From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RBI, Key highlights of the report
Why in the News?
According to the RBI report on state finances, India’s fiscal deficit has increased from 2.8% of GDP in FY22 to a projected 3.2% in FY24, signaling that fiscal consolidation is being side-lined in favor of increasing expenditure.
Capital expenditure (capex) has risen from 2.2% of GDP in FY23 to a budgeted 3.2% in FY24, indicating increased investment in assets for future growth.
Fiscal position of the States as per the Report
Fiscal Deficit:
The Gross Fiscal Deficit (GFD) of states is projected to rise from 2.7% of GDP in FY2022-23 to 2.9% of GDP in FY2023-24.
This rise indicates that fiscal consolidation has been put on hold, with states continuing to spend more than their revenues.
Many states have budgeted for fiscal deficits above the 3% of GSDP mark, including Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal, among others.
Revenue Expenditure:
Revenue Expenditure is expected to increase to 14.6% of GDP in FY2025, up from 13.5% in FY2024, indicating a rise in the current expenditure of states.
Capital Expenditure (Capex):
States have ramped up their capital expenditure (spending on creating assets), which has increased from 2.2% of GDP in FY2023 to 3.2% of GDP in FY2024.
This increase is in line with the government’s focus on infrastructure and long-term growth.
State Revenue:
State revenues are projected to increase from 13.3% of GDP in FY2024 to 14.3% in FY2025, driven by improved tax collections.
There has been a marked improvement in own tax revenue buoyancy compared to the pre-Covid period.
Debt-to-GDP Ratio:
The debt-to-GDP ratio for states has increased slightly to 28.8% in FY2024, from 28.5% in FY2023.
States with high fiscal deficits tend to have debt-to-GDP ratios above the national average, which suggests they have been sustaining deficits for a longer time.
Borrowing Trends:
States have shifted significantly towards market borrowings.
The share of market borrowings in financing the fiscal deficit has increased from 17% in 2005-06 to 79% in FY2024-25.
Recommendations:
The report suggests prudent management of subsidies, rationalization of centrally sponsored schemes, debt consolidation, and the adoption of climate and outcome budgeting to improve state fiscal health.
PYQ:
[2018] Consider the following statements:
The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Review Committee Report has recommended a debt to GDP ratio of 60% for the general (combined) government by 2023, comprising 40% for the Central Government and 20% for the State Governments.
The Central Government has domestic liabilities of 21% of GDP as compared to that of 49% of GDP of the State Governments.
As per the Constitution of India, it is mandatory for a State to take the Central Government’s consent for raising any loan if the former owes any outstanding liabilities to the latter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Draft UGC Regulations, 2024
Why in the News?
The University Grants Commission (UGC) released the Draft UGC (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) 2024 to bring sweeping reforms in India’s higher education sector.
The new regulations will apply to all Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities across India.
Back2Basics: University Grants Commission (UGC)
UGC was inaugurated in 1953 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, then Minister of Education.
it was established as a statutory body in November 1956 under the UGC Act 1956.
The Sargeant Report (1944) recommended a University Grants Committee, established in 1945, initially handling all universities by 1947.
Post-independence, the University Education Commission (1948) under Dr. S Radhakrishnan proposed reorganizing the committee along the lines of the UK’s University Grants Commission.
A proposal to replace UGC with the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) is under consideration.
UGC handles:
Providing funds to higher education institutions.
Coordination, determination, and maintenance of academic standards.
About the Draft UGC Regulations, 2024:
Aims and Objectives
To reform India’s higher education system.
To introduce flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and inclusivity in higher education while removing disciplinary rigidities.
Key Provisions and Features
Biannual Admissions: Institutions can admit students twice a year (July/August and January/February).
Multiple Entry and Exit: Students can enter or exit their programs multiple times, with continuous assessments, recognition of prior learning, and the possibility to pursue two programs at the same time.
Flexibility for Students: Students can choose any discipline for UG and PG programs, irrespective of their background, subject to clearing entrance exams (e.g., CUET or university-specific exams).
Minimum Attendance Requirement: Institutions will set the minimum attendance based on program-specific requirements and statutory approvals, in line with the NEP 2020.
UG Degree Credits: At least 50% of credits must be earned in the major discipline for an undergraduate degree. The remaining 50% credits can be from skill courses, apprenticeships, or multidisciplinary subjects.
Duration of Degrees: UG degrees can be completed in 3 to 4 years, depending on the course structure. PG degrees will typically take 1 to 2 years, though they can be longer or shorter based on the program.
Accelerated and Extended Degree Programs:
ADP (Accelerated Degree Programs): Allows students to complete their degree in a shorter duration while covering the full curriculum.
EDP (Extended Degree Programs): Extends the duration for students who need more time to complete the program.
Up to 10% of the sanctioned intake can be earmarked for ADP. Students can choose ADP or EDP by the end of the first or second semester.
ADP/EDP degrees will include a note specifying the adjusted duration, while ensuring the full academic content is covered.
Postgraduate Eligibility: Students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (Hons./Research, BTech, BE) will be eligible for a two-year postgraduate program.
PYQ:
[2012] Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education?
Directive Principles of State Policy
Rural and Urban Local Bodies
Fifth Schedule
Sixth Schedule
Seventh Schedule
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3, 4 and 5 only
(c) 1, 2 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NHA estimates
Why in the News?
National Health Accounts (NHA) data for 2021-22 shows a decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) on healthcare due to increased government health expenditure (GHE) and an enhanced public healthcare framework.
What are NHA estimates?
The NHA estimates are based on the globally accepted framework of ‘A System of Health Accounts (SHA), 2011’ which facilitates inter-country comparisons.
This report provides a systematic description of the financial flows in India’s health system by different sources, how the money is spent, how healthcare is provided, and the nature of healthcare services that are used.
Key Observations from the NHA 2021-22 Data:
Details
Decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE)
OOPE has decreased due to increased government investment and improved public healthcare infrastructure, making healthcare more accessible and affordable.
Rise in Government Health Expenditure (GHE)
GHE as a percentage of GDP rose from 1.13% in 2014-15 to 1.84% in 2021-22. GHE’s share of overall government spending increased from 3.94% to 6.12%, reflecting the government’s commitment to public healthcare.
Increase in Per Capita Health Spending
Per capita health spending tripled from ₹1,108 in 2014-15 to ₹3,169 in 2021-22, allowing for more investment in infrastructure, workforce, and services.
Expansion of Social Security Expenditure (SSE)
SSE on healthcare grew from 5.7% to 8.7% of Total Health Expenditure (THE), helping protect individuals from catastrophic health expenses and reducing OOPE.
Growth of Government-Funded Insurance Schemes
Programs like Ayushman Bharat and state-level health insurance schemes increased healthcare access for economically vulnerable populations, reducing reliance on personal funds.
Foundation for Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
The decline in OOPE and increased public health spending are integral to achievingUHC, aiming for equitable healthcare access for all citizens.
PYQ:
[2021] “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.
[2019] In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of:
(a) Digital security infrastructure
(b) Food security infrastructure
(c) Health care and education infrastructure
(d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure
The survey gathered primary data from 1 lakh rural households across 28 states and Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The first NAFISsurvey was conducted for the agricultural year 2016-17, with results released in 2018.
This survey provides valuable information on rural economic and financial indicators, especially in the post-COVID period.
Key Highlights from NAFIS 2021-22:
Details
1. Increase in Average Monthly Income
• Average monthly income increased by 57.6% from Rs. 8,059 in 2016-17 to Rs. 12,698 in 2021-22, indicating a nominal CAGR of 9.5%.
• Agricultural households earned slightly more, with an average income of Rs. 13,661, compared to Rs. 11,438 for non-agricultural households.
• Salaried employment was the largest income source for all households, accounting for approximately 37% of total income.
• For agricultural households, cultivation was the main income source, contributing about one-third of their monthly earnings.
• For non-agricultural households, government/private services contributed 57% of the total household income.
2. Rise in Average Monthly Expenditure
• Average monthly expenditure increased from Rs. 6,646 in 2016-17 to Rs. 11,262 in 2021-22.
• Agricultural households had higher expenditure at Rs. 11,710, compared to Rs. 10,675 for non-agricultural households.
• In states like Goa and Jammu & Kashmir, monthly household expenditure exceeded Rs. 17,000.
• Overall, agricultural households demonstrated both higher income and expenditure levels than non-agricultural households.
3. Increase in Financial Savings
• Annual average financial savings rose to Rs. 13,209 in 2021-22 from Rs. 9,104 in 2016-17.
• 66% of households reported saving money in 2021-22, up from 50.6% in 2016-17.
• 71% of agricultural households reported savings, compared to 58% of non-agricultural households.
• States with 70% or more households saving money include Uttarakhand (93%), Uttar Pradesh (84%), and Jharkhand (83%).
• States with less than half of households reporting savings are Goa (29%), Kerala (35%), Mizoram (35%), Gujarat (37%), Maharashtra (40%), and Tripura (46%).
4. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Usage
• 44% of agricultural households possessed a valid Kisan Credit Card (KCC).
• Among those with land holdings greater than 0.4 hectares or who had taken agricultural loans from banks in the past year, 77% had a valid KCC.
5. Insurance Coverage
• Households with at least one member covered by any form of insurance increased from 25.5% in 2016-17 to 80.3% in 2021-22.
• 80.3% means that four out of every five households had at least one insured member.
• Agricultural households had higher insurance coverage than non-agricultural households by about 13 percentage points.
• Vehicle insurance was the most prevalent, with 55% of households covered.
• Life insurance coverage extended to 24% of households, with agricultural households showing slightly higher penetration (26%) compared to non-agricultural ones (20%).
6. Pension Coverage
• Households with at least one member receiving any form of pension increased from 18.9% in 2016-17 to 23.5% in 2021-22.
• Overall, 54% of households with at least one member over 60 years old reported receiving a pension.
• Pensions included old age, family, retirement, or disability pensions, highlighting their importance in supporting elderly members of society.
7. Financial Literacy
• Respondents demonstrating good financial literacy increased from 33.9% in 2016-17 to 51.3% in 2021-22, a rise of 17% points.
• Individuals exhibiting sound financial behavior increased from 56.4% to 72.8% during the same period.
• When assessed on financial knowledge, 58% of rural respondents and 66% of semi-urban respondents answered all questions correctly.
Key aspects that contribute to Rural Empowerment
The survey shows significant progress in rural financial inclusion since the first survey in 2016-17.
Rural households have seen improvements in income, savings, insurance coverage, and financial literacy.
Government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, MGNREGS, and PMAY-G have contributed to the improvement in the lives of rural people.
PYQ:
[2015] Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana was launched by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi on 28 August 2014. What is the main objective of the scheme?
(a) To provide housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates
(b) To promote women’s Self Help Groups in backward areas
(c) To promote financial inclusion in the country
(d) To provide financial help to marginalised communities
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hema Commission Report on Women Safety
Why in the News?
A single bench of the Kerala High Court has stayed the release of the Justice Hema Commission report.
The report investigated women’s working conditions in the Malayalam film industry.
About the Assault that Exposed the Deep Gender Divide
On February 17, 2017, a leading Malayalam film actress was abducted and sexually assaulted in her car while traveling from Thrissur to Kochi.
The incident caused shock and outrage across Kerala as disturbing details emerged, including a video purportedly intended for blackmail.
Six of the ten accused were arrested quickly, and popular actor Dileep was named an accused and remanded to judicial custody in July. He is currently out on bail, with the trial ongoing since 2020.
Formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC)
The incident highlighted the discriminatory treatment faced by women in the film industry.
The Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) was formed in response, submitting a petition to the Chief Minister demanding an inquiry into gender issues in the industry.
The Hema Commission
In July 2017, five months after the incident, the state government formed a 3-member committee headed by retired Kerala High Court judge, Justice K Hema.
The committee’s objective was to investigate issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry.
In December 2019, a 300-page report was submitted to the CM Pinarayi Vijayan, including documents, audio, and video evidence.
Findings and Recommendations
The commission consulted multiple women professionals in the industry, recording detailed accounts of sexual harassment, wages earned, and possible blacklisting.
The report highlighted the existence of a casting couch, and the presence of alcohol and drugs on film sets.
The commission recommended forming a tribunal to investigate these allegations.
Other recommendations included making job contracts mandatory, ensuring wage parity across genders for the same job, banning drugs and liquor on shooting locations, and ensuring safe working conditions for women.
PYQ:
[2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:
Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-STIAC, CCUS
Why in the News?
The 25th Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) meeting was recently held at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe in New Delhi.
Highlights of the 25th PM-STIAC Meet
The meeting was aimed to discuss robust policy formulation for effective Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in India.
Focus was on India’s carbon market, carbon credit scheme, and strategies to achieve a 45% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070.
About PM-STIAC
Details
Objective
Provide advice on STI policies and oversee implementation of the government’s STI vision
Establishment
2018
Chairperson
Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India
Composition
Eminent scientists, technologists, and innovators from various fields
Key Roles and Functions
Policy Advice
Inter-Ministerial Coordination
Project Oversight
Innovation Ecosystem Promotion
Global Collaboration
Public Engagement
Policy and Program Development
Major Initiatives and Missions
NM-ICPS: Cyber-Physical Systems Innovation Hubs
Quantum Frontier Mission: Quantum Technologies
AI Mission: AI for Inclusive Growth
Electric Mobility Mission: Promote EVs
Waste to Wealth Mission: Sustainable Waste Management
Health and Well-being Mission: Improve Healthcare Delivery
AGNIi: Accelerating Growth of New India’s Innovations
Deep Ocean Exploration
What isCarbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)?
Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a technology aimed at reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial processes and power generation.
It involves three main steps:
Capture:
CO₂ is separated and captured from industrial emissions or directly from the air.
Capture technologies include pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxy-fuel combustion.
Utilization:
Captured CO₂ is converted into useful products such as chemicals, fuels, and building materials.
Utilization helps in creating economic value from CO₂ and can support the development of a circular carbon economy.
Storage:
CO₂ is transported and stored in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, or basalt formations.
This prevents CO₂ from entering the atmosphere, thereby mitigating climate change.
Significance:
Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to meet climate targets.
Energy Transition: Supports the transition to low-carbon energy systems.
Economic Benefits: Generates new economic opportunities through the creation of new markets for CO₂-derived products.
Policy Initiatives for CCUS in India
National Hydrogen Energy Mission (2021):
Launched in 2021, the mission aims to promote the production and use of green hydrogen, with CCUS being a crucial component for producing blue hydrogen from natural gas.
Department of Science and Technology (DST) Initiatives:
DST has funded various research projects focusing on developing CCUS technologies since the early 2000s.
Projects include capturing CO₂ from industrial sources and converting it into valuable products like methanol and synthetic fuels.
National Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage Policy Framework and Its Deployment Mechanism (2020):
Established in 2020, the framework aims to create a roadmap for deploying CCUS technologies across various sectors.
It focuses on enhancing research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) activities and creating enabling regulatory and policy environments.
Industry Collaborations:
Collaborations with industries such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for pilot projects on CCUS.
Public-private partnerships to foster innovation and scale up CCUS technologies have been ongoing since the 2010s.
International Collaborations (CSLF, 2003):
India joined the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum (CSLF) in 2003, which promotes international collaboration on CCUS technology development.
Collaborations with countries like the United States and the United Kingdom for knowledge sharing and technical support.
Green Energy Corridors (2015):
Integration of CCUS with renewable energy initiatives to ensure a sustainable and low-carbon energy mix.
Established in 2015, this initiative supports developing infrastructure for transporting and storing captured CO₂.
PYQ:
[2020] Which one of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon’?
(a) It is a measure, in monetary value, of the long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.
(b) Requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.
(c) Efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live-in a new place.
(d) Contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key stats mentioned in the newscard; National Statistical Office (NSO)
Why in the News?
The National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), has released the ‘Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors 2024’.
Data Collection Strategies by NSO:
Crops are divided into 12 groups: Cereals, pulses, oilseeds, sugars, fibres, indigo, dyes and tanning material, drugs and narcotics, condiments & spices, fruits & vegetables, other crops, by-products, and kitchen garden.
Livestock products are divided into 7 groups: milk, meat, eggs, wool and hair, dung, silk worm cocoons & honey, and increment in livestock.
About the National Statistical Office (NSO)
The NSO was established in 1950 as the Central Statistical Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Planning.
It was later renamed the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 1970 and subsequently became the NSO in 2019.
Over the years, it has evolved to become the primary statistical agency in India.
Organizational Structure: The NSO consists of several divisions and units responsible for different statistical functions.
Key organizations under NSO: Central Statistical Office (CSO)
The CSO is a part of the NSO and focuses on macroeconomic statistics and national income accounting.
It is responsible for producing key economic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
Key Reports released by NSO:
Household Consumption Expenditure Survey
EnviStats India 2024: Environment Statistics
Energy Statistics India 2024
National Accounts Statistics 2024
Quarterly Estimates of GDP
Sector-wise share of Value of Output
Salient Features and Summary Results
India’s Agricultural Rankings: India ranks second worldwide in arable land, third in cereal production, and is a leading producer of groundnut, fruits, vegetables, sugarcane, tea, and jute. It is also the largest producer of milk, second in egg production, and fifth in meat production.
GVA Contribution: The shares of Crop, Livestock, Forestry and Fishing sub-sectors in value of output of Agriculture and allied sector were 54.3%, 30.9%, 7.9% and 6.9% respectively in 2022-23.
Crop Sub-sector Trends: The crop sub-sector remains the largest contributor to the Gross Value of Output (GVO) but has seen its share decline from 62.4% in 2011-12 to 54.3% in 2022-23. Fruits and vegetables’ output has significantly increased, highlighting the growing importance of horticulture.
Livestock Sub-sector Growth: The livestock sub-sector has seen an increase in the output of milk, meat, and eggs, indicating a steady growth in this area.
Forestry and Fishing: The forestry sector has diversified its output sources, and the fishing and aquaculture sector has seen significant growth, especially in Andhra Pradesh.
State-wise Details from 2011-12 to 2022-23
State-wise Value of Output of Crop
Highest Output: Uttar Pradesh leading in cereals and sugarcane production.
Lowest Output: Lakshadweep:
State-wise Value of Output of Livestock
Highest Output:
Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan together accounted for about a quarter of the livestock sub-sector’s output.
Lowest Output:
Goa: Output remained at ₹0 lakh throughout the period.
Key Trends:
Madhya Pradesh: Significant increase in livestock output, particularly in milk and meat production.
West Bengal: Steady growth in egg production.
State-wise Value of Output of Forestry and Logging
Major products: Industrial wood (68%), Fuelwood (20%), and Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) (12%) in 2022-23.
Top States in 2022-23:Maharashtra: 16.4% share, Rajasthan: 10.6% share,Uttar Pradesh: 8.7% share, Madhya Pradesh: 7.7% share and Odisha: 5.3% share.
State-wise Value of Output of Fishing and Aquaculture
Highest Output: Andhra Pradesh: Share increased from 17.7% in 2011-12 to almost 40.9% in 2022-23, leading in fish and prawn farming.
Lowest Output: Arunachal Pradesh: Output increased from ₹0 lakh (2011-12) to ₹3 lakh (2022-23).
All India Item-wise Value of Output from Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, and Fishing
Cereals: Paddy and wheat are the top contributors to the cereals sub-sector. Paddy output in 2022-23 was ₹220,200 crore, while wheat output was ₹137,300 crore.
Pulses: Gram and Arhar together accounted for nearly 59% of the pulses output. Madhya Pradesh led in pulses production with a 22% share in 2022-23.
Oilseeds: Groundnut and Rapeseed & Mustard are the highest contributors within the oilseeds group. Gujarat and Rajasthan are the leading states in oilseeds production.
Sugar Crops: Uttar Pradesh remains the largest producer of sugarcane, increasing its share from 41% in 2011-12 to 54.5% in 2022-23.
Livestock Products: Milk, meat, and eggs are the major contributors within the livestock sub-sector. The share of milk, meat, and eggs in the livestock sub-sector was 66.5%, 23.6%, and 3.7% respectively in 2022-23.
Forestry Products: The forestry sector’s output is mainly driven by industrial wood, fuelwood, and NTFP. The share of industrial wood increased to 68% in 2022-23.
Fishing and Aquaculture: The fishing and aquaculture sector has seen a significant increase in output, with Andhra Pradesh leading the production. The output of fishing and aquaculture increased from ₹80 thousand crore in 2011-12 to ₹195 thousand crore in 2022-23.
PYQ:
[2011] A state in India has the following characteristics:
Its northern part is arid and semiarid.
Its central part produces cotton.
Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.
Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forest Fires as per FSI report
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
Last week, three instances of forest fire were reported from the major forest belts in Uttarakhand.
The severity of the situation has prompted the deployment of Indian Air Force personnel and Mi-17 choppers, engaged in the critical operation of dousing the flames using the Bambi Bucket Method.
Causes of Wildfire:
Firstly, the general major causes of forest fires in Uttarakhand are continued dry weather and lack of moisture in the forests.
Secondly, according to the Forest Research Institute (FRI, 2019), 95% of forest fires are attributed to human activities.
The common human-induced causes include – Grazers setting fire to dry grass, Slash-and-burn agriculture, Unattended campfires, and Intentional arson.
Uttarakhand’s Forest Vulnerability:
As per the latest report from the Forest Survey of India (FSI), the Recorded Forest Area (RFA) in the State is 38,000 sq km of which 26,547 sq km is Reserved Forest, 9,885 sq km is Protected Forest, and 1,568 sq km is Unclassed Forests.
Highly flammable Chir Pine trees, covering extensive areas, increase the fire risk.
This risk is compounded by prolongeddry spells and excess biomass accumulation.
Additionally, the proximity of villages facilitates anthropogenic activities such as forest clearance and grazing.
Forest Fires in India: Recent Statistics
Odisha recorded 4,237 forest fires as compared to 1,499 between April 20 and 27 in 2023. Similarly, Chhattisgarh recorded 757 fires last year as compared to 2,116 this year, Jharkhand 633 as against 1,926 and Andhra Pradesh 527 as compared to 1,126 in 2023.
However, Uttarakhand has recorded the highest number of large forest fires in the country in the last seven days since April 28, according to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) data.
Mitigation Strategies
Localized Initiatives:
Effective measures to mitigate forest fire risks include controlled burning, biomass removal, prescribed burns, and enhanced surveillance using drones.
Community engagement and proactive involvement, as demonstrated in Kerala, provide valuable insights for forest fire management.
Government Initiatives:
The government has introduced measures such as a satellite-based fire alert system by the Forest Survey of India, aiding in early detection and response efforts.
Forest staff utilize various techniques, including counter-fires and fire beaters, to contain and manage forest fires effectively.
Wildfires Mitigating Strategies:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) outlines four strategies to prevent and manage forest fires:
Erecting watch towers for early detection,
Deploying fire watchers,
Engaging local communities, and
Establishing and maintaining fire lines.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) website distinguishes between two types of fire lines:
Kachha fire lines involve clearing undergrowth and shrubs while preserving trees to decrease the amount of available fuel.
Pucca fire lines are clear-cut areas that create a barrier between forest compartments or blocks to contain potential fire spread.
PYQ:
[2020] Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Monetary Policy
Mains level: The impact of climate shock and extreme weather events
Why in the news?
Extreme weather conditions may pose a risk to inflation, along with prolonged geopolitical tensions that could keep crude oil prices volatile, the Reserve Bank’s April Bulletin said on April 23.
RBI’s Monetary Policy Report on the impact of climate shock and extreme weather events on food inflation:
Effects of Food Inflation: The report highlights the significance of extreme weather events and climate shocks in affecting not only food inflation but also the broader impact on the natural Rate of Interest and Financial Stability.
Broader Economic Impact: Climate shocks and extreme weather events are mentioned to have a broader impact on the economy’s financial stability, indicating that disruptions in food production and supply chains due to these events can lead to inflationary pressures beyond just the food sector.
Use of Economic Modeling: The report mentions the utilization of a New-Keynesian model incorporating a physical climate risk damage function to estimate the macroeconomic impact of climate change. This likely includes projections on how climate shocks affect food production and subsequently food inflation.
Warning on Long-Term Output Reduction: The report warns that without climate mitigation policies, the long-term economic output could be lower by around 9% by 2050. This suggests that climate shocks and extreme weather events could have lasting effects on food production and inflation.
Potential for Inflation Hysteresis: There’s a warning about the potential for inflation hysteresis to become entrenched, which could lead to a de-anchoring of inflation expectations. This implies that persistent disruptions caused by climate shocks could lead to sustained increases in food inflation.
Way Forward:
Need Investment in Climate Resilience: Governments and businesses can invest in climate-resilient agriculture practices and infrastructure to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme weather events on food production.
Need Diversification of Food Sources: Diversifying food sources can help reduce reliance on regions prone to climate-related disruptions. This could involve promoting local food production, supporting small-scale farmers, and investing in alternative food production methods such as vertical farming or hydroponics.
Mains PYQ
Q What policy instruments were deployed to contain the great economic depression?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Antimicrobial resistance
Mains level: Read the attached story
In the news
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) jointly published the surveillance data of the Indian Network for Fishery and Animal Antimicrobial Resistance (INFAAR) for 2019-22.
This report marks the first comprehensive analysis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) trends in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.
About INFAAR
Network Formation: INFAAR, established under ICAR, comprises 20 laboratories, including 17 ICAR Research Institute Laboratories, one Central Agriculture University Laboratory, one State Agriculture University Laboratory, and one State Veterinary University.
Collaborative Support: Technical assistance from FAO and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) enhances INFAAR’s capabilities for data collection and analysis.
Expansion Goals: INFAAR aims for further expansion to encompass more laboratories and enhance surveillance coverage.
Antibiotic Use and AMR Trends
Impact of Antibiotics: Antibiotic usage in food animal production contributes to AMR development, necessitating surveillance to inform policy decisions.
Production Systems: Three key aquaculture systems—freshwater, brackish-water, and marine—were surveyed, covering diverse environments.
Panel of Antibiotics: Antibiotics tested included amikacin, ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, aztreonam, cefotaxime, cefepime, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, chloramphenicol, co-trimoxazole, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, imipenem, meropenem, and tetracycline.
Surveillance Methodology
Sample Collection: Samples collected from 3,087 farms spanning 42 districts in 12 states of India, including fish or shrimp tissues and pond or seawater samples.
Bacterial Isolates: A total of 6,789 bacterial isolates were analyzed, including 4,523 freshwater, 1,809 shrimp, and 457 mariculture isolates.
Resistance Profiles: Resistance profiles were analyzed for Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (CONS), Escherichia coli, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio sp., and Aeromonas species.
Key Findings:
(1) Resistance Patterns in Fisheries Sector
Species Specific Resistance: Isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species exhibited high resistance against penicillin across all systems.
Variation across Environments: Freshwater fish showed notable resistance to ciprofloxacin, while marine samples demonstrated higher resistance to cefotaxime.
Shrimp Aquaculture: Notable resistance against ampicillin and cefotaxime was observed in shrimp samples, indicating a concerning trend.
(2) Resistance Patterns in Livestock Sector
Animal Origins: E. coli and Staphylococcus isolates from cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, pig, and poultry were characterized for AMR profiles.
Poultry Resistance: Poultry-origin isolates exhibited higher resistance rates across various antibiotics compared to other food animals.
(3) Multidrug Resistance Analysis
Emergence of MDR: Approximately 39% of aquaculture-origin E. coli isolates and 15.8% of poultry isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR).
ESBL and AmpC Producers: Detection of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC type β-lactamase producers underscores the complexity of AMR challenges.
Key Recommendations by the Study
Baseline Data: The report provides foundational data for understanding AMR trends and evaluating intervention effectiveness.
Judicious Use: High resistance to critical antibiotics underscores the importance of prudent antibiotic use in food animal production.
Policy Implications: The findings will inform policy and decision-making for AMR containment in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.
Conclusion
The INFAAR surveillance report sheds light on the evolving landscape of antimicrobial resistance in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.
By highlighting resistance patterns and advocating for responsible antibiotic usage, this initiative paves the way for effective AMR containment strategies and sustainable agricultural practices.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CREA
Mains level: Air pollution woes
In the news
The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) recently released data shedding light on air pollution levels across urban centers in India during February 2024.
Surprisingly, Meghalaya’s Byrnihat emerged as the most polluted ‘city’ in the nation, sparking concerns about air quality in the otherwise cleaner Northeast region.
About Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA)
CREA is a non-profit think tank researching energy and air pollution based in Helsinki (Finland).
It was established in 2019 with the goal of tracking the impacts of air pollution by providing data-backed research products.
Key Insights
(1) Alarming Pollution Levels in NE
Pollution Pinnacle: Byrnihat, an industrial town near the Assam border, recorded the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution in India, with a monthly average concentration of 183 µg/m3.
Byrnihat vs. National Averages: Byrnihat’s PM2.5 levels were significantly higher than those in Bihar’s Araria, the second-most polluted city, highlighting the severity of pollution in the former.
Northeastern Representation: Other northeastern cities such as Nalbari, Agartala, Guwahati, and Nagaon also featured among the 30 most polluted cities in India, indicating a broader regional trend of worsening pollution levels.
(2) Cleanest Cities and Regional Disparities
Positive Performers: Sivasagar, Silchar, Aizawl, and Imphal emerged as the cleanest cities in the region, with PM2.5 concentrations below the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).
National Rankings: Sivasagar secured the second position nationally, underscoring its exemplary air quality standards.
(3) Silver Lining: Improvements and Opportunities
Positive Trends: February witnessed a notable improvement in air quality, with 36 cities classified under the ‘good’ category, reflecting positive strides in pollution mitigation efforts.
Opportunities for Progress: The data signals opportunities for collaborative action and policy interventions to address environmental challenges and safeguard public health.
Implications and Recommendations
Monitoring Imperative: The data underscores the urgent need to enhance air quality monitoring infrastructure in the northeastern states to effectively track pollution levels.
Environmental Concerns: Unregulated industrial operations, inadequate public transportation, rampant construction, and other factors contribute to the deteriorating air quality in the region, necessitating stringent regulatory measures.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women, Business and Law Index
Mains level: NA
In the news
India’s ranking in the World Bank’s Women, Business and Law index saw a significant improvement, climbing to 113 out of 190 countries in the latest edition of the report.
It is intriguing to know that none of the countries globally achieved a full score in the new index, indicating pervasive gender disparities in legal rights worldwide.
About Women, Business and Law Index
The Women, Business and Law Index is a World Bank initiative aimed at measuring how laws and regulations impact women’s economic opportunity.
The index provides objective and measurable benchmarks for evaluating global progress towards legal gender equality.
Range from 0 to 100, where 100 denotes equal legal rights for men and women.
The report assesses eight critical areas: mobility, workplace, pay, marriage, parenthood, entrepreneurship, assets, and pension.
The 2024 edition marks the 10th iteration of the report.
India’s Performance
Legal Rights Gap: Indian women now enjoy 60% of the legal rights granted to men, slightly below the global average of 64.2%.
Regional Comparison: India outperformed its South Asian counterparts, where women typically have access to only 45.9% of the legal protections compared to men.
Supportive Frameworks: India’s performance in establishing supportive frameworks fell short, with only 54.2% of the necessary frameworks in place.
Policy Efforts: India aims to increase female labour force participation, which stood at 37% in 2022-23, significantly lower than many advanced economies.
OECD Comparison: The female labour force participation rate in OECD countries exceeded 50% in 2022, highlighting the gap India seeks to bridge.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2015:
‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is released by which organisation?
(a) Organization for Economic Cooperation and development (OECD)
Former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar has been appointed as the chairperson of Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman of India.
Justice Khanwilkar retired from the Supreme Court in July 2022, bringing a wealth of judicial experience to his new role.
About Lokpal
Establishment: Lokpal is a statutory body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act of 2013.
Mandate: It is tasked with investigating allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and related matters.
Organisational Structure:
The Lokpal comprises a chairperson and a maximum of 8 members.
The chairperson must be a former Chief Justice of India, a former Supreme Court judge, or an eminent person meeting eligibility criteria.
Half of the members must be judicial members, either former Supreme Court judges or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
At least 50% members must be from SC / ST / OBC / Minorities and women.
Members serve a term of 5 years or until they turn 70, whichever is earlier.
Perks and Benefits: The salary, allowances, and other conditions of service for the chairperson are equivalent to those of the CJI, while members receive benefits similar to Supreme Court judges.
Appointment Process:
The President of India appoints the chairperson and members based on the recommendation of a selection committee.
The selection committee includes the PM as Chairperson, the Speaker of Lok Sabha, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a nominated judge, and one eminent jurist.
Jurisdiction:
Lokpal has jurisdiction to investigate allegations of corruption against Prime Ministers, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials of the Union Government.
It extends to individuals associated with government-funded entities and those receiving substantial foreign contributions.
Exceptions for Prime Minister:
Lokpal cannot probe allegations against the PM related to certain sensitive areas like international relations, security, public order, atomic energy, and space without the approval of at least 2/3rds of its members.
A full Lokpal bench must consider initiating inquiries into complaints against the PM.
Powers of Lokpal:
Lokpal exercises superintendence over and provides directions to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)in corruption cases.
It can authorize the CBIfor search and seizure operations linked to such cases.
The Lokpal’s Inquiry Wing possessespowers akin to a civil court.
It can recommend the transfer or suspension of public servantsimplicated in corruption allegations.
Lokpal is empowered to prevent the destruction of records during preliminary inquiries and confiscate assets obtained through corruption.
Reporting and Accountability
Annually, Lokpal submits a report on its activities to the President, which is then presented to both Houses of Parliament for scrutiny.
Try this PYQ from CS Mains 2013
Q.‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Criminality of Politicians, Vote Bank Dynamics
In the news
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and the National Election Watch has found that 36% of the newly elected Rajya Sabha candidates have declared criminal cases against themselves.
Context:
Increase in Serious Crimes: 17% of total candidates face serious criminal charges, including with cases related to attempted murder, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Biased Representation: Approximately 21% of the candidates are billionaires, with assets exceeding Rs 100 crore, reflecting the significant wealth amassed by certain individuals in the political arena.
Prevailing disparities: The majority (76%) of candidates belong to the 51-70 age group, with only 19% being women, reflecting gender disparities in political representation.
Why does Criminality persist in Indian politics?
Political Patronage: Criminals seek political backing to sustain their illicit activities, while politicians rely on criminals for funding, muscle power, and electoral support.
Protracted Legal Processes: Lengthy court proceedings, averaging around 15 years, coupled with declining conviction rates, allow criminals to evade justice and continue their political careers.
Legal Ambiguity: Pending cases become a shield for tainted candidates, who exploit the “law will take its own course” narrative to deflect scrutiny.
Electoral Advantage: Candidates with criminal records may have higher chances of winning elections, incentivizing parties to field them despite ethical concerns.
Limited Scrutiny: Despite legal mandates for candidates to disclose criminal cases, voters often lack the awareness or resources to scrutinize this information effectively.
Vote Bank Dynamics: Parties exploit caste, religious, or regional loyalties, prioritizing short-term gains over candidate integrity.
Impacts of Criminality in Indian politics:
Corrosive Effects: The fusion of crime and politics has corrosive effects on the governance. The nexus between crime and politics can exacerbate corruption and weaken governance structures. When politicians with criminal backgrounds hold office, there is a higher likelihood of corruption, misuse of power, and a lack of transparency in decision-making processes, all of which can have detrimental effects on the economy.
Undermining Democracy: Allowing criminals in politics undermines the development of a healthy democracy that India’s freedom fighters fought for. The impact extends to the provision of public goods. Research findings suggest that the effects are concentrated in less developed and more corrupt Indian states, indicating that the presence of criminal politicians hinders the effective delivery of public goods and services to constituents.
Economic Growth: While criminal candidates may win elections in the short term, their presence can hinder the long-term development of a robust democracy. The election of criminally accused politicians leads to lower economic growth in their constituencies. Studies show a 22% point lower yearly growth in the intensity of night-time lights, which serves as a proxy for economic activity, following the election of such politicians.
Measures Taken to Address Criminalization in Politics
[A] Legislative Interventions
Representation of the People Act, 1951: Sections 8(1), 8(2), and 8(3) establish grounds for disqualification of individuals convicted of certain offenses, barring them from contesting elections.
Conduct of Election Rules, 1961: Mandates candidates to file affidavits disclosing pending criminal cases and convictions, enhancing transparency in electoral processes.
Chapter IX A of Indian Penal Code: Defines and penalizes electoral offenses such as bribery and undue influence, deterring criminal activities in elections.
[B] Establishment of Special Courts
Judicial Mechanisms: Special courts dedicated to expediting criminal cases against legislators and parliamentarians help ensure timely justice and accountability.
Tackling Impunity: Targeted prosecution of political figures accused of criminal activities reduces impunity and strengthens the rule of law.
[C] Vohra Committee Report (1993)
Comprehensive Analysis: The Vohra Committee investigated the political-criminal nexus, highlighting its extent and proposing strategies to combat this menace.
Policy Recommendations: Recommendations from the report informed policy decisions aimed at disrupting criminal networks operating within political structures.
[D] Election Commission Initiatives
Affidavit Reforms: Election Commission directives mandate candidates to declare criminal records, financial assets, and educational qualifications, empowering voters with crucial information.
Moral Code of Conduct: Effective enforcement of ethical standards during elections minimizes the influence of criminal elements and promotes fair electoral practices.
Major Judicial Interventions
Background
Key Outcome
Significance
Union of India vs. Association for Democratic Reforms (2002)
Challenged lack of transparency in electoral processes regarding candidates’ records.
Supreme Court mandated Election Commission to compel candidates to disclose criminal, financial, and educational details.
Empowered voters with vital information for informed choices, fostering accountability in elections.
Ramesh Dalal vs. Union of India (2005)
Imposed disqualification criteria for convicted candidates.
Supreme Court ruled sitting MPs/MLAs would be disqualified if convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for two years or more.
Established stringent disqualification criteria to deter candidates with criminal backgrounds, enhancing integrity of elected representatives.
Lily Thomas vs. Union of India (2013)
Addressed interpretation of Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Supreme Court declared Section 8(4) unconstitutional, disqualifying legislators convicted and sentenced to two years or more.
Closed loopholes allowing convicted legislators to retain seats, reinforcing accountability and integrity in the political system.
People’s Union for Civil Liberties vs. Union of India (2013)
Addressed voters’ rights to reject candidates with criminal backgrounds through NOTA.
Supreme Court ruled voters could reject all candidates using NOTA in electronic voting machines (EVMs).
Introduced NOTA as a voting option, empowering voters to express dissatisfaction with criminalized politics, and promoting cleaner elections.
Way Forward
Decriminalization Legislation: Enact laws to prevent individuals facing serious criminal charges from contesting elections, ensuring that those with criminal backgrounds are barred from political office.
State Funding of Elections: Introduce state funding of elections to reduce the influence of money and muscle power, thereby minimizing the role of criminals in financing political campaigns.
Enhanced Voter Awareness: Educate voters about the detrimental effects of criminalization in politics and provide easily accessible information about candidates’ backgrounds to enable informed decision-making.
Empowering Election Commission: Grant Election Commission broader regulatory powers to enforce inner-party democracy, regulate party finances, and curb the influence of criminals in political parties.
Continued Judicial Oversight: Uphold the judiciary’s role in safeguarding electoral integrity by delivering landmark judgments that reinforce accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct among elected representatives.
Strict Enforcement of Disqualification Criteria: Ensure strict implementation of disqualification criteria for convicted politicians, irrespective of their appeals or legal maneuvers.
Try this question from CS Mains 2017:
Q. Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward. (150 Words, 10)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: All India Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (CES)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Why in the News?
Recently, the government has disclosed the broad findings of the All India Household Consumption Expenditure Survey conducted between August 2022 and July 2023.
About All India Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (CES):
The CES is a quinquennial (recurring every five years) survey conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
It is designed to collect information on the consumption spending patterns of households across the country, both urban and rural.
The data gathered in this exercise reveals the average expenditure on goods (food and non-food) and services.
It helps generate estimates of household Monthly Per Capita Consumer Expenditure (MPCE) as well as the distribution of households and persons over the MPCE classes.
Key Findings of the recent Survey:
Rise in Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure:
Urban: Witnessed a 33.5% increase to ₹3,510.
Rural: Marked a 40.42% surge to ₹2,008 since 2011-12.
Shift in Spending Pattern:
Food Expenditure: Decreased from 52.9% to 46.4% in rural households and from 42.6% to 39.2% in urban households since 2011-12.
Implications: Potential impact on retail inflation calculations due to reduced weightage of food prices.
Inclusion of Social Welfare Benefits:
Separate calculation for items received through schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana.
Items Included: Computers, mobile phones, bicycles, and clothing.
Adjusted Monthly Per Capita Expenditure:
Rural: ₹2,054;
Urban: ₹3,544 (excluding free education and healthcare sops).
Rural-Urban Dynamics: B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of Niti Aayog, highlights that India’s growth story is “broad-based,” with rural incomes and expenditures outpacing those in urban areas.
Narrowing Divide: The urban-rural consumption gap has decreased from 91% in 2004-05 to 71% in 2022-23, indicating diminishing inequality.
Shifts in Consumption Patterns:
Food Expenditure: Rural households’ spending on food has fallen below 50% of their total expenditure for the first time. Lower spending on staples like pulses and cereals is accompanied by increased expenditure on consumer durables and services.
Income Growth: Rising expenditures on items such as TVs, fridges, and mobile phones suggest improved incomes and evolving lifestyles.
Changing Poverty Metrics:
Poverty Estimates: Based on MPCE averages, poverty levels are projected to be below 5%, according to Mr. Subrahmanyam. Informal estimates indicate a decline in poverty, with destitution nearly eradicated due to various welfare schemes.
Inclusive Growth: Government initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat and free education have contributed to lifting millions out of poverty, reflecting a multi-dimensional approach to poverty alleviation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Economics behind Indian Agriculture
Introduction
Amidst the ongoing farmer protests, the demand for a legal assurance backing Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) has taken center stage, sparking debates and polarizing opinions.
Delving into the intricacies of MSPs is crucial to grasp the gravity of this contentious issue.
Deciphering MSPs: A Primer
Fundamental Concept: MSPs, or Minimum Support Prices, signify the price floor set by the government for various crops, serving as a safety net to safeguard farmers’ incomes.
Ramifications: The significance of MSPs transcends mere agricultural economics, influencing farmers’ livelihoods, consumer prices, and even governmental budgetary allocations.
Backdrop of Farmer Protests
Escalating Tensions: The introduction and subsequent repeal of three farm laws by the current Union government in 2020 have catalysed widespread farmer protests, drawing attention to the MSP debate.
Polarized Discourse: The discourse surrounding farmer protests has veered into a realm of political polarization, overshadowing the substantive issues at hand.
Key Insights into India’s Agricultural Landscape
[1] Shift in Economic Dynamics
Historical Perspective: Post-Independence, agriculture commanded a significant share of India’s workforce and economic output, with around 70% of the workforce engaged in the sector.
Contemporary Scenario: Despite a decline in agriculture’s contribution to GDP, the proportion of the agricultural workforce remains relatively high, signaling a skewed economic paradigm. In 2011, approximately 6% of the workforce was engaged in agriculture.
[2] Transition in Farming Patterns
Rising Labour Dependency: The shift from cultivators to agricultural laborers underscores the evolving nature of farming practices, reflecting growing challenges in sustaining agricultural livelihoods. In 1951, 72% of allfarm workers were cultivators, whereas by 2011, this proportion decreased to 45%.
Small Holdings and Indebtedness: Small and marginal landholdings coupled with high levels of indebtedness paint a grim picture of the financial vulnerability faced by Indian farmers. According to a 2019 survey, around 70% of all agricultural households have a land holding size of less than 1 hectare, and almost 50% are indebted.
[3] Income Disparities and Debt Burdens
Regional Disparities: Regional variations in farm incomes and indebtedness highlight the multifaceted nature of agrarian distress. In 2019, the average monthly income per household was Rs 10,218, while 50% of all farm households were indebted.
Terms of Trade Dynamics: Fluctuating terms of trade between farmers and non-farmers further exacerbate farmers’ financial woes, reflecting structural imbalances in the agricultural sector. The Terms of Trade (ToT) between farmers and non-farmers have remained stagnant or negative since 2010-11.
[4] Global Perspectives on Agricultural Support
Comparative Analysis: India’s standing in terms of producer protection and agricultural support reveals stark disparities, challenging misconceptions about excessive financial assistance to Indian farmers.
India is Lagging: India ranks last among the countries compared by the OECD on producer protection and lags in terms of the “total support estimate” (TSE) relative to other countries and regions.
Navigating the Complexities
Beyond MSPs: While MSPs occupy a prominent position in the discourse, addressing India’s agricultural woes requires a holistic approach encompassing structural reforms, income augmentation, and infrastructural development.
Long-standing Challenges: Structural deficiencies within the agricultural sector necessitate comprehensive interventions, transcending short-term fixes and political rhetoric.
Conclusion
As India grapples with the intricacies of farmer protests and MSP demands, a nuanced understanding of agricultural dynamics is imperative to devise sustainable solutions.
Addressing the root causes of agrarian distress demands concerted efforts aimed at bolstering farmers’ resilience, fostering equitable economic growth, and ushering in transformative reforms to ensure the viability of India’s agricultural ecosystem.
Try this question from CS Mains (2018)
What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue the farmers from the low-income trap? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Gender Gaps in Healthcare
Introduction
Despite comprising nearly half of India’s health workforce, women face significant barriers in reaching leadership positions within the healthcare sector, highlighting deep-rooted gender disparities in health policy and decision-making.
Understanding the Gender Gap
Data revelations: Official data reveals that while women make up almost 50% of health workers in India, only 18% occupy leadership roles across various health panels, committees, hospitals, and ministries.
Impact of Gender Disparity: The over-representation of men at the top of the health pyramid perpetuates inequalities in decision-making and policymaking, leading to skewed health systems that fail to address the diverse needs of the population.
Insights from Research
Diversity Gaps: Recent research highlights the prevalence of diversity gaps in India’s National Health Committees, with an “over-concentration” of men, doctors, individuals from urban areas, and bureaucrats. This centralization of power risks excluding diverse perspectives and experiences, hindering the development of inclusive health policies.
Impact on Policy Formulation: The lack of gender diversity in health committees affects policy outcomes, as decisions are often made from a narrow lens, overlooking the nuanced needs of marginalized groups. For instance, the absence of women in decision-making bodies may lead to inadequate consideration of gender-specific health issues such as access to nutritious food for women.
Challenges Faced by Women
Professional Barriers: Women encounter various obstacles in advancing their careers in the health sector, including limited opportunities for promotion, unequal pay, and cultural expectations regarding gender roles.
Underrepresentation in Leadership: Women are significantly underrepresented in medical leadership positions, both within health committees and healthcare institutions, further perpetuating gender disparities in decision-making and policy formulation.
Recommendations for Change
Policy Interventions: Affirmative policies, such as reserving seats for women and marginalized groups in health committees, can help address gender disparities and promote inclusive decision-making.
Structural Reforms: Structural changes within healthcare institutions, such as promoting flexible working arrangements and providing dedicated resources for women leaders, are essential to breaking down barriers to gender equality in leadership.
Community Engagement: Involving directly affected communities in policy-making processes can ensure that health policies are responsive to the needs and priorities of the population, fostering greater inclusivity and accountability.
Conclusion
Achieving gender equality in health leadership requires concerted efforts to address systemic barriers and promote inclusive decision-making.
By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in health policy, India can build more responsive and equitable health systems that serve the needs of all its citizens.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Mental Healthcare in India
Introduction
Recent studies, including one by researchers from IIT Jodhpur, indicate alarmingly low rates of self-reporting for mental health problems in India.
Mental Health Under-Reporting in India
NSS 2017-2018 Findings: The NSS data, based on self-reporting by over 550000 individuals, revealed mental illness self-reporting rates of less than 1%.
Scale of Mental Illness: The 2017 NMHS conducted by NIMHANS estimated around 150 million individuals requiring treatment for mental illness in India.
WHO Estimates: India bears a heavy burden with 2443 DALYs per 10,000 population and an age-adjusted suicide rate of 21.1 per 100,000.
Suicide Trends: India’s contribution to global suicide deaths surged to 36% in 2016, with a concerning rise reported in 2021, especially among youth and middle-aged adults.
National Mental Health Survey: Alarming rates of depression among teenagers and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) prevalence of 22.4% among adults highlight the gravity of the situation.
Key Challenges
Stigma and Awareness: Social stigma and poor awareness impede access to mental healthcare, leading to delayed treatment-seeking and social isolation.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: The IIT Jodhpur study highlighted significant out-of-pocket expenses, particularly in the private sector, for mental health services.
Vulnerability Factors: Individuals with lower income and education levels are more vulnerable to mental disorders, exacerbating their socioeconomic challenges.
Socioeconomic Divide: Individuals with higher incomes were more likely to report health problems, indicating a socioeconomic disparity.
Budget and Infrastructure: Inadequate budget allocation, lack of insurance coverage, and insufficient infrastructure pose hurdles to mental healthcare delivery.
Shortage of Professionals: India grapples with a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only 3 psychiatrists per million people.
Government Initiatives
Mental Healthcare Act, 2016: Aims to safeguard the rights of individuals with mental illnesses, enhance access to mental healthcare, and decriminalize suicide attempts.
National Mental Health Policy, 2014: Prioritizes universal access to mental healthcare and endeavors to mitigate risk factors linked to mental health issues.
Way Forward
Combat Stigma: Launch nationwide campaigns to shift societal attitudes towards mental illness.
Enhance Awareness: Integrate mental health education into curricula and disseminate resources in local languages.
Improve Coordination: Strengthen collaboration between central and state governments for effective policy implementation.
Innovative Solutions: Explore tele-mental health services, bolster support for NGOs, and foster community engagement to address resource shortages.
Multisectoral Approach: Embrace a life-course perspective on mental health promotion and enforce legal frameworks.
Enhance Mental Health Ecosystem: Define quality metrics, recognize mental health advocates, and ensure affordability and accessibility of care.
Embrace Traditional Healing: Explore complementary medicines like Yoga and Ayurveda for mental health treatment.
Conclusion
By prioritizing mental healthcare and fostering collaboration across sectors, India can build a resilient mental health ecosystem that promotes well-being and supports individuals in need.
Embracing traditional healing practices alongside modern interventions can offer holistic solutions, paving the way for a mentally healthier nation.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Not Much
Mains level: Key essence of the White Paper, Broader relfection at micro-economic level
Introduction
The recent presentation of a “white paper” on the Indian economy by Finance Minister in Parliament has sparked debates regarding the country’s economic performance over the past two decades.
This document, prepared by the Ministry of Finance, offers a comparative analysis of the economic governance under the Congress-led UPA governments and the BJP-led NDA governments.
Objectives of the White Paper
The white paper on the Indian economy outlines four key objectives:
[A] Informing Governance Challenges
It aims to elucidate the economic and fiscal crises inherited by the NDA government from the preceding UPA administration.
For instance, data reveals that the fiscal deficit during the UPA era surged from 2.5% in 2004-05 to 6.5% in 2013-14.
[B] Highlighting Policy Interventions
It seeks to elucidate the policies and measures implemented by the NDA government to address economic challenges and restore fiscal health.
Notably, the white paper cites the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) as significant reforms contributing to economic stability.
[C] Fostering Informed Debate
By presenting a comprehensive analysis, the white paper aims to stimulate a wider and more informed discussion on matters of national interest and fiscal responsibility.
For instance, it provides detailed insights into the impact of corruption scandals during the UPA regime on economic governance and public trust.
[D] Emphasizing National Development
It echoes PM Narendra Modi’s call to commit to national development, urging a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and inclusive development.
The document emphasizes the importance of fiscal prudence and efficient governance in achieving sustainable economic growth.
Contents and Claims
[A]Pre-2014 Economic Condition
Fragile Economy: Upon taking office in 2014, the government encountered a fragile economic situation marked by mismanagement, financial indiscipline, and widespread corruption. The economy was in crisis, necessitating substantial reforms and governance overhaul to restore its fundamentals to sound health.
Twin Balance Sheet Problem: The economy faced significant challenges, including a ‘twin balance sheet problem’, which hindered the capacity of companies and the banking sector to invest, extend credit, and generate employment.
High Inflation and Fiscal Deficits: The period witnessed double-digit inflation, with fiscal and revenue deficits spiralling out of control, exacerbating the economic woes of ordinary and poorer households.
Policy Paralysis and Infrastructure Neglect: A lack of decisive policy-making and investment in infrastructure further dented India’s business climate and global image.
Scams and Corruption: Numerous scams brought colossal revenue losses to the exchequer, with mismanagement leading to a loss of investor confidence and a slowdown in economic growth.
[B] Post-2014 Economic Reforms and Achievements
Economic Stability and Growth: The government implemented various reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and promoting growth. This includes transitioning from a ‘twin balance sheet problem’ to a ‘twin balance sheet advantage’, significantly reducing inflation, and building record foreign exchange reserves.
Infrastructure and Digital Revolution: There was a focused effort on infrastructure development and digitalization, leading to the world’s fastest rollout of 5G in 2023 and extensive 4G coverage.
Transparent Governance: Measures were taken to ensure transparent and objective auctions for natural resources, establishing systems that boost the economy and public finances.
Global Recognition and Investment Climate: The reformative measures and stable policy environment have restored confidence among investors, both domestic and foreign. India’s transition from being among the ‘fragile five’ to among the ‘top five’ global economies underscores its significant contribution to global growth.
Major Interventions: NDA’s Gamechanger
[A] Transformative Governance Reforms
Digital Revolution: Spearheading a digital revolution to streamline governance processes, ensuring transparency, and enabling ease of access to government services.
Participatory Governance: Engaging citizens directly in the policymaking process and implementation of policies to foster a more inclusive governance model.
[B] Social Welfare Schemes
Jan Dhan Yojana: A financial inclusion initiative that aims to provide affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, credit, insurance, and pensions.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: A nationwide campaign to clean up the streets, roads, and infrastructure of India’s cities, towns, and rural areas.
Ujjwala Scheme: A scheme to distribute LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households to reduce health hazards associated with cooking based on fossil fuels.
Digital India: A campaign launched to ensure government services are made available to citizens electronically by improving online infrastructure and by increasing Internet connectivity.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Aimed at providing affordable housing to the urban poor by the year 2022.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): An insurance service for farmers for their yields. It aims to reduce the premium burden on farmers and ensure early settlement of crop assurance claim.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: A project to provide LPG connections to women from BPL households to encourage the use of clean fuel.
Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY): The world’s largest health insurance/assurance scheme fully financed by the government, providing a health cover of ₹5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Providing income support to all landholding farmers’ families in the country to supplement their financial needs.
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Aims to make “India a global knowledge superpower”. The NEP 2020 emphasizes making education more holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary, aligned to the needs of the 21st century and aims for a significant overhaul of the existing education system.
Mudra Yojana: A scheme to provide easy access to credit for MSMEs and entrepreneurs.
Critical Analysis
While the white paper offers valuable insights into India’s economic trajectory, some critics point out its limitations and omissions:
[A] Selective Emphasis:
The document primarily focuses on successes under the NDA regime, overlooking persistent challenges such as unemployment and poverty.
Data from the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) reveals that unemployment rates remained elevated during the NDA era, averaging around 6% compared to 3.8% during the UPA period.
[B] Lack of Comprehensive Analysis:
Critics argue that a holistic assessment of the economy requires a nuanced understanding of diverse factors, including social indicators and long-term structural reforms.
For instance, the white paper does not adequately address the challenges of agrarian distress and rural unemployment, which continue to affect large segments of the population.
[C] Omissions:
Key issues such as unemployment and poverty alleviation are conspicuously absent from the analysis, raising questions about the document’s comprehensiveness.
Moreover, the white paper does not provide a detailed assessment of the impact of recent policy initiatives such as demonetization and the implementation of the GST on economic growth and employment generation.
Conclusion
The presentation of the white paper on the Indian economy underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
However, its selective focus and limited scope warrant cautious interpretation.
Moving forward, a more inclusive and evidence-based approach to economic analysis is essential to inform policy decisions and foster sustainable development in India.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tax-to-GDP Ratio
Mains level: NA
Introduction
India’s tax landscape is anticipated to witness significant growth in the coming fiscal year, with the tax-to-GDP ratio expected to reach a historic high of 11.7%.
Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra highlights the role of direct taxes in driving this uptick and emphasizes the government’s commitment to streamlining the tax regime for enhanced efficiency and reduced disputes.
Why ‘Tax-to-GDP’ Ratio matters?
The tax-to-GDP ratio measures a nation’s tax revenue relative to the size of its economy.
This ratio is used with other metrics to determine how well a nation’s government directs its economic resources via taxation.
Developed nations typically have higher tax-to-GDP ratios than developing nations.
Higher tax revenues mean a country can spend more on improving infrastructure, health, and education—keys to the long-term prospects for a country’s economy and people.
According to the World Bank, tax revenues above 15% of a country’s gross domestic product (GDP) are a key ingredient for economic growth and poverty reduction.
Forecasted Rise in Tax-to-GDP Ratio
Expected Surge: India’s tax-to-GDP ratio is projected to hit 11.7% in 2024-25, showcasing a steady increase from 11.6% in the preceding year and 11.2% in 2022-23.
Dominance of Direct Taxes: The surge in the tax ratio is primarily attributed to the growth of direct taxes, which are deemed more equitable.
What led to this growth?
[A] Direct Tax Collection
Optimistic Outlook: Revenue Secretary anticipates a rise in the adoption of the new tax regime, characterized by simplified tax structures and a higher tax-free income threshold.
Growth in Personal Income Tax: Personal income tax collections have witnessed a substantial 28% growth, with a projected moderation to 20%-22% by the fiscal year-end.
[B] Rationalizing GST Rates
Ongoing Review: A Group of Ministers (GoM) appointed by the GST Council is reviewing the rate structure, aiming to rationalize GST rates on various items.
Quarterly Meetings: The GST Council is expected to convene regularly to address rate rationalization, although no fixed date has been announced yet.
[C] Projected Revenue Growth
Modest Projections: Despite a buoyant revenue growth of 1.4% this year, projections for the following fiscal year aim for a 1.1% buoyancy, aligning with an anticipated nominal GDP growth of 10.5%.
Corporate Tax Dynamics: The deadline for availing the reduced corporate tax rate ends in March 2023, with a significant proportion of companies already benefitting from it.
Enforcement Measures: While the Department of Revenue focuses on tax administration, the Enforcement Directorate intervenes in cases related to money laundering, ensuring comprehensive enforcement mechanisms.
