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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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Chinese dominance in Geopolitics (2024) and Mines and Minerals in Indian Economy (2021 & 2022).
Despite having the fifth-largest reserves of rare earths globally, India currently lags in all stages of rare earth development. India heavily relies on China for critical minerals, with significant import percentages for essential resources such as lithium (82%), bismuth (85.6%), and silicon (76%). This dependency poses risks to India’s economic security. The International Energy Agency predicts that demand could double by 2030 and quadruple by 2040.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the challenges posed by the Critical Mineral industry at national and Global level. This content can be used for presenting the challenges in the Indian Economy with respect to Critical Mines and Minerals and Trade issues.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
China’s recent actions (expanded its export control list by including 28 entities), including potential export restrictions, have heightened fears about India’s reliance on Chinese supplies of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
- China controls a substantial portion of the global supply of critical minerals, producing about 60% of rare earth elements, 50% of lithium, and 70% of cobalt.
- This dominance extends to processing, where China handles approximately 80% of the world’s critical mineral processing, allowing it to influence global prices and availability significantly.
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What are the implications of China’s dominance in the critical minerals supply chain for India’s Economic Security?
- Supply Chain Vulnerability: India’s heavy reliance on Chinese imports for critical minerals like lithium and cobalt creates significant risks, as China’s control over a large share of global production and processing capacity could lead to supply disruptions or price increases.
- Geopolitical Leverage: China’s ability to restrict access to critical minerals during geopolitical tensions poses a direct threat to India’s energy transition and economic stability, potentially hindering its renewable energy goals.
- Need for Strategic Diversification: In response to these challenges, India must pursue strategic partnerships with resource-rich countries and invest in domestic mineral exploration and processing capabilities to reduce dependence on China.
- Global Competition and Sustainability: As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, India must balance its pursuit of resource independence with sustainable mining practices, ensuring long-term availability while addressing environmental concerns.
What are the key challenges in developing India’s domestic critical mineral production?
- Limited Exploration and Development: Complex geology, lack of advanced exploration technologies, and regulatory hurdles slow down the discovery and commercial extraction of resources like lithium and cobalt.
- Processing Capacity Gaps: India lacks sufficient domestic processing and refining facilities for critical minerals. This gap forces the country to depend on foreign processing.
- Regulatory and Policy Constraints: Existing regulations reserve certain critical minerals for public sector undertakings, limiting private sector participation in exploration and mining.
- Additionally, the need for an updated list of critical minerals in the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act hampers timely exploration efforts.
- Establishing new exploration and processing activities involves long gestation periods, which can delay India’s efforts to become self-reliant in critical minerals.
- Skilled Workforce Shortage: There is a shortage of skilled manpower in the materials, minerals, and metals sectors due to gaps in specialized training and advanced skills development.
- Environmental Concerns: Mining activities can lead to significant environmental degradation, including biodiversity loss, water depletion, and pollution. Addressing these concerns while developing mineral resources poses a challenge for sustainable practices.
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How can India effectively reduce its dependency on Chinese imports for critical minerals?
- Domestic Exploration and Production: India is focusing on enhancing its domestic mining capabilities by identifying and exploring critical mineral reserves within its territory.
- For Example, the recent discoveries of lithium deposits in states like Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Karnataka highlight the potential for self-reliance in critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies.
- Critical Minerals Mission: Government has launched a Critical Mineral Mission aimed at securing domestic production, recycling, and overseas acquisition of critical minerals.
- This mission includes incentives for private companies to establish processing facilities and aims to reduce import duties on key minerals, thereby promoting local processing and refining.
- International Partnerships: India is actively seeking to forge strategic partnerships with resource-rich countries, particularly in Africa and Latin America, to secure mineral blocks through government-to-government agreements.
- This includes investments in countries like Australia, Chile, Ghana, and South Africa to diversify supply sources and mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on China.
- Regulatory Reforms and Investment: The Indian government is implementing regulatory reforms to attract private investment in the critical minerals sector.
- This includes auctioning critical mineral blocks to both state-owned and private companies, establishing entities like Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) for overseas acquisitions, and enhancing the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) to support exploration efforts.
Key Significant Features of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023
- Private Sector Involvement: The amendment allows the private sector to explore and mine six critical minerals previously restricted to state agencies, including lithium, beryllium, niobium, titanium, tantalum, and zirconium. This shift encourages private investment and expertise in the mining sector.
- Exploration Licenses (EL): The introduction of Exploration Licenses enables private companies to conduct reconnaissance and prospecting for critical minerals. This is expected to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and engage junior mining companies, thereby boosting exploration efforts for deep-seated minerals.
- Exclusive Auctions for Critical Minerals: The central government is empowered to auction mineral concessions for critical minerals such as rare earth elements, cobalt, and nickel. This streamlined auction process is designed to accelerate production and generate revenue for state governments.
- Revenue-Sharing Mechanism: If resources are proven after exploration, the state government must conduct an auction for mining leases within six months. The exploration licensee will receive a share in the auction value of the subsequent mining lease, incentivizing exploration activities.
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What role do global market dynamics play in shaping India’s critical mineral policies?
- Geopolitical Influences: The competitive landscape of critical minerals is heavily influenced by geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, which dominates the supply chain.
- India’s policies need to be increasingly designed to mitigate reliance on Chinese imports by fostering partnerships with countries like the U.S., Australia, and members of the Quad, aiming for a more diversified and secure supply chain.
- Investment in Domestic Capabilities: To counteract dependency on imports, India should implement regulatory reforms to attract private investment in the mining sector.
- This includes auctioning mineral blocks and promoting initiatives like the National Critical Minerals Mission, which aims to strengthen the entire value chain from exploration to processing.
- Need for Strategic Sourcing: Global market fluctuations can lead to price volatility for critical minerals, prompting India to develop a carefully crafted import strategy.
- This strategy focuses on establishing stable relationships with resource-rich nations and diversifying sourcing options to mitigate risks associated with supply disruptions.
- Fiscal Incentives: A possible remedy is to offer larger upfront fiscal incentives during the exploration phase. In other words, pledging direct capital support early in the construction phase might be to approach critical minerals extraction as a semiconductor fabrication project.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to Indus Water Treaty ;
Why in the News?
A neutral expert appointed by the World Bank has supported India’s stance on how to resolve disputes with Pakistan over the Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects.
What are the key features of the Indus Water Treaty?
The IWT was signed on September 19, 1960, by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistani President Ayub Khan, with the aim of regulating the use of water from the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan after extensive negotiations facilitated by the World Bank.
- Permanent Sharing of Water: The IWT ensures a clear division of water resources, allowing peaceful coexistence of water usage.
- Run-of-the-River Projects: India is allowed to build hydroelectric power projects on the Western Rivers, provided they do not obstruct natural river flows.
- Role of the World Bank: As a mediator, the World Bank facilitates the appointment of experts or arbitral bodies in case of disputes.
- Modification Provisions: Article XII (3) allows amendments to the Treaty through mutual consent.
What are the Disputes around the Indus Water Treaty?
- Run-of-the-River Projects: India’s construction of run-of-the-river hydroelectric projects, such as Kishanganga (a tributary of Jhelum) and Ratle (on the Chenab) has faced objections from Pakistan. Pakistan claims these projects could disrupt downstream water flow and utilisation, while India asserts they comply with the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
- Dispute Resolution Mechanism: Pakistan sought arbitration at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), but India contested its jurisdiction and emphasised using the Neutral Expert process as outlined in the treaty. India views this process as a treaty-compliant method for resolving technical differences:
- Whether the pondage capacity of the two dams follows the limits set by the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
- Whether the turbine intakes in the design comply with the rules of the IWT.
- Whether the outlets below the dead storage level meet the IWT guidelines.
- Whether the gated spillway designs of each plant align with the IWT provisions.
- Trust Deficit: The lack of trust and strained relations between India and Pakistan undermines effective cooperation under the IWT. This atmosphere of distrust restricts constructive dialogue and hinders the timely resolution of disputes, affecting the treaty’s overall effectiveness.
- Climate Change Impacts: Changing precipitation patterns and altered runoff due to climate change challenge the treaty’s assumption of fixed water availability. The IWT does not account for these uncertainties, increasing the risk to water-sharing agreements.
- Evolving Needs: The treaty’s framework does not address the rising industrial and agricultural demands of both countries. Growing population and economic activities highlight the need for flexible mechanisms to ensure equitable and sustainable resource sharing in the future.
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How does the present decision highlight favourable implications on the Indian part?
- Vindication of India’s Position: The Neutral Expert, Michel Lino, upheld India’s stand that the disputes over the Kishenganga and Ratle HEPs fall under his jurisdiction, as per Annexure F, Part I of the IWT. This challenges Pakistan’s attempt to bypass the Neutral Expert process and proceed directly to the PCA.
- Preservation of Treaty Provisions: India’s participation in the Neutral Expert proceedings demonstrates its adherence to “Treaty-consistent mechanisms” while boycotting PCA proceedings that it considers beyond the IWT framework.
- Recognition of India’s Hydroelectric Rights: The ruling supports India’s right to construct run-of-the-river projects within the provisions of the Treaty, boosting its ability to harness renewable energy from the Western Rivers.
- Strengthening India’s Diplomatic Stance: The decision highlights Pakistan’s lack of adherence to the Treaty’s dispute resolution process, strengthening India’s argument for Treaty modification.
- Potential for Treaty Revision: India’s formal notices in 2023 and 2024 to review and modify the Treaty gain momentum, emphasising the need to address demographic changes, clean energy goals, environmental concerns, and the impact of cross-border terrorism.
Way forward:
- Revise the Indus Waters Treaty Framework: Advocate for Treaty modifications to address evolving needs like climate change impacts, rising industrial and agricultural demands, and demographic shifts, ensuring equitable and sustainable water-sharing mechanisms.
- Strengthen Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Promote adherence to Treaty-sanctioned processes like the Neutral Expert mechanism, fostering trust, cooperation, and timely resolution of technical disagreements while upholding India’s hydroelectric and clean energy rights.
Mains PYQ:
Q Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations. (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Challenges in the health sector;
Why in the News?
Recently, Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration has allowed homeopathic doctors, who completed a course in modern medicine to prescribe allopathic medicines.
What is the difference between Homeopathy and Allopathy?
- Homeopathy uses natural substances in tiny doses to help the body heal, while allopathy uses medicines or treatments to directly fight or treat diseases based on science and evidence.
What is crosspathy?
- Crosspathy refers to practitioners from one medical system (e.g., homoeopathy) treating patients with medicines from another system (e.g., allopathy).
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Why did the Maharashtra FDA issue a directive allowing homoeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines?
- Addressing Doctor Shortage: The directive aimed to tackle the severe shortage of doctors, particularly in rural areas, where there is a lack of healthcare professionals, especially specialists.
- Expanding Healthcare Access: By allowing certified homoeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines, the Maharashtra FDA sought to expand healthcare services and make treatment more accessible to patients in underserved regions.
- Promoting Integrative Medicine: The directive is part of a broader initiative to promote integrative or integrated medicine, where different medical systems, such as homoeopathy and allopathy, are used to complement each other in patient care.
What is the Supreme Court’s stance on ‘crosspathy’?
- The Supreme Court (SC) has consistently held that cross-system practice (practicing medicine from a system one is not qualified for) is a form of medical negligence.
- Poonam Verma vs Ashwin Patel (1996) – A homoeopath was held liable for prescribing allopathic medicines that resulted in a patient’s death.
- Crosspathy is only allowed where state governments have specifically authorized it through special orders.
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What are the challenges faced by govt?
- Doctor Shortage: India faces a significant shortage of doctors, especially in rural areas, where the Health Dynamics of India 2022-23 report highlights an 80% deficit of specialists in community health centres. As of June 2022, there were 13.08 lakh allopathic doctors and 5.65 lakh AYUSH practitioners, indicating an insufficient number of qualified professionals to meet healthcare demands.
- Integration of AYUSH Practitioners: While AYUSH practitioners could potentially fill healthcare gaps, there is no systematic approach to integrating them effectively, which could lead to poor outcomes.
- Risk to Patients: Allowing unqualified practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines could result in medical errors and negligence, raising concerns about patient safety.
- Opposition from Professional Bodies: Organizations like the Indian Medical Association (IMA) strongly oppose crosspathy, questioning its legality and the risks posed to patients.
- Regulatory Uncertainty: Lack of clarity on who has the authority to issue such directives and manage cross-system practice leads to legal and administrative challenges.
Way forward:
- Clear Regulatory Framework: Establish clear guidelines and regulations for integrating different medical systems to ensure patient safety and effective healthcare delivery, with proper qualifications for practitioners.
- Address Doctor Shortage Strategically: Focus on training and deploying more allopathic doctors, especially in rural areas, while ensuring AYUSH practitioners are properly integrated into the healthcare system through structured programs.
Mains PYQ:
Q Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Artificial Intelligence;
Why in the News?
The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) created a system with different levels to control the sale and export of AI chips and technology more effectively.
What is the main objective behind one of the last orders of the Biden administration?
- National Security and Foreign Policy: The primary goal of the BIS regulations is to enhance control over the circulation of advanced AI technology and chips to align with U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.
- The regulations aim to prevent sensitive technologies from reaching adversarial nations, thereby mitigating risks associated with military advancements and cyber operations.
- Secure Technology Ecosystem: The regulations are designed to cultivate a secure and trusted technology ecosystem that promotes the responsible use and diffusion of AI technologies, ensuring that advanced AI capabilities do not fall into the hands of U.S. adversaries.
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How will the tiered framework for licensing and exporting Artificial Intelligence chips work?
- Three-Tier System: The new regulations categorize countries into three tiers based on their relationship with the U.S.:
- Tier 1: No restrictions for exports to 18 U.S. allies, including Australia, Canada, and Japan.
- Tier 2: Countries like China and India face caps on volumes and require Validated End User (VEU) authorization for transactions contributing to advanced AI development.
- Tier 3: Arms-embargoed countries such as North Korea and Iran have no access to advanced AI technology.
How has the tech industry responded to the move?
- Concerns Over Competitiveness: Major tech companies, including NVIDIA and Oracle, have expressed apprehension that these regulations could undermine U.S. competitiveness in the global tech landscape.
- They argue that restricting access to widely available technologies may not enhance security but instead hinder innovation.
- Call for Revisions: Industry leaders hope that the incoming administration will reconsider or withdraw these regulations, citing potential disruptions to business operations and global supply chains.
Will it affect the Indian Economy?
- Impact on AI Growth: As India invests heavily in its National AI Mission, which aims to develop infrastructure with over 10,000 GPUs through a ₹10,000 crore investment, the restrictions could pose substantial challenges in scaling up AI capabilities post-2027.
- The limits on GPU imports may deter innovation and slow down the growth of India’s tech sector.
- Potential Delays in Infrastructure Development: Major data center providers in India, such as Tata Communications and CtrlS, may face delays or downsizing of their plans due to restricted access to GPUs. This could place Indian companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to their U.S. counterparts.
- India’s Exclusion from Trusted Allies: India is not included in the list of trusted U.S. allies due to concerns over the leakage of chips to countries like Russia.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Domestic AI Capabilities: India should accelerate the development of indigenous AI technologies and chips to reduce reliance on foreign imports, invest in local R&D and foster partnerships with global tech firms for technology transfer.
- Diversify Global Alliances: India could strengthen its technological partnerships with countries outside the U.S. and explore alternative markets to source AI chips, ensuring the diversification of its supply chains to mitigate the impact of export restrictions.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme
Why in the News?
The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to bolster the global competitiveness of India’s diamond sector.
About the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme
- The DIA Scheme permits duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds for export purposes.
- It mandates an export obligation with a value addition of 10%.
- Objective: To retain India’s leadership in the global diamond industry value chain by facilitating ease of doing business.
- It will be implemented starting April 1, 2025.
- Features of the Scheme:
- Duty-Free Import: Allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds of less than ¼ Carat (25 Cents).
- Export Obligation: Requires a minimum 10% value addition to ensure beneficiation.
- Eligibility: Open to Two Star Export Houses and above; Exporters with annual exports of at least USD 15 million are eligible.
- Support for MSMEs: Provides a level playing field for smaller exporters, enabling them to compete with larger players.
- Global Beneficiation Practices: Inspired by beneficiation policies in diamond-mining countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola, where manufacturers must establish cutting and polishing facilities.
India’s Diamond Industry: Current Status
- India processes over 90% of the world’s diamonds and provides jobs to approximately 5 million people.
- India contributes 19% of total global diamond exports.
Challenges:
- Exports Decline:
- 2022: Exports valued at $23 billion.
- 2023: Declined to $16 billion, with further declines anticipated.
- Rough Diamond Imports: Fell by 24.5%, from $18.5 billion (FY 2021-22) to $14 billion (FY 2023-24).
- Exports of Cut and Polished Diamonds: Dropped by 34.6%, from $24.4 billion (FY 2022) to $13.1 billion (FY 2024).
- Inventory Challenges: The gap between net imports of rough diamonds and net exports of cut and polished diamonds widened from $1.6 billion (FY 2022) to $4.4 billion (FY 2024).
- Returns of Unsold Diamonds: The percentage of unsold diamonds returned to India rose from 35% to 45.6% between FY 2022 and FY 2024.
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PYQ:
[2018] Which one of the following foreign travellers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India?
(a) Francois Bernier
(b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier
(c) Jean de Thevenot
(d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre |
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jawaharlal Nehru Port
Why in the News?
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai is on track to become India’s first port to join the ranks of top global ports by handling 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually by 2027.
About the Jawaharlal Nehru Port
- JNP is situated in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, covering an area of 200 square kilometers. Its strategic location enables vital trade links with international shipping routes.
- Key Features:
- India’s first 100% Landlord Major Port.
- Operates five container terminals, including BMCT, NSICT, and GTIPL.
- Customs facilities: 30 container freight stations and connectivity to 52 inland depots.
- Handles vessels with 9,000 TEUs capacity, soon upgrading to 12,200 TEUs.
- Processes 200 international ships monthly.
- Future Developments:
- Fourth Container Terminal operational by April 2025, adding 4.8 million TEUs capacity.
- Developing a satellite port at Vadhvan and dry ports at Jalna and Wardha.
Key Highlights of JNPA’s Expansion
- In 2024, JNPA handled its highest-ever container volume of 7.05 million TEUs, operating at more than 90% capacity.
- The port recorded an 11% year-on-year growth compared to the previous year.
- The second phase of Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal will add 2.4 million TEUs to JNPA’s total capacity.
- The upgradation of Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal in 2025 will further enhance the port’s capabilities.
- The total container handling capacity is projected to increase from 7.6 million TEUs to 10.4 million TEUs by 2027.
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PYQ:
[2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Chhattisgarh
(c) Karnataka
(d) Rajasthan |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pinaka Rocket System
Why in the News?
The Indian Army is bolstering its artillery strength with a significant ₹10,200 crore order for ammunition associated with the Pinaka Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
About the Pinaka Rocket System
| Details |
- A multi-barrel rocket launcher developed by DRDO and manufactured by Indian defence firms.
- Named after the legendary bow of Lord Shiva, symbolizing power and precision.
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| Key Features |
- Multiple Launch Capability: Fires 12 rockets in just 44 seconds, delivering overwhelming firepower.
- Mobility: Mounted on 8×8 or 6×6 trucks, allowing rapid deployment in diverse terrains.
Range:
– Pinaka Mk-I: 40 km.
– Pinaka Mk-II and Enhanced Versions: 60–75 km.
– Guided Variant: 90 km, with improved accuracy and reduced collateral damage.
- Guidance and Precision: Equipped with satellite-based guidance for precision targeting.
- Payload Options: Carries multiple warheads, including high explosives, incendiaries, anti-personnel, and anti-tank bomblets.
- Quick Deployment and Reloading: Rapid deployment enables swift counter-strikes.
- Modularity and Expandability: Modular design supports advanced technology integration for network-centric warfare.
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| Operational Use |
- Proven effectiveness in mountainous and rugged terrains.
- Played a critical role in Indian Army operations, showcasing its adaptability and firepower.
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| Significance |
- Boost to Artillery Strength: Enhances the Indian Army’s firepower with new regiments and extended-range rockets.
- Cornerstone of Modernization: Central to India’s artillery modernization for precision and operational flexibility.
- Border Security and Deterrence: Secures borders and acts as a strategic deterrent against adversaries.
- Global Success: Strengthens India’s defense export market and contributes to defense diplomacy.
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PYQ:
[2014] Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Mission SCOT
Why in the News?
Onboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission, Indian space surveillance firm Digantara successfully launched SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking), the world’s first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite.
About Mission SCOT:
| Details |
- World’s first commercial SSA satellite, designed to track and characterize Resident Space Objects (RSOs) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- Launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission as part of a rideshare program.
- Supported by Aditya Birla Ventures and SIDBI.
| Note: As part of the Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA), ISRO is also developing a Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) network equipped with advanced radars and optical telescopes to strengthen threat analysis and safeguard space assets. |
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| Aims and Objectives |
- Enhancing Space Safety: Prevent satellite collisions and optimize orbital resources.
- Sovereign Surveillance: Strengthen India’s capabilities to protect its space assets.
- Technological Leadership: Address gaps in global SSA technologies.
- Sustainability: Promote safer and more sustainable space operations.
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| Features/Significance |
- Operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, unaffected by weather or geography.
- Tracks RSOs as small as 5 cm with high revisit rates and accuracy.
- Safeguards critical satellites crucial for economic and strategic security.
- Optimizes traffic management and enhances collision avoidance.
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| Contribution to India’s Growth |
- Demonstrates India’s leadership in SSA technologies.
- Highlights the role of Indian startups in space innovation.
- Establishes India as a reliable international space partner.
- Fosters investment in advanced surveillance technologies for future space developments.
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PYQ:
[2010] In the context of space technology, what is “Bhuvan”, recently in the news?
(a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India
(b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayan-II
(c) A geoportal of ISRO with 3D imaging capabilities of India
(d) A space telescope developed by India |
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Uniform Civil Code;
Why in the News?
The Pushkar Dhami Cabinet in Uttarakhand approved the UCC with plans to roll it out after the local body elections. Uttarakhand will be the first state in India to implement the UCC.
What is the Uniform Civil Code?
- The UCC refers to a single law that governs personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and succession for all citizens of India, irrespective of their religion.
- Constitutional Basis: Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution envisions a UCC to promote national integration by eliminating discrepancies in personal laws.
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What are the significance of UCC?
- Equality and Justice: UCC ensures equal treatment of all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste, or gender, by replacing diverse personal laws with a unified legal framework. This promotes fairness and eliminates discriminatory practices in personal matters like marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
- Gender Parity and Women’s Empowerment: Personal laws often favor patriarchal norms, disadvantaging women in areas like inheritance and divorce. UCC addresses these disparities, granting women equal rights and fostering gender justice.
- National Integration: By unifying personal laws across communities, UCC strengthens national unity and reduces divisions based on religion or community-specific laws. It promotes secularism and reinforces the idea of “one nation, one law”.
- Simplification of Legal Systems: A common civil code simplifies the legal process by eliminating inconsistencies among various personal laws, making it easier for citizens to understand their rights and obligations.
- Closing Loopholes in Personal Laws: UCC addresses biases and loopholes in existing personal laws that perpetuate inequality or favouritism, ensuring a more just legal system for all citizens.
What is the Judicial stand on it?
- Mohd. Ahmed Khan vs. Shah Bano Begum (1985): This case marked a pivotal moment when the Supreme Court urged the government to enact a UCC.
- The Court highlighted that a common civil code would promote national integration by eliminating conflicting loyalties to different personal laws.
- Jordan Diengdeh vs. S.S. Chopra (1985): The Court reiterated the “immediate and compulsive need for a uniform civil code”.
- Sarla Mudgal vs. Union of India (1995): In this case, the Supreme Court criticised the government’s inaction regarding the UCC, asserting that over 80% of citizens were already governed by codified personal laws and that there was no justification for delaying its introduction any further.
- John Vallamattom vs. Union of India (2003): The Supreme Court again stressed the need for a UCC, lamenting that Article 44 had not been implemented and reiterating its role in fostering national unity by resolving contradictions arising from diverse personal laws.
- Shayara Bano vs. Union of India (2017): In addressing the issue of triple talaq, the Supreme Court underscored that the Constitution mandates the state to provide for a UCC to address various social injustices and legal inconsistencies stemming from personal laws.
- Jose Paulo Coutinho vs. Maria Luiza Valentina Pereira (2019): The Court expressed disappointment over the lack of progress towards a UCC, noting that while personal laws reflect religious beliefs, they should not be exempt from reform in a secular state.
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What are the challenges?
- Cultural Resistance: There is significant opposition from various religious groups who view the UCC as an infringement on their cultural and religious practices. This resistance can lead to social unrest and political backlash.
- Political Controversy: The UCC is often a contentious political issue, with parties divided along ideological lines. This can complicate legislative processes and delay implementation.
- Legal Complexity: The integration of diverse personal laws into a single code poses substantial legal challenges. Ensuring that the new code respects individual rights while being comprehensive enough to address various community needs requires careful drafting.
- Awareness and Training: Effective implementation requires extensive training for officials and awareness campaigns for citizens to understand their rights under the new code. This necessitates significant resources and time.
Way forward:
- Phased Implementation and Pilot Projects: Begin with optional UCC adoption in specific regions or for limited personal law aspects (e.g., marriage or inheritance) to test feasibility and address concerns gradually.
- Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement: Conduct extensive consultations with religious leaders, community representatives, and legal experts to build consensus and ensure the code respects India’s diversity while upholding constitutional values.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizen a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (UPSC IAS/2015)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Impact USA on World;
Why in the News?
On his first day in office, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an order to pull the country out of the World Health Organization (WHO).
What will be the Impact of USA’s withdrawal from WHO?
- Funding Shortfall for WHO: The USA accounted for 22.5% of WHO’s assessed contributions and approximately 13% of voluntary contributions in 2023.
- The funding gap may affect WHO’s ability to implement health programs globally.
- Disruption of Global Health Programs: WHO’s work in areas such as pandemics, neglected tropical diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and vaccination programs could face setbacks.
- Loss of technical collaboration between the US CDC and WHO may weaken disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness.
- Increased Influence of China: The vacuum left by the US could amplify China’s role within WHO, leading to concerns over political influence and transparency.
- Undermining Global Health Equity: Withdrawal may hinder equitable access to healthcare resources, including vaccines and medicines, in developing nations.
- Undermining Pandemic Treaty: The US will cease negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty, affecting the framework for global cooperation on future pandemics.
What are the Major Global Institutions and Challenges Faced by them?
- United Nations (UN): Political divisions among member states, limited enforcement power, and funding constraints. The UN’s peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts often face resource shortages and geopolitical interference.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Criticism for its pandemic response, reliance on voluntary funding, and political influence from member states. The WHO struggles to maintain independence and effectiveness in global health governance.
- World Trade Organization (WTO): Increasing protectionism, trade disputes among major economies, and calls for reform to address inequities in global trade rules. The WTO faces difficulties in resolving conflicts like U.S.-China trade tensions.
- International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank: Criticism of conditional lending practices, perceived bias favoring wealthier nations, and inefficiencies in addressing poverty and economic disparities. Both institutions face calls for governance reforms to better represent developing countries.
- Regional Organizations (e.g., EU, African Union): Economic disparities among members, political instability, and resource limitations. For example, the EU faces challenges like migration issues and the aftermath of Brexit, while the African Union struggles with conflict resolution and development goals.
What would be the Impact on India?
- Funding Shortfalls for WHO Programs: The U.S. contributes approximately 15-20% of WHO’s budget, amounting to around $600 million annually.
- This withdrawal could lead to significant funding gaps for various health programs like India’s immunisation programs that India benefits from, such as those addressing neglected tropical diseases, HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis.
- Loss of Technical Expertise: The departure of U.S. experts from WHO committees could limit the organization’s ability to provide comprehensive guidelines and support for health policies in India.
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What are the reforms needed in Global Institutions?
- Enhanced Representation and Inclusivity: Need to expand the UN Security Council and restructure voting power in organizations like the IMF and World Bank to ensure equitable decision-making.
- Increased Transparency and Accountability: There is a pressing need for improved transparency in decision-making processes within global institutions. This includes establishing clear accountability mechanisms to address concerns about corruption, inefficiency, and lack of responsiveness to member states’ needs.
Mains PYQ:
Q Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India EU relation;
Why in the News?
Recently, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted six key principles to strengthen the partnership between India and the European Union during a meeting with Maros Sefcovic, the EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security.
What are the Six Broad Principles between the EU and India?
- Common Values: Establish a partnership based on shared values of democracy, rule of law, and an independent judiciary.
- Fair Trade Agenda: Develop a commercially meaningful trade agenda that addresses tariff and non-tariff barriers, ensuring benefits for small and medium enterprises, farmers, and fishermen.
- High-Quality Production: Engage in the exchange of best practices and harmonization of standards to achieve “zero defect” and “zero effect” production capabilities.
- Technological Collaboration: Work together to develop cutting-edge technologies and secure critical raw material supply chains, enhancing resilience against non-market economies.
- Sustainable Development: Cooperate on trade and sustainable development while respecting differing levels of development among nations, adhering to the principle of common but differentiated responsibility.
- Mutual Growth: Leverage India’s young talent pool to act as a bridge for mutual growth and development with the EU.
What is the Significance of the EU for India?
- Largest Trading Partner: The EU is India’s largest regional trading partner, accounting for approximately 12.2% of India’s total trade in goods as of 2023. This relationship facilitates substantial trade flows, with trade in goods reaching around €124 billion and trade in services amounting to €50.8 billion in 2023.
- Major Source of Investment: The EU is a leading source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in India, with an investment stock of approximately €108.3 billion in 2022. This investment supports job creation and economic development across various sectors in India.
- Technology Transfer and Innovation: The EU serves as a primary source of technology transfer to India, aiding in the development of critical sectors such as infrastructure, green technology, and digital solutions. This collaboration is vital for India’s aspirations to modernize its economy and enhance its global competitiveness.
- Strategic Partnership: The EU-India relationship is built on shared values such as democracy and human rights. It has evolved into a strategic partnership that addresses global challenges, including climate change, security threats, and sustainable development. This partnership is crucial for both entities to enhance their roles in global governance.
- Geopolitical Considerations: With the rise of assertive powers like China and shifting U.S. policies, the EU recognizes the importance of a robust partnership with India as a counterbalance in the region. Strengthening ties with India aligns with the EU’s goals of promoting multilateralism and addressing common security interests.
Evolution of India-EU Relations:
- Foundational Agreements and Strategic Partnership: India-EU relations date back to the early 1960s, with India being one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with the European Economic Community.
- The relationship was formalized through the Joint Political Statement in 1993 and the Cooperation Agreement in 1994, which expanded cooperation beyond trade.
- In 2004, at the 5th India-EU Summit, the relationship was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership, marking a significant milestone in bilateral ties.
- Joint Action Plan and Enhanced Cooperation: Following the strategic partnership, a Joint Action Plan was adopted in 2005 and reviewed in 2008, focusing on strengthening dialogue and cooperation across various sectors including trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.
- Recent Developments and Future Prospects: In 2022, India and the EU celebrated 60 years of bilateral relations by relaunching negotiations for a Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA), which had stalled since 2013.
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What are the challenges between India and the EU?
- Trade Barriers and Market Access: Indian companies face increasing non-tariff barriers when trying to access EU markets, including stringent technical regulations, phytosanitary measures, and compliance standards. These barriers hinder the export of Indian goods and services, complicating efforts to establish a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the EU.
- Also, India is cautious about reducing high tariffs on sensitive sectors like automobiles and agricultural products, which the EU seeks to liberalize.
- Mobility of Professionals and Services Liberalization: The lack of a common working visa system in the EU restricts the free movement of Indian professionals across member states. India seeks greater access for its skilled workers in the EU, while the EU demands liberalization of India’s professional services sector, particularly in accountancy and legal services.
Way forward:
- Balanced Trade Agreement: Prioritize resolving key differences in tariff reductions and non-tariff barriers, especially in sensitive sectors like automobiles, agriculture, and professional services, while ensuring fair market access for both sides to boost mutual economic growth.
- Enhanced Mobility and Collaboration: Establish frameworks for the free movement of professionals and expand cooperation in technology transfer, sustainable development, and resilient supply chains, leveraging India’s skilled workforce and the EU’s technological advancements.
Mains PYQ:
Q ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Smart Cities Mission;
Why in the News?
The Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a flagship initiative launched during the NDA-1 government, has lost prominence in this year’s list of electoral promises and accomplishments.
What are smart cities?
- The Government of India defines smart cities as urban areas that provide core infrastructure, ensure a decent quality of life, promote a clean and sustainable environment, and utilize smart solutions for inclusive development.
What are the two major aspects of the Smart Cities Mission?
- Area-Based Development (ABD): This includes three components:
- Redevelopment: Transforming existing urban areas.
- Retrofitting: Improving infrastructure in underdeveloped areas.
- Greenfield Development: Creating new urban spaces with modern infrastructure.
- Pan-City Solutions: These involve applying smart solutions across the entire city, enhancing services through technology and improving overall urban management and governance.
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Why did the implementation of smart cities bypass local government?
- Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Model: The SCM employed a governance structure that relied heavily on Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), which were set up as limited companies under the Companies Act.
- This model often sidelined local elected councils, as SPVs were typically led by bureaucrats or representatives from multinational corporations, limiting local government involvement in decision-making processes.
- Top-Down Approach: Critics argue that the SPV model was too top-down, lacking alignment with the 74th Constitutional Amendment, which emphasizes decentralized governance. This disconnect resulted in many cities objecting to the governance structure, as it did not adequately reflect the needs and demands of local populations.
- Competitive Selection Process: The selection of cities was based on a competitive process that did not account for the diverse urban realities across India. This approach led to an exclusionary scheme where only small portions of cities were targeted for development, often ignoring broader community needs and existing urban dynamics.
- Limited Local Engagement: The mission’s design did not prioritize citizen participation or local stakeholder engagement effectively, which is crucial for understanding and addressing unique urban challenges. This lack of engagement contributed to projects that did not resonate with the actual needs of residents.
What has happened to the mission in Shimla?
- Project Value and Status: The ongoing projects in Shimla are valued at approximately ₹150 crore and are still in the early stages of construction. Key initiatives include the assembly flyover and various parking facilities, with tenders currently being processed.
- Funding: The Union Government has allocated a total of ₹500 crore to Shimla under the SCM, with two installments of ₹98 crore still pending. The overall budget for the mission in Shimla is ₹750 crore, which includes a contribution of ₹250 crore from the state government.
- Unfinished Projects: Despite the extension, several projects remain incomplete, including those at IGMC, Auckland, and Vikas Nagar. Additionally, construction for the bus stand parking area has not yet commenced.
What are the achievements of Smart City Mission?
- Project Completion: As of December 2024, 91% of the total projects under the SCM have been completed, with 7,380 out of 8,075 projects finalized. This reflects significant progress in urban development initiatives across 100 selected cities.
- Investment and Infrastructure: The mission has seen an investment of approximately ₹1,47,704 crore. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, governance improvements, and social services such as housing, transport, education, and healthcare.
- Technological Integration: All 100 smart cities have established Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs), which utilize data analytics and emerging technologies like AI and IoT to manage urban services more effectively. These centres played crucial roles during the COVID-19 pandemic by functioning as operational hubs.
- Public Safety Enhancements: Over 84,000 CCTV cameras have been installed for enhanced surveillance, along with emergency call boxes and public address systems to improve public safety.
- Solid Waste Management: The mission has improved solid waste management practices in over 66 cities through technology integration, enhancing efficiency in waste collection and management.
- Mobility Improvements: The development of smart roads and cycle tracks has been a significant focus, with over 1,740 kilometres of roads constructed or improved under the mission.
What are the challenges related to Smart City Mission?
- Disparity in Performance: While some cities have exceeded their project targets significantly, others have struggled to meet even basic completion goals. Reports indicate that 66 out of the 100 cities have not met their physical targets as of January 2023, highlighting a stark disparity in performance across regions.
- Limited Impact on Quality of Life: Critics argue that despite substantial investments, there has been little improvement in fundamental quality-of-life issues for citizens, such as access to clean water and affordable housing. The mission’s focus on high-tech solutions has sometimes overshadowed pressing social needs.
- Financial Constraints: Many local governing bodies face challenges in raising funds for projects due to financial limitations and resistance from citizens regarding user charges for services provided under the mission. This has hindered project execution in several cities.
- Implementation Delays: A significant number of projects remain incomplete or are stuck at various stages due to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of coordination among stakeholders involved in the SCM.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Decentralized Governance: Empower local governments by aligning the SCM governance model with the 74th Constitutional Amendment. Involve elected councils and local stakeholders in planning, implementation, and decision-making to ensure projects reflect community needs and realities.
- Enhance Financial and Technical Capacities: Provide cities with access to sustainable funding mechanisms, including better public-private partnership models, while building technical expertise for efficient project execution and addressing socio-environmental challenges comprehensively.
Mains PYQ:
Q What are ‘Smart Cities’? examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ‘Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission. (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary
Why in the News?
The Kalaburagi Forest Division is working to relocate a hamlet within the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary on the Karnataka-Telangana border to a safer area.
About the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary
| Details |
- Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2011, covering 134.88 sq. km.
- Recognized as the first dryland Wildlife Sanctuary in South India.
- Located in the Kalaburagi District, renowned for its floristic diversity.
- Contributes to the conservation of dryland ecosystems.
|
| Geographical Location |
- Situated in the Hyderabad Karnataka region.
- Features the Chandrampalli Dam and four smaller dams within the sanctuary.
|
| Flora and Fauna |
- Flora: Rich in medicinal plants and tree species like Red Sanders, Sandalwood, Acacia, and Teak.
- Fauna:
- Mammals: Blackbuck, Common Fox, Four-horned Antelope, Indian Wolf, Hyena, and Fruit Bat.
- Birds: Over 35 species, including Black Drongo, Black-winged Kite, Blossom-headed Parakeet, Blue Pigeon, Black-headed Oriole, and Grey Partridge.
|
| Climatic/Geographical Features |
- Comprises dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests.
- Fringes are planted with Acacia and Teak.
- Supports a dryland ecosystem with water bodies like the Chandrampalli Dam.
- Features a mix of arid and semi-moist climatic conditions.
|
PYQ:
[2018] In which one of the following States is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located?
(a) Arunachal Pradesh
(b) Manipur
(c) Meghalaya
(d) Nagaland |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Bison (Gaur)
Why in the News?
The Jharkhand Forest department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison, popularly known as Gaur, at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).
About Indian Bison (Gaur)
| Details |
- Largest and tallest species in the wild cattle family.
- Scientific Name: Bos gaurus.
- Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia.
|
| Species Habitat and Location |
- Found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
- Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 m with abundant water.
- Distributed across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand.
|
| Behavioural Features |
- Social animals living in herds of 30–40 individuals.
- Strong and sturdy limbs, short tails, and inward-curved pale green/yellowish-brown horns.
- Males weigh 600–1,500 kg; females weigh 400–1,000 kg.
- Convex-shaped forehead; height ranges from 170–230 cm.
|
| Conservation Status |
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
- CITES: Appendix I.
|
PYQ:
[2011] A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?
(a) Indian wild buffalo
(b) Indian wild ass
(c) Indian wild boar
(d) Indian gazelle. |
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