Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Suposhit Maa Abhiyan
Why in the News?
Lok Sabha Speaker launched the third phase of the Suposhit Maa Abhiyan, a campaign aimed at empowering mothers and improving the health of pregnant women and newborns.
What is Suposhit Maa Abhiyan?
- The Suposhit Maa Abhiyan is a maternal and child health initiative launched by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in March 2020 in Kota, Rajasthan.
- It aims to eliminate malnutrition among pregnant women and newborns by providing nutritional support, medical care, and health awareness.
- Social workers and volunteers identify underprivileged pregnant women. Registration through community outreach programs and online platforms.
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- Nutritional Support: Monthly 17 kg nutrition kits for pregnant women.
- Medical Assistance: Regular health check-ups, blood tests, and medication support.
- Health Cards: Track maternal health, nutrition levels, and medical history.
- Adoption Model: One pregnant woman per family can be adopted for support.
- Awareness Drives: Sessions on maternal care, infant nutrition, and postpartum health.
- Mortality Rate Reduction: Increased normal deliveries, healthier newborns, and improved maternal health.
Phases of the Campaign:
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- 1,000 pregnant women received balanced nutrition kits.
- Medical check-ups, medicines, and delivery support provided.
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- 3,000 women received nutrition kits for 9 months.
- Expanded health monitoring and medical consultation services.
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- 1,800+ pregnant women identified for continuous health monitoring.
- Monthly nutrition kits and health card tracking introduced.
PYQ:
[2020] In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.
[2017] Which of the following are the objectives of the ‘National Nutrition Mission’?
- To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
- To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women.
- To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice.
- To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
(d) 3 and 4 only |
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Enumerate the indirect taxes which have been subsumed in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. Also, comment on the revenue implications of the GST introduced in India since July 2017. (UPSC CSE 2019) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Long-term Capital Gains Tax (2018) and indirect taxes (2019).
In February 2025, the Union Finance Minister introduced the Income-Tax Bill, 2025, to replace the Income-Tax Act, 1961. The government claims it will simplify tax laws and reduce disputes. However, despite some structural changes, many complexities remain, and the Bill grants even more authoritarian powers than the current law.
Today’s editorial discusses the newly introduced Income-Tax Bill, 2025, which is important for the GS III Mains paper.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recently, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Income Tax Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, while opposition parties protested against it.
What are the key objectives of the Income-Tax Bill, 2025?
- Simplifying Tax Laws: To make the tax code easier to understand for both taxpayers and professionals. Example: Replacing complex legal phrases like “notwithstanding anything contained to the contrary” with simpler terms like “irrespective of anything to the contrary”.
- Reducing Litigation and Ambiguity: To minimize legal disputes by providing clearer definitions and reducing interpretative confusion. Example: Consolidating compliance timelines into tables and schedules to avoid multiple interpretations of deadlines.
- Modernizing Tax Compliance: To align tax administration with technological advancements and changing business environments. Example: Allowing the use of a “risk management strategy” to identify tax evasion through data analysis.
- Ensuring Policy Continuity with Structural Reform: To retain core tax policies while improving the law’s structure for better efficiency. Example: Definitions like “income” still refer to the 1961 Act but are presented in a more structured format.
- Expanding Digital Oversight: To empower tax authorities to investigate digital transactions and virtual assets. Example: Permitting access to digital platforms (e.g., email servers and social media) during tax investigations.
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Why did the government previously amend the criteria for a reassessment of tax?
The government previously amended the criteria for reassessment of tax through the Finance Act, 2021, which came into effect on April 1, 2021. This marked a significant shift in the reassessment framework under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- Shift from “Reason to Believe” to “Information”: The previous requirement for reassessment was based on the assessing officer having a “reason to believe” that income had escaped assessment. Example: After 2021, tax authorities could reopen assessments if they had “information” suggesting unreported income, including data from third-party reports.
- Introduction of Risk Management Strategy: The amendment introduced the use of a “risk management strategy” as a basis for reopening tax assessments. Example: Tax authorities can now reopen cases based on algorithm-driven data analysis without needing detailed justification.
- Time Limit Reduction for Reopening Assessments: The time limit for reassessment was reduced from 6 years to 3 years for most cases, with a 10-year limit for cases involving income above ₹50 lakh. Example: If concealed income exceeds ₹50 lakh, tax authorities can reopen cases up to 10 years later, enhancing scrutiny in high-value matters.
- Legal Challenges and Judicial Interpretations: The vague definition of “information” and the undefined “risk management strategy” led to concerns over arbitrary use of power. Example: Courts have intervened to limit reassessment powers, demanding stricter adherence to procedural safeguards to protect taxpayer rights.
What are the main concerns regarding their implementation?
- Increased Administrative Burden: The new system requires detailed procedures and prior approvals, leading to delays and increased workload for tax authorities. Example: Obtaining approval from senior officers before issuing notices can slow down reassessment, especially in cases involving large volumes of data.
- Ambiguity in “Information” Definition: The term “information” used to trigger reassessment is broad and vague, allowing subjective interpretations. Example: Data from social media activity or third-party reports can be used for reopening cases, raising concerns about the reliability and accuracy of such information.
- Risk of Harassment and Overreach: Despite safeguards, there is concern that taxpayers may still face unwarranted scrutiny under the new rules. Example: Cases where income exceeds ₹50 lakh can be reopened for up to 10 years, leading to prolonged uncertainty for taxpayers.
- Challenges in Data Privacy and Security: Accessing digital platforms and using technology-based triggers raises privacy concerns for individuals and businesses. Example: Tax authorities can now access electronic records from email servers and financial platforms, increasing the risk of data misuse.
- Legal Uncertainty and Litigation: Despite reforms, there is still a risk of judicial challenges due to the interpretive flexibility in the law. Example: Taxpayers may challenge reassessment notices on the grounds of insufficient evidence or procedural lapses, leading to further litigation.
Way forward:
- Enhancing Clarity and Transparency: Clearly define terms like “information” and “risk management strategy” to prevent subjective interpretation and ensure uniform application. Example: Establish detailed guidelines on acceptable data sources and the procedure for using digital evidence.
- Strengthening Safeguards and Oversight: Implement independent reviews for high-value reassessments and ensure data privacy through robust security protocols. Example: Mandate third-party audits to monitor the use of digital platforms and safeguard taxpayer rights.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Role of UAE;
Why in the News?
The UAE’s potential role in supporting India’s ambition to become a global aviation powerhouse has been highlighted due to increasing collaboration between the two nations in the aviation sector.
What are the key challenges faced by the India-UAE aviation sector?
- Restricted Bilateral Air Service Agreements: Limited flight frequencies and destination access for both Indian and UAE carriers. Example: UAE airlines can operate flights to only 15 Indian cities, excluding key growth centers like Surat and Indore despite high passenger demand.
- Capacity Constraints and Rising Airfares: Limited flight slots lead to insufficient capacity, causing increased ticket prices. Example: During peak travel seasons, such as festivals or school holidays, airfares between India and the UAE surge due to restricted airline capacity.
- Limited Connectivity to Emerging Cities: Many Tier-2 and Tier-3 Indian cities lack direct UAE connections. Example: Business hubs like Visakhapatnam and Patna face limited or no direct international flights to the UAE, restricting trade and tourism.
- Inability to Meet Growing Passenger Demand: Rapid growth in Indian outbound travel is unmet by the current aviation framework. Example: Despite 4.5 million Indian tourists visiting the UAE in 2023, airlines struggle to increase operations due to bilateral restrictions.
- Missed Economic and Strategic Opportunities: Limited flight options restrict business engagement, investment, and tourism growth. Example: The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE aims to boost trade, but insufficient air connectivity hinders the free flow of goods and professionals.
Why is there a need for a modernized aviation strategy between India and the UAE?
- Meeting Rising Passenger Demand: A revised aviation strategy is crucial to handle the increasing flow of Indian travelers to the UAE. Example: For every 1% increase in passport holders, approximately 10 million additional Indian travelers are expected, which the current framework cannot accommodate.
- Lowering Airfares and Improving Access: Expanding bilateral agreements can boost flight availability, foster competition and reduce travel costs. Example: During peak seasons, limited flights cause sharp increases in ticket prices, making travel between India and the UAE expensive.
- Expanding Connectivity to Regional Cities: Modernising aviation policies can facilitate direct flights from Tier-2 and Tier-3 Indian cities to the UAE, enhancing regional growth. Example: Cities like Surat, Patna, and Visakhapatnam remain disconnected from the UAE, hindering trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
- Boosting Trade and Economic Cooperation: Improved air services can strengthen business ties and enhance trade between India and the UAE. Example: Despite the CEPA agreement aimed at fostering economic collaboration, restricted flight options limit the movement of professionals and goods.
- Advancing Aviation Infrastructure and Innovation: A modernized strategy encourages collaboration in aviation technology and infrastructure development. Example: UAE investments in India’s UDAN scheme can improve regional connectivity and support India’s goal to become a leading aviation hub.
Which Indian cities are currently excluded from UAE airline operations despite growing demand?
- Cities Not Fully Integrated: Emirates has not yet expanded its services to cities like Amritsar, Lucknow, and Goa Mopa, despite growing demand. These cities are not explicitly excluded but rather await service expansion due to current operational limitations and bilateral agreements.
- Bilateral Restrictions: The current bilateral agreements between India and the UAE limit the number of seats available for UAE airlines, which can restrict the expansion of services to new cities. While there are no specific cities excluded, the capacity constraints under these agreements affect the ability of UAE airlines to meet demand in various Indian cities.
What initiatives can the UAE undertake to support India’s ambition to become a global aviation powerhouse?
- Expanding Aviation Agreements: The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aims to improve air travel and cargo transport between the two countries. Increasing the current limits to 134,000 weekly passenger seats and 4,000 tonnes of cargo through relaxed rules can boost trade and improve connectivity.
- Using UAE’s Logistics Strength: The UAE’s major airports, like Dubai International and Al Maktoum International, can help meet India’s growing air cargo needs.
- Working together can make cargo transport faster and more efficient between the two nations.
- Improving India’s Aviation Sector: India, as the third-largest domestic aviation market, can learn from the UAE to improve international flights and upgrade airport facilities.
Way forward:
- Enhancing Policy Frameworks: India can revise its aviation policies to allow greater flexibility in bilateral agreements, enabling increased flight frequencies and better access for UAE carriers.
Example: Updating the Open Sky policy for Gulf nations can promote competition, reduce airfares, and improve passenger services.
- Strengthening Aviation Infrastructure:India can invest in upgrading airport capacity, regional connectivity, and advanced Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities to accommodate increased traffic.
Mains PYQ:
Q How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Gender Budget;
Why in the News?
The Union and State governments often express their commitment to women’s empowerment. One of the four main pillars of Viksit Bharat 2047 is women’s development.
What are the three components of the gender budget?
- Part A: Schemes with 100% allocation for women and girls. Example: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao – a scheme focused entirely on improving the welfare of girls.
- Part B: Schemes with 30% to 99% allocation for women and girls. Example: National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) – where a significant portion is directed toward maternal and child healthcare.
- Part C: Schemes with less than 30% allocation for women and girls (introduced in 2024-25). Example: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) – where a small portion benefits women, though the primary beneficiaries are land-owning farmers.
Why is the agricultural sector’s allocation under the gender budget considered ineffective for women?
- Land Ownership Inequality: Most agricultural schemes, like PM-Kisan, are land-linked, and since agricultural land is typically owned by men, women are excluded from direct benefits. Example: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) provides ₹6,000 per year to land-owning farmers, but women who work on the land without ownership do not qualify.
- Limited Focus on Women Farmers: There is insufficient funding for programs addressing the specific needs of women farmers, such as access to credit, training, and technology. Example: Schemes like the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), which focus on empowering women in agriculture, receive a smaller share of the gender budget.
- Exclusion from Decision-Making: Women in agriculture often lack legal and institutional representation, limiting their ability to influence policy decisions and resource allocation. Example: Despite women forming a significant share of the agricultural workforce, they are underrepresented in farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives.
Who benefits the most from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme?
- Land-Owning Farmers: The primary beneficiaries of the PM-Kisan scheme are small and marginal land-owning farmers who receive ₹6,000 per year in three equal installments. Example: A male landowner with 2 hectares of cultivable land is eligible for the financial assistance under the scheme.
- Male Family Members: Since land ownership in India is predominantly male, the male head of the household typically receives the direct cash transfer, even when women contribute equally to agricultural work. Example: In patriarchal households, the registered male family member receives the PM-Kisan payments, excluding women working on the same land.
- Joint Landholders (Primarily Men): In cases of joint land ownership, the payment is usually disbursed to the registered owner, who is more often a man, rather than women co-owners. Example: If a piece of farmland is jointly owned by a husband and wife, the husband is more likely to be listed as the primary beneficiary.
Why are women often excluded from its advantages?
- Lack of Land Ownership: Women often do not hold legal ownership of agricultural land, making them ineligible for PM-Kisan benefits, as the scheme is limited to landowners. Example: A woman working on her family’s farmland cannot receive PM-Kisan payments if the land is registered in her husband’s name.
- Patriarchal Inheritance Practices: Customary inheritance laws and patriarchal norms often prevent women from inheriting land, limiting their access to direct agricultural benefits. Example: In many rural areas, agricultural land is passed down to sons, excluding daughters from ownership and thus from PM-Kisan benefits.
- Administrative and Documentation Barriers: Women face challenges in providing legal documents (such as land records or identity proof) required to register as beneficiaries under the scheme. Example: Widowed or single women who cultivate land but lack formal ownership documents are excluded from receiving financial assistance.
Way forward:
- Ensure Gender-Inclusive Land Reforms: Promote joint land titles for spouses and simplify the land registration process to increase women’s eligibility for schemes like PM-Kisan.
- Design Women-Centric Agricultural Programs: Introduce exclusive subsidies, credit access, and training for women farmers while increasing the allocation under gender-responsive schemes like Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP).
Mains PYQ:
Q Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context? (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Wallace Line
Why in the News?
In the 19th century, English naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace observed a sharp shift in biodiversity as he moved from Asia to Australia, leading him to propose the Wallace Line—an imaginary boundary separating species from both regions.
About the Wallace Line:
- It is a bio-geographical boundary separating Asia and Australia’s eco-zones.
- It was identified by Alfred Russel Wallace in 1863 during his explorations.
- It is an imaginary line running through the Lombok Strait (between Bali and Lombok) and the Makassar Strait (between Borneo and Sulawesi).
- Distinct evolutionary histories:
- West of the line (Asia): Tigers, elephants, and orangutans.
- East of the line (Australia): Kangaroos, marsupials, and cockatoos.
- A very few species cross the line, particularly birds and mammals.
- This is a barrier for land species but not marine life.
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- Continental drift: Australia separated from Antarctica and moved toward Asia (~35 million years ago). This created a deep-water channel, preventing species migration.
- Pleistocene Epoch Influence: Lower sea levels exposed land bridges but deep waters maintained the boundary.
Scientific Relevance:
- Wallace Line is more of a gradient than a strict boundary.
- Understanding biogeography helps predict species adaptation to climate change.
Note:
Weber Line more accurately defines the balance point where the influence of Asian and Australian species is nearly equal, whereas the Wallace Line marks a sharper divide. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Navratna Status
Why in the News?
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) have been granted Navratna status, making them the 25th and 26th Navratna companies in India.
Other Navratna Companies in Indian Railways
- Container Corporation of India (CONCOR): Multimodal logistics.
- Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL): Infrastructure expansion.
- RITES Ltd: Transport consultancy.
- IRCON International Ltd: Railway and highway construction.
- RailTel Corporation of India Ltd: IT & communication services.
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What is Navratna Status?
- Introduced in 1997, the Navratna scheme identifies high-performing CPSEs and grants them financial and operational independence.
- It allows selected companies to compete globally while maintaining public sector ownership.
- Categories of PSUs in India:
- Maharatna: Largest CPSEs with highest financial powers.
- Navratna: Mid-tier CPSEs with strategic autonomy.
- Miniratna: Emerging CPSEs with limited independence.
Eligibility Criteria for Navratna Status:
A CPSE must-
- Be a Miniratna-I company with an Excellent or Very Good rating in its MoU performance in three out of five years.
- Achieve a composite score of 60+ based on:
- Net Profit to Net Worth
- Manpower Cost to Total Cost of Production
- Profitability Ratios (PBDIT & PBIT)
- Earnings Per Share
- Inter-Sectoral Performance
Benefits of Navratna Status:
- Investment Autonomy: Can invest ₹1,000 crore or 15% of net worth in a single project without government approval.
- Strategic Expansion: Freedom to form joint ventures, subsidiaries, and acquisitions.
- Operational Flexibility: Can make independent business and investment decisions.
- Enhanced Market Position: Attracts more investors and improves stock performance.
PYQ:
[2011] Why is the Government of India disinvesting its equity in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)?
1. The Government intends to use the revenue earned from the disinvestment mainly to pay back the external debt.
2. The Government no longer intends to retain the management control of the CPSEs.
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cities Coalition for Circularity (C-3)
Why in the News?
India launched the Cities Coalition for Circularity (C-3), a multi-nation alliance for city-to-city collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and private sector partnerships for sustainable urban development.
What is the Cities Coalition for Circularity (C-3)?
- The C-3 is a multi-nation alliance launched by India at the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific in Jaipur.
- It aims to facilitate city-to-city collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and private sector partnerships to promote circular economy principles and sustainable urban development.
- It is led by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (India), United Nations Centre for Regional Development (UNCRD), and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES).
- The forum will adopt the Jaipur Declaration (2025-2034), which is a non-political, non-binding commitment that will guide efforts towards resource efficiency and sustainable urban growth in the next decade.
Key Features of C-3:
- Supported by International Organizations: Backed by UNESCAP, Japan’s Ministry of Environment, and other global partners.
- Circular Economy Focus: Encourages reuse, recycling, remanufacturing, and composting to reduce waste.
- Global Collaboration: Involves local governments, private sector actors, and academia to drive policy and innovation.
- Integration with SDGs: Aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to climate action and responsible consumption.
PYQ:
[2018] “Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”. Comment on the progress made in India in this regard. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Marbled Cat
Why in the News?
The elusive marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata) has been spotted in Dehing Patkai National Park in Assam’s Tinsukia district.
About Marbled Cat
- The marbled cat is a small wild cat species native to South and Southeast Asia.
- It belongs to the Felidae family and is closely related to the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) and the bay cat (Catopuma badia).
- The species was first described in 1836 by British zoologist William Charles Linnaeus Martin.
- It is characterised by brown, gray, or yellowish fur with distinctive black spots, marbled patterns, and stripes for camouflage.
- It is found in dense tropical and subtropical forests at elevations up to 2,500 meters.
- It primarily inhabits rainforests, evergreen forests, and mountainous terrain.
- It is arboreal, spending a significant amount of time in trees.
- It is nocturnal and crepuscular, meaning it is most active at dawn and dusk.
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- IUCN Red List Status: Near Threatened (NT) due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
- CITES: Appendix I
About Dehing Patkai National Park
- Dehing Patkai NP is located in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, India, near the border with Arunachal Pradesh.
- It spans an area of 231.65 km² and is part of the Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve. It was upgraded to a national park in 2020 and officially notified in 2021.
- The park features the largest stretch of lowland rainforests in India, including Dipterocarp trees, orchids, and medicinal plants like Rauvolfia serpentina and Acorus calamus.
- The park is home to diverse wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, Asian elephants, and Hoolock gibbons.
- It is unique for hosting seven species of wild cats.
- The Dehing River flows through the park, nourishing its forests and contributing to the biodiversity.
- Indigenous communities such as the Tai Phake, Khamti, and Singpho tribes have lived in the area for generations, maintaining a close relationship with the forest.
- The park is situated in the Patkai Hills region, part of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, known for its rich biodiversity.
- Known as the Amazon of the East, Dehing Patkai National Park is famous for its pristine rainforest ecosystems and significant biodiversity.
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PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic?
(a) Khangchendzonga National Park
(b) Nandadevi National Park
(c) Neora Valley National Park
(d) Namdapha National Park |
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC CSE 2017) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ (2018) and China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus (2017).
Recently, Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong said that India-China relations are entering a “phase of recovery” and called their relationship “one of the most important” in the world. He also mentioned that recent talks between Special Representatives (SR) and discussions under the ‘Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister’ mechanism helped both countries reach common ground on the border issue and opened the door to improving their ties.
Today’s editorial discusses China’s main decision-making bodies and its policies toward India. This content is useful for GS Paper 2 under International Relations.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
On Monday, January 27, 2025, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during his official visit to Beijing, met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. He is also scheduled to meet his counterpart.
Which are the two main decision-making bodies with respect to China’s foreign policy?
- Politburo Standing Committee (PBSC): The highest decision-making body in China, which sets the overall direction for both domestic and foreign policies. Example: Xi Jinping, as General Secretary of the CPC and head of the PBSC, plays a central role in shaping China’s stance on key issues like the U.S.-China rivalry and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
- CPC Central Committee’s Foreign Affairs Commission (FAC): Manages policy coordination, inter-departmental communication, and foreign policy execution, with Xi Jinping as the head and Li Qiang as deputy. Example: The FAC oversees China’s border negotiations with India and guides its diplomatic strategy in multilateral forums like BRICS and SCO.
What is the role of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC)?
- Party-to-Party Diplomacy: Facilitates direct engagement between the CPC and political parties across the ideological spectrum in over 150 countries. Example: The IDCPC hosts delegations from major Indian political parties to strengthen ties beyond official state-level diplomacy.
- Influencing Global Perception: Aims to enhance the CPC’s international legitimacy by building relationships and promoting China’s political model globally. Example: The IDCPC engages with political elites in Africa and Southeast Asia to align their policies with China’s strategic interests.
- Policy Research and Intelligence Gathering: Conducts political research on foreign countries to inform CPC leadership and guide China’s diplomatic strategy. Example: The “South and Southeast Asian Affairs” bureau analyzes political trends in India to shape China’s regional engagement policies.
Has the Ministry of Foreign Affairs been increasing in stature in China?
- Greater Policy Coordination with the CPC: The MFA now works more closely with the CPC’s Foreign Affairs Commission (FAC), which oversees foreign policy decisions. Example: Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, also serves as the head of the Office of the FAC, reflecting the MFA’s growing role in executing party-led foreign policy.
- Expanded Global Diplomatic Presence: China has increased its diplomatic footprint by opening new embassies and consulates worldwide, with MFA officials leading key initiatives. Example: The MFA has played a crucial role in advancing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through global negotiations and partnerships.
- Active Role in Multilateral Forums: The MFA has taken a more assertive position in international organizations to shape global norms and policies. Example: China’s active participation in the United Nations Human Rights Council and WTO reflects the MFA’s rising influence in global governance.
- Diplomatic Visibility of Key Officials: High-ranking MFA officials now engage more directly with global leaders and the media to articulate China’s foreign policy. Example: Wang Yi’s prominent role in mediating the Saudi-Iran peace deal (2023) highlighted the MFA’s expanding diplomatic authority.
- Increased Role in Crisis Management: The MFA is increasingly tasked with managing international crises and shaping China’s narrative during global conflicts. Example: The MFA led China’s diplomatic response during the U.S.-China trade war, organizing global outreach to counteract U.S. policies.
What is the policy for India?
- Managing Border Disputes While Maintaining Dialogue: China aims to manage tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) while keeping communication channels open through diplomatic and military talks. Example: Since the Galwan Valley clash (2020), both countries have held corps commander-level talks to de-escalate border tensions, although some areas remain contentious.
- Economic Cooperation with Strategic Caution: While promoting trade relations, China remains cautious about India’s growing economic nationalism and supply chain diversification. Example: Despite border tensions, China remains one of India’s largest trading partners, with bilateral trade exceeding $136 billion in 2022, though India has increased scrutiny on Chinese investments.
- Countering India’s Regional and Global Influence: China seeks to limit India’s influence in South Asia and multilateral forums while opposing India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Example: China has increased investments in India’s neighbors through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly in Pakistan (CPEC) and Sri Lanka (Colombo Port City).
- Balancing Competition with Cooperation in Multilateral Platforms: China engages with India through organizations like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) while countering India’s role in the Quad alliance. Example: Both nations cooperate in BRICS development projects but differ on strategic matters like Indo-Pacific security, where China opposes the Quad’s expansion.
- Diplomatic Outreach through Party-to-Party Engagement: The International Liaison Department (IDCPC) of the CPC engages with India’s political parties to strengthen ties and understand domestic political dynamics. Example: China has hosted delegations from major Indian political parties to foster people-to-people diplomacy and influence policy perspectives.
What should India do?
- Enhance Border Security and Infrastructure: Strengthen border surveillance, improve infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), and ensure rapid troop deployment capabilities. Example: Accelerate projects like the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to enhance logistical support in sensitive areas.
- Strengthen Multilateral Engagement: Deepen ties with like-minded countries in regional and global forums while maintaining dialogue with China. Example: Actively participate in Quad, BRICS, and SCO to balance China’s regional influence while promoting India’s strategic interests.
- Promote Economic Self-Reliance and Diversification: Reduce reliance on Chinese imports by boosting domestic manufacturing and seeking alternative trade partners. Example: Strengthen the Make in India and PLI (Production-Linked Incentive) schemes to reduce import dependency in critical sectors like electronics and telecom.
- Engage in Strategic Communication: Maintain open diplomatic channels to resolve disputes while clearly articulating India’s red lines and security concerns. Example: Continue high-level talks through special representatives and corps commander-level discussions to de-escalate border tensions.
- Invest in Technological and Defense Capabilities: Enhance technological innovation, defense modernization, and cybersecurity to counterbalance China’s growing capabilities. Example: Increase investment in indigenous defense programs and space-based surveillance to ensure strategic autonomy.
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Way forward:
- Sustained Diplomatic Engagement: Prioritize regular high-level dialogues to resolve border disputes and foster mutual trust while maintaining strategic clarity on core interests.
- Strategic Autonomy with Regional Cooperation: Strengthen regional partnerships through forums like Quad and ASEAN, while maintaining an independent foreign policy to balance China’s influence.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Impact of vulgar humour;
Why in the News?
Recently, the Supreme Court of India asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Central Government, to suggest regulatory measures to control the use of filthy language and vulgarity in online programmes.
What did the Supreme Court ask the Solicitor General to suggest regarding online programmes?
- The Supreme Court asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to propose “regulatory measures” to control the use of “filthy language” and “vulgarity” in online programmes.
- The regulatory framework should ensure that programmes adhere to the “known moral standards” of Indian society while maintaining freedom of speech and expression.
- These measures are intended to function as reasonable restrictions on free speech, focusing on decency and morality without imposing outright censorship. The court also sought input from stakeholders to facilitate a healthy debate on the issue.
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Why did the court emphasize the need for regulatory measures on humour and vulgarity?
- To Maintain Public Decency and Morality: The court stressed the need to uphold societal moral standards and prevent the spread of indecent content under the guise of humour. Example: The Supreme Court remarked that humour should be family-friendly and using filthy language is not a demonstration of talent.
- To Prevent Misuse of Free Speech: While protecting freedom of expression, the court emphasized reasonable restrictions to curb vulgarity and perversity in public content. Example: The court modified restrictions on YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, allowing him to broadcast but warned him to adhere to decency norms.
- To Protect Vulnerable Audiences: The court highlighted the need to shield minors and impressionable viewers from offensive and inappropriate humour. Example: The Solicitor General noted that the content of “India Got Latent” was unsuitable for public viewing due to its perverse nature.
- To Strike a Balance Between Creativity and Responsibility: The court underlined the fine line between creative humour and offensive language, ensuring content creators remain responsible. Example: Justice Surya Kant noted that talented comedians in India use ordinary words to produce humour without crossing moral limits.
- To Ensure Accountability of Online Platforms: The court called for regulatory oversight to ensure online platforms are held accountable for the content they broadcast. Example: The Bench urged the Solicitor General to suggest mechanisms to regulate vulgar content while respecting freedom of speech.
What impact does vulgar humour have on society?
- Erosion of Social and Moral Values: Frequent exposure to vulgar humour desensitizes people to offensive language and inappropriate behavior, weakening social norms. Example: Shows that rely on sexual innuendos or crude jokes may normalize disrespectful behavior towards women and marginalized groups.
- Negative Influence on Youth: Young audiences imitate vulgar humour, leading to disrespect, bullying, and a casual attitude toward serious issues. Example: Viral videos promoting explicit jokes can shape adolescent speech patterns, fostering insensitivity in social interactions.
- Public Backlash and Social Division: Vulgar humour offends religious, cultural, or social groups, causing outrage and polarization in society. Example: Comedians making derogatory remarks about religious practices have faced protests, legal action, and censorship demands.
- Undermining Respect for Institutions: Crude jokes about public figures or institutions diminish trust and disrespect toward authorities and legal systems. Example: Vulgar portrayals of political leaders can foster cynicism and weaken public faith in governance.
- Legal and Regulatory Consequences: Vulgar content violates decency laws and leads to legal penalties or censorship under frameworks ensuring public morality. Example: YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia faced legal scrutiny and temporary broadcast bans due to vulgar content on his show.
Way forward:
- Establish a Clear Regulatory Framework: Develop a transparent and balanced regulatory mechanism that sets clear guidelines for online content, ensuring decency and morality while protecting freedom of speech. Example: The government can establish a self-regulatory body for digital content, similar to the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) for television.
- Promote Responsible Content Creation: Encourage content creators to adopt ethical standards and self-regulation through awareness campaigns and guidelines that differentiate between humour and vulgarity. Example: Platforms like YouTube and OTT services can implement content advisories and age-appropriate ratings to safeguard vulnerable audiences.
Mains PYQ:
Q How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate your answer (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India vs Australia;
Why in the News?
Australia is confident in India’s promising economic future, anticipating it will become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030.
What are the key sectors identified as the “Superhighways of growth” in the new Roadmap for Australia’s Economic Engagement with India?
- Clean Energy: Focus on renewable energy and critical minerals to support India’s green transition. Example: Australia, as the largest producer of lithium, supplies essential materials for India’s electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing goals.
- Education and Skills: Collaboration on skill development and higher education to equip India’s workforce. Example: Australian universities have opened campuses in Gujarat’s GIFT City and are expanding to Noida to offer advanced training programs.
- Agribusiness and Tourism: Enhancing agricultural trade and food security and fostering tourism between the two countries. Example: Australia’s advanced agritech supports India’s agricultural modernization while increased bilateral tourism strengthens cultural ties.
Why does Australia consider itself a natural partner for India’s economic growth?
- Complementary Economies: Australia produces resources that India needs, and India provides services that Australia requires. Example: Australia supplies critical minerals (like lithium and cobalt) essential for India’s electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.
- Strategic Alignment: Both nations share common regional and global strategic interests, including maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. Example: Regular participation in Quad (with the U.S. and Japan) strengthens defense and economic cooperation.
- Geographic Proximity: Australia and India are geographically close across the Indian Ocean, facilitating easier trade and collaboration. Example: The Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) has significantly increased bilateral trade.
- Shared Democratic Values: Both countries are committed to democracy, rule of law, and a rules-based international order, fostering mutual trust. Example: Australia supports India’s bid for a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) permanent seat.
- Strong People-to-People Ties: A large and growing Indian diaspora in Australia acts as a bridge for cultural and economic collaboration. Example: Australia’s Maitri grants program supports Indian diaspora-led initiatives to boost bilateral engagement.
How has the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) impacted trade between India and Australia?
- Increased Bilateral Trade Volume: ECTA has accelerated trade growth between the two countries by reducing tariffs and improving market access. Example: India’s exports to Australia have grown by 66% in the past five years, nearly twice as fast as India’s exports to the rest of the world.
- Tariff Reductions and Market Access: ECTA has eliminated or reduced custom duties on a wide range of products, enhancing the competitiveness of Indian and Australian goods. Example: Australia removed tariffs on 96.4% of Indian exports, including textiles, jewelry, and pharmaceuticals.
- Boost to Key Sectors: The agreement has strengthened trade in minerals, energy, and education—areas where both countries have complementary strengths. Example: Australia’s exports of critical minerals like lithium support India’s electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing ambitions.
- Enhanced Services Trade and Mobility: ECTA facilitates greater cooperation in education, IT, and professional services, including easier movement of skilled workers. Example: Indian professionals in IT and engineering benefit from streamlined visa processes for work in Australia.
- Foundation for a Comprehensive Agreement: ECTA serves as a stepping stone toward a broader Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) to further deepen economic ties. Example: Negotiations for CECA are ongoing to expand trade in technology, healthcare, and defense collaboration.
What steps is Australia taking to support India’s ambition for manufacturing electric vehicles and addressing its skill development needs?
- Supplying Critical Minerals for EV Manufacturing: Australia is leveraging its position as a leading producer of critical minerals essential for EV production. Example: Australia, the largest producer of lithium and with significant reserves of nickel and cobalt, supplies these key raw materials to support India’s goal of increasing EV adoption eight-fold by 2030.
- Collaborating on Skill Development and Education: Australian universities are providing high-quality technical education to equip the Indian workforce with advanced skills. Example: Australian universities have established campuses in GIFT City (Gujarat) and soon in Noida (Uttar Pradesh) to train Indian professionals in emerging technologies, including EV and clean energy sectors.
- Investing in Training and Workforce Mobility: Australia is investing in initiatives to improve vocational training and enhance workforce mobility between the two nations. Example: Through its Maitri grants program, Australia is fostering collaboration in technical training to meet India’s aim of skilling two crore people annually.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Critical Supply Chains: Deepen collaboration on critical minerals by establishing long-term supply agreements and joint ventures to support India’s EV and renewable energy ambitions.
- Expand Education and Workforce Partnerships: Enhance mutual recognition of qualifications and dual-degree programs to address India’s skill gaps in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and digital sectors.
Mains PYQ:
Q Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: River Dolphins in India
Why in the News?
India’s first-ever comprehensive river dolphin survey conducted under Project Dolphin (2020) has estimated a population of 6,327 dolphins, primarily across the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus River basins.
River Dolphins in India:
| Species |
Habitat |
Conservation Status |
Key Features & Threats |
| Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica)
|
Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna & Karnaphuli river systems (India, Bangladesh, Nepal) |
IUCN: Endangered
WPA, 1972: Schedule I |
Known as “Susu”, India’s National Aquatic Animal in 2009. Faces threats from pollution, habitat fragmentation, and accidental bycatch.
Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar) – Only dolphin sanctuary in India. |
| Indus River Dolphin (Platanista minor)
|
Indus River (Pakistan) & Beas River (India) |
IUCN: Endangered
WPA, 1972: Schedule I |
One of the rarest dolphins, facing population decline due to water diversion, dam construction, and habitat degradation.
Beas Conservation Reserve (Punjab) – Focused on Indus River Dolphin protection. |
| Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris)
|
Chilika Lake (India) & rivers of South & Southeast Asia |
IUCN: Endangered
WPA, 1972: Schedule I |
Known for “spy-hopping” behavior (rising vertically to observe surroundings). Threatened by fishing nets and habitat destruction. |
Key Highlights of the Survey
- The survey estimated the Ganges River dolphin population at 6,324, with Uttar Pradesh (2,397) and Bihar (2,220) recording the highest numbers, while the Brahmaputra basin had 635 dolphins, indicating a stable population.
- The Indus River dolphin population was found to be critically low, with only 3 individuals recorded in the Beas River in Punjab, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
- Key habitats were identified, with the highest dolphin concentrations observed in the Bhind-Pachnada stretch of the Chambal River and the Chausa-Manihari stretch of the Ganga.
- Dolphins were found to prefer deep water zones, confluences, mid-channel islands, and meandering sections of rivers, indicating specific habitat requirements.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
(a) Saltwater crocodile
(b) Olive ridley turtle
(c) Gangetic dolphin
(d) Gharial |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MISHTI Scheme
Why in the News?
Gujarat has emerged as the national leader in mangrove afforestation, covering 19,020 hectares in just two years under the Central Government’s MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes) scheme.
About the MISHTI Scheme
- The MISHTI scheme was launched on June 5, 2023, to restore 540 sq. km of mangrove forests.
- It aims to restore and expand 540 sq. km mangrove forests across 9 states and 3 union territories over a 5-year period (2023–28).
- It aligns with India’s commitment to the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC) at COP27 (2022, Egypt).
- The scheme is funded through MGNREGS, CAMPA Fund, and other sources, ensuring community participation.
- It focuses on Sundarbans (West Bengal), Hooghly Estuary, and other coastal and wetland ecosystems.
Gujarat’s Leadership in Mangrove Afforestation
- Gujarat has emerged as India’s top state in mangrove afforestation, covering 19,020 hectares (190 sq. km) in just two years under MISHTI.
- The Gulf of Kutch (799 sq. km) leads in coverage, followed by the Gulf of Khambhat and Dumas-Ubhrat belt (134 sq. km).
- Gujarat’s 1,650 km-long coastline is home to mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrasses, making it an
- It aims to expand mangrove cover by an additional 350 sq. km, strengthening climate resilience and coastal biodiversity.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following regions of India has a combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest and deciduous forest?
(a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh
(b) South-West Bengal
(c) Southern Saurashtra
(d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Planetary Alignment
Why in the News?
On February 29, 2024, skywatchers worldwide witnessed a rare planetary alignment (parade) with seven planets—Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Mercury, Saturn, and Venus—lining up in the night sky.
What is Planetary Alignment?
- A planetary alignment occurs when multiple planets in the Solar System appear to line up in the sky as seen from Earth.
- This phenomenon happens because planets orbit the Sun in a flat, disc-shaped plane called the ecliptic.
- Although planets remain millions of kilometers apart, they seem to form a straight line from Earth’s perspective due to optical illusion and perspective.
- The term “planet parade” is also used to describe this occurrence when multiple planets become visible in the sky at the same time.
- Types of Planetary Alignments:
- Conjunction: Two or more planets appear close to each other in the sky.
- Small Alignment: Three planets align in a visible line.
- Large Alignment: Four or more planets appear aligned from Earth’s perspective.
- Full Alignment: All eight planets of the Solar System appear in a single line (very rare).
How often do Planetary Alignments occur?
- Planetary alignments are not uncommon, but their rarity depends on the number of planets involved.
- Two- or Three-Planet Alignments: Occur multiple times a year.
- Four- or Five-Planet Alignments: Visible every few years.
- Six- or Seven-Planet Alignments: Appear every few decades.
- Full Alignment (All Eight Planets): Extremely rare, occurs once every 170–200 years.
- Recent & Upcoming Alignments:
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- August 2025: Expected four-planet alignment.
- May 2492: The next predicted full planetary alignment of all eight planets.
PYQ:
[2019] On 21st June, the Sun:
(a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle
(b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle
(c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator
(d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bose Metal
Why in the News?
Researchers have recently discovered a potential new state of matter, the Bose metal, found between a regular metal and a superconductor, with evidence of this phase in Niobium Diselenide (NbSe₂) by a team of Chinese and Japanese scientists.
What is a Bose Metal?
- A Bose metal is a hypothetical anomalous metallic state where Cooper pairs (electron pairs) form but do not transition into a superconducting state.
- This state exists between a normal metal and a superconductor, challenging traditional theories of condensed matter physics.
- In simple terms, a Bose metal is a material where:
- Electrons pair up into Cooper pairs (like in superconductors).
- However, these Cooper pairs fail to achieve long-range coherence, meaning the material remains metallic instead of becoming superconducting.
- This results in partial electrical resistance, unlike superconductors that have zero resistance.
- Recent experimental studies suggest their existence in materials like Niobium Diselenide (NbSe₂) when subjected to specific conditions, such as thin layers and applied magnetic fields.
Key Features:
- Intermediate State: Exists between a metal and a superconductor.
- Cooper Pair Formation: Electrons form pairs, but they don’t condense into superconductivity.
- Anomalous Conductivity: Higher than normal metals but not infinite like superconductors.
- Quantum Fluctuations: Strong phase fluctuations disrupt Cooper pair coherence.
- Hall Resistance Vanishing: Indicates charge transport by Cooper pairs rather than individual electrons.
- Observed in Thin 2D Materials: Seen in ultra-thin films of superconductors under specific conditions.
PYQ:
[2013] Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste?
- Beryllium
- Cadmium
- Chromium
- Heptachlor
- Mercury
- Lead
- Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(b) 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only
(c) 2, 4, 5 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 |
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the main objectives of Population Education (2021) and National Education Policy 2020 (2020).
The main focus of this debate should be the public school students—they make up 55% of school enrolment in Tamil Nadu. Unlike children in private schools, who often get extra coaching or tuition, public school students cannot afford such support. The key question is: Does learning three languages instead of two really help public school students compete with wealthier peers in the job market and become productive citizens?
Today’s editorial discusses the introduction of a third language in academics and its potential impact. This topic is relevant for GS Papers 1 and 2 in the UPSC Mains examination.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Forcing students to learn a third language has no academic benefit and may create a generation unable to compete at the national level.
What is the Three-Language Formula?
- The third language typically refers to an additional language that students learn in school beyond their mother tongue (first language) and English (second language).
- In India, the Three-Language Formula was introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP) to promote multilingualism and national integration.
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Does learning three languages instead of two really help public school students compete with wealthier peers in the job market and become productive citizens?
- Limited Practical Advantage: Learning a third language may not directly improve job prospects if core skills like English proficiency and technical knowledge are weak. Example: In national-level exams like UPSC or banking tests, fluency in English is more valuable than knowing a third language like Hindi.
- Unequal Access to Resources: Public school students often lack access to quality teaching and extra coaching for a third language, unlike wealthier peers in private schools.
Example: A private school student can afford Hindi tuition, while a public school student relying only on classroom instruction may fall behind.
- Diverts Focus from Essential Skills: Adding a third language may reduce time spent on improving critical subjects like math, science, and literacy, which are key for future employment.
Example: According to ASER 2024, 88% of Class 3 students in Tamil Nadu lack basic literacy—introducing a third language could widen this gap.
What is the primary concern regarding the three-language formula for public school students in Tamil Nadu?
- Increased Educational Burden: Public school students, who lack access to private coaching, face added pressure from learning a third language. Example: A child from a rural public school struggling with basic literacy in Tamil and English may find learning Hindi an additional challenge, reducing focus on core subjects.
- Inequality in Educational Access: Privileged students from private schools can afford supplemental learning (e.g., tuition), while public school students cannot. Example: A private school student can attend Hindi tuition, but a public school student relying solely on classroom instruction may fall behind.
- Poor Educational Infrastructure: Public schools lack qualified teachers to effectively teach a third language, which may lower educational quality. Example: Despite Tamil Nadu’s high education budget, 80-90% is spent on teacher salaries, leaving minimal funds for hiring new Hindi teachers or improving resources.
- Impact on Learning Outcomes: Introducing a third language diverts time from improving essential skills like literacy and numeracy, especially when foundational learning is weak. Example: According to ASER 2024, 88% of Class 3 students in Tamil Nadu lack basic literacy skills—adding a third language may further dilute learning time.
- Reduced National Competitiveness: Without strong English proficiency, public school students may struggle in national-level exams and job markets where English is dominant. Example: Tamil Nadu students competing for central services exams (UPSC) or jobs requiring English proficiency may be at a disadvantage if the focus shifts to Hindi instead of improving English skills.
Could learning a third language fail to improve cognitive abilities?
Arguments in favour:
- Cognitive Overload: Introducing a third language can overwhelm students, especially when basic literacy in the first and second languages is weak. Example: Public school students struggling with Tamil and English may face cognitive strain, reducing their ability to master essential subjects.
- Weak Foundation in Mother Tongue: Research suggests that proficiency in the mother tongue is crucial for cognitive development before introducing additional languages. Example: A child who lacks fluency in Tamil may struggle to grasp complex concepts in Hindi, leading to weaker overall comprehension.
- Limited Evidence of Cognitive Gains: While bilingualism enhances cognitive skills, there is no conclusive evidence that learning a third language improves cognitive abilities proportionately. Example: Studies show that depth of understanding in one or two languages is more beneficial than surface-level knowledge of multiple languages.
Arguments against:
- Cognitive Overload: Introducing a third language can overwhelm students, especially when basic literacy in the first and second languages is weak. Example: Public school students struggling with Tamil and English may face cognitive strain, reducing their ability to master essential subjects.
- Weak Foundation in Mother Tongue: Research suggests that proficiency in the mother tongue is crucial for cognitive development before introducing additional languages. Example: A child who lacks fluency in Tamil may struggle to grasp complex concepts in Hindi, leading to weaker overall comprehension.
- Limited Evidence of Cognitive Gains: While bilingualism enhances cognitive skills, there is no conclusive evidence that learning a third language improves cognitive abilities proportionately. Example: Studies show that depth of understanding in one or two languages is more beneficial than surface-level knowledge of multiple languages.
How can child development be balanced with political concerns about language education?
- Optional Third Language Policy: Offer the third language as an optional subject rather than making it mandatory, allowing students to choose based on their interests and future needs. Example: Tamil Nadu could introduce Hindi as an optional third language from middle school, especially in urban areas where demand is higher.
- Focus on Core Language Proficiency: Prioritize strong literacy in the mother tongue and English to ensure foundational learning before adding an additional language. Example: Strengthening Tamil and English instruction in public schools will help students succeed in national-level competitive exams.
- Context-Sensitive Implementation: Implement language policies that reflect local realities and employment trends without compromising cultural identity. Example: In Tamil Nadu, where most job opportunities are available locally, bilingual education (Tamil and English) may be more practical than adding a third language.
- Equity in Language Resources: Ensure adequate teacher training and educational materials for any third language to avoid disadvantaging public school students. Example: Hiring qualified Hindi teachers and providing multilingual textbooks can ensure that students receive quality education if they choose a third language.
- Flexible Language Learning Pathways: Allow regional flexibility in adopting the three-language formula, adapting to the socio-political landscape while prioritizing student welfare. Example: Tamil Nadu could adopt a phased approach, starting with voluntary third-language instruction in district headquarters and expanding based on demand.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Bilingual Education First: Focus on improving Tamil and English proficiency in public schools to ensure students develop strong foundational skills before introducing a third language.
- Flexible and Inclusive Language Policy: Implement a voluntary third-language framework, allowing students the choice to learn an additional language based on regional needs and career aspirations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Gender Budgeting;
Why in the News?
The Union Budget for 2025 allocated ₹4,49,028.68 crore to the Gender Budget (GB), which is 37.3% more than the previous year and makes up 8.86% of the total Budget.
What is the primary reason for the significant increase in the Gender Budget (GB) for 2025?
- Inclusion of PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY): This welfare scheme accounts for 24% of the total Gender Budget. Example: The free food grain distribution under PMGKAY, aimed at ensuring food security for vulnerable women-led households, significantly inflated the Gender Budget.
- Broadening the Definition of Gender-Responsive Schemes: The inclusion of non-traditional gender-related welfare programs increases the allocation. Example: Programs like Poshan Abhiyaan (nutrition for women and children) and Ujjwala Yojana (LPG subsidies) are now categorized under the Gender Budget.
- Increased Focus on Welfare Distribution Over Structural Investments: The rise is driven by consumption-based welfare rather than care infrastructure. Example: Higher allocations for schemes providing direct benefits like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (maternity support) rather than investment in childcare centers.
- Political Commitment to “Nari Shakti”: Emphasis on women’s empowerment as a core pillar of economic growth. Example: The Budget’s narrative aligns with promoting women-led development under the “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam” (Women’s Reservation Bill).
- Inclusion of Large-Scale Social Security Programs: Integrating social protection schemes under the Gender Budget increases the total value. Example: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) allocations, where a significant portion targets women beneficiaries, contribute to the budget rise.
How does it impact investments in care infrastructure?
- Limited Direct Investment in Care Services: Despite the rise in overall allocation, no substantial funding is directed toward expanding childcare, eldercare, or healthcare services. Example: There is no new budgetary provision for increasing anganwadi centers or community-based eldercare facilities.
- Invisibility of Unpaid Care Work: The focus on consumption-based schemes overlooks the need to reduce and redistribute unpaid care responsibilities. Example: While food security programs like PMGKAY provide relief, they do not alleviate the physical and time-intensive care work that women perform daily.
- Missed Opportunity for Systemic Reform: The absence of targeted funding means there is no structural change in care-related infrastructure despite policy acknowledgments. Example: The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), which could reduce women’s water-fetching burden, faced a 4.51% budget cut, limiting its expansion.
- Inadequate Support for Working Women: Without investments in affordable care services, women’s participation in the formal workforce remains restricted. Example: Lack of childcare facilities prevents many women from rejoining the labor market after childbirth.
- Uneven Urban-Rural Access: Existing care infrastructure investments are urban-centric, leaving rural women without essential support systems. Example: The Urban Challenge Fund focuses on urban care models, while rural areas lack similar investments, exacerbating time poverty for women in low-income households.
Why do a majority of Indian women remain outside the labour force?
- Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) Burden: Indian women perform a disproportionate share of unpaid care work, limiting their time and ability to engage in paid employment. Example: According to the ILO, 53% of Indian women remain outside the labour force due to care responsibilities, compared to just 1.1% of men.
- Lack of Care Infrastructure: Inadequate access to childcare, eldercare, and basic services increases women’s household workload, preventing workforce participation. Example: Less than half of Indian villages have functional tap water under the Jal Jeevan Mission, requiring women to spend hours fetching water.
- Gendered Social Norms and Stereotypes: Deep-rooted cultural expectations frame women as primary caregivers, discouraging their entry or return to the workforce. Example: Women in low-income households juggle 17-19 hours of unpaid and paid work, reinforcing time poverty and limiting job opportunities.
- Lack of Formal Sector Opportunities: There are limited job options offering flexible work and safe working conditions suited to women’s needs, particularly in rural areas. Example: Women’s participation in India’s formal economy remains low due to insecure jobs and a lack of family-friendly policies.
Which measures does the Economic Survey 2023-24 propose to reduce the unpaid care work burden?
- Increased Public Investment in Care Infrastructure: Advocates for direct public investment equivalent to 2% of GDP to expand care services and reduce the unpaid care burden. Example: This investment could create 11 million jobs while providing essential care support like childcare and eldercare facilities.
- Integration of Time-Use Surveys in Policy Planning: Recommends integrating Time-Use modules into existing household surveys to recognise and measure the extent of unpaid care work. Example: Data from India’s 2019 Time Use Survey revealed that women spend an average of 7 hours daily on unpaid care tasks.
- Expanding Access to Time-Saving Technologies: Emphasizes improving access to time-saving infrastructure like clean water, sanitation, and energy to reduce the physical burden on women. Example: Extending the Jal Jeevan Mission aims to achieve 100% potable water coverage by 2028, easing the water-fetching burden.
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Way forward:
- Enhance Care Infrastructure Investment: Prioritize increased funding for community-based childcare, eldercare, and healthcare services, especially in rural areas, to reduce women’s unpaid care burden and improve workforce participation.
- Implement Gender-Sensitive Policy Planning: Institutionalize time-use surveys for evidence-based policymaking and integrate care responsibilities into labor policies to promote equitable access to formal employment for women.
Mains PYQ:
Q Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context? (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to health;
Why in the News?
About 25% of men and women in India were overweight or obese in 2019-21, a 4% increase from 2015-16. Obesity is more common among women in South Indian states, Delhi, and Punjab, but it is rising faster among men.
What is the definition of “overweight” and “obese” based on BMI measurements in the National Family Health Survey?
- Overweight: BMI between 25.0 and 29.9. Example: A person who is 1.65 m (5’5″) tall and weighs 70 kg would have a BMI of 25.7, categorizing them as overweight.
- Obese: BMI of 30.0 or above. Example: A person who is 1.70 m (5’7″) tall and weighs 90 kg would have a BMI of 31.1, classifying them as obese.
- Calculation Formula: BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ (Height in meters)². Example: If a person is 1.60 m tall and weighs 60 kg, their BMI would be: BMI=601.6×1.6=23.4\text{BMI} = \frac{60}{1.6 \times 1.6} = 23.4BMI=1.6×1.660=23.4 (Healthy range).
When did the share of overweight and obese individuals in India significantly increase?
- Period of Increase (2015-16 to 2019-21): The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) recorded a significant rise in the share of overweight and obese individuals between 2015-16 (NFHS-4) and 2019-21 (NFHS-5).
- Increase in Overweight Individuals: Women: Increased from 15.5% in 2015-16 to 17.6% in 2019-21 (a rise of 2.1 percentage points). Men: Increased from 15.9% in 2015-16 to 18.9% in 2019-21 (a rise of 3 percentage points).
- Example: In Delhi, the proportion of overweight men and women was among the highest in the country during 2019-21.
- Increase in Obese Individuals: Women: Increased from 5.1% in 2015-16 to 6.4% in 2019-21. Men: Increased from 3% in 2015-16 to 4% in 2019-21. Example: Punjab recorded one of the sharpest increases in obesity among women during this period.
Which Indian states reported the highest increase in obesity levels?
- Northern States with Sharp Increases: Delhi and Punjab recorded the highest increase in obesity levels for both men and women between 2015-16 and 2019-21. Example: Delhi had the largest proportion of obese and overweight men in the country by 2019-21.
- Southern States with Persistent High Obesity Rates: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka consistently reported high obesity levels, with a notable rise over the survey period. Example: In Kerala, a significant portion of the population—both men and women—crossed the obesity threshold by 2019-21.
- States with Accelerated Growth in Obesity: States in the South and North-West witnessed faster increases in obesity, reflecting a shift toward unhealthy dietary habits like increased consumption of fried foods and aerated drinks. Example: Punjab experienced a sharp increase in the share of obese women, making it one of the top states for rising obesity.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government promotes healthy lifestyle choices through initiatives like “Eat Right India” and “Fit India Movement” to encourage balanced diets and physical activity. Example: In Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister advised reducing oil consumption by 10% monthly to combat obesity.
- School-Based Interventions: Implement nutrition guidelines in midday meal programs and ban junk food in and around school premises to promote healthy eating habits among children. Example: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued regulations to restrict high-fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) food sales in schools.
- Policy and Regulation of Processed Foods: Introducing front-of-pack labeling for processed and packaged foods to inform consumers about high sugar, salt, and fat content. Example: FSSAI’s Eat Right Logo helps consumers identify healthier food options.
- Lifestyle Disease Control Programs: The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) targets obesity, diabetes, and hypertension through screening and lifestyle modification programs. Example: Community health workers under Ayushman Bharat conduct health screenings for BMI and other risk factors.
- Promotion of Traditional Wellness Practices: Encouraging the adoption of Yoga and Ayurveda through programs like International Yoga Day to promote holistic health and weight management. Example: The AYUSH Ministry organizes free Yoga sessions to spread awareness about natural ways to maintain healthy BMI levels.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Multi-Sectoral Collaboration: Enhance coordination between health, education, and food regulatory bodies to implement comprehensive obesity prevention programs. Example: Integrate nutrition education in school curricula and expand community-based health screenings.
- Promote Sustainable Food Systems: Encourage the availability of affordable, nutritious foods and regulate ultra-processed foods through taxation and clear labeling. Example: Introduce subsidies for healthy food options and enforce strict advertising regulations for unhealthy products.
Mains PYQ:
Q The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them? (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM 2.5
Why in the News?
A recent study published in Nature Communications has analyzed the sources and health impacts of PM2.5 pollution in Northern India, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
About PM2.5
- PM2.5 (Particulate Matter ≤2.5 microns) refers to tiny air pollutants small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
- These fine particles come from both natural sources (like dust storms and wildfires) and human activities (like burning fossil fuels and industrial emissions).
- PM2.5 poses severe health risks, contributing to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and reduced lung function.
- The oxidative potential of PM2.5 is an important indicator of its toxicity and ability to cause cellular damage.
Key Findings of the Study
- Major Sources of PM2.5 in Northern India:
- The study analyzed PM2.5 pollution across five locations in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, including Delhi and Kanpur.
- Delhi: PM2.5 is mainly from vehicular emissions, fossil fuel burning, and residential heating.
- Outside Delhi: It consists of ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and biomass-burning aerosols.
- PM2.5 Toxicity and Health Risks:
- PM2.5 toxicity is linked to organic aerosols from inefficient combustion of biomass and fossil fuels.
- Traffic emissions and residential fuel burning significantly contribute to PM2.5-related health risks.
- Traffic as a Major Contributor:
- Hydrocarbon-like organic aerosols (HOA) from vehicular emissions were highest at urban roadside sites in Delhi (8 μg/m³).
- HOA accounts for 50% of fossil fuel-derived aerosols, increasing to 40% in warmer months.
- Winter Pollution Due to Residential Heating and Cooking:
- Cow dung combustion for heating and cooking in winter increases organic aerosols, with levels 10 times higher than in summer due to biomass burning and shallow boundary layers.
- India’s PM2.5 Toxicity Among the Highest Globally:
- The study found that PM2.5 oxidative potential (toxicity) in Indian cities is up to 5 times higher than in Chinese and European cities.
PYQ:
[2016] In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of the Air Quality Index?
- Carbon dioxide
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Sulphur dioxide
- Methane
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Amir Khusrau
Why in the News?
Recently, PM Modi inaugurated the 25th edition of Jahaan-e-Khusrau, a Sufi music festival held at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi, in Khusrau’s honor.
Who was Amir Khusrau?
- Amir Khusrau was born in Patiyali, Uttar Pradesh, to a Turkish father and an Indian mother.
- He served as a court poet to five Delhi Sultans:
- Muiz ud din Qaiqabad of Mamluk Dynasty (1287–1290)
- Jalaluddin Khalji (1290–1296)
- Alauddin Khalji (1296–1316)
- Qutbuddin Mubarak Shah (1316–1320)
- Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq (1320–1325)
- He was deeply influenced by Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, whose teachings shaped his spiritual and poetic journey.
- He is fondly remembered as “The Parrot of India” (Tuti-e-Hind) for his eloquence.
Literary Contributions:
- Wrote in Persian and Hindavi, pioneering Khari Boli, the precursor to Hindi and Urdu.
- Created the first Hindi lexicon (Khalikbari), blending Sanskrit, Persian, and Arabic words.
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- Tughlaq Nama (historical epic)
- Nuh Sipihr (Nine Skies)
- In the Bazaar of Love (ghazals and poetry)
- Invented the qawwali tradition, merging Indian and Persian musical elements.
- Composed Chhap Tilak Sab Chheeni Re, Zehal-e-Miskeen, and Sakal Ban Phool Rahi Sarson.
- Credited with developing the sitar and tabla, though debated by historians.
- Most devoted disciple of Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya.
- Upon his master’s death in 1325, Khusrau followed within 6 months.
- His tomb lies beside Nizamuddin’s dargah in Delhi, symbolizing their eternal bond.
- Pioneered Hindavi poetry and laid the foundation for Hindi and Urdu literature.
- Inspired generations of ghazal and qawwali singers, including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Abida Parveen.
- Festivals like Jahaan-e-Khusrau continue to honor his enduring cultural legacy.
PYQ:
[2012] With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?
1. Meditation and control of breath
2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place
3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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