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  • BREXIT

    UK elections: Historic result for Labour, but no vote share gains

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the news? 

    Keir Starmer is poised to become the next Prime Minister of the UK, following Labour’s landmark victory securing a substantial majority.

    Labour Party Comes to Power after 14 Years of Conservative Rule: 

    • Electoral Outcome: Labour secures a decisive victory in the UK elections, winning 412 seats in the House of Commons, ending 14 years of Conservative governance.
    • Majority: Labour has achieved the largest majority in British politics since the early 20th century, with over 290 seats ahead of the Tories.
    • Voter Sentiment: The election reflects a strong anti-conservative sentiment rather than a resounding endorsement of Labour, with significant losses in Conservative strongholds.
    • Strategic Shifts: Labour’s success is attributed to strategic moves to appeal to rural and traditionally Conservative areas, contrasting with losses in urban and progressive strongholds.

    Left and Right Streams in the UK:  

    Left Stream (Labour Party):

    • Traditionally advocates for social justice, welfare state policies, and government intervention in the economy to reduce inequality.Strong support from urban areas, progressive voters, trade unions, and historically marginalised groups such as minorities and low-income earners.
    • Under Keir Starmer, Labour has moved towards the centre, focusing on appealing to more rural and traditionally Conservative constituencies.

    Right Stream (Conservative Party):

    • Favors free-market policies, limited government intervention, and emphasises individual responsibility and economic freedom. Strong support from affluent voters, business interests, rural communities, and traditionally conservative values such as patriotism and national sovereignty.
    • The Conservative Party has faced challenges with internal divisions over Brexit and criticism for austerity measures implemented during previous administrations.

    Impact on India: 

    • India-UK FTA: The Labour Party has maintained its commitment to completing the FTA, though the timelines will remain uncertain for some time. Key sticking points include India’s demand for greater access for its skilled professionals in the UK market and the UK’s push for lower import duties on goods like Scotch whisky and electric vehicles.
    • Defence and Security Cooperation: The India-UK defence and security partnership is likely to continue strengthening, building on recent momentum from the 2+2 mechanism and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit in early 2024. The UK is expected to maintain its support for a rules-based order and continue working with India to promote a “free and open Indo-Pacific”.
    • Visa Rules: India has been in talks with the UK for the past few years to relax visa rules for its citizens. With the Labour Party coming into power, there might be some uncertainty around the progress of these discussions.
    • Carbon Tax: While the FTA might reduce or eliminate tariffs, Indian exports could still face hefty carbon taxes, unlike UK exports to India. The Labour Party has always been in favour of imposing a carbon tax, which could impact Indian industries

    Conclusion: India should leverage diplomatic channels to strengthen economic cooperation with the UK under Keir Starmer’s leadership. This could include negotiating bilateral trade agreements, promoting investment opportunities, and collaborating on emerging sectors like technology and renewable energy.

    Mains question for practice: 

    Q Discuss the potential implications of Keir Starmer’s ascension to UK Prime Minister on India-UK relations. 10M

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Women get only 7% MSME credit: RBI ED  

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Inclusive Growth & Issues

    Why in the News?

    • The RBI has highlighted that low labour force participation among women is a significant barrier to financial inclusion and broader economic growth.
      • It pointed out that only 7% of the outstanding loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are to women-led businesses.

    Barriers to Financial Inclusion

    • Economic Participation: RBI emphasized that greater participation of women in economic activities is essential for financial inclusion and economic growth.
    • Participation Disparity: Official data shows female labor force participation at 32.8% in FY22, compared to over 77% for men.
    • Credit Disparity: Women-led businesses constitute nearly a fifth of MSMEs, yet they receive only 7% of the outstanding credit to this sector, highlighting a significant disparity.

    Efforts and Challenges in Financial Inclusion

    • Successes: RBI expressed satisfaction with access to financial services, citing the success of the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) scheme and social security transfers.
    • Addressing Demand-side Issues: While supply-side challenges have been addressed, demand-side issues still need attention.
    • Structural Barriers: Structural issues such as low levels of capital, labour participation, societal norms restricting women from inheriting property, and limited access to education and training impede women’s financial inclusion.

    Stereotyping and Behavioral Issues

    • Higher Risk Perception: Nigam noted that women borrowers often face stereotyping by financiers, being considered higher risks, leading to higher interest rates, greater insistence on collateral, or outright loan rejections.
    • Behavioural Challenges: He also mentioned behavioural issues among women borrowers, such as being more risk-averse, less confident in negotiating loan terms, and less likely to apply for new loans due to fear of rejection.

    Policy Moves: Priority Sector Lending and Financial Literacy Initiatives

    • Priority Sector Lending (PSL): The PSL mandate has become a viable business model for banks and micro-lenders, but demand-side constraints persist.
    • RBI Initiatives: To address these challenges, the RBI has initiated financial inclusion efforts, including opening 2,400 financial literacy centres at the block level in partnership with nonprofits and requiring lead banks to have a literacy centre in each district.

    Government Schemes:

    Stand Up India Scheme Mudra Yojana Scheme Annapurna Scheme
    Launched April 2016 April 2015 (under PMMY) –
    Objective To promote entrepreneurship among women and SC/ST To provide financial support to non-corporate, non-farm small/micro enterprises To support women entrepreneurs in the food catering business
    Eligibility Women entrepreneurs and SC/ST entrepreneurs above 18 years of age All non-farm enterprises, including women-owned businesses Women entrepreneurs planning to start or expand their food catering business
    Loan Amount INR 10 lakh to INR 1 crore Up to INR 10 lakh, categorized into three types:            

    1. Shishu: Up to INR 50,000           
    2. Kishor: INR 50,001 to INR 5 lakh            
    3. Tarun: INR 5,00,001 to INR 10 lakh
    		 Up to INR 50,000
    Purpose For setting up a greenfield enterprise in manufacturing, services, or trading sectors For business activities in manufacturing, processing, trading, or service sectors For starting or expanding the food catering business
    Repayment Period Up to 7 years with a maximum moratorium period of 18 months – 36 months, including a grace period of 1 month

    About SEHER Program (In News)

    • The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and TransUnion CIBIL have launched SEHER, a pioneering credit education program aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in India.
    • SEHER aims to facilitate their access to financial tools crucial for business growth and employment creation.

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    [pib] SEHER Program to Empower Women Entrepreneurs

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Why in the News?

    The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and TransUnion CIBIL have launched SEHER, a pioneering credit education program aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in India.

    About Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)

    • WEP, incubated at NITI Aayog in 2018; aims to create an enabling ecosystem for women entrepreneurs in India through a public-private partnership.
    • WEP’s Financing Women Collaborative (FWC) initiative accelerates access to finance for women entrepreneurs, addressing key barriers such as information asymmetry.

    About SEHER Program

    • SEHER aims to provide comprehensive financial literacy content and essential business skills to women entrepreneurs.
    • It will facilitate their access to financial tools crucial for business growth and employment creation.
    • The program includes personalized resources on financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of building a strong credit history and CIBIL score.

    Need for such a program

    • India has 63 million MSMEs, with 20.5% being women-owned, employing 27 million people.
    • Accelerating women’s entrepreneurship could create over 30 million new women-owned enterprises and 150 to 170 million jobs.
    PYQ:

    [2019] “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. 

     

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Leang Karampuang Cave is the World’s Oldest Cave Art  

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    • A cave painting discovered in the limestone cave of Leang Karampuang on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia, dates back at least 51,200 years.
      • The painting features a scene with three part-human, part-animal figures interacting with a wild pig, depicted in red pigment.
    Study Details:

    • Published in the journal Nature, the study titled ‘Narrative cave art in Indonesia by 51,200 years ago’ used a new dating technique to determine the age of the artwork.
    • The study involved 23 researchers from Griffith University, Southern Cross University, and the Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency.

    Use of Uranium-based Dating:

    • A new dating technique utilizes uranium series (U-series) analysis on calcite deposits above cave art.
    • The laser-based analysis measures uranium-thorium ratios to accurately date paintings, highlighting significant age revisions for cave art in Sulawesi.

    About Leang Karampuang Cave

    • Leang Karampuang Cave is situated in the Maros-Pangkep karst region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia.
    • The cave is renowned for its ancient rock art and archaeological findings, providing insights into early human civilization in the region.
    • It features some of the oldest known hand stencils and paintings of animals, believed to be created by early humans. 

    Key features of the Cave Paintings:

    • A painted scene depicting humans interacting with a pig on the cave wall.
    • The artwork features a pig standing upright alongside three smaller human-like figures, all painted in a single shade of dark red pigment.
    • This painting predates the cave art found in El Castillo, Spain, dating back around 40,800 years ago, marking it as older than European cave paintings.

    Significance of the Painting

    • According to researchers, the figures in the painting depict dynamic action, suggesting a narrative or story being told.
      • The discovery pushes back the origin of figurative art among Homo sapiens, indicating a rich history of storytelling through visual art in early human societies.
    • While Neanderthals began cave markings earlier, around 75,000 years ago, these were primarily non-figurative.
    • The Sulawesi cave art suggests an advanced cultural and artistic development among early humans, predating similar European art by millennia.
    Contemporary Period in the Indian Subcontinent:

    • Homo sapiens had already migrated to various parts of the Indian subcontinent by this time. 
    • Evidence suggests human habitation in India dates back to at least 70,000 years ago, with notable archaeological sites like Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh showing signs of early human activity and rock art.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous and oft-illustrated paintings at

    (a) Ajanta

    (b) Badami

    (c) Bagh

    (d) Ellora 

     

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  • Solar Energy – JNNSM, Solar Cities, Solar Pumps, etc.

    What is Aphelion?

    Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Why in the News?

    Early on July 5, the Earth reached aphelion, its farthest distance from the sun in our year-long journey around our nearest star.

    What is Aphelion? 

    • Aphelion is a term used in astronomy to denote the point in the orbit of a planet or celestial body where it is farthest from the Sun. 
    • The Earth’s orbit around the Sun is not a perfect circle but rather an ellipse, with the Sun situated at one of the two foci of the ellipse. 
    • Aphelion marks the moment when Earth is at its maximum distance from the Sun along this elliptical path.
    • The concept of aphelion was crucial in Johannes Kepler‘s formulation of his laws of planetary motion during the 17th century.

    How far is the Earth from the Sun at aphelion? 

    • At aphelion, which occurs around July 4th– 5th each year, the Earth is approximately 152.1 million kilometers (about 94.5 million miles) away from the Sun. 
    • This distance is about 3.3% greater than its average distance from the Sun, known as its semi-major axis, which is about 147.1 million kilometers.

    Does aphelion affect temperatures on Earth? 

    • Aphelion has a slight effect on temperatures on Earth, but its impact is minimal compared to other factors such as axial tilt and atmospheric circulation patterns. 
    • Despite being farther from the Sun during aphelion, the Earth’s tilt towards the Sun during the northern hemisphere’s summer results in warmer temperatures for that region. 
    • This phenomenon is primarily responsible for the seasons on Earth.

    What would happen if there were no aphelion? 

    • If Earth’s orbit were perfectly circular, without aphelion or perihelion (the closest point to the Sun), the distance between Earth and the Sun would remain constant throughout the year. 
    • This scenario would result in less variation in seasonal temperatures between the northern and southern hemispheres. 
    • The distinct seasons that we experience today, which are essential for ecological diversity and agricultural cycles, would be significantly altered.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Variations in the length of daytime and night time from season to season are due to-

    (a) The earth’s rotation on its axis

    (b) The earth’s revolution round the sun in an elliptical manner

    (c) Latitudinal position of the place

    (d) Revolution of the earth on a tilted axis

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  • Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

    What a Labour election win could mean for India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the news?

    New Delhi and London have been engaged in negotiations for over two years to discuss a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) aimed at enhancing bilateral trade between the two nations.

    What does the agreement could result?           

    • Mutual Tariff Reductions: Both countries may agree to lower tariffs on a wide range of goods, including automobiles, textiles, alcoholic beverages, and medical instruments, facilitating increased trade flows.
    • Market Access: Improved market access could benefit industries in both countries, particularly India’s IT and services sectors, which are seeking expanded opportunities in the UK market.
    • Economic Growth: The FTA aims to stimulate economic growth by promoting trade and investment, potentially boosting employment and productivity in relevant sectors.
    • Political Relations: Strengthening economic ties could lead to closer political cooperation between India and the UK, influencing bilateral relations on international platforms.

    Impact on Global Geopolitics and Indian Scenario

    • Global Trade Alliances: Strengthening economic ties between India and the UK could enhance their geopolitical influence, potentially shaping global trade alliances and partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
    • Diversification of Trade Partnerships: For India, the FTA represents a strategic move to diversify its trade partnerships beyond traditional allies, thereby reducing dependency and enhancing economic resilience.
    • Improve Bilateral Relations: Improved economic cooperation could foster closer political relations between India and the UK, influencing diplomatic engagements and collaboration on global issues such as climate change and security.
    • Regional Economic Impact: The agreement may spur economic growth in India, particularly benefiting sectors like IT and services, while also contributing to the UK’s post-Brexit economic strategy and trade diversification efforts.
    • Influence the Environmental and Regulatory Standards: Negotiations over environmental standards, including India’s concerns over carbon taxes and the UK’s climate goals, highlight the FTA’s potential to influence global environmental policies and regulatory frameworks.

    India-UK Relation: 

    • Strong historical ties: India and the UK share deep historical and cultural connections dating back to the colonial era. The UK has a large Indian diaspora of over 1.5 million people.
    • Strategic partnership: In 2004, India and the UK upgraded their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. This was further strengthened by the ‘2030 Roadmap for India-UK Future Relations’ agreed in 2021, which outlined cooperation across 5 pillars- people-to-people ties, trade, defence and security, climate change, and health.
    • Growing trade and investment: The UK is one of India’s major trading partners. Bilateral trade reached £38.1bn in the year to Q3 2023, making India the UK’s 12th largest trading partner. India is the 3rd largest foreign investor in the UK. Both countries are negotiating an India-UK Free Trade Agreement to further boost economic ties.
    • Cooperation in new frontiers: India and the UK are collaborating in emerging areas like fintech, green finance, cyber security, and critical technologies. They plan to hold the first Strategic Tech Dialogue to deepen cooperation in areas like semiconductors, 5G, and AI.
    • Shared global outlook: India and the UK have convergent views on many global issues and support a rules-based international order. The UK supports India’s permanent membership of the UN Security Council. They also cooperate closely on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific

    Way forward: 

    • Addressing Key Negotiation Points: Focus on resolving critical issues such as tariff reductions, market access for IT and services sectors, and alignment on environmental standards to expedite FTA conclusion.
    • Enhancing Strategic Partnerships: Strengthen bilateral economic and political cooperation through sustained dialogue and proactive engagement, aiming to maximize mutual benefits and ensure the long-term sustainability of the FTA.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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  • The story of the American Declaration of Independence   

    Explained | Trivia | Mains Paper 1: World History

    Why in the news? 

    July 4 commemorates the 248th Independence Day of the United States, celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the foundational document that established the US as a union of states freed from British rule.

    Why did the colonists want Independence from Britain?

    • Lack of Representation: Colonists were discontented with British policies that imposed taxes and laws without colonial representation in the British Parliament, which they viewed as unjust and oppressive.
    • Policy Shifts: After the French and Indian War, Britain ended its policy of salutary neglect and imposed stricter controls on the colonies, including prohibitions on westward expansion and new taxes through acts like the Stamp Act and Tea Act.
    • Ideas of Freedom: Influenced by Enlightenment ideals of liberty and equality, colonists began to articulate grievances against monarchical rule and asserted their natural rights to self-governance.
    • Resistance Movements: Events like the Boston Tea Party symbolized widespread resistance to British taxation and policies, galvanizing colonial unity and determination for independence.
    • Armed Conflict: The escalation from protests and boycotts to armed conflict (beginning in 1775) underscored the colonies’ resolve to break away from British control and establish their own governance.

    What happened in the lead up to American independence?

    • Formation of Continental Congress: Colonists formed the Continental Congress to coordinate resistance efforts and explore avenues for negotiation with Britain, which ultimately failed due to British refusal to grant representation.
    • Boycotts and Protests: Colonists attempted economic boycotts of British goods and engaged in protests against oppressive British policies, marking a period of growing dissent and opposition.
    • Outbreak of War: By 1775, clashes between colonial militias and British troops erupted into open warfare, solidifying the shift from grievances to armed struggle for independence.
    • Declaration of Independence: The Continental Congress formally declared the colonies’ independence on July 2, 1776, followed by the adoption and signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
    • Continental Army and Allies: The colonies secured military support and alliances, crucially from France, which helped sustain their war effort against British forces.

    How was the Declaration of Independence formulated?

    • Committee of Five: A committee including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston was appointed to draft the Declaration of Independence.
    • Thomas Jefferson’s Role: Jefferson, primarily responsible for drafting, drew on Enlightenment philosophy and his earlier writings to articulate the principles of natural rights and grievances against British tyranny.
    • Drafting Process: The committee reviewed Jefferson’s draft, incorporating edits and revisions suggested by Adams, Franklin, and others before presenting the final version to the Continental Congress.
    • Adoption and Signing: On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which was signed by 56 delegates representing the thirteen colonies, solidifying their break from British rule.
    • Legacy of equality and rights as a foundation: The Declaration’s proclamation of equality and rights laid the foundation for American ideals of democracy and independence, shaping the course of American history and inspiring similar movements worldwide.

    Conclusion: The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, marked a pivotal moment as the American colonies asserted their sovereignty, based on Enlightenment ideals, igniting a global pursuit of liberty and democratic principles.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism. Substantiate. (UPSC IAS/2013)

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  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    Indian Government Bonds in JP Morgan index: how much funds could flow into India?   

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Why in the news?

    JP Morgan is including Indian Government Bonds in its emerging markets bond indices starting June 28. This move is expected to attract significant foreign investment, boosting India’s bond market and economic stability.

    What would be India’s weight in the index?

    • India is poised to achieve a maximum weighting of 10% in the GBI-EM Global Diversified Index. This increased allocation is anticipated to attract greater investment from global investors into Indian debt, with analysts projecting monthly inflows of $2-3 billion.

    Benefits of Higher Inflows from the Inclusion of Indian Government Bonds in JP Morgan’s Emerging Markets Bond Indices

    • Increase in Foreign Exchange Reserves: The inflows from foreign investments will directly boost India’s foreign exchange reserves, providing a stronger buffer against external economic shocks.
    • Strengthening the Rupee: The surge in foreign investment will enhance demand for the rupee, leading to its appreciation and contributing to a more stable and robust currency.
    • Enhanced External Financial Management: With increased foreign exchange reserves, India will have greater flexibility and resilience in managing its external financial obligations and mitigating balance of payment issues.
    • Reduction in Borrowing Costs: Higher reserves and a stronger rupee can lead to improved credit ratings and reduced risk premiums, lowering borrowing costs for the government and corporates.
    • Promotion of Economic Confidence: The inflows signify international investor confidence in India’s economic prospects, boosting overall economic sentiment and encouraging further investments.

    What about the impact on inflation as RBI mops up the dollars and releases an equivalent amount in rupees?

    • Liquidity Injection: When the RBI mops up dollars from the market, it releases an equivalent amount of rupees into the financial system. This injection of liquidity can potentially increase the supply of money circulating in the economy.
    • Demand-Pull Inflation: Increased liquidity can stimulate demand for goods and services, potentially leading to demand-pull inflation if the production capacity of the economy does not keep pace with the increased demand.
    • Asset Price Inflation: The influx of liquidity can also inflate asset prices such as real estate and stocks, impacting affordability and potentially creating asset price inflation.
    • Exchange Rate Stability: On the flip side, mopping up dollars can help stabilize the exchange rate by reducing downward pressure on the rupee due to excessive inflows.
    • RBI’s Policy Response: The RBI has various monetary policy tools, such as open market operations, repo rates, and reserve requirements, to manage liquidity and inflationary pressures arising from such inflows. It may use these tools to absorb excess liquidity and stabilize inflation.

    Way forward: 

    • Prudent Monetary Policy Management: The RBI should continue to employ effective monetary policy measures, such as open market operations and repo rate adjustments, to carefully manage liquidity and inflationary pressures stemming from increased foreign inflows.
    • Enhanced Economic Diversification: India should use the influx of foreign investment to diversify its economy further, focusing on infrastructure development, technological advancements, and sustainable growth initiatives to bolster long-term economic resilience and stability.

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  • Poverty Eradication – Definition, Debates, etc.

    Education ‘remains the most effective contraceptive

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Poverty & Hunger

    Why in the news? 

    India’s current population of 1.4 billion is projected to peak at 1.7 billion by 2064, then stabilize at 1.53 billion by 2100, as fertility rates decline below replacement level.

    What does the United Nations speak on Indian demographics?

    • India overtook China as the world’s most populous country. UN estimates project India’s population to peak at 1.7 billion around 2064, then settle at 1.53 billion by 2100.
    • Population growth is slowing, with the total fertility rate dipping below the replacement level of 2.1.

    What do the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) observed recently?

    • Association with Education: There is a significant correlation between levels of education and unmet needs for family planning among married women in India, highlighting the importance of education in addressing reproductive health issues.
    • High Demand for Family Planning: There remains a notable demand for family planning services, particularly among young women aged 15-24, indicating ongoing challenges in meeting reproductive health needs effectively across different age groups.

    Challenges faced by a deprived section of society                           

    • Limited Access to Family Planning Services: Women from disadvantaged backgrounds often face barriers in accessing contraceptives and family planning services due to social norms, lack of education, and cultural taboos surrounding contraception.
    • Teenage Pregnancies and Early Marriages: High rates of teenage pregnancies and early marriages contribute to health risks for young women, exacerbated by limited awareness about sexual and reproductive health rights and options.
    • Social Stigma and Cultural Norms: Deep-rooted societal attitudes and stigmas surrounding sexual activity, contraception, and abortion hinder open discussions and access to comprehensive sexual education and healthcare services, particularly for unmarried individuals.

    What can India do to improve social conditions?

    • Enhancing Education and Awareness: Increase access to comprehensive sex education in schools and communities to empower young people with knowledge about contraception, family planning, and reproductive health rights.
    • Addressing Cultural Norms and Stigma: Challenge societal taboos and misconceptions surrounding contraception and sexual activity through culturally sensitive communication and advocacy efforts.
    • Expanding Healthcare Access: Ensure equitable access to affordable and quality healthcare services, including reproductive health services, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
    • Reforming Legal Frameworks: Reform laws and policies related to reproductive rights and access to safe abortion services to ensure women have autonomy over their reproductive decisions and can access safe and legal abortion services without unnecessary restrictions.

    Steps taken by the government related to health: 

    • Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY): This scheme aims to provide health coverage to over 500 million people, offering a cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. Over 4.68 crore cards have been issued under the scheme.
    • Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC) through Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): Launched in February 2018, this initiative aims to provide an expanded range of services closer to the community, including care for non-communicable diseases, palliative and rehabilitative care, oral, eye and ENT care, and mental health services.
    • Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY): This scheme, launched in 2003, aims to correct regional imbalances in the availability of affordable/reliable tertiary healthcare services and also to augment facilities for quality medical education in the country. Under this, new AIIMS are being set up and existing medical colleges are being upgraded

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Approach to Education and Healthcare: Implement integrated programs that combine comprehensive sex education in schools with improved access to healthcare services, ensuring young people are empowered with knowledge and resources for reproductive health.
    • Community Engagement and Advocacy: Foster community dialogues and advocacy campaigns to challenge cultural norms and stigma around reproductive health, promoting open discussions and awareness-building initiatives across all demographics.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    The shape of a five-year climate agenda for India

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the news? 

    The new government’s climate actions will impact all sectors, shaping India’s sustainable economic path, global leadership, and fight for climate finance and justice.

    Initiatives Taken by the Indian Government in the Last Decade and Their Significant Results

    • International Solar Alliance (ISA): Promotes the widespread adoption of solar energy, enhancing global cooperation in renewable energy.
    • Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI): Focuses on building resilient infrastructure to withstand climate-induced disasters.
    •  Net-Zero by 2070: India’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 marks a significant shift towards absolute emission reductions.
    • Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Setting ambitious targets for reducing emissions intensity and increasing renewable energy capacity.
    • Indian Emissions Carbon Trading Scheme: Establishing a carbon trading system to incentivize emission reductions and support sustainable economic growth.
    • Significant Growth in Renewable Energy Capacity: Rapid expansion in solar and wind energy installations, contributing to India’s international non-fossil fuel energy targets.
    • Green Development Pact under G-20 Presidency: Integrating green development principles into global economic practices, showcasing India’s leadership in sustainable development.

    How India can enhance it’s Global negotiations wrt Climate change? 

    • Hosting International Climate Summits: India should aim to host a major international climate summit like the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP) in 2028. This would provide a platform to showcase its climate leadership and set ambitious global climate agendas. Successful hosting, akin to its G-20 Presidency, would strengthen India’s influence in global climate policy.
    • Advocacy and Consensus Building: India should start early to build consensus on critical climate issues, such as ending new investments in oil and gas post-2030 and securing significant commitments for adaptation finance. Proactively engaging in dialogues, forming alliances, and addressing concerns of other nations will help India lead negotiations and drive meaningful outcomes.
    • Promoting Equity and Climate Finance: India should continue to emphasize equity in climate action and finance in international forums. Advocating for fair treatment of developing countries and pushing for enhanced climate finance mechanisms will strengthen India’s position as a leader of the Global South.

    Role of Federal Entities in Enhancing Climate Action

    • Collaboration on Long-Term Climate Strategies: Federal entities can work with state governments to develop and implement long-term climate and energy models. Examples include supporting states like Tamil Nadu and Bihar in crafting their net-zero plans.
    • Enhanced Coordination and Policy Alignment: Forming a Centre-State coordination group can ensure better synchronization of climate actions across states. This group can facilitate regular communication and policy alignment while respecting the autonomy of each state.
    • Financial Incentives through the Sixteenth Finance Commission: Federal entities can use financial mechanisms like the Finance Commission to incentivize states for their climate initiatives. This can include grants or additional funding for states that demonstrate significant progress in climate action.
    • Integration of Scientific Capabilities in Policymaking: Encouraging states to incorporate scientific modelling and data analysis into their climate policies. Federal support can enhance the technical capabilities of states, ensuring data-driven and effective climate strategies.
    • Consistent and Accurate Climate Data Management: Developing a unified MRV architecture at the state level to standardize data collection and reporting. This system can help track progress, ensure accountability, and facilitate better policy adjustments based on reliable data.

    The Indian government has taken several initiatives to address climate change, but their effectiveness is still being evaluated:

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, the NAPCC identified eight national missions to promote understanding of climate change, adaptation and mitigation, energy efficiency, and natural resource conservation. While these missions have led to some progress, such as the ambitious targets set under the National Solar Mission, their overall impact is still being assessed.
    • State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs): Under the NAPCC, states are required to develop their own action plans. As of 2022, 33 states and union territories have prepared their SAPCCs. However, the implementation and monitoring of these plans remain a challenge.
    • Climate change research and knowledge networks: The government has supported various research initiatives and knowledge networks to enhance understanding of climate change impacts and responses. These include the National Network Programmes on Climate Change Modelling, Aerosols, and Coastal Vulnerability. While these networks have generated valuable knowledge, their ability to inform policy and action is still being evaluated

    Conclusion: India should expand its climate targets beyond the power sector to include other key areas such as transportation, industry, and agriculture. Clear and ambitious targets for zero-carbon two- and four-wheelers, as well as other sectors, will drive comprehensive decarbonization efforts.

     

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (UPSC IAS/2021)

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