From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to case pendency;
Why in the News?
President Droupadi Murmu has called for an end to court delays. In the District Judiciary Conference, she said that frequent postponements make it hard for poor and rural people to seek justice, as they worry cases will take too long to resolve.
Primary Causes of Case Pendency and Frequent Adjournments in Indian Courts:
Judge-Population Ratio: India has a low judge-to-population ratio, with only 21 judges per million people as of 2024, far below the Law Commission’s recommended 50 per million.
Vacant Judicial Positions: Delays in filling judicial vacancies lead to understaffed courts, with 30% vacancies in High Courts, adding pressure on the existing judges.
Additional Judicial Charges: Judges often handle multiple courts or specialized responsibilities, detracting from their ability to focus on primary cases and adding to delays.
Complex Case Load: Courts are burdened by multiple types of cases, including civil, criminal, constitutional, and appeals, many of which end up in higher courts, leading to severe backlogs.
Lack of Judicial-Impact Assessment: New laws increase the caseload, but without assessing the impact on court infrastructure, staffing, and resources, exacerbating delays.
Delay in Witness Availability: Witnesses are often not available on time, which postpones court hearings and impacts trial timelines.
How can technology be leveraged to reduce case pendency?
Digitization of Case Records: Electronic records reduce administrative delays in case filing, retrieval, and transfer between courts.
AI-Powered Case Management Systems: AI can assist in case prioritization, track progress, and predict possible delays, enabling judges and clerks to streamline schedules more effectively.
E-Courts and Video Conferencing: Virtual hearings can expedite proceedings, especially for remote cases or minor disputes, saving travel and scheduling time.
Automation of Routine Processes: Automating administrative tasks like case status updates, notifications, and scheduling can reduce clerical delays and improve transparency for litigants.
Data Analytics for Judicial Insights: Predictive analytics can help in understanding case patterns, enabling policymakers to make data-driven decisions on judicial staffing and resources.
What reforms are necessary to improve judicial efficiency and reduce backlog? (Way forward)
Filling Vacancies and Enhancing Judge Numbers: Quick action on filling judicial vacancies is critical, along with increasing sanctioned positions to meet the demands of the population and growing caseload.
Implementing Judicial-Impact Assessments: Adopting the recommendations of the Justice M. Jagannadha Rao Committee for pre-legislative impact assessment would ensure adequate resources accompany new laws.
Expanding Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Scaling up mediation centers and incentivizing ADR methods can resolve disputes outside court, decreasing the burden on the judiciary.
Dedicated Special Courts: Establishing well-staffed, specialized courts for specific categories (e.g., economic offenses, family disputes) would help reduce strain on regular courts.
No Additional Charge Policy for Judges: Assigning a single focus area per judge ensures concentration on cases without undue burdens, leading to higher efficiency and better judgment quality.
Periodic Judicial Training: Regular training on case management and technological tools can empower judges and court staff to adapt to evolving needs, reducing inefficiencies.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Population Issues; Cultural issues in the Society; Child marriage;
Why in the News?
In the recent judgment of Society forEnlightenment and Voluntary Action v. Union of India, the SC has shifted the focus in child marriage cases from punishing criminal acts to addressing the “harm inflicted on the victim.”
What is the law on Child Marriage?
Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (PCMA): Defines child marriage as one where the husband is under 21 years or the wife is under 18.
Such marriages are voidable: The underage person can choose to cancel the marriage, but until they do, it is still legally recognized.
State Variations: In Karnataka and Haryana, child marriages are void from the beginning, without the need for annulment.
Annulment vs. Divorce: Annulment treats the marriage as if it never took place, while divorce ends an existing marriage. To get an annulment under the PCMA, it only needs to be shown that one person was underage at the time.
Why are there concerns about using criminal action to tackle child marriage?
Although the marriage remains valid unless annulled, related activities are criminalized under PCMA, BNS, and POCSO, such as promoting or performing child marriages and sexual activity with a minor.
Criminal provisions can lead to charges against the girl’s family members (parents, husband, in-laws), leaving her without support and creating barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare.
Studies reveal criminal provisions are used more in self-initiated marriages than arranged ones, overlooking the complexities of these cases.
Some adolescents may choose marriage to escape abusive environments or forced marriage, often seeing it as a way to assert their agency in a restrictive society.
Why is the SC judgment significant?
Social and Economic Barriers: Women who leave child marriages often face significant social and economic penalties. The SC judgment proposes skill development, vocational training, economic stability programs, rehabilitation services, and victim compensation to support them.
Empowering Women in Child Marriages: Some women prefer to remain married but need support to advocate for themselves. The judgment calls for tools to help them make decisions about reproductive rights, employment, and education.
Sex Education for Adolescents: The judgment emphasizes sex education, equipping young people with skills and knowledge to navigate relationships and improve agency.
Holistic Approach: By moving away from solely criminal prosecution to focus on empowerment and support, the SC judgment provides a more comprehensive, agency-affirming response to child marriage.
Way forward:
Strengthen Support Systems: Develop targeted programs for skill training, financial assistance, and rehabilitation to help individuals exit child marriages, promoting economic stability and social reintegration.
Enhance Education and Awareness: Implement comprehensive sex education and awareness initiatives in communities to empower young individuals and discourage child marriage through informed decision-making and better access to reproductive rights.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Empowering women is the key to controlling the population growth.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)
Q Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree? (UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to EPR;
Why in the News?
The Indian government’s 2022 “Extended Producer Responsibility” guidelines mark progress, but a recent report states that stronger measures are needed to fully enforce the “polluter pays” principle in plastic waste management, per a recent CSE report.
What is the CSE report?
A CSE report is a publication by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a prominent Delhi-based think tank focused on environmental research and advocacy.
CSE reports analyze pressing environmental issues, often providing data-driven insights and policy recommendations.
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach where producers are given significant financial and sometimes operational responsibility for the treatment or disposal of post-consumer products.
The primary goal of EPR is to make manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, especially in terms of environmental impact, by ensuring that they take part in the collection, recycling, and disposal processes.
Extent of the misuse of EPR certificates in India’s plastic recycling industry
Fake Certificates: An assessment by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and findings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed the generation of over 700,000 fake recycling certificates, indicating widespread fraud among plastic recyclers.
Certificate Inflation: Some processors and recyclers reported volumes vastly exceeding their registered capacities.
For example, cement plants engaged in end-of-life co-processing claimed to process 335.4 million tonnes annually, despite an actual capacity of only 11.4 million tonnes.
Undermined Trust: Fraudulent activities result in artificially low certificate prices, undermining the credibility of the EPR system and making it difficult to accurately track plastic waste management.
How does this impact environmental compliance and plastic waste management?
Underreported Waste Generation: PIBOs introduced 23.9 million tonnes of plastic packaging in April 2022, translating to an annual waste generation of approximately 8 million tonnes. However, CPCB’s estimate of 4.1 million tonnes of plastic waste generation annually indicates significant underreporting.
Limited Stakeholder Participation: The absence of key contributors, such as urban local bodies and informal waste collectors from the EPR system, reduces traceability and leaves much of the waste management burden on local governments.
Compromised Recycling Integrity: Due to low-cost fraudulent certificates, genuine recycling efforts suffer from underfunding and inadequate regulation, jeopardizing sustainable plastic waste management efforts and hindering the implementation of the “polluter pays” principle.
What measures can be implemented to improve oversight and accountability within the EPR framework?
Inclusion of Informal Sector: Recognizing and formalizing the role of informal waste collectors and urban local bodies within the EPR framework could enhance waste collection, segregation, and recycling rates, creating a more transparent value chain.
Combatting Fraud: Strengthening the auditing and certification process to identify and remove fraudulent recyclers and processors, supported by stricter legal and financial penalties, would help deter misuse.
Transparent Reporting: Enhancing the EPR portal to ensure accurate data collection on plastic waste generation and disposal, and setting fair prices for recycling certificates to prevent undervaluation.
Standardizing Products: By mandating uniform standards for plastic packaging materials and designs, recyclability could be improved, reducing contamination and making recycling more effective.
Enhanced Monitoring and Accountability: Strengthening CPCB and State Pollution Control Boards’ (SPCBs) monitoring capacity and ensuring consistent enforcement of guidelines at both the state and central levels.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: DANA
Why in the News?
The extreme conditions in eastern Spain which saw Valencia get a year’s worth of rainin just 8 hours can be blamed on an event locally known as Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA).
What is DANA?
Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA), is commonly referred to as the “cold drop” in English.
It is a meteorological phenomenon in the western Mediterranean region that brings intense rainfall and flooding.
The term “DANA” was coined by Spanish meteorologists to specifically describe this weather phenomenon.
Features and Location:
DANA occurs when cold airfrom the Polar Regions separates from the polar jet stream and descends over the warmer Mediterranean Sea.
The contrast between cold air aloft and warm, moist air near the surface causes atmospheric instability, leading to the rapid formation of cumulonimbus clouds and intense thunderstorms.
It primarily affects Spain and Portugal but can also impact Italy, France, and other areas around the Mediterranean Sea.
This occurs in autumn and spring, as temperature variations are more pronounced during these seasons.
PYQ:
[2014] The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), International Monitoring System (IMS)
Why in the News?
Two earthquakes struck Iran sparking rumours of a nuclear test.
However, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) in Vienna swiftly refuted these claims using its International Monitoring System (IMS) designed to detect nuclear tests.
About International Monitoring System (IMS):
IMS is a global monitoring network established by the CTBTO to detect nuclear explosions anywhere in the world.
It is a global network of over 300 monitoring facilities across 89 countries, using seismic, infrasound, hydroacoustic, and radionuclide technologies to detect nuclear explosions worldwide.
The CTBTO shares IMS data with member-states in near real-time, ensuring access to accurate, verified data.
Over 16 gigabytes of data are transmitted daily from IMS stations to the CTBTO’s International Data Centre (IDC) in Vienna.
Analysts use this IMS data to distinguish natural events (like earthquakes) from nuclear explosions.
Created to implement the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), opened for signature in 1996.
Purpose of the CTBT
Aims to ban all nuclear explosions worldwide, regardless of purpose (military or civilian).
Key Elements of the CTBT
• Total Ban on Nuclear Tests: Prohibits all nuclear explosions.
• Verification Mechanisms: Establishes a global monitoring network and allows for on-site inspections.
• Distant Monitoring by IMS: Employs technologies for monitoring compliance.
Signature and Ratification
Signed by 183 states and ratified by 164; has not entered into force as eight specific states among 44 Annex-2 states have yet to ratify.
Key Non-Ratifying States
The states that have not ratified the treaty include United States, China, Iran, Egypt, Israel, India, Pakistan, and North Korea.
Compliance Verification
CTBT establishes a global monitoring network of over 300 facilities for detection and verification, along with provisions for on-site inspections.
Significance
Plays a crucial role in global efforts toward nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, fostering international cooperation and stability.
PYQ:
[2018] What is/are the consequence/consequences of a country becoming the member of the ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’?
It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies.
It automatically becomes a member of “The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)”.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[2011] Recently, the USA decided to support India’s membership in multilateral export control regimes called the “Australia Group” and the “Wassenaar Arrangement”. What is the difference between them?
The Australia Group is an informal arrangement which aims to allow exporting countries to minimize the risk of assisting chemical and biological weapons proliferation, whereas the Wassenaar Arrangement is a formal group under the OECD holding identical objectives.
The Australia Group comprises predominantly Asian, African and North American countries whereas the member countries of Wassenaar Arrangement are predominantly from the European Union and American Continents.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Importance of Myanmar;
Why in the News?
The 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane highlighted growing regional issues, especially Myanmar’s crisis. Despite ASEAN’s peace efforts, Myanmar’s turmoil persists, testing the group’s commitment to stability.
What are the key challenges facing ASEAN and India in their efforts to stabilize Myanmar?
Lack of Consensus within ASEAN: ASEAN’s principle of consensus-based decision-making complicates strong, unified responses.
Nations like Indonesia and Malaysia advocate for firm action, while others, including Thailand and Laos, maintain closer ties with Myanmar’s military government, slowing decisive actions.
Failure of the Five-Point Consensus: Despite ASEAN’s efforts to enforce the 2021 Five-Point Consensus, which mandates an end to violence and inclusive dialogue, Myanmar’s military has shown little interest in cooperating, undermining ASEAN’s credibility.
Exclusion of Key Groups: ASEAN’s initiatives mainly engage the junta without including the National Unity Government (NUG) or Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), limiting the inclusiveness and effectiveness of peace efforts.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Myanmar’s civil war has led to massive displacement and humanitarian needs, with over 18.6 million people requiring aid.
This poses logistical and diplomatic challenges for ASEAN and complicates India’s border security and refugee policies.
Balancing Regional and Security Concerns for India: India faces a dilemma balancing its Act East Policy objectives and the need for stability on its Myanmar border.
Issues such as cross-border militancy, illegal activities, and the refugee crisis strain India’s relations with the junta and impact regional connectivity projects.
How can Inclusive dialogue be achieved among all stakeholders in Myanmar?
ASEAN must involve non-state actors like the NUG, EAOs, and the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) in dialogue efforts to ensure all key groups have a stake in Myanmar’s peace process.
Thailand’s recent ‘Troika’ proposal to host talks with ASEAN chairs (current, past, and future) and possibly other stakeholders indicates a potential pathway for more flexible discussions, albeit with the need for junta cooperation and broader participant involvement.
Establishing humanitarian corridors that operate beyond junta-controlled areas, with the cooperation of EAOs, could lay the groundwork for inclusive engagement and build trust among conflicting parties.
What role does India’s Foreign Policy play in addressing the Myanmar crisis? (Way forward)
Strategic Engagement and Regional Connectivity: Under its Act East Policy, India invests in key infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, linking Myanmar and ASEAN.
Balanced Relations with Junta and Democracy Advocates: Need to principles of non-interference, India maintains ties with Myanmar’s military and democratic groups, addressing security needs while ethically supporting democratic aspirations.
As per Gujral Doctrine: India should engage constructively with Myanmar, respecting its sovereignty, promoting regional connectivity, and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders to enhance stability and mutual prosperity.
Mains PYQ:
Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Women Reservation; Implication of reservation in politics;
Why in the News?
The Centre has hinted that the delayed Census might begin next year and finish by 2026, which would play a key role in redrawing constituencies and starting women’s reservations in elected bodies.
What are the implications of the Women’s Reservation Bill for women’s political representation in India?
Increased Representation: The bill, once implemented, will reserve 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women, marking a significant increase in women’s representation and fostering a more inclusive legislative environment.
Long-Term Social Change: With more women in legislative positions, issues relevant to women’s rights, safety, and empowerment could receive greater legislative focus, driving long-term societal shifts toward gender equality.
Gradual Integration: By mandating women’s reservation for 15 years post-implementation, the bill allows time for systemic integration of women into Indian politics, potentially encouraging more women to enter politics.
Key features of the Women’s Reservation Bill:
Reservation of Seats: The bill reserves one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, including those seats already reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Implementation Timeline: The reservation will come into effect after the next census is conducted and published, which has not yet been scheduled. The law is set to remain in place for 15 years, with provisions for extension.
Rotating Constituencies: Reserved seats will be rotated after each delimitation exercise to ensure fair representation across different regions.
How does the delimitation process affect the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill?
Dependency on Delimitation: The reservation will only be implemented following a census-based delimitation exercise, making the timeline for reservation contingent on the next Census, expected to conclude in 2026.
Thus, the reservation may only be actionable around the 2029 general elections.
Impact on Seat Allocation: The delimitation exercise will likely increase the total seats in the Lok Sabha, which could make implementing the 33% reservation less disruptive.
For example, if Lok Sabha seats rise to around 770, this will allow for a more balanced accommodation of both male and female representatives without substantial loss of seats for male incumbents.
Challenges and Criticisms Surrounding the Women’s Reservation Bill and Its Implementation:
Delay in Implementation: As the reservation is contingent on delimitation, the immediate impact of the bill remains deferred.
Critics argue that the reservation could be enacted sooner if it did not depend on the Census and delimitation.
Intra-Party Resistance: Male incumbents might resist the bill due to concerns over losing their seats, and political parties might face difficulties balancing this resistance with the need for compliance, despite an increase in overall seats.
Exclusion of Other Marginalized Women: The bill lacks sub-quotas for women from marginalized communities, such as SC/ST/OBCs, sparking criticism that it may predominantly benefit women from privileged backgrounds rather than addressing the political representation gap for all women.
Dependence on Census Accuracy: Any delays or inaccuracies in Census data could delay the bill’s impact or result in skewed representation due to reliance on outdated demographic data.
Way forward:
Expedite Delimitation and Census: Streamline Census and delimitation processes to ensure timely data collection and boundary adjustments, enabling earlier implementation of the reservation without prolonged delays.
Include Sub-Quotas for Marginalized Women: Introduce provisions for SC/ST/OBC sub-quotas within the reservation to ensure fair representation of women from diverse social backgrounds, addressing inclusivity concerns in political representation.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment. (UPSC IAS/2019)
Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution - historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Democracy and Challenges in India;
Why in the News?
In her book “Democracy on Trial: Majoritarianism and Dissent in India”, Zoya Hasan points out that, though India’s democracy is strong in elections, it has struggled with fairness and freedoms due to growing majoritarianism since 2014.
What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?
Majoritarian Politics: Since a decade ago, India’s democracy has seen a shift toward majoritarianism, with the rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, facing marginalization.
This tilt toward majoritarian views fosters unequal treatment, weakening the universal protection of civil liberties and undermining the democratic principles of inclusion and equality.
Compromised Media Landscape: Traditionally, media acted as a watchdog on power, but now it frequently functions as a government advocate.
This shift has narrowed public discourse on civil rights and accountability, reducing the media’s role in preserving civil liberties.
Legislation Targeting Minorities: Laws such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) are seen as religiously discriminatory, especially when considered with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
Such laws challenge the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights for all citizens, placing undue pressure on certain communities and further eroding civil liberties.
Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:
Judicial Autonomy and its Challenges: While the judiciary has traditionally been a pillar of democracy, recent trends indicate compromised judicial independence.
There are instances where courts appear reluctant to challenge the executive because political pressure may be impacting judicial autonomy, thereby diminishing an essential check on power.
Media’s Decline as a Check on Power: Media independence has weakened as corporate and political influences have taken root, limiting its role in holding power to account.
Legislative and Executive Power Dynamics: The increasing concentration of power within the executive, combined with a legislative body that often aligns with the ruling agenda, limits checks and balances.
Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:
Divisive Identity Politics: Identity-based polarization is intensifying, with significant events such as the Ayodhya dispute and the Shaheen Bagh protests illustrating how political narratives can frame majority identities against minority rights.
Silencing of Dissent: Governmental responses to protests, like those against the CAA, often include the use of force, indicating reduced tolerance for opposition.
Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:
Voter Education and Awareness Campaigns: The ECI has launched extensive voter education campaigns to promote awareness about the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
Monitoring and Regulation of Political Parties: The ECI has increased scrutiny over political parties’ funding and activities to ensure transparency.
Strengthening Electoral Laws: Recent amendments to electoral laws have been made to enhance the integrity of elections.
Use of Technology: The ECI has implemented technology-driven solutions such as Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and reliability in the voting process.
Way forward:
Strengthening Institutional Independence: Reinforce the autonomy of key institutions like the judiciary, media, and law enforcement through stricter legal safeguards and transparent appointment processes.
Promoting Inclusive and Balanced Governance: Establish mechanisms to ensure equal representation and protection for all communities, addressing grievances through impartial review processes. Implementing inclusive governance policies can help counter majoritarian biases and foster a more cohesive democratic environment.
Mains PYQ:
Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Konark Wheels, Sun Temple, Kalinga Architecture
PC: konark.in
Why in the News?
Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.
About Konark Wheels
Details
Design
The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
Dimensions of Wheels
Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
Symbolism of Wheels
The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
• 7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
• 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
• 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
• 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
Architectural Features
• The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
• Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
Sun Dial Functionality
Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
Modern Representation
Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.
Its significance
The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.
Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple
Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan(assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.
PYQ:
[2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?
1. Arasavalli
2. Amarakantak
3. Omkareshwar
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Maithili; Eighth Schedule
Why in the News?
While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar governmenthad not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.
About Maithili Language
Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
The script’s oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.
AboutEighth Schedule:
Details
Purpose
Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
Relevant Articles
Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
Key Constitutional Provisions
• Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitution’s commencement.
• Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent India’s composite culture.
Languages in the Eighth Schedule
Currently includes 22 languages: Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
Official Language Status
Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.
PYQ:
[2014] Consider the following languages:
Gujarati
Kannada
Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language/Languages’ by the Government?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)
Why in the News?
Israel’s Knesset has banned the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, citing alleged ties between UNRWA staff and Hamas.
What is Israel’s Knesset?
The Knesset is Israel’s unicameral parliament, established in 1949.
It consists of 120 members, elected every four years through proportional representation, and is responsible for legislation, government oversight, and electing the president.
About UNRWA:
Details
Full Name
United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Establishment
Established by the UN General Assembly in 1949.
Primary Purpose
To provide relief, healthcare, and education for Palestinian refugees displaced after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
Headquarters
Originally in Beirut, moved to Vienna in 1978, and relocated to Gaza in 1996.
Mandate Renewal
The mandate has been renewed repeatedly, currently extended until June 30, 2026.
Fields of Operation
Operates in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
Beneficiaries
Supports over five million Palestinian refugees and their descendants displaced in 1948 and 1967.
The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared heatwaves a State-specific disaster.
It announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh for families of individuals who die from heat-related causes, including those involved in relief operations.
Key Details of the Declaration
Purpose: This declaration allows the government to provide immediate relief to those affected by extreme heat, especially during the severe temperatures of April and May 2024.
OtherState-specific disasters in TN: Sea erosion, lightning, thunder, whirlwinds, and gale winds as State-specific disasters to ensure relief assistance for those impacted by these events.
Note:
Kerala in March this year, declared man-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster, becoming the first state in the country to do so.
Once an issue is declared a state-specific disaster, the onus to deal with it shifts to the state disaster management authority, which, powered by the Disaster Management Act, can take quicker and more decisive action.
Also, district collectors can directly intervene in their capacity as the chairman of the district disaster body.
About Heatwaves:
Details
Definition
A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, relative to the usual climate of a region.
Occurrence
Typically occurs in India between March and June.
Declaration by IMD
Plains: The maximum temperature is at least 45°C
Hills: The maximum temperature is at least 30°C
Coastal regions: The maximum temperature is at least 37°C and the departure from normal is at least 4.5°C
Formation
• High-Pressure Systems: Develop when high pressure settles over a region for days or weeks.
• Air Sinking: Forces air to sink, warming and drying it.
• Increased Radiation: Fewer clouds lead to higher surface temperatures.
• Surface Winds: Warm air from lower latitudes or continental winds intensify heat.
Criteria for Declaring a Heatwave
At least two stations in a meteorological subdivision must meet one of the following criteria for two consecutive days (declared on the second day): Based on Departure from Normal:
– Heat Wave: Temperature departure of 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal.
– Severe Heat Wave: Temperature departure of >6.4°C above normal. Based on Actual Maximum Temperature (plains only):
– Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 45°C or higher.
– Severe Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 47°C or higher.
Duration
Typically lasts a minimum of four days but can extend to seven or ten days. Longest Recorded Spell: May 2015, lasting from 18 to 31 May.
Impact of Heatwaves
• Heat Strokes: Increased risk, especially for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
• Increased Healthcare Costs: Higher hospital visits and death rates from related illnesses.
• Reduced Productivity: Extreme heat affects the output of over 1 billion workers.
• Risk of Wildfires: Heat domes can lead to wildfires.
• Effect on Vegetation: Prolonged heat damages crops and leads to droughts.
• Increased Energy Demands: Higher electricity usage for cooling, driving up rates.
PYQ:
[2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.
[2013] The annual range of temperature in the interior of the continents is high as compared to coastal areas. What is / are the reason / reasons?
1. Thermal difference between land and water
2. Variation in altitude between continents and oceans
3. Presence of strong winds in the interior
4. Heavy rains in the interior as compared to coasts
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
Why in the News?
The Centre has doubled the limit of Mudra loan amount under the PMMY to Rs 20 lakh from Rs 10 lakh under a new ‘Tarun Plus’ category to promote entrepreneurship in the country.
This higher loan limit is available to entrepreneurs who have previously taken and successfully repaid loans under the existing ‘Tarun’ category.
AboutPradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):
Details
Launch
Launched on April 8, 2015, by Prime Minister.
Objective
To provide financial assistance and support to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs through collateral-free loans.
Non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs are individuals or entities that operate small-scale businesses outside the corporate and agricultural sectors.
These include self-employed workers, small retail shops, artisans, repair services, and other informal sector businesses, often with limited capital and workforce.
Recent Update
Loan limit increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh under the new Tarun Plus category, announced in July 2024.
Loan Categories
• Shishu: Loans up to Rs 50,000
• Kishore: Loans between Rs 50,000 and Rs 5 lakh
• Tarun: Loans between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh
• Tarun Plus: Loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh
Loan Performance (2023-24)
• 66.8 million Loans sanctioned totaling Rs 5.4 trillion.
• Over 487.8 million loans worth Rs 29.79 trillion sanctioned since launch.
NPA Statistics
• NPA of public sector banks under Mudra loans decreased to 3.4% in FY24, down from 4.77% in 2020-21.
• Gross NPA for scheduled commercial banks at 2.8% as of March 2024.
Target Beneficiaries
Aims to empower women, minorities, and marginalized communities by facilitating easy access to credit.
Technological Intervention
MUDRA Card: An innovative credit product that offers an overdraft facility and can be used like a debit card for transactions.
MUDRA MITRA App: A mobile application providing information about MUDRA and its schemes, guiding loan seekers to approach banks for availing loans.
PYQ:
[2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at:
(a) Bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system.
(b) Providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops.
(c) Providing pension to old and destitute persons.
(d) Funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Women Empowerment; Impact of solar energy production on society;
Why in the News?
Rooftop solar (RTS) can transform India’s energy landscape by providing a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution for rising electricity needs and could empower consumers (women and other sections of society) toward greater self-reliance.
How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?
Income Generation and Financial Independence: Solar technology enables women to generate income directly, especially in rural areas where traditional energy sources are scarce or costly.
For instance, solar-powered pumps have empowered women salt farmers in Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, who, after shifting from diesel to solar, saw a 94% income boost and lower CO₂ emissions.
Employment Opportunities: The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, employing around 4.9 million people in 2022, has been particularly impactful for women, who make up about 40% of its workforce.
Empowerment Programs: Initiatives like Barefoot College in India and Solar Sister in Africa train women as solar engineers. These programs enhance skills, improve self-reliance, and create employment in remote communities.
What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?
Community Well-being and Social Development: Women’s participation in the solar sector promotes local economic growth and strengthens social structures.
Leadership and Decision-Making: When women lead or actively participate in renewable energy projects, they often advocate for inclusive policies and better community engagement.
Gender-Sensitive Energy Policies: Women’s involvement highlights the need for energy policies that address the unique needs of women, improving both economic participation and social inclusion.
What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?
Access to Training and Financing: Women often face limited access to training and funding.
Overcoming these barriers requires accessible, affordable training programs in solar technology, as well as microfinance schemes specifically for women-led renewable energy projects.
Gender Bias and Occupational Segregation: The renewable energy sector, like many others, is affected by gender biases that can limit women’s roles to lower-level positions.
To address this, it’s important to promote women’s leadership and equal opportunities through gender-sensitive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Energy access policies frequently lack a gender perspective, which limits their reach and inclusiveness.
Integrating gender-focused policies in energy and rural development sectors can enhance the socio-economic impacts of solar energy for women.
Conclusion: Governments should integrate gender-focused policies within renewable energy frameworks, ensuring accessible financing options and training programs specifically for women. Microfinance schemes and subsidies for women-led solar projects can foster broader participation.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India’s Imports and Exports; Impact of global crises on fertilizer;
Why in the News?
As the crises inUkraine and Gaza persist, experts and policymakers are increasingly concerned about further rises in the costs of components essential for producing petroleum-based chemical fertilizers.
Current Scenario of Fertilizer Imports:
India’s domestic fertilizer production capacity does not meet the full demand, requiring substantial imports to bridge the gap.
Urea: Approximately 20% of India’s urea requirement is met through imports.
Diammonium Phosphate (DAP): Around 50-60% of DAP demand is fulfilled by imports.
Muriate of Potassium (MOP or Potash): 100% of India’s MOP demand is met through imports, as there is no domestic production.
The Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers (August 2023) expressed concern about India’s dependence on imports for fertilizers, recommending an increase in domestic production capacity.
How did the conflict in Ukraine impact the Global Fertilizer Market?
Market Instability: Ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza are disrupting the stability of the global fertilizer market, particularly affecting the prices of oil and petroleum-based fertilizers.
Supply Chain Disruptions: These conflicts affect global supply chains, particularly for fertilizer-producing countries such as Russia, which has been a significant source of fertilizer imports for India.
Price Volatility: Higher oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Gaza indirectly drive up costs of fertilizers, as these are often by-products of petroleum.
Its effects on India
Rising Import Costs: Increased global fertilizer prices lead to higher import costs for India, putting pressure on the fertilizer subsidy budget.
Potential Supply Constraints: India’s reliance on imports from conflict-affected regions like Russia and West Asia (including the Middle East) poses risks of reduced fertilizer availability.
Budget Strain: India’s fertilizer subsidy allocation for 2023-24 was ₹1.79 lakh crore, with substantial amounts dedicated to both indigenous and imported fertilizers.
Need for Self-Reliance: The conflicts underscore the importance for India to reduce dependency on imports by increasing domestic production capacity, promoting alternatives like nano urea, and exploring sustainable practices like natural farming.
Steps taken by the government:
New Investment Policy (NIP): NIP supports new urea manufacturing units by PSUs and private companies, boosting production capacity from 207.54 LMTPA in 2014-15 to 283.74 LMTPA.
Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS): The government included Potash from Molasses under NBS in 2021, encouraging local production and reducing import dependency.
Public-Private Joint Ventures: PSUs and private firms collaborate in urea production, establishing units like the Ramagundam Fertilizers in Telangana and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan plants in northern states.
Way forward:
Boost Domestic Production: Increase India’s fertilizer production capacity through investment in domestic infrastructure and support for nano urea and alternative sustainable fertilizers to reduce import dependency.
Adopt Policy Reforms: Implement policies promoting self-reliance in fertilizers, with targeted subsidies and incentives for private, public, and cooperative sectors to enhance production and ensure affordable supply amidst global market volatility.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: United Nations; Role of UN peacekeeper;
Why in the News?
During mid-October, 34 UNIFIL troop-contributing Nations condemned attacks on peacekeepers and urged respect forUNIFIL’s mission. Although not listed, India expressed full alignment with the joint statement.
About UNIFIL:
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) is a peacekeeping mission established in 1978, focused on monitoring the cessation of hostilities, supporting Lebanese stability, and ensuring security along the Lebanon-Israel Blue Line.
What prompted the condemnation from India and Spain regarding the attacks on UN peacekeepers?
Repeated Targeting of Peacekeepers: Peacekeepers, including Indian personnel, faced direct attacks, such as IDF tank fire on UNIFIL positions and deliberate disabling of surveillance systems. Spain, along with other European countries, condemned these attacks as “unjustifiable.”
Violation of International Norms: These attacks on UN peacekeeping personnel and facilities violated the UN mandate, undermining the peacekeepers’ protection under international humanitarian law. Both India and Spain view this as a significant breach of norms that safeguard the sanctity of UN missions.
Response to Escalating Risk to Peacekeepers: Statements from both India and Spain emphasized the need for respecting UN premises’ “inviolability” and maintaining safety for peacekeepers amidst escalations, underscoring the importance of ensuring the protection and security of peacekeepers.
What is the significance of UNIFIL’s role in Lebanon, and how do India and Spain view it?
Peacekeeping and Stability: UNIFIL is crucial in mediating and maintaining peace along the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon. Its presence serves as a stabilizing force, helping prevent spillovers of conflict, which is essential for regional peace.
India’s Role as a Major Contributor: With 903 personnel deployed, India plays a substantial role in peacekeeping efforts, reflecting its commitment to UN missions and highlighting the need for global respect toward UN mandates.
Spain’s Support for UNIFIL’s Mission: Spain aligns with other European countries in reinforcing UNIFIL’s role in regional stability. By condemning attacks, Spain emphasizes the importance of this mission in Lebanon and, by extension, its support for UN peacekeeping mandates globally.
How do these events relate to broader geopolitical tensions in the region?
Regional Escalations and Proxy Conflicts: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly in Lebanon, feeds into broader geopolitical dynamics involving Israeli security concerns, Lebanese stability, and Iran’s influence through Hezbollah.
Impact on Global Diplomacy: The hostilities and targeting of UN peacekeepers may strain diplomatic relations, as countries urge Israel to respect international norms and safeguard peacekeepers. This may influence the UN Security Council’s approach, emphasizing a unified international stance against actions threatening UN missions.
Pressure on Multinational Cooperation and Regional Security: The events underscore the risks of operating in volatile zones where multinational peacekeeping efforts face direct threats.
Way forward:
Strengthen Diplomatic Engagement: India should actively engage with the UN Security Council and regional stakeholders to advocate for stringent measures ensuring the protection of UN peacekeepers and upholding the sanctity of UN mandates in conflict zones.
Enhance Contingency Protocols for Peacekeepers: India should work with UNIFIL and other troop-contributing countries to strengthen on-ground security protocols and response mechanisms.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 9th National Ayurveda Day
Why in the News?
On the occasion of the 9th Ayurveda Day, Prime Minister will launch several healthcare projects valued at Rs 12,850 crore.
The focal theme for Ayurveda day-2024 has been decided as ‘Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health’.
About Ayurveda:
Details
Origins
• Rooted in four Vedas (5000–1000 BCE).
• References in Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.
• Fully developed by 1000 BCE with Charaka Samhita and Susruta Samhita.
Foundational Texts
• Brhattrayi (Three Major Treatises):
• Caraka Samhita (internal medicine)
• Susruta Samhita (surgery)
• Astanga Sangraha and Astanga Hrdaya (Vrddha Vagbhata and Vagbhata, 6th-7th century CE).
• Takshashila and Nalanda universities attracted foreign students.
Global Influence
• Spread through Buddhism to Tibetan and Chinese medicine.
• Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans adopted concepts via trade and interactions.
• 8th century CE saw Nagarjuna study medicinal use of metals.
Integration of Modern Techniques
• 16th century saw inclusion of modern diagnostics and treatment for new diseases.
Revival in India (19th-20th Cent.)
• 1827: First Ayurveda course at Government Sanskrit College, Calcutta.
• 20th Century: Ayurveda colleges spread under regional patronage.
• 1970s: Ayurveda revived, with academic research, publications, and global symposia.
Current Status
• Structured undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education.
• Strong network of practitioners and manufacturers.
• Developed infrastructure for community outreach.
Global Influence
24 countries recognize Ayurveda legally.
Collaborative platforms include:
• SCO Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine
• BIMSTEC Taskforce on Traditional Medicine
• BRICS High-Level Forum on Traditional Medicine.
• Ayurveda products exported to 100+ countries.
WHO Standards and Milestones
• ICD-11 Integration: WHO included Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani in ICD-11 TM Module 2.
• WHO set global standards for practice and training.
• GCTM, Jamnagar (Gujarat): Focuses on Ayurveda research, education, and practice.
Philosophical Foundations
• Historical evidence dates to the first millennium BCE.
• Knowledge passed from gods to sages and then to human physicians.
• Central concepts align with Samkhya, Vaisheshika, Buddhism, and Jainism.
• Emphasis on balance and maintaining natural urges.
Initiatives and Programs by the Govt.
National Ayush Mission (2014): Aimed at promoting the development and growth of Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) in the country, focusing on strengthening educational institutions and enhancing the quality of services.
Ayurveda Research Portal (2021): Promotes research in Ayurveda by providing a digital platform for researchers, practitioners, and institutions to access data, funding opportunities, and collaborative initiatives.
Ayush Grid (2020): A digital initiative aimed at enhancing the accessibility of Ayush services and information through online platforms, connecting practitioners, patients, and educational institutions.
PYQ:
[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Similipal Tiger Reserve
Why in the News?
The Odisha government has translocated a female tiger from Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve to Similipal Tiger Reserve, the State’s largest, to enhance the genetic diversity of its tiger population.
Why discuss this?
The All Odisha Tiger Estimation (AOTE-2023-24) says a total of 30 tigers were found in Odisha. Similipal has 27 of them.
A total of 13 adult tigers (seven females and six males) were found to be pseudo-melanistic in Similipal, and no other wild habitat in the world has pseudo-melanistic tigers.
Research indicates that a single mutation in the Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) gene causes Similipal’s black tigers to develop distinctive striped patterns.
About Simlipal Tiger Reserve (STR):
Details
Location
Located in the Mayurbhanj District, Northernmost part of Odisha, surrounded by high plateaus and hills.
Highest Peak
Twin peaks of Khairiburu and Meghashini, at 1515 meters above mean sea level.
Designation
Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1956; included in the Project Tiger national conservation program in 1973.
UNESCO Recognition
Included as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO in 2009.
Terrain
Mostly undulating and hilly, interspersed with open grasslands and wooded areas.
Vegetation
A mix of different forest types, predominantly Northern tropical moist deciduous and semi-evergreen patches.
Tribal Communities
Inhabited by various tribes including Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Bhatudi, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara.
Flora
Home to 1078 species of plants, including 94 species of orchids, with Sal being the dominant tree species.
Fauna
Diverse wildlife including Leopard, Gaur, Elephant, Langur, Barking and Spotted Deer, Sloth Bear, Mongoose, Flying Squirrel, Porcupine, Turtle, Monitor Lizard, Python, Sambar, Pangolin, etc.
PYQ:
[2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?
