Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: How is an ex-post framework different from an ex-ante framework?
Mains level: Why does the draft Bill encourage an ex-ante competition regulation?
Why in the news?
In February 2023, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) established a Committee on Digital Competition Law (CDCL) to assess the necessity for distinct legislation concerning competition within digital markets.
What is an ex-post framework?
- An ex-post framework refers to a regulatory approach where authorities intervene and enforce regulations after potentially harmful activities or behaviors have already occurred.
- In the context of competition law, it means that enforcement actions are taken against anti-competitive practices only after they have been observed or reported.
How is an ex-post framework different from an ex-ante framework?
Timing of Intervention:
- Ex-post framework: Intervenes after anti-competitive conduct has occurred and its effects are observed. It relies on retrospective enforcement based on complaints or identified issues.
- Ex-ante framework: Proactively sets rules and obligations before anti-competitive behavior happens, aiming to prevent market distortions and protect competition from potential harms.
Nature of Regulation:
- Ex-post framework: Reactive in nature, focusing on remedial measures and enforcement actions against established instances of anti-competitive behavior.
- Ex-ante framework: Proactive in nature, establishing upfront rules and obligations to guide behavior and prevent market abuses by dominant players before they occur.
Focus and Objectives:
- Ex-post framework: Focuses on addressing past harms to competition, ensuring fair market practices, and correcting market distortions post-occurrence.
- Ex-ante framework: Focuses on maintaining competitive markets, promoting innovation, and protecting consumer choice by setting clear rules and preventing anti-competitive behavior from developing in the first place.
Why does the draft Bill encourage an ex-ante competition regulation?
- Proactive Prevention: Digital markets exhibit characteristics such as rapid growth, network effects, and economies of scale that can lead to quick and irreversible market dominance. An ex-ante framework allows regulatory authorities to preemptively set rules and obligations to prevent anti-competitive practices before they occur, thereby maintaining market competition and ensuring consumer choice.
- Timely Intervention: The existing ex-post framework under the Competition Act, 2002 is considered inadequate for digital markets, where traditional enforcement mechanisms may be too slow to effectively address evolving market dynamics and prevent potential harms to competition. An ex-ante approach enables timely intervention and regulatory oversight to curb monopolistic tendencies and promote a level playing field for all market participants.
What framework does the European Union follow?
- The European Union follows an ex-ante competition framework under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). It regulates large digital platforms identified as gatekeepers, imposing specific obligations to ensure fair competition.
- Objectives: To promote competition, innovation, and consumer choice in digital markets by proactively addressing potential market distortions caused by dominant players.
What are systemically significant digital enterprises (SSDEs)?
- SSDEs are digital enterprises identified as dominant in specific digital market segments under the draft Digital Competition Bill.Identified through quantitative tests based on financial strength and user reach in India, or qualitatively based on significant influence and market impact.
- SSDEs are required to operate transparently, refrain from anti-competitive practices like self-preferencing and data misuse, and ensure fair access to their platforms for other businesses.
Conclusion: Ensure that the criteria used to designate SSDEs are well-defined and balanced. Conduct periodic reviews to adjust these criteria based on market dynamics and technological advancements to accurately capture entities with significant market power without overly burdening smaller players.
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the impact of liberalization on companies owned by Indians. Are they competing with the MNCs satisfactorily? Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2013)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: In 2024, Maoists suffer severe setbacks in Chhattisgarh
Why in the news?
As of July 9, 2024, India has recorded a total of 162 Maoist fatalities this year, with Chhattisgarh alone reporting 141 deaths.
- This marks one of the highest casualty figures for extremists in the predominantly tribal state since the establishment of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004.
About Left-wing extremism in India
- Origins and Ideology: LWE in India began with the 1967 Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal, advocating armed revolution for a Maoist communist state overthrowing the Indian government.
- Modus Operandi: Naxalites engage in guerrilla warfare, attacking security forces, extorting, intimidating, and propagandizing. They target government, infrastructure, and economic interests, and run parallel governance in controlled areas.
- Red corridor Areas: LWE affects several states in central and eastern India, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala, although to varying degrees.
- Factors Contributing to LWE: Socio-economic disparities, land alienation and displacement of local communities, and issues related to Adivasi rights have contributed to the proliferation of LWE. Left-wing extremist groups have capitalized on these grievances to gain support among marginalized communities.
- Government Response: The Government of India has taken various measures to counter LWE, including security operations, development initiatives, and rehabilitation programs. Violence related to LWE has decreased by 76% in 2022 compared to 2010, and the geographical spread of violence has also reduced.
In 2024, Maoists suffer severe setbacks in Chhattisgarh
- Maoist Casualties in Chhattisgarh: In 2024, Chhattisgarh reported the highest number of Maoist deaths (141) since the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004. This spike coincided with the return of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to power in December 2023.
- Historical Context and Operations: The year 2009 saw the highest number of Maoist deaths (154) following the launch of ‘Operation Green Hunt’ by the Indian government, which included military offensives involving the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Chhattisgarh police.
- Security Forces and Civilian Casualties: While Maoist casualties have increased recently, the number of security force personnel deaths has decreased. Civilian casualties have also reduced since their peak in 2006.
- District-Wise Insights: Bijapur district witnessed the highest number of clashes in 2024, resulting in significant Maoist casualties. This district, along with Sukma, hosts several Border Security Force (BSF) camps, indicating intense security operations.
- Surrenders and Operations: Despite some districts being declared ‘Maoist-free’ in recent years, significant operations continue, such as the joint BSF and District Reserve Guard operation in Kanker district resulting in top Maoist commander Shankar Rao’s death.
- Development and Insurgency: There is a correlation between the intensity of the insurgency and lower development indicators like sanitation and literacy in districts like Dantewada, Bijapur, Sukma, Bastar, and Kanker. These areas are heavily forested, complicating security operations.
Way forward:
- Integrated Development and Security Strategy: Implement a comprehensive strategy that integrates robust security measures with accelerated development initiatives in LWE-affected regions. This approach should prioritize improving socio-economic conditions, addressing land alienation, providing livelihood opportunities, and enhancing basic infrastructure like education and healthcare.
- Enhanced Intelligence and Targeted Operations: Strengthen intelligence-gathering capabilities to preempt Maoist attacks and disrupt their operational networks effectively. This includes enhancing coordination among security forces, intelligence agencies, and local law enforcement to gather timely and actionable intelligence.
Mains PYQ:
Q Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE. (2018)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Military cooperation between India and Russia
Mains level: Key highlight of 22nd Annual Summit
Why in the News?
During the 22nd Annual Summit on Tuesday, both countries agreed to elevate bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. This agreement includes the use of national currencies to bypass Western sanctions.
Bilateral ties between India-Russia
- Long-standing strategic partnership: India and Russia have enjoyed a strong strategic partnership since the Cold War era.
- This was further strengthened with the signing of the “Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership” in 2000, which elevated cooperation in various areas including politics, security, defense, trade, and culture.
- In 2010, the partnership was elevated to a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership”.
- Robust defense cooperation: Russia is India’s largest defense partner, accounting for approximately 68% of India’s military hardware imports in 2017.
- The two countries have an Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation that meets annually.
- Major defense projects include the MiG-21, Su-30, and the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.
- Economic and Trade Relations: Russia is India’s 7th largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $45 billion, surpassing the target of $30 billion by 2025.
- Key areas of economic cooperation include energy, nuclear energy, and the North-South Transport Corridor.
- Russia is also an important partner in India’s energy security, with investments in the oil and gas sectors.
- Geopolitical coordination: India and Russia closely collaborate on matters of shared national interest at international forums such as the UN, BRICS, G20, and SCO.
- Russia supports India’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council and its membership in the NSG and APEC.
- The two countries also coordinate on regional issues like Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific.
|
Key highlights of the 22nd Annual Summit
- Trade and Economic Cooperation: India and Russia have set an ambitious target to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. They plan to use national currencies for trade to bypass Western sanctions, reflecting a strategic shift in their economic engagements.
- Defense and Strategic Partnership: The countries discussed delays in defense supplies and committed to enhancing the co-production of defense equipment.
- Response to Ukraine Conflict: Prime Minister Modi made a plea for ending civilian casualties and the conflict in Ukraine. Both countries called for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict in their joint statement, highlighting mediation efforts and adherence to international law.
- Institutional Agreements and MoUs: Several MoUs were signed on topics including climate change, polar research, legal arbitration, and pharmaceutical certification, demonstrating broad-based cooperation.
- Recognition and Future Engagements: Modi received Russia’s highest civilian honor, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. Putin invited Modi to the “Extended BRICS” summit in Kazan in October 2024, emphasizing ongoing and future high-level engagements.
Russia Offers Compensation and Citizenship to Kin of Indians Killed in War Against Ukraine
- Expedited Discharge of Indian Recruits: President Putin accepted Prime Minister Modi’s request to expedite the discharge of Indian nationals recruited by the Russian military. Approximately 40 Indians, currently at the war front, are to be discharged through diplomatic processes.
- Compensation and Citizenship Offer: Russia has offered compensation and citizenship to the families of Indian nationals who have been killed in the conflict in Ukraine. This move aims to provide support and recognition to the families of the deceased.
New Delhi and Moscow call for ‘zero tolerance’ towards terrorism
- Joint Statement on Terrorism: India and Russia reiterated their strong stance against terrorism, emphasizing the need for “zero tolerance” towards all forms of terrorism.
- Commitment to International Cooperation: Both countries underscored the importance of international cooperation to combat terrorism effectively. They highlighted the necessity for a coordinated global response to address the threat of terrorism.
- Condemnation of Terrorist Acts: The leaders condemned terrorist acts worldwide and stressed that no cause or ideology could justify the killing of innocent people. They called for the strictest measures to combat and eliminate terrorism.
Do you know – Why Western sanctions haven’t worked on Russia?
While the U.S. and some European countries have imposed extensive sanctions, enforcement has been uneven across the coalition. Some nations lack robust mechanisms to prevent violations and struggle to track and penalise offenders effectively. Russia has found ways to sidestep restrictions on critical technologies and dual-use items by re-labelling shipments, diverting products through third countries, and exploiting loopholes in regulations. They are:
- Collaborative evasion tactics: Russia’s partnerships with countries like China, Iran, and North Korea enable it to circumvent sanctions and sustain its military capabilities. These strategic alliances facilitate the procurement and transfer of goods, including weapons used in Ukraine.
- Mutual economic dependence: Europe’s reliance on Russian energy, particularly natural gas, complicates the imposition of severe sanctions without causing significant repercussions for European economies.
- Russia’s dependence on energy export revenue also makes it reluctant to disrupt energy flows to Europe.
- Resilience of the Russian economy: Despite the sanctions, Russia’s economy has shown remarkable adaptability. It has redirected trade to China, found alternative suppliers for critical goods, and maintained robust oil and gas sales.
|
Conclusion: India should work on broadening the range of goods and services exchanged with Russia. Focusing on sectors like pharmaceuticals, information technology, and agricultural products can reduce dependency on any single industry and promote sustainable trade growth.
Mains PYQ:
Q What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (UPSC IAS/2020)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is the High Seas Treaty?
Mains level: Comparison with the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change
Why in the News?
India has chosen to endorse and formally adopt the High Seas Treaty, a global accord aimed at conserving and safeguarding biodiversity in the oceans.
- This treaty is frequently linked to the 2015 Paris Agreement due to its extensive scope and potential influence.
What is the ‘High Seas Treaty’ agreement?
- The agreement being referred to is the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, also known as the High Seas Treaty.
- Aim: To address the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, which constitute about 64% of the ocean surface.
- Objective: To establish a framework for governing activities in these high seas areas to ensure environmental protection, regulate resource extraction, and promote equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.
- It operates within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and aims to strengthen international cooperation and governance for the preservation of marine biodiversity.
Significance of the Treaty:
- Conservation of Marine Biodiversity: It covers a vast portion of the global ocean- these areas are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functions that are vital for global marine health.
- Governance and Regulation: The treaty establishes a framework for governing human activities in the high seas, such as fishing, mining, and bioprospecting. It seeks to regulate these activities to ensure they are sustainable and do not cause irreversible harm to marine ecosystems.
- Global Environmental Protection: Similar to the Paris Agreement on climate change, the BBNJ Agreement represents a global effort to protect and manage resources that are essential for the well-being of present and future generations.
- Addressing threats like overfishing and habitat destruction, it contributes to global efforts towards sustainable development and environmental conservation.
- Equitable Sharing of Benefits: The treaty includes provisions such as pharmaceutical developments. This ensures that benefits derived from these resources are shared fairly among countries and communities, promoting global equity and access to valuable resources.
- International Collaboration: It fosters international cooperation and collaboration in ocean governance.
- By bringing together countries it strengthens the rule of law and promotes transparency and accountability in global ocean management.
Comparison with the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change
| Dimensions |
High Seas Treaty- Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) |
2015 Paris Agreement |
| Scope and Focus |
Marine biodiversity conservation in the case of BBNJ |
Focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts |
| Legal Framework |
It integrates with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) |
Paris Agreement operates under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). |
| Approach to Governance |
Promotes governance structures that facilitate cooperation among nations to achieve common environmental goals. |
same |
| Implications for Global Cooperation |
Underscore the importance of multilateralism and collective action in addressing global environmental challenges. |
same |
Conclusion: Need to establish robust mechanisms for implementing and monitoring the BBNJ Agreement at national and international levels. This includes setting up effective reporting systems, conducting regular assessments of biodiversity conservation measures, and ensuring compliance with regulations on resource extraction and marine genetic resources.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC IAS/2021)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key agreements between India and USA like the BECA agreement
Mains level: Issues with “Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP)” and the States
Why in the News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has formed the government again, now leading a coalition in his third term. The new administration must intensify its focus on economic reforms, especially those related to manufacturing.
Significance of Manufacturing Base
- Economic Growth: Enhancing the manufacturing sector is vital for India’s economic growth. Increasing manufacturing output can significantly boost GDP, as evidenced by the government’s initial target to raise manufacturing from 15% to 25% of GDP by 2025.
- Employment Creation: A robust manufacturing sector can generate substantial low-skilled employment, which is crucial for absorbing the large workforce transitioning from agriculture. This can help mitigate stress on urban governance structures caused by rapid urbanization.
- Trade Balance: Strengthening manufacturing can help reduce India’s goods trade deficit, particularly by decreasing reliance on imports of manufactured goods such as electronics, which currently contribute to a significant trade imbalance.
- National Security: A strong manufacturing base can provide the resources needed for national security. By enhancing industrial capacity, India can better support its defense needs and contribute to regional security, aligning with American interests.
- Supply Chain Resilience: Developing manufacturing capabilities in India can improve the viability of U.S. supply chains by having production bases in friendly countries. This is particularly important in the face of China’s rising economic and geopolitical influence.
Issues with the “Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP)” and the States
- Outdated Rankings: The BRAP rankings, designed to foster competition among states, have not been updated since the COVID-19 pandemic. This has diminished their effectiveness in motivating states to improve their business environments.
- Self-Reporting Issues: The BRAP rankings rely heavily on states’ self-reporting of their local business practices, which often does not align with actual investor experiences. This discrepancy undermines the credibility of the rankings.
- Model Industry Laws: The central government’s initiative to create model industry laws for states has been underwhelming. There is a lack of robust and effective frameworks to guide states in implementing these laws.
- State-Level Control: Many critical factors of production, such as power, water, sanitation, labor regulations, land acquisition rules, and environmental regulations, are controlled by state governments. This decentralization complicates the implementation of cohesive national policies.
- Need for Transparent Policies: Encouraging states to adopt thoughtful and transparent industrial policies is challenging. The current toolkit of incentives and penalties needs enhancement to motivate states effectively.
Role of the US in Improving the Business Attractiveness of Indian States
- Guidance on Economic Governance: The U.S. can expand engagement with Indian states by providing direct guidance on effective economic governance. This can help states create more investor-friendly environments.
- Investment Pathways: Improving pathways for potential investors to engage with state governments is crucial. The U.S. can facilitate connections between American investors and Indian states, helping to streamline investment processes.
- Senior Officials’ Engagement: U.S. officials visiting India should go beyond the major economic hubs of Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Engaging with a wider set of large states can highlight the importance and opportunities arising from global supply chain shifts.
- Policy Redirection: The recent national election provides an opportunity for policy assessment and redirection. The U.S. can support India in aligning its policies with the core needs of the manufacturing push — jobs, trade, and security.
- Encouraging Job-Creating Sectors: The U.S. can emphasize the importance of job-creating manufacturing sectors such as textiles, paper mills, and furniture, rather than focusing solely on capital-intensive sectors like semiconductors and robotics. This approach can help create more employment opportunities in India.
Way forward:
- Establishment of State-level Economic Advisory Councils: Create advisory councils comprising experts from academia, industry, and government to advise state governments on economic policies, including manufacturing incentives and regulatory frameworks.
- Review and Update of BRAP Rankings: Overhaul the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) to include independent evaluations and audits alongside self-reporting. Ensure transparency and accuracy in ranking states’ business environments to provide credible guidance for investors.
Mains PYQ:
Q Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-STIAC, CCUS
Why in the News?
The 25th Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) meeting was recently held at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe in New Delhi.
Highlights of the 25th PM-STIAC Meet
- The meeting was aimed to discuss robust policy formulation for effective Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in India.
- Focus was on India’s carbon market, carbon credit scheme, and strategies to achieve a 45% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070.
|
About PM-STIAC
|
Details |
| Objective |
Provide advice on STI policies and oversee implementation of the government’s STI vision |
| Establishment |
2018 |
| Chairperson |
Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India |
| Composition |
Eminent scientists, technologists, and innovators from various fields |
| Key Roles and Functions |
- Policy Advice
- Inter-Ministerial Coordination
- Project Oversight
- Innovation Ecosystem Promotion
- Global Collaboration
- Public Engagement
- Policy and Program Development
|
| Major Initiatives and Missions |
-
- NM-ICPS: Cyber-Physical Systems Innovation Hubs
- Quantum Frontier Mission: Quantum Technologies
- AI Mission: AI for Inclusive Growth
- Electric Mobility Mission: Promote EVs
- Waste to Wealth Mission: Sustainable Waste Management
- Health and Well-being Mission: Improve Healthcare Delivery
- AGNIi: Accelerating Growth of New India’s Innovations
|
What is Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)?
Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a technology aimed at reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial processes and power generation.
It involves three main steps:
- Capture:
- CO₂ is separated and captured from industrial emissions or directly from the air.
- Capture technologies include pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxy-fuel combustion.
- Utilization:
- Captured CO₂ is converted into useful products such as chemicals, fuels, and building materials.
- Utilization helps in creating economic value from CO₂ and can support the development of a circular carbon economy.
- Storage:
- CO₂ is transported and stored in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, or basalt formations.
- This prevents CO₂ from entering the atmosphere, thereby mitigating climate change.
Significance:
- Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to meet climate targets.
- Energy Transition: Supports the transition to low-carbon energy systems.
- Economic Benefits: Generates new economic opportunities through the creation of new markets for CO₂-derived products.
Policy Initiatives for CCUS in India
- National Hydrogen Energy Mission (2021):
- Launched in 2021, the mission aims to promote the production and use of green hydrogen, with CCUS being a crucial component for producing blue hydrogen from natural gas.
- Department of Science and Technology (DST) Initiatives:
- DST has funded various research projects focusing on developing CCUS technologies since the early 2000s.
- Projects include capturing CO₂ from industrial sources and converting it into valuable products like methanol and synthetic fuels.
- National Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage Policy Framework and Its Deployment Mechanism (2020):
- Established in 2020, the framework aims to create a roadmap for deploying CCUS technologies across various sectors.
- It focuses on enhancing research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) activities and creating enabling regulatory and policy environments.
- Industry Collaborations:
- Collaborations with industries such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for pilot projects on CCUS.
- Public-private partnerships to foster innovation and scale up CCUS technologies have been ongoing since the 2010s.
- International Collaborations (CSLF, 2003):
- India joined the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum (CSLF) in 2003, which promotes international collaboration on CCUS technology development.
- Collaborations with countries like the United States and the United Kingdom for knowledge sharing and technical support.
- Green Energy Corridors (2015):
- Integration of CCUS with renewable energy initiatives to ensure a sustainable and low-carbon energy mix.
- Established in 2015, this initiative supports developing infrastructure for transporting and storing captured CO₂.
PYQ:
[2020] Which one of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon’?
(a) It is a measure, in monetary value, of the long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.
(b) Requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.
(c) Efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live-in a new place.
(d) Contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NABARD, Integrated Tribal Development Programme
Why in the News?
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is set to launch an integrated tribal development programme in Kulathupuzha grama panchayat, Kollam.
About Integrated Tribal Development Programme
- Thanal, an environment organisation, will be the implementing agency of the project that aims to transform livelihoods of tribal families over the next five years.
- The five-year initiative targets the sustainable livelihood and agricultural enhancement of 413 families residing in eight hamlets.
- The programme focuses on promoting diverse agricultural crops such as pepper, arecanut, coconut, ginger, Thai ginger, turmeric, and plantain.
- It encompasses initiatives in goat rearing, poultry, beekeeping, fish farming, and fodder production.
- The establishment of a Tribal Farmer Producer Company (FPO) is also planned to further economically empower the community.
Components of the Programme
- Water Resource Development: Initiatives aimed at enhancing water resources for agricultural purposes.
- Leadership Training: Training sessions to empower local leaders within the tribal communities.
- Awareness Creation: Campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable practices and community development.
- Sanitation and Hygiene Initiatives: Efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene standards among the tribal families.
- Marketing and Branding Training: Training programmes to enhance marketing skills and brand awareness among participants.
- Skill Development Workshops: Workshops focused on enhancing both agricultural and non-agricultural skills among the tribal community.
About NABARD:
- It was established on July 12, 1982, based on the recommendation of the Sivaraman Committee to promote sustainable rural development and agricultural growth in India.
- Aim: To facilitate credit flow for the promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, handicrafts, and other rural crafts.
- It operates as a statutory body under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, with its headquarters located in Mumbai.
- It is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the GoI:
- Representatives from the RBI;
- Central and state governments;
- Experts from various fields related to Rural Development and Finance.
Functions of NABARD:
- Refinance Support: NABARD provides refinance facilities to banks and financial institutions for agricultural and rural development activities, including crop loans and rural infrastructure projects.
- Financial Inclusion: It promotes financial inclusion by expanding banking services in rural areas, supporting SHGs, FPOs, and MFIs, and facilitating access to credit for rural communities.
- Priority Sector Lending: NABARD plays a crucial role in channelling credit to priority sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, and rural infrastructure, in alignment with the Reserve Bank of India’s priority sector lending guidelines.
- Direct Lending: It extends direct loans to institutions for specific rural development projects, such as agricultural production, rural infrastructure development, and agri-processing units.
- Scheme Implementation: The organization administers government schemes and funds like Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), Watershed Development Fund (WDF) to finance rural infrastructure projects and watershed development activities.
- Credit Planning: NABARD collaborates with central and state governments, RBI, and other stakeholders to formulate credit policies and plans for agriculture and rural sectors.
- Research and Training: NABARD promotes research and development in agriculture, supports capacity building and training programs for rural stakeholders, and facilitates technology transfer initiatives.
|
PYQ:
[2013] Which of the following grants/grants direct credit assistance to rural households?
- Regional Rural Banks
- National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
- Land Development Banks
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Commission for Minorities
Why in the News?
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) has advised State Governments/UTs to conduct “Sarv Dharma Meetings”.
Advisory on “Sarv Dharma Meetings”
- NCM advised State Governments/UTs to conduct “Sarv Dharma Meetings”:
- At Sub-divisional level of States monthly.
- At District level half-yearly.
- It is aimed at curbing attacks and hate crimes against minority communities to prevent communal disharmony.
- NCM emphasized that hate crimes stem from mental weakness and anger, highlighting citizens’ rights to practice and preach their religion freely.
Responsibilities and Recommendations
- Citizens and society urged to disown and condemn hate crimes.
- Advocated for punitive actions by authorities against anti-social elements.
- Proposed mechanisms involving civic society to deter anti-social and anti-national forces and prevent societal violence.
|
About National Commission for Minorities (NCM)
- It is a statutory body formed on the basis of National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 and replaced an earlier body called Minorities Commission.
- The Commission consists of a total of 7 persons to be nominated by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability and integrity.
- It consists of a Chairperson, a Vice- Chairperson and 5 Members.
- Each Member holds office for a period of 3 years from the date of assumption of office.
Functions of NCM:
- Evaluate minority development progress.
- Monitor constitutional and legal safeguards.
- Recommend effective safeguard implementation.
- Address complaints regarding deprivation of rights.
- Conduct studies on discrimination and recommend measures.
- Research socio-economic and educational development.
- Suggest measures to Central or State Governments.
- Make periodical or special reports to the Central Government.
- Address any matter referred by the Central Government.
Powers of NCM:
- Summon and enforce attendance of any person from India.
- Require discovery and production of documents.
- Receive evidence on affidavit.
- Requisition public records from courts or offices.
- Issue commissions for examining witnesses and documents.
Who are Minorities?
- The Central has notified minority communities at the national level in consultation with various stakeholders under Section 2 (c) of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), Act, 1992.
- The six communities notified as minority communities under Section 2(c) of the NCM Act are Christians, Sikhs, Muslims, Buddhists, Parsis, and Jains.
- Jains were notified as minority community in January 2014.
- Notification of any community-specific to a State as a minority community within a State comes under the purview of the respective State.
Total Minority Population in India as per 2011 Census:
19.3% of the total population (Muslims: 14.2%; Christians: 2.3%; Sikhs: 1.7%; Buddhists: 0.7%; Jains: 0.4%; Parsis: 0.006%)
Rights & Safeguards for Minorities:
Under Fundamental Rights (Part III of the Indian Constitution):
- Article 29(1): Right to conserve distinct language, script, or culture.
- Article 30(1): Right to establish and administer educational institutions.
- Article 30(2): Freedom from discrimination in receiving state aid.
Under Official Language (Part XVII of the Indian Constitution):
- Article 347: Rights for language spoken by any section of the population.
- Article 350A: Instruction in mother tongue.
- Article 350B: Special officer for linguistic minorities.
Sachar Committee Report (2006):
Constitution Date: 9 March 2005
Key Recommendations:
- Create a National Data Bank (NDB) for socio-religious data.
- Establish an Equal Opportunity Commission.
- Provide incentives for a ‘diversity index.’
- Ensure high-quality education for children aged 0-14.
- Set up government schools in Muslim-concentrated areas.
- Increase Muslim employment share in public-facing jobs.
- Enact state laws for minority representation.
- Support initiatives in Muslim-concentrated occupations.
- Improve minority participation in commercial banks.
- Focus on inclusive development while respecting diversity.
|
PYQ:
[2011] In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to?
- It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
- The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
- It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: XVI Finance Commission and its terms of references
Why in the News?
The Sixteenth Finance Commission (chaired by Arvind Panagariya, the former Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog) has constituted an Advisory Council of five members.
Role and Functions of the Advisory Council
- To advise the Commission on any of the Terms of Reference (ToR) or related subjects that may be of relevance.
- To assist in the preparation of papers or research studies and to monitor or assess studies commissioned by the Finance Commission, thereby enhancing the Commission’s understanding of the issues in its ToR.
- To help broaden the Commission’s ambit and understanding by seeking the best national and international practices on matters pertaining to fiscal devolution and improving the quality, reach, and enforcement of its recommendations.
About Finance Commission
- The Finance Commission is a Constitutional body created every five years to transfer financial resources from the centre to states.
- It is a quasi-judicial body.
- The origin of the Finance Commission lies in Article 280 of the Constitution.
- The President of India shall constitute a Finance Commission every five years to give recommendations about the transfer of central revenues (tax) to the states and its allocation among them (states).
- The recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission are valid up to the financial year 2025-26.
Composition of the FC:
- The Finance Commission consists of a chairman and four other members appointed by the President.
- They hold office for such a period as specified by the president in his order and are eligible for reappointment.
Qualifications:
- Parliament determines the qualifications of members of the commission and the manner in which they should be selected.
- Chairman should be a person having experience in public affairs, and
- Four other members should be selected from amongst individuals with specialized knowledge of finance, accounts, economics, or administration.
Terms of Reference for 16th Finance Commission
- Division of Tax Proceeds, principles for Grants-in-Aid, enhancing State Funds for Local Bodies and evaluation of Disaster Management Financing
PYQ:
[2023] Consider the following:
- Demographic performance
- Forest and ecology
- Governance reforms
- Stable government
- Tax and fiscal efforts
For the horizontal tax devolution, the Fifteenth Finance Commission used how many of the above as criteria other than population area and income distance?
(a) Only two
(b) Only three
(c) Only four
(d) All five |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now