVF-ET technology focuses on harnessing the female genetics of donor cows.
- Adoption by Farmers: Amul has extended IVF-ET technology to farmers, with successful pregnancies and calvings recorded. Member unions of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation have also embraced these advancements, with farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary experiencing the benefits of higher-quality breeds through IVF-ET, leading to better milk yields and economic returns.
- Preference for Specific Breeds: Farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary choose breeds like Kankrej for their higher fat and solids-not-fat content, despite lower yields, to ensure better prices and lower feeding and maintenance costs.
Animal nutrition/ lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
- Feeding Cost Reduction: Intervention is necessary to reduce the feeding costs of animals by cultivating high-yielding, protein-rich green fodder grasses. This reduces reliance on expensive compound cattle feed and oil-meal concentrates.The focus of White Revolution 2.0 would clearly have to be on lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
- Introduction of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) Plant: Amul is establishing a 30-tonnes-per-day TMR plant at Sarsa in Anand. TMR will comprise dry and green fodder, concentrates, vitamins, and mineral mixtures, providing animals with a ready-to-eat mashed form of nutrition.
- Benefits of TMR: TMR will save farmers the cost of purchasing and storing fodder separately, as well as the effort of administering it alongside cattle feed. It offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for animal nutrition.
- Sourcing Fodder: The plan involves sourcing fodder from farmer producer organizations (FPOs), whose members will cultivate maize, jowar, hybrid napier, or oat grass and prepare silage for use in the TMR plant.
- Focus on High-Yielding Grasses: Farmers will focus on cultivating high-yielding grass varieties rich in protein content, which are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of dairy animals.
Conclusion-
To ensure a sustainable White Revolution 2.0, measures such as the adoption of advanced breeding technologies, the establishment of breeding centres, and focus on animal nutrition are crucial for enhancing milk production efficiency and economic viability.
Mains question for practice-
Q- Discuss the role of advanced breeding technologies, establishment of breeding centers, and strategies for reducing feeding costs in ensuring sustainable milk production to achieve White Revolution 2.0.(250 words)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Terms of state Assemblies and Lok Sabha
Mains level: Role of ECI in fixing the election schedule
Why in the news?
- The date of counting for Assembly elections in Arunachal and Sikkim has been advanced by two days to make sure that the terms of their existing Houses don’t end before the election process is complete.
Context-
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) holds a crucial responsibility in coordinating and supervising electoral procedures nationwide.
- This encompasses setting timetables for elections to legislative bodies like state assemblies and the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
What was the original schedule for the election and counting in these two states? (2024)
- Schedule Announcement: The schedule for Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, as well as the Lok Sabha elections, was announced on March 16. The Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim were set to be notified on March 20.
- Nomination Period: Candidates could file their nominations for the elections until March 27.
- Withdrawal Period: The deadline for withdrawing nominations was set for March 30.
- Date of Polling: Both Assembly and Lok Sabha elections were scheduled to take place on April 19, marking the first phase of polling.
- Seven-Phase Lok Sabha Elections: The Lok Sabha elections were planned to be held in seven phases on the following dates: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 26, and June 1.
- One-Day Elections: Twenty-two states and Union Territories, including Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, were scheduled to conduct one-day elections.
- Counting Date: Counting for all seats in the Lok Sabha and the four Assemblies would occur on June 4, according to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar.
So what has changed now?
- Change in Counting Date: The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a change in the counting date for Assembly seats in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim from June 4 to June 2.
- Reason for Change: ECI officials stated that the decision to change the counting date was made after realizing that the terms of the Assemblies in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim were ending on June 2.
- Completion of Election Process: The decision to bring forward the counting date was based on the constitutional mandate that the election process must be completed before the term of an Assembly ends.
- Ensuring Constitutional Compliance: By adjusting the counting date to align with the end of the Assembly terms, the ECI ensures that the electoral process remains per constitutional requirements.
What exactly does the Constitution say about the terms of state Assemblies and Lok Sabha?
- Lok Sabha Term: Article 83(2) outlines that the Lok Sabha unless sooner dissolved, continues for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting. Similar to state Assemblies, the expiration of the five years leads to the dissolution of the House.
- State Assembly Term: Article 172(1) of the Constitution specifies that every Legislative Assembly of every State shall continue for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting unless sooner dissolved. The expiration of the five years results in the dissolution of the Assembly.
- Extension of Assembly Term: During a Proclamation of Emergency, Parliament has the authority to extend the term of the Assembly by up to one year at a time, not exceeding six months after the Proclamation ceases to operate.
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How does this apply to the Assemblies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim?
- Constitutional Mandate: The Constitution mandates that the term of Legislative Assemblies lasts for five years from the date of their first meeting unless dissolved earlier.
- Completion of Electoral Process: With the term of the Assemblies ending on June 2, 2024, the electoral process, including voting and counting, must be completed before this date to ensure a smooth transition to the new Assemblies.
What are the things that the ECI looks at while fixing the election schedule?
- Factors Considered by ECI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) considers various factors while fixing the election schedule, including weather conditions, festivals, important examinations, availability of school buildings for polling stations, and mobilization of teachers for election duty.
- Logistical Considerations: The ECI takes into account the country’s historical and geographic situation, as well as logistical requirements such as moving security forces to ensure free and fair elections.
- Term of the Legislature: The date of expiration of the term of the legislature is the primary consideration for fixing the election schedule. This date is known five years in advance, calculated from the date of the first sitting of the existing House.
- Completion of Election Process: The ECI aims to complete the election process at least one day before the end of the term of the House. Results are declared a few days prior, allowing time for documentation and other formalities.
Has something similar occurred earlier too?
- Change in Counting Date in Andhra Pradesh (2004): In 2004, the Election Commission of India (ECI) scheduled the counting of votes for the Assembly election in Andhra Pradesh on May 11, two days earlier than the scheduled counting for Lok Sabha and other states. This adjustment was made because the tenure of the Assembly in Andhra Pradesh was set to end on May 13.
- Changes for Festivals or Locally Relevant Events: The ECI has made changes to the announced election schedule to accommodate festivals or locally relevant events. For example, in Mizoram in the previous year, the date of counting for the Assembly election was changed from December 3 to December 4 to avoid a clash with Sunday, which holds special significance for the Christian-majority population.
- Delinking Counting in Specific States: The ECI has previously drawn up schedules that delink the counting in a particular state from the counting in the rest of the country or from the counting of other elections held simultaneously. This strategy allows for the smooth conduct of elections while respecting the constitutional timeline for the end of the term of the House.
Conclusion:
The Election Commission adjusts the counting date for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim Assemblies to align with the constitutional mandate. Factors like legislative terms, logistical considerations, and past precedents guide the ECI in fixing election schedules.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Price stabilization fund
Mains level: Significance of Price stabilization fund
Why in the news?
The government has approved the inclusion of wheat and rice under its price stabilization fund to provide subsidies for the quantity allocated under Bharat atta and rice sale.
Context: After it started selling Bharat atta and rice as part of its retail intervention in a bid to tame inflation as prices are soaring ahead of general elections
What is the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF)?
A Price Stabilization Fund is established to mitigate excessive fluctuations in specific commodity prices. The fund’s resources are typically deployed to moderate high or low prices through various initiatives, such as procuring particular goods and distributing them as needed, ensuring prices stay within a desired range. |
Background-
- During the fiscal year 2014-15, the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) was instituted within the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW) to manage the fluctuating costs of crucial agricultural commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses.
- These commodities will be procured directly from farmers or their organizations at farm gates or designated marketplaces, and subsequently offered to consumers at a more affordable rate. Any incurred losses in the coordination between the central government and the states during these operations must be divided.
The significance of the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) in the context of recent expansion to include of wheat and rice-
- Addressing Inflationary trends : The inclusion of wheat and rice under the PSF marks a significant expansion beyond the previously covered commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses. This expansion reflects the government’s commitment to addressing inflationary trends across a broader spectrum of essential food items.
- Buffer Stock Management: The PSF is utilized to build up buffer stocks of key food commodities such as wheat and rice. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of price surges to stabilize prices and ensure affordability for consumers.
- Subsidy Allocation: The government provides subsidies to agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for supplying wheat and rice to central procurement agencies. This subsidy support helps in maintaining the affordability of these commodities, particularly under the Bharat brand, which is sold at subsidized prices.
- Inflation Mitigation: The inclusion of wheat and rice in the PSF is aimed at mitigating rising food inflation, which has been a concern ahead of general elections. By intervening in the market through strategic buffer stock management and subsidized sales, the government seeks to curb inflationary pressures and ensure food affordability for consumers.
- Policy Response to Market Dynamics: The decision to expand the PSF reflects a proactive policy response to address market dynamics, particularly concerning rising rice prices. By taking measures to stabilize prices and increase availability through the PSF, the government aims to alleviate the burden on consumers and mitigate potential electoral repercussions associated with food inflation.
The Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) addresses inflationary pressures and aids in maintaining food affordability through several mechanisms:
- Buffer Stock Management: The PSF accumulates buffer stocks of essential food commodities during periods of surplus production or lower prices. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of scarcity or price surges. By increasing the supply of commodities during shortages, the PSF helps stabilize prices and prevents excessive inflation.
- Subsidy Provision: The PSF provides subsidies to support the procurement and distribution of essential commodities. These subsidies enable the government to sell commodities at lower prices, making them more affordable for consumers. Subsidies can also incentivize increased production, leading to a greater supply of commodities and further price stability.
- Market Intervention: The PSF allows for direct intervention in the market to address sudden price fluctuations. By purchasing commodities during periods of low prices and selling them during periods of high prices, the PSF helps moderate price volatility and ensures that prices remain within a reasonable range.
- Consumer Protection: By stabilizing prices and ensuring the availability of essential food items, the PSF protects consumers from sudden spikes in food prices, which can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Affordable food prices contribute to improved food security and overall economic stability.
- Incentivizing Domestic Production: The PSF incentivizes domestic production by providing a guaranteed market for farmers’ produce at stable prices. This encourages farmers to increase their production levels, contributing to overall food security and helping to mitigate inflationary pressures.
Conclusion: The government is expanding the Price Stabilization Fund to include wheat and rice amid soaring food prices ahead of elections. This aims to manage inflation by subsidizing essential commodities and maintaining buffer stocks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- INS Tir and INS Sujata are set to participate in the second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania (IMT) Tri-Lateral (TRILAT) Exercise.
Exercise IMT TRILAT- 2024
- It is a biennial exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
- The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.
- It seeks to enhance India’s commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Through this joint exercise, the Indian Navy aims to foster mutual trust and understanding with its maritime partners in Mozambique and Tanzania.
Phases of the Exercise
- Harbour Phase: Activities include joint harbour training such as Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, Medical Lectures, Casualty Evacuation, and Diving operations.
- Sea Phase: Focuses on countering asymmetric threats, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, boat handling, manoeuvres, firing exercises, and joint EEZ surveillance.
PYQ:
2017: Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
- Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
- IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about Exercise IMT TRILAT:
- It is an annual exercise conducted by the navies of India, Mozambique and Tanzania.
- The first edition of the exercise took place in October 2022.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Mains level: NA
What is the news-
- Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India was unanimously elected as co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board of International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
About ITU Digital Innovation Board
- This board is established under the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development.
- It comprises of Ministers and Vice Ministers of Telecom/ICT of 23 Member Countries.
- The Alliance establishes the Board to provide strategic guidance, expertise and advocacy regarding its mission of building critical local enablers.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance
- ITU has started this Alliance to respond to significant unmet needs of ITU Membership in the area of innovation.
- It is based on the Kigali Action Plan adopted at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2022 (WTDC-22) and the Outcomes of the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2022 (PP-22).
- The Alliance has three main vehicles: –
- Digital Transformation Lab
- Network of Acceleration Centres
- Digital Innovation Board
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What is the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)?
- The ITU is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies (ICTs).
- It was established in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union, making it one of the oldest international organizations.
- In 1932, the organization was renamed the International Telecommunication Union to reflect its broader mandate.
- It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Its functions include:
- Allocate global radio spectrum and satellite orbits,
- Develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and
- Strives to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide.
Membership:
- ITU’s membership includes 193 member states (countries) and over 900 private sector entities, including telecommunications companies, equipment manufacturers, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
- India has been an active member of the ITU since 1869 and has been a regular member of the ITU Council since 1952.
PYQ:
2020: In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of
- Digital security infrastructure
- Food security infrastructure
- Healthcare and education infrastructure
- Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure
Practise MCQ:
The global telecom body International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has recently elected India as the co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board. Which of the following statements about ITU is/are correct?
- It is the United Nations specialised agency for Information and Communication Technologies.
- Its entry is open to all countries, Private Companies as well as institutions.
- India has been a member of ITU since 1869.
Select the correct option:
- All are correct
- Only 3
- 1 and 3
- 1 and 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Happiness Report , India's ranking
Mains level: Not Much
What is the news-
- India was ranked 126th out of 143 nations in the World Happiness Report 2024, a global happiness index which was released, March 20 to mark the UN’s International Day of Happiness.
About the World Happiness Report
- The WHR is an annual publication of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
- It is released in partnership by Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), and the World Happiness Report’s Editorial Board
- It measures three main well-being indicators: life evaluations, positive emotions, and negative emotions (described in the report as positive and negative affect).
- The report considers six key factors: social support, income, health, freedom, generosity, and the absence of corruption.
- It was adopted by the UN General Assembly based on a resolution tabled by Bhutan.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Report
- Top: For the seventh successive year, Finland topped the list of the happiest countries in the world.
- Runner-ups: The other countries in the top ten were Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, the Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Australia.
- Bottom: Afghanistan was at the bottom of the list.
Indian Scenario
- Ranking: India maintains its position at 126th in the happiness index. Surprisingly, it is behind Pakistan, Libya, Iraq, Palestine and Niger.
- Neighbourhood: China was ranked 60th, Nepal at 93, Pakistan at 108, Myanmar at 118, Sri Lanka at 128 and Bangladesh at 129th spots.
- Influencing Factors: Marital status, social engagement, physical health, and satisfaction with living arrangements influence life satisfaction among older Indians.
- Gendered Happiness: Older Indian women tend to report higher life satisfaction despite facing more stressors and health challenges.
- Key Predictors: Factors like education level, social caste, social support, perceived discrimination, and self-rated health significantly impact life satisfaction among older Indians.
PYQ:
2018: “Rule of Law Index” is released by which of the following?
- Amnesty International
- International Court of Justice
- The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights
- World Justice Project
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the World Happiness Report, 2024, consider the following statements:
- The report is an annual publication of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
- It was adopted by the UN General Assembly based on a resolution tabled by Bhutan.
- India’s ranking has been consistently improved in this report in last two years.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RBI, SEBI and their regulatory functions
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- Recent actions by both India’s banking regulator RBI and the securities watchdog SEBI have startled the market, exposing various malpractices in the financial sector.
Context
- Banking Sector: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) faces political scrutiny following the Supreme Court’s ban on anonymous political funding instruments introduced by the government in 2018. Its oversight was questioned amidst concerns about opaque corporate donations in the Electoral Bonds Scheme which was recently held unconstitutional.
- Securities Market: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is under pressure to address concerns about asset price inflation, concentrated positions in illiquid shares, and excessive speculation among retail investors. Its credibility was questioned after Hindenburg Research’s allegations.
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Financial Landscape and its Regulation
[1] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
- The RBI is the central bank and monetary authority of India.
- It is established on April 1, 1935, under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
- Its idea was incepted from the recommendations of the Hilton Young Commission.
- It is a centralized institution for India to effectively regulate its monetary and credit policies.
- RBI had its initial headquarters in Kolkata, later moving permanently to Mumbai in 1937.
- Initially, the RBI operated as a privately owned entity until its full nationalization in 1949.
Key Regulatory Functions of the RBI:
(i) Monetary Policy:
- The RBI formulates and implements monetary policies to achieve price stability, economic growth, and financial stability.
- The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) determines the policy interest rates, such as the repo rate, reverse repo rate, and marginal standing facility rate, based on inflation targeting and growth objectives.
- By adjusting these rates, the RBI influences money supply, credit flow, and interest rates in the economy.
(ii) Banking Regulation and Supervision:
- The RBI regulates and supervises banks and financial institutions to ensure their stability, soundness, and compliance with regulatory norms.
- It issues guidelines, directives, and prudential regulations covering aspects like capital adequacy, asset quality, management effectiveness, and liquidity risk management.
- The RBI conducts regular inspections, audits, and assessments of banks to assess their financial health and adherence to regulations.
- It also intervenes in troubled banks to protect depositors’ interests and maintain financial stability.
(iii) Payment and Settlement Systems:
- The RBI manages and oversees payment and settlement systems to ensure efficiency, safety, and reliability in financial transactions.
- It operates the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system for large-value transactions and the National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) system for retail transactions.
- The RBI formulates regulations and standards for payment systems, promotes innovation in payment technologies, and monitors systemically important payment infrastructures to mitigate risks and enhance resilience.
(iv) Financial Markets Regulation:
- The RBI regulates and supervises financial markets, including money, bonds, foreign exchange, and derivative markets, to maintain market integrity and investor confidence.
- It issues guidelines, directives, and regulations governing market participants, intermediaries, and trading activities.
- The RBI monitors market developments, enforces compliance with regulations, and intervenes in markets to address disorderly conditions, liquidity shortages, or excessive volatility.
- It also conducts open market operations (OMOs) to manage liquidity and stabilize interest rates.
[2] Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
- SEBI is the regulatory authority overseeing India’s securities and commodity markets.
- Established in 1988 as a non-statutory body, SEBI was granted statutory powers with the enactment of the SEBI Act 1992 by the Indian Parliament.
- It operates under the purview of the Ministry of Finance.
- SEBI’s structure includes a chairman nominated by the GoI, members from the Union Finance Ministry, the Reserve Bank of India, and others.
- Its headquarters is in Mumbai, with regional offices in Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi.
Key Regulatory Functions of the SEBI:
(i) Formulating Regulations:
- SEBI formulates regulations, guidelines, and directives to govern various aspects of the securities market.
- This includes regulations related to public issuances, disclosures, insider trading, takeover bids, corporate governance, and investor protection.
(ii) Monitoring Market Participants:
- SEBI regulates and supervises market intermediaries such as stock exchanges, brokers, merchant bankers, portfolio managers, and mutual funds.
- It sets eligibility criteria, registration requirements, and conduct norms for these entities and monitors their compliance with regulations.
(iii) Overseeing Market Infrastructure:
- SEBI oversees the functioning of stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories, and other market infrastructure institutions.
- It ensures that these entities maintain adequate systems, procedures, and safeguards to facilitate fair, transparent, and efficient trading and settlement operations.
(iv) Enforcing Securities Laws:
- SEBI enforces securities laws and regulations by conducting inspections, investigations, and enforcement actions against violations.
- It has the authority to impose penalties, suspend licenses, and initiate legal proceedings against individuals or entities found to be engaged in fraudulent or unfair practices.
(v) Regulating Securities Offerings:
- SEBI regulates public offerings of securities, including initial public offerings (IPOs), rights issues, and follow-on public offerings.
- It reviews offer documents, ensures disclosure of material information to investors, and supervises the conduct of issuers, underwriters, and other intermediaries involved in the offering process.
(vi) Monitoring Insider Trading and Market Manipulation:
- SEBI monitors and regulates insider trading, market manipulation, and other fraudulent activities that can undermine market integrity.
- It prohibits insider trading, imposes restrictions on share buybacks and open market operations, and investigates suspicious trading activities to maintain market fairness and transparency.
PYQ:
2015: In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in the corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability.
2021: With reference to India, consider the following statements:
- Retail investors through demat account can invest in ‘Treasury Bills’ and ‘Government of India Debt Bonds’ in primary market.
- The ‘Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching’ is a government securities trading platform of the Reserve Bank of India.
- The ‘Central Depository Services Ltd.’ is jointly promoted by the Reserve Bank of India and the Bombay Stock Exchange.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), consider the following statements:
- It was established in 1988 as a non-statutory body.
- It operates under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
- It consists of a chairman, members from the Union Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Section 377, LGBTQ+ Rights
Mains level: Sexual Minorities and their Social Rights
Why in the news-
- The Supreme Court issued a cautionary directive to judges regarding court-ordered counselling for LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the need to respect their identity and sexual orientation.
Context
- Petition: The verdict stemmed from a habeas corpus petition filed by a Kerala-based woman seeking the whereabouts of her same-sex partner, highlighting the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in asserting their rights.
- Coercion Concerns: Concerns were raised about court-ordered counselling potentially being used to coerce individuals against their sexual orientation or chosen partners, prompting the Supreme Court to address these apprehensions.
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Counselling to LGBTQ+ Persons:
[A] Guidelines and Observations
- Avoiding Identity Suppression: Judges were cautioned against using counselling as a tool to coerce individuals into rejecting their LGBTQ+ identity or relationships, particularly when they are in distress or facing familial separation.
- Upholding Constitutional Values: CJI underscored the importance of upholding constitutional values, urging judges to refrain from imposing their personal biases or societal prejudices during legal proceedings.
- Empathy and Compassion: The verdict emphasized that judges must demonstrate sincere empathy and compassion towards LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring that the principles of justice and equality guide legal decisions.
[B] Guidelines for Courts
- Embracing Diversity: Courts were directed to eschew social morality influenced by homophobic or transphobic views, prioritizing the protection of individual rights and freedoms.
- Respecting Chosen Families: Acknowledging the significance of chosen families for LGBTQ+ individuals, the court highlighted the need to recognize and respect these relationships, especially in cases involving familial rejection or violence.
LGBTQ+ Persons (Sexual Minority) Rights in India: An Overview
- Decriminalization of Homosexuality: A watershed moment occurred on September 6, 2018, when the Supreme Court of India partially struck down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized consensual same-sex relationships. This historic decision marked a crucial step towards recognizing the dignity and autonomy of LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Recognition of Transgender Rights: In 2014, the Supreme Court recognized transgender individuals as the third gender and affirmed their fundamental rights under the Constitution in the landmark case of National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India (2014). This judgment laid the foundation for legal recognition and protection of transgender rights in India.
Several key legal cases and judgments have shaped the evolution of LGBTQ rights in India:
- Naz Foundation Govt. v. NCT of Delhi (2009): The Delhi High Court ruled that Section 377 of the IPC violated fundamental rights guaranteed under the Indian Constitution, including privacy and equality. This judgment was a crucial step forward in recognizing the rights of LGBTQ individuals.
- Suresh Kumar Koushal vs Naz Foundation (2013): The Supreme Court overturned the Delhi High Court’s judgment, recriminalizing homosexuality. This decision was met with widespread criticism and sparked renewed activism for LGBTQ rights in India.
- National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India (2014): This landmark judgment recognized transgender individuals as the third gender and affirmed their fundamental rights under the Constitution. It laid the groundwork for ensuring equality and non-discrimination for the transgender community.
- K.S. Puttaswamy v Union of India (2017): This case affirmed the right to privacy as a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution. The judgment recognized that discrimination based on sexual orientation is unconstitutional and emphasized the dignity and autonomy of individuals.
- Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018): The Supreme Court decriminalized homosexuality and struck down Section 377 of the IPC. The court recognized the rights of LGBTQ individuals to intimacy, autonomy, and identity, setting a precedent for equality and non-discrimination.
Future Prospects
[A] Extension of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) Rights
- The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Rights bill, as currently formulated, does not adequately extend to LGBTQ+ persons due to several factors:
- Definition of Commissioning Couple: It restricts access to ART services to “infertile married couples,” excluding same-sex couples and individuals in same-sex relationships.
- Requirement of Legal Marriage: Since same-sex marriage isn’t recognized in India, LGBTQ+ couples are automatically excluded from accessing ART services.
- Narrow Definition of Infertility: The bill’s definition overlooks the unique reproductive challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
- Gender-Binary Language and Restrictions: Gender-binary language and restrictions exclude transgender and gender non-conforming individuals from accessing ART services.
- Lack of Recognition of Diverse Identities: The bill fails to accommodate the diverse identities within the LGBTQ+ community, neglecting their specific needs and concerns regarding assisted reproduction.
[B] Child Adoption
- National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): It had opposed the adoption rights of same-sex couples.
- Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJ Act): It allows heterosexual married couples, and single and divorced persons to adopt.
- Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA): It permits any male or female Hindu of sound mind to adopt, and for couples to adopt with the consent of their spouse.
- Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA): It permits applications from adoptive parents in live-in relationships, which it examines on a case-to-case basis.
However, in October 2023 the Supreme Court ruled that Regulation 5(3) of the CARA Regulations, insofar as it prohibited unmarried and queer couples from adopting, violated Article 15 of the Constitution.
While India’s Supreme Court declined to legalise same-sex marriage and did not explicitly grant gay couples adoption rights.
PYQ:
2020: Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree?
Practice MCQ:
Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which sought to decriminalize homosexuality was struck down in the landmark case of-
- Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India
- Naz Foundation Govt. v. NCT of Delhi
- Suresh Kumar Koushal vs Naz Foundation
- None of these
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