In her book âDemocracy on Trial: Majoritarianism and Dissent in Indiaâ, Zoya Hasan points out that, though Indiaâs democracy is strong in elections, it has struggled with fairness and freedoms due to growing majoritarianism since 2014.
What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?
Majoritarian Politics: Since a decade ago, Indiaâs democracy has seen a shift toward majoritarianism, with the rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, facing marginalization.
This tilt toward majoritarian views fosters unequal treatment, weakening the universal protection of civil liberties and undermining the democratic principles of inclusion and equality.
Compromised Media Landscape: Traditionally, media acted as a watchdog on power, but now it frequently functions as a government advocate.
This shift has narrowed public discourse on civil rights and accountability, reducing the mediaâs role in preserving civil liberties.
Legislation Targeting Minorities: Laws such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) are seen as religiously discriminatory, especially when considered with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
Such laws challenge the Constitutionâs guarantee of equal rights for all citizens, placing undue pressure on certain communities and further eroding civil liberties.
Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:
Judicial Autonomy and its Challenges: While the judiciary has traditionally been a pillar of democracy, recent trends indicate compromised judicial independence.
There are instances where courts appear reluctant to challenge the executive because political pressure may be impacting judicial autonomy, thereby diminishing an essential check on power.
Media’s Decline as a Check on Power: Media independence has weakened as corporate and political influences have taken root, limiting its role in holding power to account.
Legislative and Executive Power Dynamics: The increasing concentration of power within the executive, combined with a legislative body that often aligns with the ruling agenda, limits checks and balances.
Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:
Divisive Identity Politics: Identity-based polarization is intensifying, with significant events such as the Ayodhya dispute and the Shaheen Bagh protests illustrating how political narratives can frame majority identities against minority rights.
Silencing of Dissent: Governmental responses to protests, like those against the CAA, often include the use of force, indicating reduced tolerance for opposition.
Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:
Voter Education and Awareness Campaigns: The ECI has launched extensive voter education campaigns to promote awareness about the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
Monitoring and Regulation of Political Parties: The ECI has increased scrutiny over political parties’ funding and activities to ensure transparency.
Strengthening Electoral Laws: Recent amendments to electoral laws have been made to enhance the integrity of elections.
Use of Technology: The ECI has implemented technology-driven solutions such as Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and reliability in the voting process.
Way forward:Â
Strengthening Institutional Independence: Reinforce the autonomy of key institutions like the judiciary, media, and law enforcement through stricter legal safeguards and transparent appointment processes.
Promoting Inclusive and Balanced Governance: Establish mechanisms to ensure equal representation and protection for all communities, addressing grievances through impartial review processes. Implementing inclusive governance policies can help counter majoritarian biases and foster a more cohesive democratic environment.
Mains PYQ:
Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)
Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.Â
About Konark Wheels
Details
Design
The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
Dimensions of Wheels
Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
Symbolism of Wheels
The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
⢠7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
⢠12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
⢠24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
⢠8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
Architectural Features
⢠The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
⢠Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
Sun Dial Functionality
Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
Modern Representation
Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.
Its significance
The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.
Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple
Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan(assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.
PYQ:
[2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?
1. Arasavalli
2. Amarakantak
3. Omkareshwar
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar governmenthad not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.
About Maithili Language
Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
The scriptâs oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.
AboutEighth Schedule:
Details
Purpose
Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
Relevant Articles
Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
Key Constitutional Provisions
⢠Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitutionâs commencement.
⢠Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent Indiaâs composite culture.
Languages in the Eighth Schedule
Currently includes 22 languages: Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
Official Language Status
Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.
PYQ:
[2014] Consider the following languages:
Gujarati
Kannada
Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as âClassical Language/Languagesâ by the Government?
Israelâs Knesset has banned the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, citing alleged ties between UNRWA staff and Hamas.
What is Israelâs Knesset?
The Knesset is Israel’s unicameral parliament, established in 1949.
It consists of 120 members, elected every four years through proportional representation, and is responsible for legislation, government oversight, and electing the president.
About UNRWA:
Details
Full Name
United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Establishment
Established by the UN General Assembly in 1949.
Primary Purpose
To provide relief, healthcare, and education for Palestinian refugees displaced after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
Headquarters
Originally in Beirut, moved to Vienna in 1978, and relocated to Gaza in 1996.
Mandate Renewal
The mandate has been renewed repeatedly, currently extended until June 30, 2026.
Fields of Operation
Operates in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
Beneficiaries
Supports over five million Palestinian refugees and their descendants displaced in 1948 and 1967.
The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared heatwaves a State-specific disaster.
It announced an ex-gratia payment of âš4 lakh for families of individuals who die from heat-related causes, including those involved in relief operations.
Key Details of the Declaration
Purpose: This declaration allows the government to provide immediate relief to those affected by extreme heat, especially during the severe temperatures of April and May 2024.
OtherState-specific disasters in TN: Sea erosion, lightning, thunder, whirlwinds, and gale winds as State-specific disasters to ensure relief assistance for those impacted by these events.
Note:Â
Kerala in March this year, declared man-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster, becoming the first state in the country to do so.
Once an issue is declared a state-specific disaster, the onus to deal with it shifts to the state disaster management authority, which, powered by the Disaster Management Act, can take quicker and more decisive action.
Also, district collectors can directly intervene in their capacity as the chairman of the district disaster body.
About Heatwaves:
Details
Definition
A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, relative to the usual climate of a region.
Occurrence
Typically occurs in India between March and June.
Declaration by IMD
Plains: The maximum temperature is at least 45°C
Hills: The maximum temperature is at least 30°C
Coastal regions: The maximum temperature is at least 37°C and the departure from normal is at least 4.5°C
Formation
⢠High-Pressure Systems: Develop when high pressure settles over a region for days or weeks.
⢠Air Sinking: Forces air to sink, warming and drying it.
⢠Increased Radiation: Fewer clouds lead to higher surface temperatures.
⢠Surface Winds: Warm air from lower latitudes or continental winds intensify heat.
Criteria for Declaring a Heatwave
At least two stations in a meteorological subdivision must meet one of the following criteria for two consecutive days (declared on the second day): Based on Departure from Normal:
– Heat Wave: Temperature departure of 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal.
– Severe Heat Wave: Temperature departure of >6.4°C above normal. Based on Actual Maximum Temperature (plains only):
– Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 45°C or higher.
– Severe Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 47°C or higher.
Duration
Typically lasts a minimum of four days but can extend to seven or ten days. Longest Recorded Spell: May 2015, lasting from 18 to 31 May.
Impact of Heatwaves
⢠Heat Strokes: Increased risk, especially for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
⢠Increased Healthcare Costs: Higher hospital visits and death rates from related illnesses.
⢠Reduced Productivity: Extreme heat affects the output of over 1 billion workers.
⢠Risk of Wildfires: Heat domes can lead to wildfires.
⢠Effect on Vegetation: Prolonged heat damages crops and leads to droughts.
⢠Increased Energy Demands: Higher electricity usage for cooling, driving up rates.
PYQ:
[2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.
[2013] The annual range of temperature in the interior of the continents is high as compared to coastal areas. What is / are the reason / reasons?
1. Thermal difference between land and water
2. Variation in altitude between continents and oceans
3. Presence of strong winds in the interior
4. Heavy rains in the interior as compared to coasts
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
The Centre has doubled the limit of Mudra loan amount under the PMMY to Rs 20 lakh from Rs 10 lakh under a new âTarun Plusâ category to promote entrepreneurship in the country.
This higher loan limit is available to entrepreneurs who have previously taken and successfully repaid loans under the existing âTarunâ category.
AboutPradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):
Details
LaunchÂ
Launched on April 8, 2015, by Prime Minister.
Objective
To provide financial assistance and support to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs through collateral-free loans.
Non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs are individuals or entities that operate small-scale businesses outside the corporate and agricultural sectors.Â
These include self-employed workers, small retail shops, artisans, repair services, and other informal sector businesses, often with limited capital and workforce.
Recent Update
Loan limit increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh under the new Tarun Plus category, announced in July 2024.
Loan Categories
⢠Shishu: Loans up to Rs 50,000
⢠Kishore: Loans between Rs 50,000 and Rs 5 lakh
⢠Tarun: Loans between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh
⢠Tarun Plus: Loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh
Loan Performance (2023-24)
⢠66.8 million Loans sanctioned totaling Rs 5.4 trillion.
⢠Over 487.8 million loans worth Rs 29.79 trillion sanctioned since launch.
NPA Statistics
⢠NPA of public sector banks under Mudra loans decreased to 3.4% in FY24, down from 4.77% in 2020-21.
⢠Gross NPA for scheduled commercial banks at 2.8% as of March 2024.
Target Beneficiaries
Aims to empower women, minorities, and marginalized communities by facilitating easy access to credit.
Technological Intervention
MUDRA Card: An innovative credit product that offers an overdraft facility and can be used like a debit card for transactions.
MUDRA MITRA App: A mobile application providing information about MUDRA and its schemes, guiding loan seekers to approach banks for availing loans.
PYQ:
[2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at:
(a) Bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system.
(b) Providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops.
(c) Providing pension to old and destitute persons.
(d) Funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation.
Q) Explain the rationale behind the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Act of 2017. How has COVID-19 impacted the GST compensation fund and created new federal tensions? (UPSC CSE 2020) Q) How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position? (UPSC CSE 2021) Q) âInvestment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth.â Discuss in the light of Indiaâs experience. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentorâs Comment:
“We cannot build a modern India without addressing the issue of poverty and inequality.”
â Dr. Manmohan Singh
In a nation where the top 10% hold 77% of the wealth, true progress can only be measured by the upliftment of the bottom half. Addressing regional disparities is essential for a harmonious India; without it, growth becomes a privilege of the few rather than a right for all.
Todayâs editorial discusses the widening economic disparities among Indian states and the implications of this divide.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Household savings and private investments are increasingly concentrated in wealthier states, leadingto a widening gap between rich and poor regions. These increasing economic disparities among Indian states have huge implications for Indian federalism.
Current State of Economic Divide in India:
⢠Per Capita Income Disparities: Wealthier states, primarily in the south and west, have significantly higher per capita incomes compared to poorer states in the north and east. As of 2019-20, per capita State Domestic Product (SDP) in wealthier states was approximately 2.5 times higher than in poorer states, up from a 1.7 times difference in 1990-91. ⢠Sectoral Growth Gaps: The disparity is particularly pronounced in the manufacturing and services sectors. Wealthier states exhibit a much higher per capita SDP in manufacturing (3.6 times) and services (2.9 times) compared to their poorer counterparts.
Primary factors contributing to the growing economic divide among Indian states
Sectoral Growth Disparities: Wealthier states have significantly higher outputs in manufacturing and services, leading to greater economic growth compared to poorer states.
As income rises, people spend less on food and more on manufactured goods and services. Secondly, India’s services sector has grown, but employment has been more modest.
Investment Patterns: A shift from public to private investment has favored wealthier states, resulting in concentrated resources and opportunities.
Infrastructure Gaps: Poorer states often lack adequate power supply and infrastructure, hindering their ability to attract industries and grow economically.
Educational Disparities: Access to quality education is uneven, with most higher education institutions in wealthier states, limiting skill development in poorer regions.
How does the economic divide affect federalism and governance in India?
Erosion of Federal Principles: Disparities challenge equitable resource distribution, leading to dissatisfaction among wealthier states that feel under-compensated.
Political Centralization: Increased control by the central government limits state autonomy, reducing their ability to address regional economic challenges.
Investment Disparities: Wealthier states attract more private investment, while poorer states struggle due to inadequate infrastructure, perpetuating inequality.
Governance Challenges: Poorer states face corruption and weak institutions, hindering effective policy implementation and further entrenching poverty.
Initiatives taken by the Government:
⢠Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP): Launched in 2018, this program aims to transform the performance of 112 districts lagging in key social indicators by promoting holistic development through targeted interventions in health, education, and infrastructure. This initiative focuses on blocks within districts that need special attention, aiming to improve governance and service delivery at the grassroots level. ⢠Special Economic Zones (SEZs): The government has established SEZs to attract investment and promote industrial growth in underdeveloped regions, encouraging economic activities and job creation. ⢠Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana: It focuses on improving rural road connectivity, which is crucial for economic development in remote areas. ⢠FC Recommendations: The 15th Finance Commission has recommended increasing the share of tax revenues allocated to states, particularly those with greater needs, to help address regional disparities.
What strategies can bridge the Economic Divide and promote Inclusive Growth?
Boost Entrepreneurship and Skill Development: Encourage entrepreneurship in poorer states through targeted support and training programs. Enhance skill development initiatives to equip the workforce with the necessary skills for emerging industries.
Upgrade Infrastructure: Invest in improving power supply and overall infrastructure in economically lagging regions, particularly in the Gangetic and eastern areas, to facilitate industrial growth and attract investment.
Expand Access to Education: Increase access to technical and vocational education in poorer states to improve employability and attract high-tech industries. Focus on creating educational opportunities that cater to local economic needs.
Form Interconnected National Value Chains: Develop value chains that link resources from wealthier states with the potential of poorer ones, fostering balanced economic growth across regions.
Q) Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. (UPSC CSE 2021) Q) Critically examine the Supreme Courtâs judgment on âThe National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014â with reference to the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. (UPSC CSE 2017)
Mentorâs Comment:
âDiversity is essential for effective institutionalization, bringing positivity and change.â
Womenâs meaningful representation in the judiciary is a crucial aspect of gender equality and justice. It is a precondition for bringing justice to those who need it the most.
Although several states have established quotas for women in the lower judiciary, providing 30% to 35% of seats for female candidates during recruitment in recent years, significant disparities persist, particularly in higher courts.
Todayâs editorial explores the current state of women’s representation in the judiciary, the underlying reasons for their under-representation, and the importance of addressing these issues.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recent findings from a joint UN Women and UNDP study highlight the importance of women’s representation in the judiciary, particularly in Africa.
CJI Chandrachud has also emphasized the need for dignified working conditions for women in the judiciary, further underscoring the ongoing discussions around gender equality in legal systems globally.
Current State of Women in the Judiciary:
⢠Subordinate Courts: As of 2023, women constitute approximately 36.3% of judges in subordinate courts, up from 27.6% in 2018. ⢠High Courts: The representation of women judges in High Courts has increased slightly from 10% in 2018 to 13.4% in 2023, with only 11.5% of judges being female. ⢠Supreme Court: The Supreme Court remains the least representative, with only 9.4% (3 out of 32 judges) being women as of December 2023, a marginal increase from 4% in 2018.
Regional Disparities: The High Courts of Punjab & Haryana, Delhi, and Bombay have the highest number of women judges. Conversely, states like Orissa, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh have only one woman judge each, while Patna and several others have none.
What are the systemic barriers contributing to the low representation of women in the judiciary?
Deeply rooted Patriarchy: A prevailing patriarchal culture limits women’s roles and opportunities in the legal field, leading to discrimination that hinders their judicial careers.
Societal expectations regarding domestic duties often lead women to prioritize family over career, causing them to decline promotions or judicial positions.
Hostile Work Environment: Women often face sexism and harassment, creating a challenging atmosphere that can result in high turnover rates and hinder career advancement.
Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of essential facilities, such as childcare and appropriate office space, disproportionately impacts women, complicating their ability to balance work and family.
Opaque Appointment Processes: The collegium system for appointing judges lacks transparency and tends to favor male candidates, reducing opportunities for qualified women.
Low Representation in Litigation: The under-representation of women in litigation results in fewer female candidates for judicial roles, perpetuating the cycle of inequality.
Women experience bias from colleagues and clients, which can undermine their credibility and limit their professional growth in the legal field.
How does the under-representation of women impact the judicial system and society?
1) Impact on the Judicial System
Justice Delivery: Fewer female judges can lead to biased rulings that overlook women’s unique experiences and needs.
Legitimacy: A diverse judiciary enhances public trust, signaling that the legal system is accessible and representative.
Diverse Perspectives: Women judges bring different viewpoints, enriching decision-making and improving legal outcomes.
Role Models: Fewer women in judicial positions discourage young women from pursuing careers in law.
Social Justice: A lack of gender diversity may hinder effective responses to issues affecting women, undermining social justice efforts.
What measures can be implemented to promote greater inclusion of women in the judiciary?
Gender Quotas: Set minimum representation targets for women in judicial positions, especially in higher courts.
Transparent Appointment Processes: The judiciary needs to revise selection criteria and make the judicial appointments more clear and fair to include diverse candidates.
Supportive Programs and Policies: Create mentorship initiatives and support networks by linking aspiring female judges with experienced women in the field.
Introduce Family-friendly and flexible working hours and childcare support to help women manage family responsibilities.
Gender Sensitivity Training: Implement training for Judges to address biases and foster an inclusive environment within the judiciary.
Advocacy and Political Will: Promote and encourage advocacy from civil society organizations to push for women’s representation in the judiciary.
Rooftop solar (RTS) can transform India’s energy landscape by providing a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution for rising electricity needs and could empower consumers (women and other sections of society) toward greater self-reliance.
How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?
Income Generation and Financial Independence: Solar technology enables women to generate income directly, especially in rural areas where traditional energy sources are scarce or costly.
For instance, solar-powered pumps have empowered women salt farmers in Gujaratâs Little Rann of Kutch, who, after shifting from diesel to solar, saw a 94% income boost and lower COâ emissions.
Employment Opportunities: The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, employing around 4.9 million people in 2022, has been particularly impactful for women, who make up about 40% of its workforce.
Empowerment Programs: Initiatives like Barefoot College in India and Solar Sister in Africa train women as solar engineers. These programs enhance skills, improve self-reliance, and create employment in remote communities.
What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?
Community Well-being and Social Development: Womenâs participation in the solar sector promotes local economic growth and strengthens social structures.
Leadership and Decision-Making: When women lead or actively participate in renewable energy projects, they often advocate for inclusive policies and better community engagement.
Gender-Sensitive Energy Policies: Women’s involvement highlights the need for energy policies that address the unique needs of women, improving both economic participation and social inclusion.
What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?
Access to Training and Financing: Women often face limited access to training and funding.
Overcoming these barriers requires accessible, affordable training programs in solar technology, as well as microfinance schemes specifically for women-led renewable energy projects.
Gender Bias and Occupational Segregation: The renewable energy sector, like many others, is affected by gender biases that can limit womenâs roles to lower-level positions.
To address this, itâs important to promote womenâs leadership and equal opportunities through gender-sensitive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Energy access policies frequently lack a gender perspective, which limits their reach and inclusiveness.
Integrating gender-focused policies in energy and rural development sectors can enhance the socio-economic impacts of solar energy for women.
Conclusion: Governments should integrate gender-focused policies within renewable energy frameworks, ensuring accessible financing options and training programs specifically for women. Microfinance schemes and subsidies for women-led solar projects can foster broader participation.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)
As the crises inUkraine and Gaza persist, experts and policymakers are increasingly concerned about further rises in the costs of components essential for producing petroleum-based chemical fertilizers.
Current Scenario of Fertilizer Imports:
India’s domestic fertilizer production capacity does not meet the full demand, requiring substantial imports to bridge the gap.
Urea: Approximately 20% of India’s urea requirement is met through imports.
Diammonium Phosphate (DAP): Around 50-60% of DAP demand is fulfilled by imports.
Muriate of Potassium (MOP or Potash): 100% of India’s MOP demand is met through imports, as there is no domestic production.
The Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers (August 2023) expressed concern about India’s dependence on imports for fertilizers, recommending an increase in domestic production capacity.
How did the conflict in Ukraine impact the Global Fertilizer Market?
Market Instability: Ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza are disrupting the stability of the global fertilizer market, particularly affecting the prices of oil and petroleum-based fertilizers.
Supply Chain Disruptions: These conflicts affect global supply chains, particularly for fertilizer-producing countries such as Russia, which has been a significant source of fertilizer imports for India.
Price Volatility: Higher oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Gaza indirectly drive up costs of fertilizers, as these are often by-products of petroleum.
Its effects on India
Rising Import Costs: Increased global fertilizer prices lead to higher import costs for India, putting pressure on the fertilizer subsidy budget.
Potential Supply Constraints: Indiaâs reliance on imports from conflict-affected regions like Russia and West Asia (including the Middle East) poses risks of reduced fertilizer availability.
Budget Strain: Indiaâs fertilizer subsidy allocation for 2023-24 was âš1.79 lakh crore, with substantial amounts dedicated to both indigenous and imported fertilizers.
Need for Self-Reliance: The conflicts underscore the importance for India to reduce dependency on imports by increasing domestic production capacity, promoting alternatives like nano urea, and exploring sustainable practices like natural farming.
Steps taken by the government:Â
New Investment Policy (NIP): NIP supports new urea manufacturing units by PSUs and private companies, boosting production capacity from 207.54 LMTPA in 2014-15 to 283.74 LMTPA.
Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS): The government included Potash from Molasses under NBS in 2021, encouraging local production and reducing import dependency.
Public-Private Joint Ventures: PSUs and private firms collaborate in urea production, establishing units like the Ramagundam Fertilizers in Telangana and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan plants in northern states.
Way forward:Â
Boost Domestic Production: Increase India’s fertilizer production capacity through investment in domestic infrastructure and support for nano urea and alternative sustainable fertilizers to reduce import dependency.
Adopt Policy Reforms: Implement policies promoting self-reliance in fertilizers, with targeted subsidies and incentives for private, public, and cooperative sectors to enhance production and ensure affordable supply amidst global market volatility.
