Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Elections; Urban Local bodies;
Mains level: Elections; Challenges to Munciple elections;
Why in the news?
Recently, the SC’s judgment on the Chandigarh Mayoral election gives us a good occasion to think more broadly about elections in municipalities.
Context:
- Elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies are exemplary democratic processes known for their punctuality, well-organized procedures, and seamless transitions of power.
- However, when it comes to elections for grassroots governments like panchayats and municipalities, the scenario is entirely different.
Reports from Janaagraha’s Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems 2023:
- According to the study, over 1,400 municipalities in India did not have elected councils in place as of September 2021. This indicates a significant and widespread issue across the country.
- Delayed elections can have serious implications for local governance and democracy. It can lead to a lack of representation for citizens, hindering their ability to participate in decision-making processes that directly affect their communities.
- Timely elections are crucial for ensuring effective and accountable municipal governance.
Judicial stand:
The delay in holding municipal elections is stated to violate the Constitution of India. As highlighted in the ‘Suresh Mahajan’ judgment by the Supreme Court of India, the constitution unequivocally states that elections to municipalities should not be delayed under any circumstances, emphasizing the obligation of state governments and State Election Commissions to ensure the timely election of local bodies. |
CAG’s performance audit report on unelected Urban Local government councils:
- On delayed Elections: The CAG audit reports of 17 states highlight that over 1,500 municipalities did not have elected councils in place during the audit period of 2015-2021. This indicates a widespread problem across states in conducting timely municipal elections as mandated by the 74th CAA.
- On Council Formation: Even in cases where elections were held, there were delays in constituting councils and electing mayors, deputy mayors, and standing committees. In Karnataka, there was a significant delay of 12-24 months in forming elected councils across 11 city corporations.
- On Long Delays in Council Formation: In Karnataka, reports indicate a 26-month delay in forming councils and electing chairpersons and standing committees for the first 2.5-year term, following the announcement of election results in September 2018.
- Moreover, after the expiry of the first term in May 2023, some urban local governments did not hold elections for chairpersons and standing committees for more than eight months.
- On Regional Disparities: The report highlights regional differences in the extent of delays, with Chandigarh experiencing a relatively shorter delay of 12 days compared to other regions.
- On Data Accessibility Issues: The report mentions difficulties in accessing summary data on the making of councils and the election of mayors, deputy mayors, and standing committees, indicating potential challenges in transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
What are the challenges to Municipal elections?
- Enforcement for Timely Elections: The first challenge identified is the need for determined enforcement to ensure timely elections for urban local governments. Article 243U of the 74th Constitution Amendment Act specifies that the duration of urban local governments is five years, and elections should be completed before the expiry of this duration.
- Non-Compliance by State Governments: Despite the Supreme Court’s clear stance regarding timely elections, state governments are non-compliant.
- Discretion of Government Officials: One aspect of the challenge involves the discretion of government officials in scheduling elections on time. There is a concern that officials may have the discretion to delay elections, which could undermine the democratic process.
- Possibility of Undue Influence: There is a concern about the possibility of state governments exerting undue influence on officials to delay elections for various reasons, which could compromise the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.
- Issue with Manual Ballot Paper-Based Process: The use of a manual ballot paper-based process for elections is also mentioned as a challenge. Such a process may be prone to errors and manipulation, highlighting the need for modernization and digitization of the electoral process.
- Issues with Short Terms: The terms being less than five years exacerbate the challenge of conducting frequent elections. This is particularly relevant as 17% of cities in India, including five of the eight largest ones, have mayoral terms of less than five years.
Suggestive measures:
- Empowering SECs: To deal with the challenges effectively, SECs need to play a more significant role in overseeing the electoral process. Articles 243K and 243ZA of the Constitution mandate that SECs have the superintendence, direction, and control over the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections to panchayats and urban local governments.
- Empowerment for Ward Delimitation: Only 11 out of 35 states and union territories have empowered SECs to conduct ward delimitation. Ward delimitation is crucial for ensuring fair and equitable representation in municipal elections. SECs should be granted greater authority, including the power to conduct ward delimitation
- SECc Vs. ECI: The courts have emphasized that SECs enjoy the same status as the Election Commission of India in the domain of elections to panchayats and urban local governments under Part IX and Part IXA of the Constitution. This underscores the significance of SECs and their authority in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections at the local level.
- Role in Electoral Oversight: SECs should actively oversee the electoral process, including the preparation of electoral rolls, conduct of elections, and enforcement of election laws. This proactive role is essential for maintaining the integrity and credibility of municipal elections.
Conclusion: Comprehensive reforms are needed for Municipal Elections in India, addressing delays, enforcing constitutional mandates, empowering State Election Commissions, and modernizing electoral processes to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Natural language processing (NLP)
Mains level: Significance of NLP
Context
- We live in a world where therapy is a text away. Natural language processing (NLP), a branch of Artificial Intelligence (AI), enables computers to understand and interpret human language that mirrors human comprehension.
- In mental healthcare, we are already seeing a rapid evolution of use cases for AI with affordable access to therapy and better support for clinicians.
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a field of artificial intelligence (AI) and computational linguistics that focuses on the interaction between computers and humans through natural language.
- The goal of NLP is to enable computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language in a way that is both meaningful and useful.
How does it help patients?
- Privacy and Anonymity: These platforms offer privacy and anonymity, which can encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment or stigma.
- Support and Validation: Chatbots can support users by helping them reframe negative thoughts, validate their emotions, and provide personalized care tailored to their needs.
- Accessibility: Especially when human support is unavailable or inaccessible, these virtual assistants offer immediate support, potentially bridging the gap between patients and mental health services.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Studies suggest that digital therapy tools can be as effective as in-person care in improving patient health outcomes, indicating that chatbots can contribute positively to mental health treatment.
- Continuity of Care: By offering continuous support and resources, these tools help patients maintain a holistic approach to their mental health treatment, potentially reducing instances of relapse.
- Resource Pointers: Chatbots can direct users to resources for coping with various mental health challenges, such as distress, grief, and anxiety, thereby empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward their well-being.
- Scalability and Cost-effectiveness: Being scalable and cost-effective, chatbots can reach a wide audience at any time, making mental health support more accessible to those who may not have access to traditional in-person services.
- Integration into Health Programs: By integrating chatbots into existing health programs, organizations can extend mental health support beyond traditional avenues, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.
How does it help clinicians?
- Comprehensive Patient History: AI tools can analyze vast datasets, including clinical notes, patient conversations, neuroimages, and genetic information, to provide clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s history. This saves time during sessions and ensures that clinicians have access to all relevant information.
- Predictive Capabilities: Recent advancements in NLP programs enable the forecasting of responses to antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs by analyzing various data sources such as brain electrical activity, neuroimages, and clinical surveys. This predictive capability helps clinicians make more informed treatment decisions, reducing the risk of ineffective interventions.
- Streamlined Treatment Decisions: By providing insights into potential treatment outcomes, AI tools streamline treatment decisions, allowing clinicians to tailor interventions more effectively to each patient’s needs.
- E-triaging Systems: Some chatbots are creating e-triaging systems that can significantly reduce wait times for patients and free up valuable clinical person-hours. These systems prioritize patients based on urgency, ensuring that those in need of immediate care receive prompt attention.
- Specialized Care for Severe Mental Illnesses: With improving bandwidth and the assistance of AI tools, mental health providers can devote a higher proportion of time to severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, where specialized care is crucial. This ensures that patients with complex needs receive the attention and support they require.
What’s next?
- Diverse Population-wide Datasets: Companies need to refine their applications by utilizing more diverse population-wide datasets to minimize biases. This ensures that the technology is effective and equitable for all users, regardless of demographic background or characteristics.
- Incorporating Comprehensive Health Indicators: AI programs can incorporate a wider set of health indicators to provide a more comprehensive patient care experience. This includes integrating data from various sources such as wearable devices, lifestyle factors, and social determinants of health.
- Guided by Conceptual Frameworks: It’s essential for the development and refinement of these applications to be guided by conceptual frameworks aimed at improving health outcomes. These frameworks can help ensure that the technology is aligned with the goals of promoting mental well-being and providing effective care.
- Rigorous Testing and Evaluation: Continuous testing and evaluation are crucial to the success of these programs. Companies must rigorously test their applications to ensure effectiveness, safety, and adherence to global compliance standards.
- Prioritizing User Safety and Well-being: Governments and institutions need to prioritize user safety and well-being by enforcing adherence to global compliance standards. This includes regulations related to data privacy, security, and ethical use of AI in healthcare.
- Updating Laws and Regulations: As AI applications in mental health continue to evolve, it’s essential to update governing laws and regulations to keep pace with technological advancements and protect the interests of users.
- Demanding Better Standards of Care: Stakeholders, including patients, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups, should advocate for better standards of care in mental health. This includes advocating for the integration of AI-powered tools into healthcare systems in ways that prioritize patient well-being and improve health outcomes.
Conclusion
AI, particularly NLP, aids mental health by providing privacy, personalized support, and streamlined care for patients. Enhanced by diverse datasets and adherence to safety standards, it empowers clinicians to deliver effective, data-driven treatment.
PYQ Mains
Q- Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)
Q-Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance? (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: COP26 , PMUY
Mains level: Why is black carbon relevant?, Significance of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
Why in the News?
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India had installed a renewable energy capacity of over 180 GW by 2023 and is expected to meet its target of 500 GW by 2030.
Context
At the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow in November 2021, India pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, positioning itself as a frontrunner in the race to carbon neutrality.
Why is black carbon relevant?
- Cause of global warming : lack carbon is the dark, sooty material emitted alongside other pollutants when biomass and fossil fuels are not fully combusted. It contributes to global warming
- Poses severe risks: Studies have found a direct link between exposure to black carbon and a higher risk of heart disease, birth complications, and premature death. Most black carbon emissions in India arise from burning biomass, such as cow dung or straw, in traditional cookstoves.
Status of Black Carbon
- According to a 2016 study, the residential sector contributes 47% of India’s total black carbon emissions. Industries contribute a further 22%, diesel vehicles 17%, open burning 12%, and other sources 2%.
- Decarbonisation efforts in the industry and transport sectors in the past decade have yielded reductions in black carbon emissions, but the residential sector remains a challenge.
Has PMUY helped?
- Objective of PMUY: The primary objective of PMUY, launched by the Government of India in May 2016, is to provide free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections to households below the poverty line. This aims to offer a cleaner cooking fuel alternative to traditional biomass fuels, particularly in rural and poor households, thereby reducing their dependence on such polluting fuels.
- Infrastructure Establishment: PMUY has established necessary infrastructure to support LPG connections, including provision of free gas stoves, deposits for LPG cylinders, and a distribution network. This infrastructure is crucial for enabling the adoption of clean cooking practices.
- Role in Reducing Black Carbon Emissions: By providing cleaner LPG alternatives to traditional biomass fuels, PMUY has played a vital role in reducing black carbon emissions. This initiative contributes to mitigating environmental pollution and improving air quality, particularly in households previously reliant on polluting cooking fuels.
Challenges and Shortcomings:
Despite its objectives and infrastructure, challenges persist in fully transitioning beneficiaries to LPG usage.
- High gap between LPG connections and actual adoption: In 2022-2023, a significant portion of PMUY beneficiaries, representing 25%, continued to rely entirely on traditional biomass fuels for cooking. This indicates a gap between the provision of LPG connections and actual adoption of clean cooking practices.
- Low Refill Rates and Energy Consumption: RTI data revealed that a substantial number of PMUY beneficiaries availed either zero or only one LPG refill, indicating low usage of LPG cylinders. Additionally, the average PMUY beneficiary household consumes significantly fewer LPG cylinders per year compared to non-PMUY households. This suggests that traditional fuels still meet a significant portion of energy needs in PMUY beneficiary households.
- Health Impacts: The continued reliance on traditional fuels has detrimental health effects, particularly on women and children who are disproportionately affected by indoor air pollution. This leads to various health issues and premature deaths, highlighting the urgent need for increased adoption of clean cooking practices.
- Affordability: Despite subsidies and recent increases(subsidy to ₹300 from ₹200. ), the cost of LPG cylinders remains high for many PMUY beneficiaries. This affordability challenge discourages households from consistently purchasing and using LPG cylinders, especially when traditional biomass alternatives are perceived as “free.”
- Temporary Subsidies: While the government has announced temporary price reductions to address affordability concerns, the sustainability of such subsidies remains uncertain. Temporary measures may not provide long-term solutions to ensure consistent access to clean cooking fuel for beneficiaries.
- Low Refill Rates: Low refill rates persist among PMUY beneficiaries, indicating a gap between initial LPG connections provided and sustained usage. This issue stems from both affordability concerns and challenges in availability and distribution of LPG cylinders.
- Last-Mile Connectivity: Remote rural areas face challenges in accessing LPG due to inadequate last-mile connectivity in the distribution network. This results in continued reliance on traditional biomass fuels, perpetuating indoor air pollution and health risks.
- Alternative Fuel Solutions: Local production of coal-bed methane (CBM) gas presents a potential solution to address the lack of last-mile connectivity and provide cleaner cooking fuel alternatives. Composting biomass to produce CBM gas could offer a sustainable and accessible solution at the village level, reducing dependence on traditional biomass fuels.
- Investment and Infrastructure: Implementing alternative fuel solutions such as CBM gas production requires investment and infrastructure development. Panchayats and local authorities may need support and resources to establish and maintain CBM gas production facilities effectively.
- Rural Empowerment: Empowering local communities, such as Panchayats, to take initiatives in clean cooking fuel production and distribution can promote self-sufficiency and sustainability while addressing rural energy needs.
To resolve the challenges associated with the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) and ensure effective adoption of clean cooking practices, several measures can be implemented:
- Awareness and Education Campaigns: Launch comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate PMUY beneficiaries about the health and environmental benefits of using LPG over traditional biomass fuels. Emphasize the importance of consistent LPG usage and the risks associated with indoor air pollution.
- Subsidy Reforms: Implement sustainable subsidy structures that ensure long-term affordability of LPG cylinders for PMUY beneficiaries. Explore innovative subsidy mechanisms, such as targeted subsidies based on income levels or usage patterns, to address affordability concerns effectively.
- Incentives for Refills: Introduce incentives or rewards for PMUY beneficiaries who consistently use and refill their LPG cylinders. This could include discounts on future refills or loyalty programs to encourage regular usage and reduce the gap between LPG connections and actual adoption.
- Improved Distribution Networks: Invest in improving last-mile connectivity and distribution networks in remote rural areas to ensure seamless access to LPG cylinders for all PMUY beneficiaries. This could involve expanding the reach of LPG distribution centers and leveraging technology for efficient logistics management.
- Promotion of Alternative Fuel Solutions: Encourage the adoption of alternative fuel solutions such as Bio gas production through community-based initiatives. Provide support and incentives for the establishment of Bio gas production facilities at the village level, empowering local communities to produce and access clean cooking fuel.
- Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster partnerships between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and non-profit organizations to address the multifaceted challenges associated with clean cooking fuel adoption. Collaborative efforts can leverage expertise, resources, and networks to achieve sustainable solutions.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress of PMUY implementation and measure the impact of interventions. Regular assessment of refill rates, usage patterns, and health outcomes can inform evidence-based policy decisions and program adjustments.
Conclusion
To curb black carbon emissions, India must address gaps in LPG adoption by PMUY beneficiaries through subsidy reforms, awareness campaigns, improved distribution networks, and promotion of alternative fuel solutions, fostering partnerships for sustainable impact.
Mains PYQ
Q-Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)
Q- Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.(UPSC IAS/2014)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What are semiconductors?
Mains level: Current state of semiconductor fabrication and Semiconductor manufacturing process
Why in the news?
The binary revolution (0s and 1s) constantly shape the way we interact with technology and with each other daily and the beating heart of this binary revolution is the semiconductor device.
What are semiconductors?
Semiconductors are materials that possess properties intermediate between those of conductors and insulators. They can conduct electricity under certain conditions but not as effectively as conductors, nor do they block it entirely like insulators.
How are semiconductors made?
- Silicon Wafer Selection: Engineers begin by selecting a silicon wafer as the foundation for the semiconductor.
- Purification of Silicon: Silicon, sourced from sand, undergoes meticulous purification to achieve ultra-pure levels with impurity levels as low as a few parts per billion.
- Photolithography Process: A crucial step where the circuit pattern is carved on the wafer using photolithography. The wafer is coated with a light-sensitive material (photoresist), and a mask with small gaps in the circuit pattern shape is used to shine light onto the wafer, eroding parts of the photoresist to acquire the pattern.
- Chemical and Physical Techniques: After photolithography, engineers use chemical and/or physical techniques to remove uncarved parts of the photoresist, leaving behind the circuit’s structure on the silicon substrate.
- Doping of Semiconductor: Impurities are deliberately added to specific parts of the semiconductor to alter its electrical properties.
- Deposition of Thin Layers: Thin layers of materials such as metals or insulators are deposited onto the wafer’s surface to form electrical connections or insulate components.
- Packaging and Testing: The resulting product undergoes packaging, where individual chips are separated, encapsulated, and tested to ensure functionality and reliability.Finally, the semiconductor chips are integrated into electronic devices.
Need Expertise
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- Need high precision and diverse scientific principle-Each step in semiconductor fabrication demands ultra-high precision and harnesses a blend of diverse scientific principles. For example, to make the most advanced transistors, the photolithography process requires a light source emitting electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength of 13.5 nm.
- Specializing in specific domains-The semiconductor manufacturing process is characterised by specialisation, leading to an oligopoly controlled by companies specializing in specific domains. For example ASML, a spin-off of Philips, is in fact the sole provider of photolithography machines for cutting-edge semiconductor technology worldwide
Status of India in fabrication –
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- Bengaluru serves as a hub for chip design, showcasing India’s leading role in this field.Despite its prowess in chip design, India lacks ownership of the intellectual property rights (IPR) necessary to execute these designs.
- Most IPR for chip designs is retained by parent companies or Arm, limiting India’s autonomy to being a mere user of their products.The situation resembles the McDonald’s business model, where India hosts outlets but lacks ownership of the recipe and supply chain, controlled by a parent company elsewhere.
Significance of semiconductors:
- Ubiquitous Influence: Semiconductors power various technologies beyond smartphones and computers, including smart air-conditioners, space telescopes, and more.
- Critical Solutions for Crises: Semiconductors are crucial for addressing 21st-century challenges like artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, space exploration, and personalized healthcare, highlighting their significance for human survival and progress.
- Innovation and Job Creation: Semiconductor technology facilities foster innovation, create high-paying jobs, and nurture deep-tech start-ups, contributing to advancements in various fields like materials science, computer engineering, and chip design.
- Geopolitical Significance: Semiconductors have become a focal point of geopolitical interest, with nations competing to establish fabrication facilities and imposing sanctions on others to control access to advanced technology, driving efforts to bolster domestic semiconductor production capabilities.
Challenges related to semiconductor manufacturing in India:
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): India faces limitations due to a lack of ownership of IPR necessary for chip fabrication.
- Technology Transfer: Despite advancements in chip design, India struggles with technology transfer issues.
- Infrastructure: Developing semiconductor manufacturing facilities requires significant investment in infrastructure
- Skilled Workforce: The semiconductor industry demands highly skilled professionals proficient in various aspects of chip design, fabrication, and testing.
- Regulatory Environment: India’s regulatory environment, including policies related to intellectual property, taxation, and investment, may not be conducive to attracting semiconductor manufacturing investments.
Measures to address challenges related to semiconductor manufacturing in India:
- Education and training programs: Offer specialized courses and certifications to equip individuals with the necessary skills for the industry.
- Policy reforms: Implement policy reforms to create a conducive regulatory environment for semiconductor manufacturing sector.
- Diversification of suppliers: Encourage diversification of semiconductor supply chains by supporting domestic suppliers and fostering partnerships with global manufacturers
- Government grants and incentives: Provide financial support and incentives for semiconductor R&D projects
- Strategic partnerships: Forge strategic partnerships with leading semiconductor-producing countries and organizations to leverage their expertise, share best practices, and facilitate technology transfer and knowledge exchange.
Conclusion: Addressing challenges in semiconductor manufacturing in India requires collaborative efforts, investment in infrastructure and education, regulatory reforms, and strategic partnerships. These measures are vital for India to strengthen its position in the global semiconductor industry.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the source of raw material, by giving examples. ( 2020 )
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Provisions of RPA
Mains level: Implication of Section 123(3) of RPA and Suprem court judgement related to it
Why in the news?
Recently, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Rahul Gandhi for hurting the sentiments of Hindus through his remark on ‘Shakti’.
What does the law say?
- Section 123(3): Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) provides that appeals by a candidate, or any other person with the consent of a candidate, to vote or refrain from voting on the grounds of his religion, race, caste, community or language is a corrupt electoral practice.
- Section 123(3A): It denounces any attempt by a candidate to promote feelings of enmity or hatred among citizens on these grounds during elections.
- Punishment: The RP Act further provides that anyone found guilty of corrupt electoral practice can be debarred from contesting elections for a maximum period of up to six years.
What does the MCC provide?
- The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India to regulate the conduct of political parties and their candidates in the run-up to elections. They have consented to abide by the principles embodied in the said code.
- Candidates cannot promote hatred or difference: It provides that no party or candidate shall indulge in any activity that may aggravate existing differences create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes, religious or linguistic communities. It also provides that there shall be no appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes
- Candidate cannot use worship place: Mosques, churches, temples, or other places of worship shall not be used as a forum for election propaganda. Though the MCC does not have any statutory backing, it has come to acquire strength in the past three decades because of its strict enforcement by the ECI.
Historical Background:
- Amendment in 1961: Section 123(3) of the Representation of the People Act (RP Act) was amended to remove the term “systemic” regarding appeals based on religion, race, caste, or community. This broadened the scope of what constitutes corrupt electoral practice.
- Purpose of the Amendment: The amendment aimed to curb communal, fissiparous, and separatist tendencies in electoral politics by disfavoring even isolated appeals based on religion or narrow communal affiliations.
- Instances of Appeals Based on Religion: Despite legal provisions, there have been numerous instances where political parties and leaders have openly appealed for votes in the name of religion.Bal Thackeray of Shiv Sena was the only notable leader convicted by the Supreme Court for this corrupt electoral practice in 1995.
- Election Commission’s Response: The Election Commission of India (ECI) typically imposes short bans on campaigning for leaders found in violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), usually lasting two to three days.
What has the Supreme Court ruled?
- Abhiram Singh versus C. D. Commachen (2017): A seven-judge Bench by a majority of 4:3 held that candidates shall not appeal for votes on the basis of not just his/her religion but also that of the voters.
- Purposive interpretation’ to Section 123(3): The majority view provided a ‘purposive interpretation’ to Section 123(3) rather than just a literal one thereby rendering any appeal in the name of religion of even the voters as a corrupt electoral practice.
- Elections are secular exercise: The elections to Parliament or State legislatures are a secular exercise; constitutional ethos forbids the mixing of religious considerations with the secular functions of the State. Religion should remain a matter of personal faith.
Measures Needed:
- Raise legitimate concerns: Political parties and candidates are likely to raise legitimate concerns of citizens faced by them based on traits having origin in religion, caste, community or language in a democratic election process.
- Addressing Grievances: These concerns should be addressed through appropriate policies without compromising the secular fabric and fraternity of the country.
- Use of Places of Worship: Places of worship have always been used overtly and covertly as a forum for canvass. Religious leaders have thrown their weight behind candidates of various parties. These practices should ideally be avoided to ensure that politics and religion are not mixed up
- Responsibility of Political Leaders: The primary responsibility for avoiding appeals based on religion lies with political party leaders and candidates because campaigning based on religion not only disrupts the secular nature of Indian politics but also constitutes a clear violation of the law.
- Role of Election Commission and Courts: Mechanisms should be devised by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and courts for swift action against those who violate laws regarding appeals based on religion in electoral campaigns.
Conclusion: The legal framework prohibits appeals based on religion in electoral campaigns to maintain the secular nature of elections. The Election Commission enforces the Model Code of Conduct, with penalties for violators, ensuring fair and unbiased electoral practices.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is DEMP and its elements
Mains level: Role of its elements in ensuring transparent and efficient electoral processes
Why in the news?
The conduct of elections has become increasingly complex and multifaceted, requiring meticulous planning and execution to ensure a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process
- A cornerstone of this planning process is the District Election Management Plan (DEMP), a comprehensive document that uses statistics and analysis to ensure the smooth conduct of elections.
Context:
- What goes into a smooth and efficient electoral process?
- How are electoral booths prepared before polling?
When is the DEMP prepared?
- Preparation of DEMP: As per the Election Commission of India, the DEMP is to be prepared at least six months before the tentative poll day. However, many things become clearer as the election is notified, so it becomes necessary to revise/update the plan occasionally.
- Execution of DEMP: Executing the DEMP requires a collaborative effort involving election officials, administrative authorities, law enforcement agencies etc. Regular interactions with political parties and media are also planned to brief them on electoral rules.
What are the elements of DEMP?
- The foundation of the electoral strategy: The plan starts with a district profile that serves as the foundation of the electoral strategy which includes a political map outlining constituencies, key demographic and infrastructure statistics, and a brief on the district’s administrative setup and socio-economic features.
- Accessibility of polling stations: The plan encompasses detailed strategies for improving the availability and accessibility of polling stations, ensuring that all stations have essential facilities like ramps, electricity, lighting, drinking water, toilets, and internet connectivity.
- Voting for essential service personnel: Special attention is given to voters with disabilities (PwD) and senior citizens through help desks, 24/7 control rooms, home voting options, and advanced postal ballot voting for essential service personnel.
Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) plan:
- The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) plan, focuses on increasing electoral participation which involves analyzing voter turnout data to identify polling stations with below-average or significantly low turnout and tailoring activities to address these issues.
- It includes the use of social media, engagement with various community and youth organizations, and organizing events leading up to the poll day to increase awareness and participation.
- Comprehensive Strategy: DEMP outlines a comprehensive strategy for planning, training, welfare, and deployment of election personnel.
- Poll Personnel Database: Emphasizes the importance of creating a database of poll personnel, categorizing them by cadre and group, and assessing their requirements.
- Addressing Personnel Gaps: Strategies are devised to address gaps in personnel needs across various election roles.
- Force Deployment Plan: Detailed planning for force deployment involves coordination with district police. This includes vulnerability mapping of polling stations based on past disturbances and voter turnout.
- Training Programs: Training programs are provided for district-level teams to enforce the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and for all election personnel to ensure they possess necessary skills and knowledge.
What about EVMs?
Material management in the Detailed Election Management Plan (DEMP):
- Crucial Component: Material management is identified as a critical aspect of DEMP. It involves procuring 61 essential items, including indelible ink, seals, stamps, stationary, and statutory forms.
- Categorization: Items are categorized based on the level at which they are to be procured, either at the State/U.T. level or the district level.
- Procurement Timelines: Timelines for procurement vary, ranging from two-to-three weeks to four months before the election.Emphasizes the importance of timely acquisition to ensure preparedness for the electoral process.
Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) management in the Detailed Election Management Plan (DEMP)
- Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) management is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, with plans necessary for secure storage and availability of EVMs and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), including plans for their transportation and maintenance.
Significance of the Detailed Election Management Plan (DEMP):
- Enhanced Voting Experience: DEMP enhances the voting experience by ensuring that the electoral process is organized, accessible, and efficient for all voters, promoting democratic participation and inclusivity.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Using statistics and analysis, the DEMP enables data-driven decisions, highlighting the significance of evidence-based policymaking and strategic planning in effectively addressing challenges.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: The collaborative effort involved in executing the DEMP underscores the importance of engaging stakeholders from various sectors, fostering cooperation and synergy to achieve common goals.
- Transparency and Accountability: The emphasis on transparency in the DEMP promotes accountability in electoral processes, setting a precedent for openness and integrity in governance practices.
- Adaptability and Resilience: The DEMP’s adaptability to changing circumstances and occasional revisions underscores the importance of resilience and flexibility in governance frameworks to address evolving needs and circumstances.
Conclusion: The District Election Management Plan (DEMP) ensures organized, inclusive elections. Challenges include timely preparation, accurate electoral strategy foundation, polling station accessibility, and effective voter education. Overcoming these ensures transparent and efficient electoral processes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Social Issues; Measures to improve women's participation;
Why in the news?
The year 2024 is being hailed as the biggest year for democracy, with 45% of the global population preparing to exercise their voting rights or having already cast their ballots
Context:
- Women’s representation in political spheres improved in the latter half of the 20th century, with significant progress made in many nations in securing voting rights and parliamentary seats, and in climbing to the highest political offices.
- Despite substantial gains, women continue to constitute a minority in most parliamentary bodies and are rarely seen in top political leadership positions.
Major two observations in recent times:
1) The share of countries with universal Right to Vote: Initially, there was a significant gap between men and women regarding political participation, with men gaining voting rights while women were excluded in many nations.
- New Zealand’s Role: New Zealand stands out as a pioneer in breaking this pattern by granting universal suffrage to women in 1893, thus allowing them to vote alongside men.
- Widening Gap: Despite women gaining suffrage in more countries, the gap between male and female political participation widened in the early 20th century. Men’s voting rights continued to expand while women remained excluded in many places.
- World War II: By the onset of World War II, men had voting rights in a higher proportion of countries compared to women. The disparity was stark, with men having voting rights in one out of three countries, while women had them in only one out of six countries.
- Rapid Closure of the Gap: The gap between male and female political participation rapidly closed after the discrimination against women in voting rights ended in many countries. Both men and women gained the right to vote in many nations, leading to greater equality in political participation.
2) Gender gap in the Chief-executive roles: “Chief-executive” refers to the head of state or head of government, depending on who holds more power within the political system. While women’s representation in parliament is crucial, it’s equally important for women to hold the highest political office in a country.
- Gender Disparity in Political Chief Executives: Data from the V-Dem project indicates a significant gender gap in political chief executives. At any given time, the vast majority of political chief executives have been men.
- Limited Increase in Female Leadership: Over the last three decades, there has been a slight increase in the proportion of countries led by women. However, the overall share of countries where women occupy the post of chief executive remains low, accounting for less than 10%.
- Persistent Gender Disparity: Despite some progress, the data underscores the persistent gender disparity in holding the highest political office globally. Women continue to be underrepresented in top political leadership positions.
Global Scenario for women’s share as a Parliamentarian:
- Absence of Women in National Parliaments: In the early 20th century, women were largely absent from national parliaments across the globe.
- Norway marked a significant milestone in 1907 when women first entered parliament. Nearly 10% of the parliamentary seats were occupied by women, indicating progress in political representation.
- Surge in Women Entering Parliament: The latter half of the 20th century witnessed a notable increase in the number of women entering parliaments worldwide.
- This trend of increasing female representation in parliaments accelerated notably in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
- Rwanda’s Remarkable Achievement: Rwanda stands out as a remarkable example, with its parliamentary composition surpassing the 50% mark for women’s representation in 2008. This achievement set a notable precedent for gender equality in political representation.
- Other Countries’ Progress: In 2008, several other countries, including Argentina, Cuba, Finland, and Sweden, had significant proportions of women parliamentarians, ranging between 40% and 50%. This indicates a global trend toward greater gender parity in political representation.
Recent Trend since 2022:
- Low Representation in Many Countries: Despite advancements, women’s political representation remains constrained and inconsistent globally. Women constitute approximately half of the population but are significantly underrepresented in parliaments worldwide.
- Persistent Gender Gap: Only a few countries have achieved gender parity in political representation, where women make up about half of all representatives. In the majority of countries, the share of women in parliament remains low. As of 2022, in nearly 60 countries, women’s representation in parliament was 20% or less.
- Extreme Cases: In three countries, no women are represented in parliament, indicating extreme gender disparities in political participation and representation.
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Suggestive Measures to improve Women’s representation in Parliament:
- Implement Quotas for Female Representation: Setting quotas for the number of women parliamentarians has proven effective in increasing female representation. Countries with quotas have significantly higher percentages of women in parliament compared to those without quotas
- End Violence Against Women in Politics: Gender-based violence, including physical, sexual, and psychological violence, is a significant barrier for women in politics. Establishing measures to combat violence, harassment, and hate speech is crucial to creating a safer environment for women parliamentarians
- Increase Women’s Participation in Media: Addressing gender stereotypes perpetuated by the media is essential. Media coverage often focuses on irrelevant aspects of women politicians’ lives, reinforcing stereotypes. Educating journalists and monitoring media coverage can help combat gender bias and promote a more balanced portrayal of women in politics
- Expand Participation through Women’s Caucuses: Women’s parliamentary caucuses provide a platform for women to amplify their voices and influence in parliament. Supporting these caucuses with resources, leadership, and organizational backing can empower women to promote legal reforms and advocate for gender equality in politics
Significant steps taken to improve women’s participation in parliament
- Gender Quota Legislation: India has approved a landmark bill reserving 33% of seats in parliament for women. This quota is expected to lead to the promotion of women-friendly policies related to health, education, and jobs.
- Political Will and Proactive Measures: Despite challenges and slow progress, there is a growing recognition of the importance of women’s representation in Indian politics. Some political parties are taking proactive measures to nominate more women for assembly and parliament elections. However, there is a need for greater political will to address gender disparities and ensure a more inclusive political landscape
- Empowerment through Representation: Increasing women’s representation in political parties and building a pipeline of female leaders are crucial steps to enhance women’s political participation.
Conclusion: Despite strides, global women’s political representation remains low. Quotas, combatting violence, media reform, and supporting women’s caucuses are vital to enhancing female participation in parliaments and fostering inclusive democracy.
Practice questions for the Mains
Q) Discuss the trajectory of women’s representation in global parliaments, highlighting persistent gender disparities and measures to enhance female participation. (250 words)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Science and Tech; Diseases
Mains level: Science and Tech; Diseases; Measures to control
Why in the news?
Mumps, an acute viral infection that historically affects children, has been spreading like wildfire in Kerala, for the past few months.
Context:
- Despite being a vaccine-preventable disease, mumps has never been a part of the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) because of the disease’s no-mortality profile and the perception that it has low public health significance.
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccination strategies targeting mumps control should be closely integrated with existing measles elimination and rubella control.
About: Mumps is an airborne viral disease primarily affecting children and adolescents. It manifests with symptoms like fever, headache, and painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands on both sides of the face.
Is it a cause for concern?
- Self-Limiting Disease: Mumps is described as a self-limiting disease, meaning it typically resolves on its own with rest and symptomatic management within about two weeks.
- Underreporting: Due to approximately half of infected children developing classical symptoms and around 30% remaining asymptomatic, many cases of mumps go unreported. This suggests that reported cases are likely a significant underestimation of the actual prevalence in the community.
- Public Health Perspective: Historically, measles has been prioritized in public health efforts due to its potential for severe morbidity and mortality, overshadowing the attention given to mumps.
- Emerging Concerns: Despite being less prioritized, recent reports indicate a surge in mumps cases, including complications such as encephalitis, epilepsy, aseptic meningitis, and acute pancreatitis, particularly at Kozhikode Medical College hospital.
- Impact on Reproductive Health: Mumps can affect the gonads (reproductive glands) in both males and females. In males, it poses the rare but significant risk of infertility or reduced sperm count in the long term.
Why is the mumps vaccine not part of the national immunization schedule?
- Lack of Mortality: Mumps typically does not result in fatalities, further contributing to the belief that it may not warrant inclusion in routine vaccination schedules.
- Underestimation of Public Health Significance: Despite arguments from organizations like the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) that mumps’ public health significance is underestimated, there has been insufficient evidence or data to prompt its inclusion in national immunization programs.
- Poor Documentation and Lack of Studies: Limited documentation of clinical cases, complications, and follow-up data, as well as a scarcity of published studies on mumps, have hindered efforts to fully understand its impact and advocate for its vaccine inclusion.
- Absence of Nationally Representative Data: The lack of nationally representative data on the incidence of mumps in India makes it challenging to assess its burden accurately and advocate for vaccine inclusion based on epidemiological evidence.
- Limited Information on Long-Term Morbidity: While mumps is known to have some impact on reproductive organs, there is very little information available on its actual long-term morbidity profile, further complicating decisions regarding vaccine inclusion.
How can the current outbreaks be controlled?
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate the community about mumps, its symptoms, transmission, and the importance of isolation. Emphasize the significance of vaccination and maintaining good hygiene practices.
- Improve Immunization Coverage: Strengthen efforts to improve general immunization coverage, especially targeting unimmunized children and adolescents. Ensure accessibility to vaccination services in all communities.
- Strict Isolation Measures: Enforce strict isolation measures for mumps patients for the full three-week duration to limit disease transmission. Provide clear guidelines to healthcare facilities and schools on managing mumps cases and preventing spread.
- School Closure: Consider temporary closure of schools during outbreaks to prevent further transmission, especially if a significant number of cases are reported among students. Use the summer break as an opportunity to break the chain of transmission.
- Enhanced Surveillance and Reporting: Implement robust surveillance systems to promptly detect and report mumps cases. Ensure healthcare providers are vigilant in diagnosing and reporting suspected cases to public health authorities for timely intervention.
- Contact Tracing and Monitoring: Conduct thorough contact tracing of individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed mumps cases. Monitor them for symptoms and enforce isolation measures if necessary to prevent secondary transmission.
- Healthcare Provider Training: Provide training to healthcare providers on mumps diagnosis, management, and reporting protocols. Ensure they are equipped to identify and manage cases effectively.
- Community Engagement: Engage with community leaders, schools, and parents to encourage cooperation with control measures. Encourage individuals to seek medical care promptly if they develop symptoms suggestive of mumps.
Way Forward:
- Assessment of Vaccine Effectiveness: Despite the lack of studies on the effectiveness of the mumps vaccine in India, global data suggests that two doses of the MMR vaccine can provide protection ranging from 70% to 95%, provided that coverage is high.
- Integration with Measles and Rubella Control: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends integrating mumps vaccination strategies with existing efforts for measles elimination and rubella control. This ensures a comprehensive approach to vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Consideration of Regional Factors: Evaluate regional factors influencing vaccine effectiveness, disease burden, and immunization coverage. Tailor vaccination strategies accordingly to address the specific needs and challenges faced in Kerala.
- Consultation with Experts and Stakeholders: Engage with public health experts, immunization specialists, and stakeholders to review the evidence, assess the impact of different vaccination strategies, and determine the most effective approach moving forward.
- Monitoring and Surveillance: Strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems to track mumps cases, vaccine coverage, and vaccine effectiveness. This data will be crucial for evaluating the impact of vaccination strategies and making informed decisions.
- Policy Decision: Based on the evidence and expert recommendations, make a policy decision regarding the inclusion of MMR vaccine in the Universal Immunization Programme. Consider factors such as vaccine availability, cost-effectiveness, and logistics.
Conclusion: Addressing the resurgence of mumps in Kerala necessitates a comprehensive approach, including vaccination integration, public awareness, strict isolation measures, and policy review guided by expert consultation and regional considerations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Wildlife Protection Act, 1972;
Mains level: Concerns about the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of private zoos;
Why in the news?
The Centre has notified a set of rules called the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024 that liberalises the conditions under which elephants may be transferred within or between States.
What are the rules around the transfer and transport of elephants?
- Legal Protection: Elephants are classified as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, prohibiting their capture or trade, whether wild or captive, except for specific purposes.
- Special Purposes: Section 12 of the Act allows for the translocation of Schedule I animals for special purposes such as education, scientific research, wildlife population management, and specimen collection for recognized zoos/museums.
- Ownership of Captive Elephants: Captive elephants, due to their historical roles in forest management, timber transport, and religious ceremonies, fall under a special category and can be owned. However, strict rules govern their transfer.
- Permission Requirement: Section 40(2) of the Wildlife Protection Act mandates written permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden for the acquisition, possession, and transfer of captive elephants.
- Amendment in 2021: In 2021, the Environment Ministry introduced an amendment allowing the transfer of elephants for “religious or any other purposes,” departing from the previous restriction against transactions of a commercial nature.
- Controversy: The broad interpretation of the amendment raised concerns among activists and researchers regarding potential trafficking and illegal commercial transactions. Opposition from a standing committee, led by former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh, was overruled, and the amendment was passed into law.
What do the updated rules say?
- Reasons for Transfer: New relaxations allow for the transfer of captive elephants when the current owner is unable to maintain them or when the Chief Wildlife Warden deems it necessary for better upkeep.
- Approval Process: Before a transfer within the state, the elephant’s health must be verified by a veterinarian, and the Deputy Conservator of Forests must confirm the suitability of both the current and prospective habitats. The Chief Wildlife Warden decides whether to approve or reject the transfer based on these documents.
- Interstate Transfer: Similar conditions apply if the transfer involves moving the elephant outside of a state. The elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
- Permission Process: Previously, transferring an elephant across states required permissions from the Chief Wildlife Wardens of every state the elephant would pass through. Now, only permissions from the originating and recipient states are necessary for interstate transfers.
What do the updates mean?/ concerns about the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of private zoos
- Lax Enforcement for Elephants: While the Wildlife Protection Act imposes restrictions on trafficking of wild animals, including elephants, critics argue that enforcement has become lax, particularly in the case of elephants.
- Establishment of Private Zoo: The establishment of India’s largest private zoo in Jamnagar, Gujarat, affiliated with the Reliance Foundation, has raised questions about the treatment and sourcing of elephants.
- Purpose of the Zoo: While the zoo is described as a rescue center aimed at rehabilitating traumatized and injured elephants, among other wildlife, concerns have been raised about its actual operations.
- Controversial Hosting: The zoo reportedly hosts around 200 elephants, including “healthy animals,” which has sparked controversy. Critics question the need to host healthy animals in a rescue center and raise doubts about the welfare and origins of these elephants.
- Source of Elephants: There are concerns that some of the elephants in the zoo may have been sourced from the wild rather than being captive-bred or rescued. This raises ethical and conservation concerns about the impact on wild elephant populations.
Conclusion: Address lax enforcement of wildlife protection laws for elephants. Ensure transparency in private zoo operations and strict adherence to ethical sourcing guidelines. Prioritize conservation efforts and welfare of captive and wild elephant populations.
PYQ Mains-
Q- How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (250 Words, 15 Marks)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Border dispute between India and china
Mains level: role of usa in resolving dispute between India and China
Why in the news?
China on Thursday said it firmly opposes the US recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as part of Indian territory
Context-
- China’s strong reaction came hours after US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel’s remarks that the United States “recognises Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory.
- US representative strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions or encroachments, military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control.
Border Issues between Indian and China-
- Aksai Chin: China administers it as part of Xinjiang, while India claims it as part of Ladakh.Aksai Chin holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and its potential as a military route.
- Arunachal Pradesh: China claims the entire state as “South Tibet,” while India administers it as a northeastern state.
- Lack of Clear Demarcation: The border between India and China lacks clear demarcation throughout. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) was established after the 1962 Indo-China war, contributing to the complexity of the situation.Absence of a mutually agreed Line of Actual Control (LAC) along certain stretches leads to ambiguity and potential for conflicts.
Military Standoffs between India and China-
- 1962 Sino-Indian War– It was a conflict over border disputes, primarily centered around Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh, resulting in a decisive victory for China.
- Confrontations have escalated since 2013-The most serious conflict were in Galwan Valley in Ladakh in 2020 and in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh in 2022.
Border Dispute Settlement Mechanisms between India and China-
- Panchsheel Agreement of 1954: The Panchsheel doctrine distinctly expressed a commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Peace and Tranquility Agreements1993: Both countries have signed several agreements aimed at maintaining peace and tranquility along the border, such as the Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the India-China Border Areas signed in 1993.
- The Agreement on Confidence Building Measures in the Military Field along the LAC- It was signed in 1996, which laid down pledges on non-aggression, prior notification of large troop movements, and exchange of maps to resolve disagreements over the LAC.
- Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC): This mechanism, established in 2012, aims to address day-to-day management of the border, enhance communication, and prevent misunderstandings or conflicts.
- Joint Military Exercises: India and China occasionally conduct joint military exercises aimed at improving mutual understanding and cooperation, which indirectly contributes to confidence-building measures. For example Hand in Hand.
Suggestive measures to resolve the border dispute between India and China:
- Diplomatic Dialogue: Both countries should engage in sustained diplomatic negotiations at various levels to address the underlying issues causing the dispute.
- Bilateral Agreements: Continuation and reinforcement of existing bilateral agreements aimed at maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border.
- Border Management Mechanisms: Strengthening and enhancing border management mechanisms such as Border Personnel Meetings (BPMs) and the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) to effectively manage and resolve disputes.
- Clarification of LAC: Work towards mutual clarification and delineation of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to reduce ambiguity and prevent misunderstandings.
- Disengagement and De-escalation: Prioritize efforts to disengage troops and de-escalate tensions in disputed areas along the border.
- Conflict Prevention: Implement measures aimed at preventing confrontations and conflicts, such as prior notification of military exercises and troop movements.
- Third-Party Mediation: Consider the involvement of neutral third-party mediators or international organizations to facilitate dialogue and negotiation.
- People-to-People Contacts: Promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges to foster better understanding and trust between the two nations.
How USA can help to resolve border dispute between India and China-
- Facilitate Diplomatic Dialogue: The USA can encourage and facilitate diplomatic dialogue between India and China to resolve the border dispute peacefully.
- Mediation Role: Offer to mediate or provide assistance as a neutral third-party mediator if both parties consent to such involvement.
- Provide Strategic Support: Offer strategic support and expertise in conflict resolution to help address the complex issues underlying the dispute.
- Pressure for Peaceful Resolution: Use diplomatic channels to exert pressure on both India and China to prioritize peaceful resolution of the dispute.
- Regional Stability: Emphasize the importance of resolving the border dispute for regional stability and economic development.
- Support Existing Mechanisms: Support existing border dispute settlement mechanisms, such as the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), through funding or technical assistance.
Conclusion-
China’s objection to the US recognizing Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory underscores the need for diplomatic dialogue. The US can play a constructive role by facilitating negotiations and supporting existing mechanisms for peaceful resolution.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Omnibus Framework
Mains level: Features of the Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO
Why in the news?
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday said it had finalised the Omnibus Framework for recognising Self-Regulatory Organisations (SRO) for its Regulated Entities.
The key features of the Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO)-
- Omnibus Framework: The RBI has finalized an omnibus framework for recognizing Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) for regulated entities. This framework contains broad parameters such as objectives, responsibilities, eligibility criteria, governance standards, application process, and other basic conditions for granting recognition.
- Sector-Specific Guidelines: Sector-specific guidelines will be issued separately by the respective departments of the Reserve Bank for each sector where an SRO is intended to be set up. This ensures that the SROs cater to the specific needs and requirements of their respective sectors.
- Draft Framework and Public Consultation: A draft framework for SROs was issued for public comments, and based on the examination of inputs received, the omnibus framework has been finalized. This indicates a consultative approach in the development of the SRO framework.
- Credibility and Responsibility: SROs are expected to operate with credibility, objectivity, and responsibility under the oversight of the regulator. They aim to improve regulatory compliance for the healthy and sustainable development of the sectors they cater to.
- Transparency and Independence: SROs are expected to operate with transparency, professionalism, and independence to foster greater confidence in the integrity of the sector. Compliance with the highest standards of governance is a prerequisite for an effective SRO.
The significance of Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs)-
- Enhanced Regulatory Compliance: SROs establish and enforce industry standards and best practices, leading to improved regulatory compliance among member organizations. By setting clear guidelines and monitoring adherence to them, SROs help regulated entities maintain compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Industry Integrity and Confidence: SROs play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing industry integrity and public confidence. By promoting transparency, professionalism, and ethical conduct, SROs contribute to building trust among stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory authorities.
- Tailored Regulation: SROs can develop sector-specific regulations and standards that are tailored to the unique characteristics and challenges of their respective industries. This flexibility allows SROs to address industry-specific issues effectively, leading to more efficient regulation.
- Effective Self-Regulation: SROs enable industry participants to self-regulate by collaboratively developing and enforcing rules and standards. This approach can often be more responsive and adaptable than traditional government regulation, as SROs can quickly respond to emerging risks and market developments.
- Reduced Regulatory Burden: SROs can help alleviate the regulatory burden on government agencies by taking on certain regulatory functions. By delegating responsibilities such as rule-making, monitoring, and enforcement to SROs, regulators can focus their resources on overseeing broader market activities and addressing systemic risks.
- Innovation and Growth: SROs can foster innovation and growth within their industries by creating a supportive regulatory environment. By providing guidance on emerging technologies and business models, SROs can encourage innovation while ensuring that it aligns with regulatory requirements and consumer protection standards.
- Expertise and Knowledge Sharing: SROs serve as repositories of industry expertise and knowledge, allowing members to benefit from collective insights and experiences. Through networking events, training programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, SROs facilitate collaboration and learning among industry participants.
Conclusion-
Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) enhance compliance, integrity, and tailored regulation. They enable effective self-regulation, reduce regulatory burden, foster innovation, and facilitate expertise sharing, ensuring sustainable industry growth and integrity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is Reverse Flipping
Mains level: Implication of Reverse Flipping
Why in the news?
- Pine Labs and Zepto are the latest new-age companies looking to move headquarters to India.
Context-
There is a significant surge in reverse flipping within India’s startup scene, characterized by a growing trend of startups choosing to relocate their headquarters or establish a presence in the country.
What is Reverse Flipping ?
- Reverse flipping is the process of shifting the domicile of an Indian company back to India after it had moved its headquarters overseas.
- Indian startups are increasingly choosing to reverse flip back into India, drawn by the country’s favorable economic policies, expanding domestic market, and increasing investor confidence in its startup ecosystem.
Recent Examples of Reverse-Flipping of Unicorns-
Several high-profile startups are opting for reverse flipping to India, indicating a trend of relocating their headquarters or establishing a base in the country.
- Walmart-owned PhonePe: PhonePe, a subsidiary of Walmart, relocated its domicile from Singapore to India. This move was likely motivated by the significant user base and potential for digital payments in the Indian market.
- Pine Labs, Meesho, and Zepto: These are identified as the latest new-age companies intending to move their headquarters to India. Their decisions suggest confidence in the opportunities and advantages offered by the Indian startup ecosystem.
- It Solidifies India’s Position as a Startup Hub: The successful execution of reverse flipping by these high-profile startups contributes to solidifying India’s position as a prominent startup hub globally.
How Reverse-Flipping is done?
- Strategic Assessment: The company conducts a strategic assessment of potential target countries, considering factors such as market size, regulatory environment, access to talent, infrastructure, tax policies, and overall business climate.
- Legal and Regulatory Considerations: The company evaluates the legal and regulatory requirements for establishing a presence in the target country. This may involve understanding company registration procedures, compliance with corporate laws, tax regulations, employment laws, and any other relevant regulations.
- Corporate Structure: The company determines the appropriate corporate structure for its operations in the target country. This may involve setting up a subsidiary, branch office, or joint venture, depending on the specific needs and objectives of the company.
- Transfer of Assets and Operations: The company transfers its assets, operations, and intellectual property rights to the new entity in the target country. This may include physical assets such as equipment and inventory, as well as intangible assets such as trademarks, patents, and proprietary technology.
- Share Swaps or Mergers: In some cases, the company may use share swaps or mergers as a method for executing the reverse flip. This involves exchanging shares with shareholders of a company in the target country or merging with an existing company to establish a presence in that jurisdiction.
- Compliance and Approval: The company ensures compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements in both the home country and the target country. This may involve obtaining approval from regulatory authorities, such as the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) or other relevant government agencies.
- Operational Transition: Once the reverse flip is completed, the company focuses on transitioning its operations to the new location. This may involve hiring local talent, establishing partnerships with suppliers and vendors, and adapting its business strategy to the local market dynamics
Startups are opting to reverse flip for several compelling reasons:
- Access to a Growing Economy: India is currently the world’s fifth-largest economy by GDP and is projected to become the third-largest by 2030. This growth trajectory presents significant opportunities for startups to tap into a dynamic market with increasing urbanization, disposable income, and consumption.
- Large and Educated Youth Population: India boasts the world’s largest youth population, with approximately 66% of its citizens under the age of 35. This demographic advantage provides a vast pool of skilled and educated talent, making it attractive for startups seeking a workforce with diverse skills and capabilities.
- Access to Capital Markets: The Indian capital market offers overseas startups access to a large pool of capital. The listing process on Indian stock exchanges is relatively cost-effective compared to many Western exchanges, making it an appealing option for startups with limited resources.
- Opportunity to Tap into the Consumer Market: With its rapidly growing middle class and increasing disposable income, India presents a lucrative consumer market for startups offering products and services across various sectors.
- Synergies with Indian Companies: Reverse flipping allows overseas startups to explore synergies with Indian companies, leading to partnerships, joint ventures, and acquisitions. These collaborations help startups expand their reach and operations in India while leveraging the local expertise and market knowledge of Indian companies.
Potential tax implications in this scenario:
- Corporate Tax: The company may be subject to corporate tax in the jurisdiction where it is based and operates. If the company chooses to establish its headquarters or base in India through reverse flipping, it would be subject to Indian corporate tax laws.
- Capital Gains Tax: Any gains realized from the transaction, such as the separation of PhonePe and the return of the holding company to India, could be subject to capital gains tax in the relevant jurisdictions. The quantum of this tax would depend on factors such as the valuation of the company and the applicable tax rates.
- Transfer Pricing Rules: Transfer pricing rules may apply if there are transactions between related parties as part of the reverse flip process. These rules are designed to ensure that transactions between related entities are conducted at arm’s length, and appropriate taxes are paid on profits generated from such transactions.
- Indirect Taxes: Depending on the nature of the company’s business and the jurisdictions involved, other indirect taxes such as goods and services tax (GST) may also apply.
Conclusion-
Reverse flipping, relocating headquarters to India, gains traction. Driven by favourable market dynamics, talent pool, capital access, and synergies. Potential tax implications include corporate tax, capital gains, transfer pricing, and indirect taxes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Water Day
Mains level: Issues related to water in rural areas and key measures
Why in the news?
Today, March 22, 2024, is the 31st World Water Day, with the theme, “Leveraging water for peace”
Context-
- In the context of climate change-related pressures, the world also needs to foster improved cooperation over water-sharing
- The global challenge for securing access to clean water persists for about two billion people and its demand keeps rising. Beyond threatening our basic human needs, this scarcity also risks our collective prosperity and peace.
Water diplomacy in a time of extremities-
- Climate Crisis Impact: Meteorological extremities like heat waves and floods exacerbate concerns about the climate crisis. In India, erratic monsoons affect agriculture, crucial for the $3 trillion economy.
- Need for Improved Cooperation: Amid climate change pressures, fostering cooperation over water-sharing and embracing universal principles of International Water Law is imperative.
- Water Diplomacy: Effective governance of shared waters and sustainable water use are essential for better water diplomacy, promoting peace and stability regionally and internationally.
- Collaborative Governance: Collaborative governance ensures equitable water allocation among nations, fostering regional stability and peace.
- Inclusive Approaches: Water diplomacy should include indigenous and local communities’ cross-border networks and involve civil society and academic networks to prevent, mitigate, and resolve water-related disputes.
- Water Quality Data Shortage: There’s a general shortage of water quality data globally, with a significant urban-rural divide, highlighting the need for better access to basic drinking water services, particularly in rural areas.
Addressing rural India’s needs-
70% of India’s rural population relies on water for household activities, with agriculture being the primary livelihood source. Globally, agriculture accounts for 70% of freshwater use.
- Water Accessibility: Improved water accessibility in rural areas can lead to positive outcomes in health, education, employment, and basic human needs and dignity.
- Water Investments: Increased water investments in rural areas can yield positive outcomes across various sectors, benefiting communities in multiple ways.
- AI Technology in Agriculture: The efficient use of emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technology in agriculture can aid in water conservation efforts. AI can help tackle crop and food loss, minimize chemical and fertilizer usage, and optimize water usage for sustainable and productive outputs.
The issue of transboundary waters
- Water Pollution: Transboundary rivers like the Meghna, Brahmaputra, Ganga, and Indus are experiencing worsening water pollution, posing significant environmental and health risks to communities relying on these water sources.
- Lack of Governance: There is a need for sophisticated cross-border water governance to address issues related to equitable water allocation, pollution control, and sustainable management of shared water resources among neighboring countries.
- Cooperation Challenges: Despite the importance of transboundary water cooperation, many countries face challenges in reaching agreements and implementing effective mechanisms for managing shared water resources. Disputes over water usage, infrastructure development, and environmental impacts hinder cooperation efforts.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Transboundary water management is crucial for achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). However, inadequate cooperation and governance frameworks pose obstacles to fulfilling SDG targets related to water security, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation.
- Peace and Security: Scarcity of freshwater in transboundary river basins can exacerbate tensions and conflicts among riparian states. Effective management and cooperation on shared water resources are essential for promoting regional stability and preventing water-related conflicts.
- Ecosystem Services: Transboundary rivers support diverse ecosystems and provide essential ecosystem services such as water purification, habitat for biodiversity, and regulation of water flow. Pollution and overexploitation of these waters threaten the integrity of ecosystems and the services they provide.
- Climate Change Impacts: Climate change exacerbates challenges related to transboundary water management by altering precipitation patterns, increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and affecting water availability and quality. Adaptation and resilience-building measures are needed to address climate-related risks in transboundary river basins.
Suggestive Measures to Resolve Transboundary Water Issues:
- Strengthen Governance Structures: Establish comprehensive cross-border water governance frameworks, including bilateral or multilateral agreements, to facilitate equitable water allocation, pollution control, and sustainable management of shared water resources.
- Enhance Cooperation Mechanisms: Foster dialogue and collaboration among riparian states through platforms such as joint commissions, river basin organizations, and diplomatic negotiations to address disputes and promote mutual understanding of water management challenges.
- Implement Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM): Adopt IWRM approaches that consider social, economic, and environmental factors to promote sustainable development and ensure the efficient use of transboundary water resources while minimizing negative impacts on ecosystems and communities.
- Enhance Monitoring and Data Sharing: Improve monitoring systems and data-sharing mechanisms to assess water quality, quantity, and usage trends in transboundary river basins. Enhanced transparency and information exchange can facilitate informed decision-making and cooperation among riparian states.
- Promote Community Engagement: Involve local communities, indigenous groups, and civil society organizations in decision-making processes related to transboundary water management. Empowering stakeholders at the grassroots level can enhance accountability, foster cooperation, and promote sustainable practices.
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Develop and enforce robust legal frameworks at national and international levels to regulate transboundary water resources effectively. Clear and enforceable laws can provide a basis for resolving disputes and ensuring compliance with agreed-upon water management principles.
- Build Climate Resilience: Implement adaptation measures to address climate change impacts on transboundary water resources, such as enhancing water storage infrastructure, promoting water-efficient technologies, and integrating climate resilience into water management strategies.
Conclusion-
Navigating the global waterscape’s challenges requires robust governance, enhanced cooperation, and sustainable practices. By addressing transboundary water issues collectively, we can promote peace, ensure water security, and achieve sustainable development goals.
Mains PYQ-
Q- The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: White Revolution 2.0
Mains level: Reason behind the need of White Revolution 2.0
Why in the news?
The government’s latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) for 2022-23 shows milk emerging as India’s top food spend item, both in rural and urban areas
Key facts as per survey-
- The monthly value of milk and dairy products consumed by an average person in rural India, at Rs 314, was ahead of vegetables (Rs 203), cereals (Rs 185), egg, fish & meat (Rs 185), fruits (Rs 140), edible oil (Rs 136), spices (Rs 113) and pulses (Rs 76).
- The HCES data reveals the same for urban India: Milk (Rs 466), fruits (Rs 246), vegetables (Rs 245), cereals (Rs 235), egg, fish & meat (Rs 231), edible oil (Rs 153), spices (Rs 138) and pulses (Rs 90).
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The challenges as per the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES)-
- Rising Milk Prices: Over the last five years, the all-India modal price of milk has surged from Rs 42 to Rs 60 per liter, with a notable increase from Rs 52 to Rs 60 in the past year alone. This upward trend in milk prices poses a challenge for consumers in terms of affordability.
- Inflationary Pressure: The increase in milk prices is attributed to inflationary pressures, impacting consumer demand. Higher prices may lead to reduced consumption or shifts to alternative products, affecting the dairy industry’s revenue and profitability.
- Increased Input Costs: The cost of fodder, feed, and raw materials/ingredients has risen significantly. Dairies are compelled to raise procurement prices paid to farmers to offset these increased input costs. Consequently, consumers bear the brunt of these cost hikes through higher retail prices for milk and dairy products.
- Pass-through to Consumers: To mitigate the impact of rising input costs, dairies pass on the increased procurement prices to consumers, leading to further price hikes in milk products. This pass-through mechanism exacerbates the financial burden on consumers already grappling with inflated prices.
- Impact on Farmers: While increased procurement prices may benefit farmers initially, they may face challenges in sustaining dairy farming operations if input costs continue to escalate. Balancing the interests of farmers, consumers, and the dairy industry becomes crucial amidst these challenges..
How can that be achieved?
- Use of Sex-Sorted Semen (SS) technology: The use of sex-sorted semen increases the probability of female calves being born to over 90%, compared to the 50:50 ratio with conventional semen. This technology ensures a higher proportion of future milk-producing cows, enhancing the productivity of dairy herds.
- Increased Adoption: Dairy cooperatives like Amul are actively promoting the use of sex-sorted semen among farmers. In 2022-23, Amul performed 2.86 lakh artificial inseminations (AIs) using sex-sorted semen out of a total of 13.91 lakh AIs, constituting 20.5% of the total. The cooperative aims to raise this ratio to 30% by 2024-25.
- Enhanced Conception Rate: Roughly one-third of artificial inseminations using sex-sorted semen lead to conception. This high conception rate, coupled with the assurance of female calves, contributes to a more efficient breeding strategy, resulting in a larger population of milk-producing cows.
- Long-term Impact: By increasing the number of female calves born through sex-sorted semen technology, dairy farmers can anticipate a higher yield of milk-producing cows in subsequent generations. This proactive approach ensures the sustainability and growth of the dairy industry by maximizing milk production efficiency.
- Cooperative Initiatives: Dairy cooperatives play a pivotal role in facilitating the adoption of advanced breeding technologies among farmers. Through initiatives like Amul’s targeted use of sex-sorted semen, cooperatives contribute to improving the genetic potential of dairy herds and enhancing overall milk yield per animal.
Taking to farmer/ significance of Breeding Centre-
- Establishment of Bovine Breeding Centre: Amul inaugurated a Bovine Breeding Centre in Mogar, Gujarat, in March 2020, to breed a nucleus herd of superior bulls and cows for artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) technologies.
- Objective of the Centre: The primary objective of the centre is to produce high-quality semen and in vitro-fertilised embryos, stored at ultra-low temperatures, for use in AI or transferring into farmers’ animals.
- Breeds and Milk Yield: The centre has produced various breeds, including exotic (such as Holstein-Friesian and Jersey), HF-Gir and HF-Sahiwal crossbred, and indigenous Gir, Sahiwal, and Murrah buffalo breeds, with varying milk yield capacities ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 liters per year.
- Utilization of Male and Female Genetics: Through AI and sex-sorted semen, the centre exploits male genetics, while IVF-ET technology focuses on harnessing the female genetics of donor cows.
- Adoption by Farmers: Amul has extended IVF-ET technology to farmers, with successful pregnancies and calvings recorded. Member unions of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation have also embraced these advancements, with farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary experiencing the benefits of higher-quality breeds through IVF-ET, leading to better milk yields and economic returns.
- Preference for Specific Breeds: Farmers like Bhavnaben Chaudhary choose breeds like Kankrej for their higher fat and solids-not-fat content, despite lower yields, to ensure better prices and lower feeding and maintenance costs.
Animal nutrition/ lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
- Feeding Cost Reduction: Intervention is necessary to reduce the feeding costs of animals by cultivating high-yielding, protein-rich green fodder grasses. This reduces reliance on expensive compound cattle feed and oil-meal concentrates.The focus of White Revolution 2.0 would clearly have to be on lowering the cost of producing milk at the farm-gate
- Introduction of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) Plant: Amul is establishing a 30-tonnes-per-day TMR plant at Sarsa in Anand. TMR will comprise dry and green fodder, concentrates, vitamins, and mineral mixtures, providing animals with a ready-to-eat mashed form of nutrition.
- Benefits of TMR: TMR will save farmers the cost of purchasing and storing fodder separately, as well as the effort of administering it alongside cattle feed. It offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for animal nutrition.
- Sourcing Fodder: The plan involves sourcing fodder from farmer producer organizations (FPOs), whose members will cultivate maize, jowar, hybrid napier, or oat grass and prepare silage for use in the TMR plant.
- Focus on High-Yielding Grasses: Farmers will focus on cultivating high-yielding grass varieties rich in protein content, which are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of dairy animals.
Conclusion-
To ensure a sustainable White Revolution 2.0, measures such as the adoption of advanced breeding technologies, the establishment of breeding centres, and focus on animal nutrition are crucial for enhancing milk production efficiency and economic viability.
Mains question for practice-
Q- Discuss the role of advanced breeding technologies, establishment of breeding centers, and strategies for reducing feeding costs in ensuring sustainable milk production to achieve White Revolution 2.0.(250 words)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Terms of state Assemblies and Lok Sabha
Mains level: Role of ECI in fixing the election schedule
Why in the news?
- The date of counting for Assembly elections in Arunachal and Sikkim has been advanced by two days to make sure that the terms of their existing Houses don’t end before the election process is complete.
Context-
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) holds a crucial responsibility in coordinating and supervising electoral procedures nationwide.
- This encompasses setting timetables for elections to legislative bodies like state assemblies and the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
What was the original schedule for the election and counting in these two states? (2024)
- Schedule Announcement: The schedule for Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, as well as the Lok Sabha elections, was announced on March 16. The Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim were set to be notified on March 20.
- Nomination Period: Candidates could file their nominations for the elections until March 27.
- Withdrawal Period: The deadline for withdrawing nominations was set for March 30.
- Date of Polling: Both Assembly and Lok Sabha elections were scheduled to take place on April 19, marking the first phase of polling.
- Seven-Phase Lok Sabha Elections: The Lok Sabha elections were planned to be held in seven phases on the following dates: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 26, and June 1.
- One-Day Elections: Twenty-two states and Union Territories, including Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, were scheduled to conduct one-day elections.
- Counting Date: Counting for all seats in the Lok Sabha and the four Assemblies would occur on June 4, according to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar.
So what has changed now?
- Change in Counting Date: The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a change in the counting date for Assembly seats in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim from June 4 to June 2.
- Reason for Change: ECI officials stated that the decision to change the counting date was made after realizing that the terms of the Assemblies in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim were ending on June 2.
- Completion of Election Process: The decision to bring forward the counting date was based on the constitutional mandate that the election process must be completed before the term of an Assembly ends.
- Ensuring Constitutional Compliance: By adjusting the counting date to align with the end of the Assembly terms, the ECI ensures that the electoral process remains per constitutional requirements.
What exactly does the Constitution say about the terms of state Assemblies and Lok Sabha?
- Lok Sabha Term: Article 83(2) outlines that the Lok Sabha unless sooner dissolved, continues for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting. Similar to state Assemblies, the expiration of the five years leads to the dissolution of the House.
- State Assembly Term: Article 172(1) of the Constitution specifies that every Legislative Assembly of every State shall continue for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting unless sooner dissolved. The expiration of the five years results in the dissolution of the Assembly.
- Extension of Assembly Term: During a Proclamation of Emergency, Parliament has the authority to extend the term of the Assembly by up to one year at a time, not exceeding six months after the Proclamation ceases to operate.
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How does this apply to the Assemblies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim?
- Constitutional Mandate: The Constitution mandates that the term of Legislative Assemblies lasts for five years from the date of their first meeting unless dissolved earlier.
- Completion of Electoral Process: With the term of the Assemblies ending on June 2, 2024, the electoral process, including voting and counting, must be completed before this date to ensure a smooth transition to the new Assemblies.
What are the things that the ECI looks at while fixing the election schedule?
- Factors Considered by ECI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) considers various factors while fixing the election schedule, including weather conditions, festivals, important examinations, availability of school buildings for polling stations, and mobilization of teachers for election duty.
- Logistical Considerations: The ECI takes into account the country’s historical and geographic situation, as well as logistical requirements such as moving security forces to ensure free and fair elections.
- Term of the Legislature: The date of expiration of the term of the legislature is the primary consideration for fixing the election schedule. This date is known five years in advance, calculated from the date of the first sitting of the existing House.
- Completion of Election Process: The ECI aims to complete the election process at least one day before the end of the term of the House. Results are declared a few days prior, allowing time for documentation and other formalities.
Has something similar occurred earlier too?
- Change in Counting Date in Andhra Pradesh (2004): In 2004, the Election Commission of India (ECI) scheduled the counting of votes for the Assembly election in Andhra Pradesh on May 11, two days earlier than the scheduled counting for Lok Sabha and other states. This adjustment was made because the tenure of the Assembly in Andhra Pradesh was set to end on May 13.
- Changes for Festivals or Locally Relevant Events: The ECI has made changes to the announced election schedule to accommodate festivals or locally relevant events. For example, in Mizoram in the previous year, the date of counting for the Assembly election was changed from December 3 to December 4 to avoid a clash with Sunday, which holds special significance for the Christian-majority population.
- Delinking Counting in Specific States: The ECI has previously drawn up schedules that delink the counting in a particular state from the counting in the rest of the country or from the counting of other elections held simultaneously. This strategy allows for the smooth conduct of elections while respecting the constitutional timeline for the end of the term of the House.
Conclusion:
The Election Commission adjusts the counting date for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim Assemblies to align with the constitutional mandate. Factors like legislative terms, logistical considerations, and past precedents guide the ECI in fixing election schedules.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Price stabilization fund
Mains level: Significance of Price stabilization fund
Why in the news?
The government has approved the inclusion of wheat and rice under its price stabilization fund to provide subsidies for the quantity allocated under Bharat atta and rice sale.
Context: After it started selling Bharat atta and rice as part of its retail intervention in a bid to tame inflation as prices are soaring ahead of general elections
What is the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF)?
A Price Stabilization Fund is established to mitigate excessive fluctuations in specific commodity prices. The fund’s resources are typically deployed to moderate high or low prices through various initiatives, such as procuring particular goods and distributing them as needed, ensuring prices stay within a desired range. |
Background-
- During the fiscal year 2014-15, the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) was instituted within the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW) to manage the fluctuating costs of crucial agricultural commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses.
- These commodities will be procured directly from farmers or their organizations at farm gates or designated marketplaces, and subsequently offered to consumers at a more affordable rate. Any incurred losses in the coordination between the central government and the states during these operations must be divided.
The significance of the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) in the context of recent expansion to include of wheat and rice-
- Addressing Inflationary trends : The inclusion of wheat and rice under the PSF marks a significant expansion beyond the previously covered commodities like onions, potatoes, and pulses. This expansion reflects the government’s commitment to addressing inflationary trends across a broader spectrum of essential food items.
- Buffer Stock Management: The PSF is utilized to build up buffer stocks of key food commodities such as wheat and rice. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of price surges to stabilize prices and ensure affordability for consumers.
- Subsidy Allocation: The government provides subsidies to agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for supplying wheat and rice to central procurement agencies. This subsidy support helps in maintaining the affordability of these commodities, particularly under the Bharat brand, which is sold at subsidized prices.
- Inflation Mitigation: The inclusion of wheat and rice in the PSF is aimed at mitigating rising food inflation, which has been a concern ahead of general elections. By intervening in the market through strategic buffer stock management and subsidized sales, the government seeks to curb inflationary pressures and ensure food affordability for consumers.
- Policy Response to Market Dynamics: The decision to expand the PSF reflects a proactive policy response to address market dynamics, particularly concerning rising rice prices. By taking measures to stabilize prices and increase availability through the PSF, the government aims to alleviate the burden on consumers and mitigate potential electoral repercussions associated with food inflation.
The Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) addresses inflationary pressures and aids in maintaining food affordability through several mechanisms:
- Buffer Stock Management: The PSF accumulates buffer stocks of essential food commodities during periods of surplus production or lower prices. These stocks are strategically released into the market during periods of scarcity or price surges. By increasing the supply of commodities during shortages, the PSF helps stabilize prices and prevents excessive inflation.
- Subsidy Provision: The PSF provides subsidies to support the procurement and distribution of essential commodities. These subsidies enable the government to sell commodities at lower prices, making them more affordable for consumers. Subsidies can also incentivize increased production, leading to a greater supply of commodities and further price stability.
- Market Intervention: The PSF allows for direct intervention in the market to address sudden price fluctuations. By purchasing commodities during periods of low prices and selling them during periods of high prices, the PSF helps moderate price volatility and ensures that prices remain within a reasonable range.
- Consumer Protection: By stabilizing prices and ensuring the availability of essential food items, the PSF protects consumers from sudden spikes in food prices, which can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Affordable food prices contribute to improved food security and overall economic stability.
- Incentivizing Domestic Production: The PSF incentivizes domestic production by providing a guaranteed market for farmers’ produce at stable prices. This encourages farmers to increase their production levels, contributing to overall food security and helping to mitigate inflationary pressures.
Conclusion: The government is expanding the Price Stabilization Fund to include wheat and rice amid soaring food prices ahead of elections. This aims to manage inflation by subsidizing essential commodities and maintaining buffer stocks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Colouring agent, harmful chemical
Mains level: Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
Why in the news?
- Karnataka has become the third state in South India to prohibit the use of specific coloring agents in cotton candy and gobi manchurian due to their identified harmful effects.
Context-
- While the Government plans to create awareness among manufacturers, it has also urged consumers to be aware of what they are consuming.
- The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 stipulates a fine of not less than ₹10 lakh and a jail term of a minimum of seven years, extending to life imprisonment, against those using banned chemical substances in food products.
What did the survey results show?/Key findings from the sample testing
- Presence of Harmful Chemicals: Laboratory tests revealed the presence of harmful chemicals in many samples collected from the state.
- Cotton Candy Samples: Out of 25 cotton candy samples collected, 15 were found to be unsafe as they contained added colors, while the remaining 10 were deemed safe as they were made without added colors.
- Gobi Manchurian Samples: Among the 171 samples of gobi manchurian collected, 107 were declared unsafe due to the presence of added colors, while 64 were considered safe as they did not contain added colors.
What were the harmful chemicals?
- Harmful Chemicals: The unsafe samples of cotton candy contained traces of sunset yellow, tartrazine, and rhodamine-b, while unsafe gobi Manchurian samples had tartrazine, sunset yellow, and carmoisine. Rhodamine-b, a suspected carcinogen, is already banned.
- Restrictions on Tartrazine: Although tartrazine is an approved artificial food color, there are restrictions on its usage. It can only be used in specific packed food items, with prescribed amounts. It cannot be used in freshly prepared food items.
- Health Concerns: The Food Safety Commissioner emphasized that prolonged consumption of snacks containing artificial colors can lead to severe diseases like cancer, highlighting the importance of the ban in safeguarding public health.
What are the Penalties?
- Prohibition on Artificial Colors: Rule 16 of the Food Safety and Standards Act prohibits the use of artificial colors in the preparation of gobi manchurian.
- Approved Limits for Food Colors: While certain food colors are allowed within approved limits, non-permitted colors like rhodamine-b should not be used in the preparation of cotton candy.
- Penalties for Offenders: Violators face severe penalties, including cancellation of licenses for commercial activities, hefty fines, and imprisonment. The Food Safety and Standards Act specifies a minimum fine of ₹10 lakh and a jail term of at least seven years, which can extend to life imprisonment, for those found using banned chemical substances in food products.
Way Forward:
- Enforcement and Monitoring: Health safety officials will likely conduct random checks to ensure compliance with the ban on harmful chemicals and artificial colors.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government will continue its efforts to raise awareness among manufacturers and consumers regarding the risks associated with harmful chemicals and artificial colors in food products.
- Regulatory Review: There might be a review of existing regulations and standards related to food safety to further strengthen controls and ensure comprehensive coverage of potentially risky food items beyond gobi manchurian, such as kebabs, that may use coloring agents.
- Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaboration between government authorities, food manufacturers, and other stakeholders in the food industry will be crucial to implement and enforce the ban effectively. This may include consultations, partnerships, and dialogues to address challenges and ensure compliance with regulations.
Conclusion: Karnataka banned certain coloring agents in response to findings of harmful chemicals in food samples. Strict penalties and enforcement measures are in place, alongside awareness campaigns and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure compliance and safeguard public health.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Income and Wealth Inequality in India report
Mains level: Income inequality in India and comparison with developed countries
Why in the news?
- In 2022, 22.6% of the national income went to the top 1% of Indians. Cut to 1951, their share in the income was only 11.5% and even lower in the 1980s just before India opened-up its economy at 6%.
Context: India’s top 1% income and wealth shares (22.6% and 40.1%) are at their highest historical levels in 2022-’23 and the country’s top 1% income share is among the very highest in the world as per World Inequality Lab.
Key findings from the ‘Income and Wealth Inequality in India’ report by the World Inequality Lab
- Increase in Share of Top 10%: The share of the top 10% of Indians in national income rose from 36.7% in 1951 to 57.7% in 2022.
- Decline in Share of Bottom 50%: The bottom 50% of Indians earned only 15% of the national income in 2022, compared to 20.6% in 1951, indicating a decrease in their share.
- Decrease in Share of Middle 40%: The middle 40% of Indians experienced a significant decline in their share of income from 42.8% to 27.3% over the period.
- Rapid Widening of Income Gap: The gap between the rich and the poor has widened rapidly in the last two decades.
- Historic Peak for Wealthiest 1%: In 2022, the share of national income that went to the wealthiest 1% of Indians reached a historic peak, surpassing levels observed in developed countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
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Income group-wise share in national income, and the adult population in each bracket as of 2022-23
- Distribution Across Income Percentiles: Approximately one crore adults were in the top 1%, ten crore in the top 10%, 36 crore in the middle 40%, and 46 crore were in the bottom 50% of the income pyramid.
- Concentration of Wealth at the Top: The top 0.001% of the income pyramid, comprising about 10,000 richest Indians, earned 2.1% of the national income, highlighting extreme wealth concentration.
- High Shares of National Income: The top 0.01% and top 0.1% of income earners earned disproportionately high shares of the national income, accounting for 4.3% and 9.6%, respectively. This reflects significant income inequality, with a small segment capturing a large portion of the country’s wealth.
The year wise share of national income for the top 10%, bottom 50% and that middle 40% of the population:
- 1950s-60s: Negligible income gap between the top 10% and the middle 40% of earners.
- 1980s: Bottom 50% saw a slight increase in their share of national income, contributing to narrowing the gap.
- 1990s Onwards (Post-liberalization): The income share of the top 10% surged dramatically, while shares of the other two groups steadily declined. This trend persisted into the 2000s and early 2010s, stabilizing thereafter.
- In 2022: the top 1% of earners had a higher share of national income than the richest 1% during colonial rule.
- Income Disparities: The average annual income of the top 1% was ₹53 lakh, 23 times more than the average Indian’s income of ₹2.3 lakh in 2022-23. The average income of the bottom 50% and middle 40% stood at ₹71,000 and ₹1.65 lakh, respectively, during the same period.
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Richest 1% of Indians’ share in the national income
- Pre-Independence (1930s): The top 1% of earners had a significant share of national income, surpassing the 20% mark.
- Post-Independence: After independence and the merger of princely states with Independent India, the share of the top 1% steadily declined, reaching close to 6% in the 1980s.
- Post-liberalization: Following liberalization reforms, the income share of the top 1% surged again, presently hovering around the 22.5% mark.
- Comparison with British Rule: The current income share of the top 1% is much higher than their share under British rule, highlighting a return to historical levels of income concentration.
The income share of India’s top 10% and top 1%, compared with select countries in 2022-23
- India’s Income Growth: India’s income levels are not growing as rapidly as other comparable economies.
- High Share of Top 1%: Despite slower overall income growth, the top 1% of earners in India have a disproportionately high share of national income.
- Comparison with Advanced Countries: In 2022-23, the income shares of India’s top 1% were higher than those recorded in advanced countries like the United States, China, France, the United Kingdom, and Brazil.
China and Vietnam’s average incomes grew at a much faster pace than India’s
- Economic Policies: China and Vietnam implemented economic policies that focused on export-oriented growth, attracting foreign investment, and promoting industrialization. These policies contributed to rapid economic expansion and increased average incomes in both countries.
- Liberalization and Reforms: Both China and Vietnam underwent significant economic liberalization and reforms, allowing for greater market integration, privatization of state-owned enterprises, and relaxation of trade barriers. These reforms stimulated economic growth and led to higher average incomes.
- Investment in Infrastructure: China and Vietnam invested heavily in infrastructure development, including transportation networks, energy systems, and telecommunications. This infrastructure investment facilitated economic development and improved productivity, leading to higher average incomes
Income inequality in India can be attributed to various factors:
- Historical Factors: Historical disparities in wealth distribution, exacerbated by colonial rule and feudal systems, have contributed to persistent income inequality.
- Economic Growth Patterns: India’s economic growth needs to be more inclusive, with benefits disproportionately accruing to certain segments of society, particularly urban and educated populations. This uneven growth exacerbates income inequality.
- Structural Issues: Structural factors such as unequal access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities perpetuate income disparities. Marginalized groups such as Dalits, Adivasis, and women often face barriers to accessing quality education and formal employment, limiting their income-earning potential.
- Land Ownership and Agriculture: Unequal distribution of land ownership and disparities in agricultural productivity contribute to income inequality, particularly in rural areas where agriculture remains a primary source of livelihood.
- Labor Market Dynamics: Informal employment, low wages, and lack of job security in the informal sector contribute to income inequality. Additionally, skill mismatches and technological advancements may widen the income gap by favoring skilled workers over unskilled laborers.
- Lack of Financial Inclusion: Limited access to formal financial services and lack of asset ownership, such as land or property, among marginalized communities further perpetuate income inequality.
- Corruption and Cronyism: Corruption, crony capitalism, and unequal access to resources and opportunities exacerbate income inequality by favoring vested interests and hindering equitable wealth distribution.
Conclusion: India witnesses unprecedented income inequality with the top 1% accruing a higher share of national income than under British rule. Structural factors, uneven economic growth, and limited access to resources perpetuate income disparities, requiring comprehensive policy interventions for equitable growth.
Mains PYQ
Q. It is argued that the strategy of inclusive growth is intended to meet the objective of inclusiveness and sustainability together. Comment on this statement. ( UPSC IAS/2019)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Digital Architecture, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Mains level: National Data Governance Framework Policy
Why in the news?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeiTY) released the National Data Governance Framework Policy (NPD Framework) which was touted as the first building block of the digital architecture being conceived to maximize data.
Context:
- The role of digitization in realizing India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy cannot be overstated.
- As per a NASSCOM report, data and artificial intelligence (AI) can add approximately $450-500 billion to India’s GDP by 2025.
Types of data:
- Personal Data – Data containing identifiers that can be used to identify specific individuals.
- Non-Personal Data (NPD)- data excluding personal data. It constitutes the primary type of citizen data obtained by the government and holds the potential to serve as a ‘public good’.
Significance of Non-personal data-
- NPD as a Public Good: NPD (Non-Personal Data) is considered the primary type of citizen data collected by the government. It holds the potential to serve as a ‘public good’, implying its utility and value to society as a whole.
- Integration of NPD in Public Services: Advocates for integrating NPD into the delivery of public services to create synergies and scalable solutions. Integration aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of public service delivery.
- Application of Advanced Analytics and AI: Utilizing high-value advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) on NPD can lead to predicting socially and economically beneficial outcomes. Such applications can span across various sectors of the economy.
- Key Sectors for Data-Driven Insights: Meteorological and disaster forecasts: Utilizing NPD to enhance predictions and preparedness for weather-related events and disasters. Infrastructure capacity and citizen use patterns: Understanding how citizens interact with infrastructure to optimize usage and planning.
- Mobility and housing patterns: Analyzing data to inform transportation and housing policies.
- Employment trends: Using NPD to predict and address changes in employment patterns and workforce needs.
- Informing Governance and Public Functions: NPD-driven insights can better inform decision-making in governance and public functions. Data analytics can provide valuable information for policy formulation and resource allocation.
Challenges related to NDP:
- Privacy and Security Concerns: The unprotected inter-flow of NPD across government departments, third parties, and citizens can lead to privacy breaches and make sensitive data vulnerable. This vulnerability can disproportionately benefit capacity-carrying actors such as Big Tech.
- Risk of Faulty Decision-making: Imperfect analysis of crucial public trends resulting from the exchange of NPD can lead to faulty decision-making. The inefficient exchange of data fails to unlock the power of interdisciplinary legislative and policy-making.
- Gaps in the NPD Framework: The NPD Framework lacks actionable guidance and practical operationalization, focusing on abstract high-level principles and objectives. It overlooks mechanisms for pricing data, appropriate legal structures for data exchange, and standardized governance tools.
- Lack of Legislation and Operationalization: While legislation is expected, the practical implementation and operationalization of the NPD Framework are overlooked. Questions remain unanswered regarding stakeholder rights and obligations across sectors.
Steps by Government:
- Agriculture Data Exchange in Telangana: Telangana State has developed an agriculture data exchange platform. The platform aims to facilitate the exchange of agricultural data among various stakeholders. It is likely designed to enhance decision-making, productivity, and innovation in the agriculture sector.
- India Urban Data Exchange (IUDX): The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science, has established the India Urban Data Exchange (IUDX).
- IUDX enables better urban planning, infrastructure development, and governance through data-driven insights.
- Data Exchanges for Geospatial Policy: The Department of Science & Technology has announced plans to establish data exchanges to implement aspects of the National Geospatial Policy.
Measures to address these challenges:
- Need for Critical Evaluation and Enhancement: A critical evaluation of the NPD Framework is necessary to address existing gaps. Enhancements to the framework can supplement MeiTY’s efforts to regulate NPD and facilitate interoperability across sectors.
- Learn from International practice: countries like Australia, the UK, and Estonia highlight the adoption of data exchange frameworks and protocols. These frameworks have been applied across various sectors such as housing, employment, aged care, and agriculture to address specific issues like unemployment.
- Regulatory Design for Data Exchanges: Creating a regulatory design for data exchanges in India can digitize and automate public welfare functions. It can reduce administrative burden, facilitate inter-sectoral integration, and build safeguards for using and sharing NPD, making civic functions more participatory.
- Stakeholder Consultation: Engage stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society in the evaluation process. Gather feedback on practical challenges faced in implementing the framework and areas needing clarification or enhancement.
Conclusion: A comprehensive evaluation and enhancement of the NPD Framework are imperative. Learning from international practices, establishing regulatory designs for data exchanges, and fostering stakeholder consultations will pave the way for effective governance of non-personal data.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Legal liability protection, Fact check unit
Mains level: IT Rules, 2021
Why in the news?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has designated the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit to point out misinformation about Central government departments on social media platforms ahead of the election.
Context-
- According to the IT Rules of 2021, social media platforms might lose their legal protection from being held responsible for content posted by users if they decide to keep the misinformation flagged by the Fact Check Unit.
Background of this news-
- Due to the controversy surrounding the concept, the Union government had delayed officially notifying the Fact Check Unit as there was ongoing litigation at the Bombay High Court challenging the provision.
- However, this month, the court decided not to prolong a temporary halt that prevented the government from implementing the rules.
Key points as per IT Rules, 2021-
- Mandates: In essence, the IT Rules (2021) demand that social media platforms exercise heightened diligence concerning the content present on their platforms. Legal obligation on intermediaries to make reasonable efforts to prevent users from uploading such content.
- Appoint a Grievance Officer: Social media platforms are mandated to set up a grievance redressal mechanism and promptly remove unlawful and inappropriate content within specified timeframes.
- Ensuring Online Safety and Dignity of Users: Intermediaries are obligated to remove or disable access within 24 hours upon receiving complaints about content that exposes individuals’ private areas, depicts them in full or partial nudity, shows them engaged in sexual acts, or involves impersonation, including morphed images
- Informing users about privacy policies is crucial: Social media platforms’ privacy policies should include measures to educate users about refraining from sharing copyrighted material and any content that could be considered defamatory, racially or ethnically offensive, promoting pedophilia, or threatening the unity, integrity, defense, security, or sovereignty of India or its friendly relations with foreign states, or violating any existing laws.
Fake news on social media can have several negative impacts on governments-
- Undermining Trust- Fake news can erode public trust in government institutions and officials. When false information spreads widely, it can lead to scepticism and doubt about the government’s credibility.
- Destabilizing Democracy- Misinformation can distort public perceptions of government policies and actions, potentially leading to unrest, protests, or even violence. This can destabilize democratic processes and undermine the functioning of government.
- Manipulating Public Opinion- Fake news can be strategically used to manipulate public opinion in favour of or against a particular government or political party. By spreading false narratives, individuals or groups can influence elections and policymaking processes.
- Impeding Policy Implementation- False information circulating on social media can create confusion and resistance to government policies and initiatives. This can impede the effective implementation of programs and reforms.
- Wasting Resources- Governments may be forced to allocate resources to address the fallout from fake news, such as conducting investigations, issuing clarifications, or combating disinformation campaigns. This diverts resources away from other important priorities.
- Fueling Division- Fake news can exacerbate social and political divisions within a country by spreading divisive narratives or inciting hatred and hostility towards certain groups or communities. This can further polarize society and hinder efforts towards unity and cohesion
Measures to Tackle Fake News on Social Media:
- Mandatory Fact-Checking: Implement a requirement for social media platforms to fact-check content before dissemination.
- Enhanced User Education: Promote media literacy and critical thinking skills to help users discern reliable information from fake news.
- Strengthened Regulation: Enforce stricter regulations on social media platforms to curb the spread of misinformation and hold them accountable for content moderation.
- Collaborative Verification: Foster partnerships between governments, fact-checking organizations, and social media platforms to verify the accuracy of information.
- Transparent Algorithms: Ensure transparency in algorithms used by social media platforms to prioritize content, reducing the spread of false information.
- Swift Removal of Violative Content: Establish mechanisms for prompt removal of fake news and penalize users or entities responsible for spreading it.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of fake news and promote responsible sharing practices.
Conclusion: To address misinformation, governments should enforce IT Rules (2021), empower fact-checking units, and promote media literacy. Collaboration between authorities, platforms, and citizens is vital for combating fake news and upholding democratic values.
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