Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Election Commission of India; Issues related to voters;
Why in the News?
January 25 is the 75th anniversary of the Election Commission of India, celebrated as ‘National Voters Day’ to recognize its role in protecting democracy and ensuring fair elections in India.
What are the current challenges facing the ECI?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is currently facing significant challenges that threaten its credibility and effectiveness:
- Electoral Roll Manipulation: Allegations of mass enrolment of dubious voters have emerged, particularly highlighted during the Maharashtra State elections, where the ECI enrolled 9.7 crore voters despite an estimated adult population of only 9.54 crore. This discrepancy raises concerns about potential government interference in electoral processes.
- Verification Issues: Questions regarding the verification of new voters have surfaced, especially with a reported 48 lakh new registrations occurring in just six months. The legitimacy of these voters and whether proper verification processes were followed remain unaddressed.
- Public Trust: The ECI’s perceived lack of transparency and responsiveness to these concerns has led to a decline in public trust. Critics argue that the commission has been dismissive of legitimate inquiries regarding electoral integrity, which undermines its authority.
How has the role of the Election Commission evolved over time?
- Established in 1950, the ECI was designed to ensure free and fair elections in India, independent from governmental influence.
- Founding leaders like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar emphasized the importance of an autonomous body for maintaining electoral integrity.
- Technological Advancements: The ECI has adapted to technological changes by implementing electronic voting machines (EVMs) and online voter registration systems, aiming to streamline the electoral process and enhance voter participation.
- Voter Education Initiatives: The commission has increasingly focused on voter education and awareness campaigns, particularly through National Voters’ Day celebrations, which aim to engage young voters and promote democratic values.
What reforms are necessary to strengthen the EC’s authority and public trust?
To enhance its effectiveness and restore public confidence, several reforms are necessary:
- Biometric Verification: Implementing Aadhaar-based biometric verification for voter registration could help eliminate ghost voters and ensure that only eligible citizens are enrolled. This would strengthen the integrity of electoral rolls.
- Transparency Measures: The ECI should adopt greater transparency by publicly releasing data related to voter enrolment and verification processes. This would address concerns about electoral roll manipulation and build trust among citizens.
- Strengthening Legal Framework: Revising existing laws to provide the ECI with more robust powers to oversee and enforce electoral integrity could prevent interference from political entities and ensure fair elections.
Conclusion: The ECI should establish robust mechanisms for public scrutiny by releasing detailed voter enrolment and verification data, coupled with regular audits, to rebuild trust and ensure accountability.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Why in the News?
The government recently published a factsheet on the 2023-24 Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES), highlighting a reduction in poverty levels across both urban and rural areas.
What are the key findings of the report?
- Average MPCE and Imputed Values: In 2023-24, the average Monthly Per Capita Expenditure (MPCE) was Rs. 4,122 in rural areas and Rs. 6,996 in urban areas, excluding the value of free items provided through social welfare schemes.
- Growth in MPCE and Urban-Rural Gap: Compared to 2022-23, the MPCE in nominal terms grew by approximately 9% in rural areas and 8% in urban areas. The urban-rural MPCE gap narrowed from 84% in 2011-12 to 71% in 2022-23, further declining to 70% in 2023-24, indicating robust consumption growth in rural areas.
- Consumption Trends by Population Segments: The highest increase in MPCE in 2023-24, compared to 2022-23, was observed among the bottom 5-10% of India’s population, for both rural and urban households.
- Composition of Expenditure: Non-food items accounted for 53% of rural MPCE and 60% of urban MPCE in 2023-24. Within the food basket, beverages, refreshments, and processed foods dominated expenditure, while in the non-food category, conveyance, clothing, entertainment, and durable goods were significant contributors. Urban households also allocated about 7% of non-food expenditure to rent.
- Decline in Consumption Inequality: The rural Gini coefficient dropped from 0.266 in 2022-23 to 0.237 in 2023-24, and the urban coefficient fell from 0.314 to 0.284 during the same period.
| Note: The Gini coefficient is a statistical measure used to quantify income or consumption inequality within a population, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (maximum inequality). |
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What are the concerns related to the HCES data?
- Incomparability of Data Sets: The methodology used in the 2022-23 HCES differs significantly from previous surveys, making it difficult to compare results over time. The introduction of a “modified mixed reference period” complicates direct comparisons with earlier data collected under different methodologies.
- Sampling Bias: There are concerns that the survey may not adequately represent extremely poor households, leading to an overestimation of average expenditures. This bias could arise from changes in sampling strategies that favor more affluent households.
- Data Availability Issues: The absence of recent and reliable consumption data prior to the 2022-23 survey has led to a reliance on outdated estimates, which may not accurately reflect current poverty levels. The last comprehensive survey before this was conducted in 2011-12.
What does the consumption pattern tell about poverty in rural and urban regions?
- Divergent Poverty Levels: The average monthly per capita expenditure (MPCE) indicates significant disparities between rural and urban areas, with rural areas averaging Rs 4,122 and urban areas Rs 6,996 in 2023-24. This suggests that urban populations generally have higher consumption levels.
- Survival on Minimal Incomes: Reports indicate that a substantial portion of India’s population survives on less than Rs 100 per day, highlighting persistent poverty despite claims of decline. This raises questions about the adequacy of the poverty line used for estimation.
What are the criticisms faced by the Multidimensional Poverty Index?
NITI Aayog, the policy think tank of the Government of India, adopted the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) as a measure to evaluate poverty in India.
- Methodological Concerns: Critics argue that the MPI’s reliance on equal weighting for health, education, and living standards may oversimplify the complexities of poverty. The selection of indicators can significantly influence outcomes, potentially leading to biased representations.
- Dynamic Nature of Poverty: The MPI may not adequately capture the fluidity and changing nature of poverty over time, as it relies on static indicators that do not reflect immediate economic conditions or shocks such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Political Implications: Some economists suggest that using MPI as a primary measure for poverty could be politically motivated, aiming to present favourable statistics while ignoring deeper economic issues such as stagnant real wages and rising inequality.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Data Collection: Conduct regular and comprehensive Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) to ensure updated and accurate poverty assessments. This will bridge data gaps and provide a more reliable basis for policy decisions.
- Refine Poverty Metrics: Combine the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) with traditional consumption-based measures to capture a holistic and dynamic picture of poverty, accounting for region-specific and pandemic-induced challenges.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of the National Health Mission (NHM) for an additional five years(2025 to 2030).
What are the new Components of the NHM and initiatives launched?
- Digital Health Initiatives: The U-WIN platform was launched in January 2023 to improve vaccination tracking for pregnant women, infants, and children, expanding to 65 districts across 36 states/UTs by the end of FY 2023-24.
- Expanded Healthcare Programs: NHM has overseen the launch of initiatives such as the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission and the Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign, enhancing disease control efforts.
- Strengthening Human Resources: The NHM has focused on increasing healthcare personnel, engaging over 1.2 million additional healthcare workers across various roles since its last extension.
What are the key achievements of the National Health Mission during its previous tenure?
- Reduction in Maternal and Child Mortality:
- Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): Declined from 130 per lakh live births in 2014-16 to 97 per lakh in 2018-20 (25% reduction).
- Under-5 Mortality Rate: Decreased from 45 per 1,000 live births in 2014 to 32 in 2020 (75% decline).
- Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): Reduced from 39 per 1,000 live births in 2014 to 28 in 2020. India is on track to achieve the SDG targets for maternal, child, and infant mortality before 2030.
- Healthcare Workforce Expansion: The NHM facilitated the engagement of approximately 2.69 lakh additional healthcare workers in 2021-22 alone, contributing to improved healthcare delivery.
- Disease Control Improvements: Enhanced surveillance and control measures for diseases like tuberculosis have led to a decrease in incidence rates, contributing to overall public health improvements.
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What are the financial implications and commitments associated with the NHM’s extension?
- Budgetary Allocation and Funding Structure: The National Health Mission (NHM) continues based on recommendations from the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) and fixed spending limits. While the mission has been extended, its budget is reviewed regularly to ensure efficient use of resources.
- For funding, most states share costs with the central government in a 60:40 ratio, while northeastern and hilly states follow a 90:10 pattern. This setup ensures states have enough funds to implement health programs effectively.
- Performance-Based Funding: The NHM rewards states with additional funds for improving key health outcomes like maternal and child health. This encourages states to enhance their healthcare systems.
- Local committees, such as Rogi Kalyan Samitis (RKS), also receive untied funds, giving them the flexibility to directly address patient needs and improve services.
- Commitment to Health Targets: By 2025, the NHM aimed to achieve specific health goals, including reducing the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) to 90, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) to 23, and the Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) to 23. Achieving these targets will require consistent investment in health infrastructure, workforce training, and community programs.
- The government is also focused on tackling broader factors affecting health, such as nutrition and disease prevention while improving access to healthcare for disadvantaged groups.
What are the challenges?
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many Primary Health Centres (PHCs) lack essential diagnostic tools, medical equipment, and sanitation facilities. PHCs in remote areas of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh often face electricity and water supply shortages, limiting their ability to deliver quality care.
- Shortage and Distribution of Healthcare Workforce: Despite adding 1.2 million healthcare workers, there remains a shortage of specialists such as gynaecologists, anaesthetists, and paediatricians in rural areas. Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh struggle to staff CHCs with specialized doctors.
- Financial Constraints and Inefficient Fund Utilization: Delays in fund disbursement and underutilization of allocated budgets hinder the implementation of key initiatives. Northeastern states like Nagaland and Manipur faced challenges in utilizing NHM funds due to inadequate financial planning and monitoring mechanisms.
Way forward:
- Infrastructure and Workforce Enhancement: Strengthen PHC and CHC infrastructure with essential facilities and ensure equitable distribution of healthcare specialists through targeted incentives, training, and deployment programs in underserved areas.
- Efficient Fund Utilization: Streamline fund disbursement processes, enhance financial planning, and implement robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure optimal use of allocated budgets, particularly in resource-constrained regions.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2021)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pangsau Pass
Why in the News?
The Pangsau Pass International Festival returns to Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, from January 20-22, 2025, celebrating India-Myanmar cultural ties and heritage after a four-year gap.
About Pangsau Pass
- Pangsau Pass is a vital mountain pass located on the India-Myanmar border, connecting the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, with the Sagaing Region of Myanmar.
- Situated in the Patkai Hills, it lies at an altitude of approximately 3,727 feet (1,136 meters) above sea level.
- Often referred to as “Hell Pass” due to its challenging terrain and dense forests, it serves as both a geographical marvel and a historical landmark.
Geographical Significance:
- Strategic Location: Acts as a natural link between India and Myanmar, facilitating cross-border trade and cultural exchanges.
- Scenic and Biodiverse: Attractions include the Lake of No Return, a mythical body of water in Myanmar associated with World War II legends.
- Tourism Potential: The Pangsau Pass International Festival showcases the region’s tribal cultures, boosting local economies and promoting tourism.
Historical/Political Significance
- The pass was a crucial part of the Stillwell Road (Ledo Road), constructed during World War II to connect India to China through Myanmar.
- It played a pivotal role in the China-Burma-India Theater, facilitating supply lines for Allied forces.
- It serves as a gateway for implementing India’s Act East Policy, aimed at strengthening ties with Southeast Asia.
- It facilitates cross-border trade and cultural exchanges, fostering economic and diplomatic relationships between India and Myanmar.
- It enables communities on both sides of the border to engage under the Free Movement Regime (FMR) (now suspended), allowing visitors to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territories without visas or passports.
PYQ:
[2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:
1. Deep gorges
2. U-turn river courses
3. Parallel mountain ranges
4. Steep gradients causing land-sliding
Which of the above can be said to be the evidences for Himalayas being young fold mountains?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Geographical Indications (GI) Tags
Why in the News?
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry has announced an ambitious target to achieve 10,000 Geographical Indication (GI) tags by 2030.
About Geographical Indications (GI) Tags
- A GI is a sign identifying a product as originating from a specific geographical location, possessing qualities, reputation, or characteristics inherently linked to that origin.
- It is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, effective from September 2003.
- It is defined under Article 22(1) of the WTO’s TRIPS Agreement.
- It is managed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- GI tags are valid for 10 years and can be renewed upon expiry.
- Darjeeling Tea was the first product to receive a GI tag in 2004–05.
- Purpose and Benefits:
- Protects the identity of unique products linked to specific regions.
- Promotes economic development, cultural preservation, and export potential.
Procedural Implementation and Recognition of GI’s:
- Authority for GI Tags:
- The Controller-General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, serves as the Registrar of Geographical Indications.
- The register for GIs is divided into:
- Part A: Registration of GIs.
- Part B: Registration of authorized users.
- Application Process:
- Applications can be made by individuals, associations of persons, producers, or authorized organizations representing the producers’ interests.
- Applications must include details about the product’s quality, nature, reputation, geographical environment, manufacturing process, natural and human factors, and a map of the production territory.
- Scrutiny and Decision:
- The Registrar conducts a preliminary review for deficiencies, with applicants given one month to address any issues.
- Accepted applications are advertised in the GI Journal, inviting objections.
- If unopposed, a certificate of registration is granted.
- Timeframe:
- Registration must be completed within 12 months; otherwise, the Registrar may abandon the application after notifying the applicant.
PYQ:
[2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?
1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
3. Tirupathi Laddu
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Keeling Curve
Why in the News?
Atmospheric CO₂ levels hit a record high in 2024 due to wildfires and human activities, as shown by the Keeling Curve, a 67-year record maintained at Mauna Loa Observatory since 1958.
What is Keeling Curve?
- The Keeling Curve is a long-term record of atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, initiated by Charles David Keeling in 1958 at the Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii.
- It tracks the rise in CO₂ levels and provides evidence of the impact of human activities on climate change.
- Named after Charles David Keeling, it has become a globally recognized tool for understanding global warming.
Significant Features and Sources:
- Steady Upward Trend: Demonstrates a consistent rise in atmospheric CO₂ levels since 1958, primarily due to fossil fuel combustion and deforestation.
- Seasonal Fluctuations:
- CO₂ levels decrease during spring and summer as plants absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis.
- Levels increase during fall and winter when plant decay releases CO₂.
- Initial Measurements: Recorded CO₂ levels at 315 ppm in 1958.
- Current Levels: As of January 2025, CO₂ concentrations have reached 427.1 ppm, the highest in millions of years.
- Data Sources: Measurements are taken from Mauna Loa Observatory and other global monitoring stations.
Observations around the Curve
- Key Milestones:
- 1988: CO₂ levels reached 350 ppm, drawing global attention to climate change.
- 2023: Levels exceeded 420 ppm, marking a critical point in atmospheric history.
- 2024: Record growth of 3.58 ppm in average annual CO₂ concentrations compared to 2023.
- Contributing Factors:
- El Niño: Surface temperature rise in the Pacific Ocean boosted CO₂ emissions during 2024, exacerbated by wildfires in North and South America.
- Anthropogenic Emissions: Burning fossil fuels and land-use changes remain major contributors.
- Global Implications:
- Contradicts IPCC scenarios for limiting global warming to 1.5°C, as emissions continue to rise.
- Record increases in CO₂ levels during El Niño events highlight the interplay between natural phenomena and human activities.
PYQ:
[2011] Consider the following:
1. Photosynthesis
2. Respiration
3. Decay of organic matter
4. Volcanic action
Which of the above add carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on Earth?
(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
Why in the News?
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) has completed 10 years on January 22, 2025. As of November 2024, over 4.1 crore SSY accounts have been opened, highlighting the scheme’s success and its role in fostering inclusivity and progress.
About Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY):
- Launched on January 22, 2015, under Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Campaign.
- It is a small deposit scheme by the Ministry of Finance for a girl child
- Over 4.1 crore accounts opened as of November 2024.
- Aims and Objectives:
- To meet the education and marriage expenses of a girl child.
- Promote financial independence and secure futures for girl children.
Criteria and Provisions:
- Eligibility: For girl children under 10 years; max 2 accounts per family (exceptions for twins/triplets).
- Deposits: Minimum: ₹250; Maximum: ₹1.5 lakh annually; deposits for 15 years.
- Withdrawals:
- Partial: Up to 50% after age 18 or completion of 10th standard for education.
- Full: Allowed for marriage (minimum age 18).
- Interest Calculation: Monthly on the lowest balance; credited annually.
- Premature Closure: Allowed for medical emergencies or death of guardian.
- Interest: ate of interest 9.2% Per Annum (wef 1-4-2015), calculated on yearly basis, yearly compounded.
- Tax Benefits: Quarterly rates compounded annually; investments and returns are tax-free under Section 80C.
Structural Mandate and Implementation
- Managed by guardian till age 18; account matures in 21 years.
- Can be opened/transferred at post offices or banks.
- Early closure for marriage requires proof of age and marriage documents.
PYQ:
[2014] What is/are the facility/facilities the beneficiaries can get from the services of Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in branchless areas?
- It enables the beneficiaries to draw their subsidies and social security benefits in their villages.
- It enables the beneficiaries in the rural areas to make deposits and withdrawals.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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