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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Indian-Built ARTIP Technology Revolutionizes Astronomy

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Central Idea

    • India’s Automated Radio Telescope Image Processing Pipeline (ARTIP) technology has been instrumental in facilitating remarkable discoveries from distant galaxies observed by South Africa’s MeerKAT Telescope.
    • MeerKAT acts as a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Telescope, known for its outstanding sensitivity and sky survey capabilities.
    • ARTIP’s cutting-edge image data processing is vital for harnessing MeerKAT’s potential for groundbreaking research.

    What is ARTIP?

    • Development by Thoughtworks: ARTIP was developed by global technology consultancy firm Thoughtworks at its India offices in Bengaluru and Pune.
    • Automation of Data Processing: Since 2017, this collaboration has aimed to automate various critical processes, including data processing, flagging, calibration, and imaging.

    How ARTIP operates?

    • Configurability: ARTIP is highly configurable and customizable, designed to process MeerKAT-generated data. While initially configured for MeerKAT, its adaptability allows it to process data from uGMRT and VLA class telescopes.
    • Pipeline Components: It consists of four individual sub-pipelines, including calibration, cube imaging, continuum imaging, and diagnostics, each serving different stages of the data processing workflow.
    • Calibration (ARTIP-CAL): This component calibrates data against known astronomical sources and extracts the target source of interest.
    • Cube Imaging (ARTIP-CUBE): The calibrated target is then used to generate sky images using this component.
    • Continuum Imaging (ARTIP-CONT): This pipeline focuses on generating images from the calibrated data.
    • Diagnostics (ARTIP-DIAGNOSTICS): Providing analysis insights into data processing and quality, it functions as a quality assurance pipeline.

    Impactful Discoveries by ARTIP

    • Hydroxyl Radical (OH) Detection: ARTIP has contributed to significant discoveries, including the detection of the hydroxyl radical (OH), an essential chemical species found throughout the atmosphere in a distant galaxy.
    • Identification of Hydrogen Atoms: It has also played a crucial role in identifying massive hydrogen atoms (Rydberg atoms) in another distant galaxy.
    • Scientific Recognition: The MALS data processing with ARTIP has received recognition in the international astronomical journal, Proceedings of Science, for its contributions to these discoveries.

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  • Genetically Modified (GM) crops – cotton, mustards, etc.

    PUSA-44 Paddy Variety Ban in Punjab

    Prelims Only | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Major Crops & Cropping Patterns

    pusa-44

    Central Idea

    • Punjab CM recently announced the state’s decision to ban the cultivation of the PUSA-44 paddy variety starting from the next agricultural season.
    • This move has raised questions about why such a popular paddy variety is facing a ban and what implications it holds for the state’s agriculture.

    About PUSA-44

    • Origin: Developed in 1993 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), PUSA-44 gradually gained popularity among Punjab’s farmers.
    • Rapid Adoption: Due to its high yield, Punjab’s farmers started cultivating it on a larger scale, covering 70 to 80 percent of the area under paddy cultivation.

    Yield Comparison

    • High Yield: Farmers favor PUSA-44 for its impressive yield, producing nearly 85 to 100 quintals per acre compared to other varieties’ 28 to 30 quintals per acre.
    • Economic Advantage: The higher yield translates to increased income, with potential earnings of Rs 15,000 to 22,000 per acre above the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

    Reasons for Ban

    • Long Maturity Period: PUSA-44 requires around 160 days to mature, significantly longer than other varieties, necessitating 5-6 additional cycles of irrigation.
    • Groundwater Depletion: Punjab faces severe groundwater depletion, and with an expanding area under paddy, the government aims to conserve water resources by banning PUSA-44.
    • Stubble Burning: PUSA-44’s extended maturity period exacerbates the issue of stubble burning. The narrow timeframe between harvesting and wheat sowing makes stubble management challenging, leading to increased incidents of stubble burning.
    • Air Pollution: Stubble burning contributes to severe air pollution in North India during the winter, impacting public health.

    Impact of PUSA-44 on Stubble Burning

    • Harvest Timing: PUSA-44 is harvested just before the wheat sowing season, leaving a limited window for stubble disposal.
    • Stubble Quantity: PUSA-44 generates approximately 2 percent more stubble than shorter-duration varieties, compounding the stubble burning problem.
    • High-Incidence Districts: Several districts in Punjab, including Barnala, Sangrur, Ludhiana, Moga, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Muktsar, Bathinda, Faridkot, and Mansa, witness higher stubble-burning incidents, coinciding with the PUSA-44 harvest.

    Stubble Burning Statistics

    • Burning Incidents: In 2022, several districts experienced a high incidence of stubble burning, primarily linked to the PUSA-44 harvest.
    • Persistence: Stubble burning typically began in the third week of October, coinciding with the PUSA-44 harvest, and continued until November 25.

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  • Social Media: Prospect and Challenges

    TRAI can’t regulate OTT platforms: TDSAT

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    TRAI ott

    Central Idea

    • The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has issued an interim order clarifying that Over the Top (OTT) platforms, such as Hotstar, fall outside the jurisdiction of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
    • Instead, they are governed by the Information Technology Rules, 2021, established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

    Context for TDSAT’s Decision

    • The All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) initiated the petition, alleging that Star India’s free streaming of ICC Cricket World Cup matches on mobile devices through Disney+ Hotstar is discriminatory under TRAI regulations.
    • This is because viewers can only access matches on Star Sports TV channels by subscribing and making monthly payments.

    Diverging Opinions on OTT Regulation

    • IT Ministry vs. DoT: The IT Ministry contends that internet-based communication services, including OTT platforms, do not fall under the jurisdiction of the DoT, citing the Allocation of Business Rules.
    • DoT’s Draft Telecom Bill: The DoT proposed a draft telecom Bill that classifies OTT platforms as telecommunications services and seeks to regulate them as telecom operators. This move has encountered objections from MeitY.

    TRAI’s Attempt at OTT Regulation

    • Changing Stance: TRAI, after three years of maintaining that no specific regulatory framework was required for OTT communication services, began consultations on regulating these services.
    • Consultation Paper: In June, TRAI released a consultation paper seeking input on regulating OTT services and exploring whether selective banning of OTT services could be considered as an alternative to complete Internet shutdowns.
    • Telecom Operators’ Demand: Telecom operators have long advocated for “same service, same rules” and have pushed for regulatory intervention for OTT platforms.

    Significance of TDSAT’s Order

    • TDSAT decision holds significance due to ongoing debates over the regulation of OTT services.
    • TRAI and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) have been attempting to regulate OTT platforms, while the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology opposes these efforts.

    Recommendations and Monitoring

    • In September 2020, TRAI recommended against regulatory intervention for OTT platforms, suggesting that market forces should govern the sector.
    • However, it also emphasized the need for monitoring and intervention at an “appropriate time.”

    Conclusion

    • The recent TDSAT ruling on OTT platform jurisdiction adds complexity to the ongoing debate over the regulation of these services in India.
    • While TRAI and the DoT seek regulatory measures, the IT Ministry contends that such services fall outside the purview of telecommunications regulation.
    • The evolving landscape highlights the need for a nuanced approach to balance the interests of various stakeholders, including telecom operators, government authorities, and the broader public.

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    When can a Bill be designated as a ‘Money Bill’: SC to hear challenge

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Central Idea

    • CJI announced that a seven-judge bench will be established to address a series of petitions challenging the government’s use of the money bill route to pass significant legislations.
    • This move aims to provide clarity on the interpretation and application of money bills under Article 110 of the Constitution and their validity.

    Understanding the Money Bill Issue

    • The PMLA Challenge: CJI Chandrachud’s statement came during the hearing of challenges against amendments made to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
    • Previous Judgment: In July 2022, a three-judge bench upheld the PMLA and the extensive powers of the Enforcement Directorate (ED). However, the validity of amendments to the PMLA passed as money bills remained open for review by a larger Constitution bench.
    • Finance Acts’ Impact: Key amendments to the PMLA were introduced through Finance Acts passed in 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019, which are presented as money bills during the budget sessions under Article 110 of the Constitution.

    Challenges beyond PMLA

    [A] Aadhaar Controversy:

    • The issue of whether a bill qualifies as a money bill under Article 110 was first raised during the Aadhaar case.
    • In a 4:1 majority ruling in 2018, the Supreme Court upheld the Aadhaar Act as a valid money bill.
    • Notably, Justice Chandrachud dissented, criticizing the government’s passage of the Aadhaar Act as a money bill, labelling it a “fraud on the Constitution.”

    [B] Tribunal Reform:

    • In the case of Roger Matthew vs. Union of India (2019), the Supreme Court addressed challenges related to changes in the service conditions of tribunal members, introduced as a money bill in the Finance Act of 2017.
    • While declaring the law unconstitutional for interfering with judicial independence, the court referred the money bill aspect to a larger constitution bench, expressing doubts about the correctness of its 2018 verdict upholding the Aadhaar Act.

    Understanding a Money Bill

    • Article 110(1): A bill is considered a money bill if it exclusively pertains to matters specified in Article 110(1)(a) to (g), such as taxation, government borrowing, and appropriation of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India.
    • Lok Sabha Exclusive: Money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and do not require Rajya Sabha’s consent.
    • Role of Speaker: According to Article 110(3), the Speaker of the Lok Sabha has the final say in determining whether a bill is a money bill. However, the court in the Aadhaar case emphasized that the Speaker’s decision is subject to judicial scrutiny.

    Conclusion

    • The formation of a seven-judge bench signifies a significant step towards resolving controversies surrounding money bills and their passage, ensuring a clearer understanding of their application under the Constitution.
    • This move underscores the importance of judicial review in upholding the constitutional principles of parliamentary proceedings and ensuring transparency and accountability in legislative processes involving money bills.

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  • Liquor Policy of States

    Explained: Delhi Excise Policy Scam

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Money-Laundering & Its Prevention

    Delhi Excise Policy Scam

    Central Idea

    • A Delhi court has remanded a member of Rajya Sabha in Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody in the Delhi Excise Policy Scam.
    • This has created a big furore among people over the alleged involvement of a hardliner political party which was established solely to fight political corruption.

    About Delhi Excise Policy Scam

    • Background: Both individuals face corruption allegations related to the formulation and implementation of the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22, which came into effect but was later scrapped.
    • Procedural Lapses: The allegations stemmed from a report submitted by Delhi Chief Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor in July 2022. The report pointed to procedural lapses in the policy’s formulation.
    • Financial Losses: The report claimed that “arbitrary and unilateral decisions” led to estimated “financial losses to the exchequer.”
    • Alleged Irregularities: It alleged that leaders received “kickbacks” from businesses for preferential treatment, such as discounts, license fee waivers, and relief due to disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. These funds were purportedly used for electoral influence.

    Involvement of the Enforcement Directorate (ED)

    • ED’s Role: Following the CBI’s FIR, the ED asserted that the alleged proceeds of crime required investigation to establish the modus operandi.
    • Investigation Details: The ED alleged that the “scam” involved irregularities in the wholesale liquor business, margin-fixing, and receiving kickbacks. It claimed that the policy was designed with “deliberate loopholes” to benefit key figures.
    • Financial Transactions: The ED also alleged that individuals, acting as intermediaries, received substantial sums from a group, allowing them access to various businesses.

    Differences in the Delhi Excise Policy

    • Policy Goals: The Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 aimed to exit the state from the liquor business, eliminate black marketing, increase revenue, enhance consumer experiences, and ensure equitable distribution of liquor vends.
    • Private Operation: Under the policy, Delhi was divided into zones, each with liquor vends operated by private licensees. Licensees had the freedom to offer discounts and set prices.

    Issues and Reversals

    • Deviation from Procedures: A report in July 2022 highlighted deviations from established procedures in the policy formulation.
    • Market Distortions: The report pointed out that discounts offered by liquor retailers were causing market distortions.
    • Policy Reversals: It noted policy reversals, leading to questions about the justification for such changes.
    • Blanket Relaxations: The report flagged blanket relaxations granted for default in license fee payments.

    ED Chargesheets and Allegations

    • Campaign Funding: The ED has alleged financial improprieties related to campaign funding.
    • Conduit for Financial Transactions: Individuals are alleged to have acted as intermediaries in financial transactions.
    • Involvement of Key Figures: The ED has claimed the involvement of certain individuals in meetings and interactions related to the case.

    Conclusion

    • The scam has led to arrests and legal proceedings involving corruption allegations and procedural lapses.
    • Allegations of financial improprieties and irregularities in the policy’s implementation have created a complex legal landscape.
    • The involvement of the Enforcement Directorate adds to the intricacies of the case, while ongoing investigations seek to establish the veracity of the allegations.

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  • Tribes in News

    Tribes in news: Hakki- Pikki

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    hikki

    Central idea: Thirty-one tribals belonging to the ‘Hakki-Pikki’ community from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan due to violent clashes between a paramilitary force and the country’s armed forces.

    Who are the Hakki-Pikkis?

    Description
    Origin Migrated from northern India to Karnataka.
    Traditional Occupation Traditionally known for bird hunting, which was later outlawed.
    Language Indo-Aryan language called ‘Vaagri’ and use Kannada for daily business.
    Location Predominantly found in Shivamogga, Davanagere, and Mysuru districts of Karnataka
    Lineage A matriarchal community, where women have an important role in decision-making.
    Traditional  Knowledge Known for selling indigenous medicines developed based on their knowledge of plants and herbs.

    Language and UNESCO Listing

    • ‘Vaagri’ has been listed as one of the endangered languages by UNESCO.
    • This indicates that the language is at risk of becoming extinct in the future, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting it.

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    Battle of Colachel: How an accidental shot ended Dutch plans for India

    Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

    Battle of Colachel

    Central Idea

    • The Battle of Colachel in 1741, where King Marthanda Varma led the Travancore army against the Dutch East India Company, marked a significant turning point in India’s history.
    • It was the first instance of an Asian kingdom defeating a European power, effectively halting Dutch colonial ambitions in India.
    • This battle also had profound implications for the formation of the unified Travancore state.

    Travancore’s Complex Landscape Before 1741

    • Fragmented Territories: Travancore, formerly known as Thiruvithamcode, was not a unified state but a network of south Malabar temple states and settlements, characterized by fragmented territories and chieftaincies.
    • Marthanda Varma’s Leadership: Born in 1705, Marthanda Varma ascended to power and set his sights on unifying the kingdom by annexing neighboring regions and eliminating internal opposition.
    • Territorial Expansion: His ambition to expand threatened neighboring rulers in Kayamukulam, Kollam, Attingal, and others, leading them to seek Dutch intervention against Varma.
    • English Connection: Varma’s military relations with the English, who supplied weaponry, further strained Dutch-Travancore relations.

    Factors Leading to the Battle

    • Dutch Resistance: The Dutch, perturbed by Varma’s expansion and territorial disputes, prepared their forces in Colachel to counter Travancore.
    • Internal Conflicts: Some Dutch officials, including Carl August Duijvenschot, defected to Travancore due to internal conflicts within the Dutch ranks.
    • Neighboring Rulers’ Instigation: Cochin and Kayamukulam rulers instigated the Dutch against Varma to safeguard their borders.

    Battle of Colachel: Unfolds

    • Dutch Aggression: In February 1741, the Dutch initiated attacks on several villages and the Travancore army, committing atrocities and plundering the region.
    • Varma’s Response: Marthanda Varma deployed his military commander, Rama Iyer Dalawah, to confront the Dutch and protect his kingdom.
    • International Support: The French supported Varma against the Dutch, and even the English participated in the siege of Colachel alongside Varma’s forces.

    Siege and Surrender

    • Long Siege: The continuous attacks and siege depleted Dutch supplies and manpower, leading to a dire situation.
    • Explosion and Surrender: On August 5, 1741, a gunpowder explosion occurred in Colachel, devastating the Dutch. Two days later, they surrendered.
    • Outcome: Only 24 Dutchmen survived, and Travancore captured 389 muskets, cannons, and swords.
    • Mukkuvar Community: The Mukkuvar fishermen community, by refusing to assist the Dutch with fortifications and supplies, played a crucial role in Travancore’s victory.

    Aftermath and Legacy

    • Resilience to Colonial Rule: The victory at Colachel bolstered Varma’s expansion plans and resistance to colonial rule.
    • Dutch Retreat: The Dutch never fully recovered from their defeat and signed the Treaty of Mavelikkara in 1753, ending their dominance on the Kerala coast.
    • De Lannoy’s Contribution: Eustachius De Lannoy, captured during the battle, played a vital role in training Travancore’s army and fortifying the region. He was conferred the title ‘Valia Kappithan’ (senior admiral) and served Travancore for 36 years.

    Back2Basics: Colonization of India

    Colonial Power Arrival Year Departure Year
    Portuguese Arrived in 1498 through Vasco da Gama’s voyage. Departed in 1961 (Goa), with gradual integration of smaller settlements into India over subsequent years.
    Dutch Established presence in 1602. Departed in 1802, with the formal cession of their Indian territories to the British through the Treaty of Amiens.
    British British East India Company granted a charter in 1600.

    The first factory was established in Surat in 1619.

    		 Departed in 1947 when India gained independence.

    It also led to Partition of India and creation of Pakistan.
    French Established the first trading post in 1668. Departed in 1954 with the formal handover of Pondicherry and other French settlements to India.

     

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  • Nuclear Diplomacy and Disarmament

    Bangladesh accepts first Uranium for Russia-backed Nuclear Plant

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Central Idea

    • Bangladesh marked a significant milestone in its energy journey with the arrival of the first uranium delivery for its Russia-backed nuclear power plant.
    • This $12.65-billion project aims to strengthen the nation’s energy grid, plagued by chronic blackouts.
    • Moscow is funding 90% of the project’s cost through a loan, a testament to the close relationship between Russia and Bangladesh.

    Rooppur Nuclear Plant

    • Construction of the Rooppur nuclear plant in Rooppur village, west of Dhaka, began in 2017.
    • It consists of twin 1,200-megawatt units, with the first unit set to begin operations in the coming year, and both expected to be fully operational by 2025.
    • It will become Bangladesh’s largest power station in terms of generating capacity once fully operational.

    Bangladesh’s Pursuit of Moscow’s Friendship

    • Loan Repayment Challenges: US sanctions on Russian entities, including state nuclear agency Rosatom, had previously delayed construction due to Bangladesh’s inability to make loan repayments in US currency.
    • Chinese Yuan Payment: In April, Bangladesh agreed to make payments exceeding $300 million in Chinese Yuan to bypass the sanctions, although these payments are yet to be made.

    Bangladesh’s Energy Imperatives

    • Overcoming Energy Challenges: Bangladesh faces severe energy shortages, with daily power blackouts lasting up to 13 hours, affecting the lives of millions.
    • Reducing Fossil Fuel Reliance: The country aims to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels by embracing nuclear energy and other cleaner sources.
    • Climate Change Mitigation: Bangladesh presents its nuclear energy ambitions as part of its strategy to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions significantly by 2030.

    Challenges and Concerns

    • Safety and Waste Disposal: There remain concerns about the safety risks and disposal of nuclear waste associated with nuclear energy projects.
    • Time-Consuming Construction: Nuclear plants take many years to build, compared to more swiftly deployable renewable energy sources.
    • Energy Mix: The nation’s energy journey is a complex blend of diplomacy, economics, and environmental considerations, aimed at securing a sustainable energy future.

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Sammakka-Sarakka University: A Tribute to Tribal Legends

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

    Central Idea

    • The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to set up a central Sammakka-Sarakka Tribal University in Telangana.
    • The establishment of this University was a commitment made by the Central government under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, of 2014.
    • Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana were promised support to establish a tribal university each.

    Legend of Sammakka and Sarakka

    • Sammakka-Sarakka: The university is named after Sammakka-Sarakka, a revered mother-daughter duo among the local tribal community.
    • Historical Significance: Sammakka was married to Pagididda Raju, a feudal chief of the Kakatiyas dynasty, and had two daughters, Sarakka and Nagulamma, along with a son named Jampanna. The legend revolves around their battle against local rulers in protest against taxing the Koya people.
    • Sammakka Saralamma Jatara: This biennial festival, held in Mulugu, commemorates the 13th-century battle of the mother-daughter duo. It is considered one of the world’s largest tribal gatherings.
    • Evolution of the Festival: Initially, only around 2,000 people, primarily from the Koya tribe, attended the festival. However, over time, it transformed into a large Hindu religious event, with millions of devotees attending.
    • Political and Social Impact: The festival gained immense political and social significance, leading to its declaration as a state festival in 1996. Infrastructure development, including a motorable road, further boosted its popularity.

    Significance of Sammakka and Sarakka

    • Massive Footfall: The festival attracts around 1.5 crore devotees from various tribal and non-tribal communities, including those from multiple states such as Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Jharkhand.
    • Ministry of Tribal Affairs Participation: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Telangana state government actively participate in the festival, with significant financial support.
    • Infrastructure Development: Funds have been allocated for community shelters and infrastructure in and around Medaram, the festival’s location.
    • Tribal Circuit Development: The Ministry of Tourism sanctioned funds for the integrated development of the tribal circuit, including the temple of Sammakka-Sarakka.

    Significance of Mulugu

    • Population and Demographics: Mulugu, a reserved Scheduled Tribes (ST) assembly seat, has a population of approximately 2.6 lakhs, with a 75% ST population as per the 2011 Census.
    • UNESCO World Heritage Site: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ramappa Temple, located about 15 km from Mulugu, adds to the area’s cultural richness.

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  • Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.

    Global Internet Freedom Decline in 2023

    IOCR | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    internet freedom

    Central Idea

    • Freedom House’s latest report highlights the 13th consecutive year of declining global Internet freedom.
    • This decline has seen deteriorations in the human rights online situation in 29 countries, with only 20 countries registering improvements.

    Report: ‘Freedom on the Net 2023: The Repressive Power of Artificial Intelligence’

    • Key Concerns: The report underscores the escalating use of artificial intelligence (AI) by governments worldwide, emphasizing its role in censorship and the dissemination of disinformation.
    • Scope: Covering events from June 2022 to May 2023, the 13th edition evaluates Internet freedom in 70 countries, collectively accounting for 88% of global Internet users.

    Regional Findings

    • Iran’s Sharp Rise in Digital Repression: Iran witnessed the sharpest escalation in digital repression. Authorities resorted to Internet shutdowns, blocked WhatsApp and Instagram, and intensified surveillance to quell anti-government protests.
    • China’s Perennial Status: For the ninth consecutive year, China retained its position as the world’s worst environment for Internet freedom, followed by Myanmar, the second most repressive nation concerning online freedoms.

    Legal Repercussions and Arrests

    • Global Crackdown on Expression: The report highlights that individuals faced legal consequences for online expression in a record 55 countries this year.
    • Widespread Arrests: The number of countries conducting widespread arrests and imposing multi-year prison terms for online activities has surged, growing from 18 in 2014 to 31 in 2023.
    • Elections as Triggers: Elections emerged as triggers for digital repression. Ahead of elections, incumbent leaders in various countries criminalized speech, restricted access to independent news sites, and imposed information controls to influence the electoral outcome in their favor.

    AI-Enabled Repression in India

    • Censorship in Legal Framework: The report spotlights India’s inclusion of censorship, including AI-based systems, within its legal framework. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules mandate large social media platforms to employ AI-based moderation tools for diverse types of content.
    • Example – BBC Documentary: The report cites the Indian government’s directive to YouTube and Twitter to restrict access to a BBC documentary on communal violence. The IT Rules compel these platforms to use automated scanning tools to remove related content.

    Censorship Methods in India

    • 5 Censorship Methods: The report evaluates countries on five censorship methods:
    1. Internet connectivity restrictions,
    2. Blocks on social media platforms,
    3. Blocks on websites,
    4. Blocks on VPNs, and
    5. Forced content removal.
    • Further Censorship Actions: India has also been involved in blocking websites featuring political, social, or religious content, disrupting ICT networks, deploying pro-government commentators to manipulate online discussions, and conducting technical attacks against government critics and human rights organizations.
    • Digital Freedom Index: On a scale of 1 to 100, where ‘100’ represents the highest digital freedom and ‘1’ signifies the worst repression, India received a score of 50. In contrast, Iceland emerged as the leader with a score of 94, boasting the best climate for Internet freedom.

    Implications for India

    • Uneven Playing Field: As India prepares for general elections in 2024, the government’s expanding censorship regime is highlighted as a threat to Indian democracy.
    • Curb on free speech: It suppresses criticism and independent reporting on the ruling party.

    Conclusion

    • The report’s findings underscore the global decline in Internet freedom, driven partly by the increasing use of AI for censorship and disinformation campaigns.
    • The implications of this trend on freedom of expression, privacy, and democracy necessitate vigilant monitoring and international action to protect digital rights in an increasingly interconnected world.

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