Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to Climate change;
Why in the News?
Over nine years ago, the world promised to cut emissions significantly, but it hasn’t succeeded. As a result, the goal of keeping global warming below 1.5 degrees is now out of reach.
Is the 1.5°C Target Still Achievable?
- Rising Emissions: Global emissions are still increasing, with 2023 seeing record levels. Despite clean energy advancements, emissions reductions have been insufficient to meet the pace required for the 1.5°C target.
- Potential for Emission Peaking: The UNEP Emissions Gap Report suggests that emissions could peak by 2023 or 2024 if significant additional measures are taken, but global actions remain inconsistent and often insufficient.
- Need for Accelerated Action: For the 1.5°C goal, global emissions need to drop by at least 43% by 2030 from 2019 levels.
- Current projections indicate only a 2.6% reduction by 2030, far short of the required cuts.
- Technological and Financial Challenges: Achieving the 1.5°C target hinges on rapid technological deployment, energy transition, and substantial financing for climate action. However, these remain constrained by a lack of coordination and resources.
Implications of Exceeding the 1.5°C Limit
- Increased Frequency of Extreme Events: Exceeding 1.5°C would lead to more frequent and severe extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and intense storms.
- Impacts on Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Many species and ecosystems are sensitive to small temperature changes; coral reefs, for instance, face near-total collapse beyond 1.5°C warming.
- Threats to Human Health and Livelihoods: Exceeding 1.5°C could lead to more heat-related illnesses, loss of productivity, water scarcity, and risks to food security, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.
- Feedback Loops: Warming beyond 1.5°C may activate feedback loops (e.g., Arctic ice melt, permafrost thawing), which could lead to irreversible changes and make further warming difficult to control.
Should We Reconsider the Focus on the 1.5°C Target?
- Adaptation vs. Mitigation: Given the increasing difficulty of limiting warming to 1.5°C, some argue for a shift in focus towards adaptation strategies to manage the unavoidable impacts of higher temperatures.
- Realigning Expectations: While the 1.5°C target was critical to rally global climate action, a shift towards realistic, achievable goals may better support gradual but sustained progress, especially if mitigation pathways fall short.
- Moving Towards a ‘Just Transition’: With a likely overshoot of the 1.5°C target, there is a greater need to ensure that climate adaptation and resilience measures do not disproportionately burden low-income countries and communities.
- Science-Based Overshoot Scenarios: The IPCC and other scientific bodies continue to assess overshoot scenarios (e.g., temporarily exceeding 1.5°C and then returning below it later) to guide global climate strategies. However, returning to a lower temperature after an overshoot requires substantial and sustained negative emissions, which are currently unfeasible at scale.
Way forward:
- Prioritize Scalable Emissions Reductions and Resilient Adaptation: Accelerate global transition to renewable energy, improve energy efficiency, and reduce methane and other non-CO₂ emissions. Simultaneously, invest in adaptation measures to help vulnerable communities manage the impacts of warming beyond 1.5°C.
- Strengthen Climate Finance and International Cooperation: Mobilize substantial climate funding for developing nations to support both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Enhance cross-border technology sharing and policy alignment to enable collective, equitable climate action.
Mains PYQ:
Q ‘Climate change’ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (UPSC IAS/2017)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Presidential election of India and USA;
Why in the News?
In the US system, when people vote for a presidential candidate, they are actually voting to choose that candidate’s “electors,” who will then cast their votes for the President.
What is the structure and function of the Electoral College?
- Composition: The Electoral College consists of 538 electors. A candidate needs a majority of 270 electoral votes to win the presidency.
- Allocation of Electors: Each state’s number of electors equals its Congressional delegation (one for each House member and two for Senators). California has the most electors (54), while six states and the District of Columbia have the smallest allocation (3 each).
- Selection of Electors: Political parties select electors in each state before the election, typically choosing party loyalists or those with ties to the presidential candidate.
- Electoral Voting Process: Electors meet in their state capitals in December to cast their votes for President and Vice President. This is mostly a formality, as electors generally vote for their party’s candidate.
Note: The Electoral College is a body of 538 electors who elect the U.S. President and Vice President, reflecting the popular vote in each state.
How does the Electoral College impact election outcomes?
- Discrepancy Between Popular and Electoral Votes: Candidates can win the presidency without winning the national popular vote, as seen in the elections of 2000 and 2016. This discrepancy occurs due to the allocation of electoral votes based on state populations rather than a direct count of all votes.
- Focus on Swing States: The winner-takes-all system encourages candidates to concentrate their campaign efforts on a few key swing states, which can lead to disproportionate attention and resources being directed there, often neglecting voters in states where one party is overwhelmingly dominant.
- Strengthening the Two-Party System: The Electoral College reinforces a two-party system by making it challenging for third-party candidates to gain traction, as the winner-takes-all approach in most states discourages votes for non-major party candidates, leading to a perception that such votes are “wasted.”
What happens if no candidate receives a majority of electoral votes?
- House of Representatives Decides: If no candidate secures a majority of electoral votes, the election is decided by the House of Representatives, with each state delegation casting one vote for one of the top three candidates.
- Senate Elects Vice President: Concurrently, the Senate elects the Vice President from the top two candidates for that office.
- Historical Context: This scenario has occurred only a few times in U.S. history, most notably in the election of 1824 when John Quincy Adams was elected by the House after no candidate received a majority of electoral votes.
Difference between Indian and USA presidential election:
| Aspect |
India |
USA |
| Electoral Process |
Indirect election by an electoral college of MPs and state assembly members. |
Indirect election through the Electoral College, where citizens vote for electors. |
| Voting System |
Single transferable vote system, ensuring proportional representation. |
Winner-takes-all system in most states; majority wins all electoral votes. |
| Electoral College |
Comprised of elected representatives, totaling around 5,000 electors. |
Consists of 538 electors based on Congressional representation. |
| Majority Requirement |
Majority of electoral votes needed to win. |
270 electoral votes needed to win. |
| Frequency of Elections |
Every five years. |
Every four years. |
| Nature of the Position |
Primarily ceremonial; limited powers. |
Head of state and government; significant executive powers. |
| Campaigning |
Limited campaigning; party nominations prevail. |
Extensive campaigning; candidates raise funds and engage voters directly. |
| Political Parties |
Influenced by major parties, with independent candidates also eligible. |
Dominated by a two-party system (Democratic and Republican). |
Conclusion: The Electoral College consists of 538 electors, with a majority of 270 needed to win the presidency. It allocates electors based on state Congressional representation. It impacts elections by creating discrepancies between popular and electoral votes, focusing campaigns on swing states, and reinforcing a two-party system. If no majority is achieved, the House decides the president.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to case pendency;
Why in the News?
President Droupadi Murmu has called for an end to court delays. In the District Judiciary Conference, she said that frequent postponements make it hard for poor and rural people to seek justice, as they worry cases will take too long to resolve.
Primary Causes of Case Pendency and Frequent Adjournments in Indian Courts:
- Judge-Population Ratio: India has a low judge-to-population ratio, with only 21 judges per million people as of 2024, far below the Law Commission’s recommended 50 per million.
- Vacant Judicial Positions: Delays in filling judicial vacancies lead to understaffed courts, with 30% vacancies in High Courts, adding pressure on the existing judges.
- Additional Judicial Charges: Judges often handle multiple courts or specialized responsibilities, detracting from their ability to focus on primary cases and adding to delays.
- Complex Case Load: Courts are burdened by multiple types of cases, including civil, criminal, constitutional, and appeals, many of which end up in higher courts, leading to severe backlogs.
- Lack of Judicial-Impact Assessment: New laws increase the caseload, but without assessing the impact on court infrastructure, staffing, and resources, exacerbating delays.
- Delay in Witness Availability: Witnesses are often not available on time, which postpones court hearings and impacts trial timelines.
How can technology be leveraged to reduce case pendency?
- Digitization of Case Records: Electronic records reduce administrative delays in case filing, retrieval, and transfer between courts.
- AI-Powered Case Management Systems: AI can assist in case prioritization, track progress, and predict possible delays, enabling judges and clerks to streamline schedules more effectively.
- E-Courts and Video Conferencing: Virtual hearings can expedite proceedings, especially for remote cases or minor disputes, saving travel and scheduling time.
- Automation of Routine Processes: Automating administrative tasks like case status updates, notifications, and scheduling can reduce clerical delays and improve transparency for litigants.
- Data Analytics for Judicial Insights: Predictive analytics can help in understanding case patterns, enabling policymakers to make data-driven decisions on judicial staffing and resources.
What reforms are necessary to improve judicial efficiency and reduce backlog? (Way forward)
- Filling Vacancies and Enhancing Judge Numbers: Quick action on filling judicial vacancies is critical, along with increasing sanctioned positions to meet the demands of the population and growing caseload.
- Implementing Judicial-Impact Assessments: Adopting the recommendations of the Justice M. Jagannadha Rao Committee for pre-legislative impact assessment would ensure adequate resources accompany new laws.
- Expanding Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Scaling up mediation centers and incentivizing ADR methods can resolve disputes outside court, decreasing the burden on the judiciary.
- Dedicated Special Courts: Establishing well-staffed, specialized courts for specific categories (e.g., economic offenses, family disputes) would help reduce strain on regular courts.
- No Additional Charge Policy for Judges: Assigning a single focus area per judge ensures concentration on cases without undue burdens, leading to higher efficiency and better judgment quality.
- Periodic Judicial Training: Regular training on case management and technological tools can empower judges and court staff to adapt to evolving needs, reducing inefficiencies.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Population Issues; Cultural issues in the Society; Child marriage;
Why in the News?
In the recent judgment of Society for Enlightenment and Voluntary Action v. Union of India, the SC has shifted the focus in child marriage cases from punishing criminal acts to addressing the “harm inflicted on the victim.”
What is the law on Child Marriage?
- Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (PCMA): Defines child marriage as one where the husband is under 21 years or the wife is under 18.
- Such marriages are voidable: The underage person can choose to cancel the marriage, but until they do, it is still legally recognized.
- State Variations: In Karnataka and Haryana, child marriages are void from the beginning, without the need for annulment.
- Annulment vs. Divorce: Annulment treats the marriage as if it never took place, while divorce ends an existing marriage. To get an annulment under the PCMA, it only needs to be shown that one person was underage at the time.
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Why are there concerns about using criminal action to tackle child marriage?
- Although the marriage remains valid unless annulled, related activities are criminalized under PCMA, BNS, and POCSO, such as promoting or performing child marriages and sexual activity with a minor.
- Criminal provisions can lead to charges against the girl’s family members (parents, husband, in-laws), leaving her without support and creating barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare.
- Studies reveal criminal provisions are used more in self-initiated marriages than arranged ones, overlooking the complexities of these cases.
- Some adolescents may choose marriage to escape abusive environments or forced marriage, often seeing it as a way to assert their agency in a restrictive society.
Why is the SC judgment significant?
- Social and Economic Barriers: Women who leave child marriages often face significant social and economic penalties. The SC judgment proposes skill development, vocational training, economic stability programs, rehabilitation services, and victim compensation to support them.
- Empowering Women in Child Marriages: Some women prefer to remain married but need support to advocate for themselves. The judgment calls for tools to help them make decisions about reproductive rights, employment, and education.
- Sex Education for Adolescents: The judgment emphasizes sex education, equipping young people with skills and knowledge to navigate relationships and improve agency.
- Holistic Approach: By moving away from solely criminal prosecution to focus on empowerment and support, the SC judgment provides a more comprehensive, agency-affirming response to child marriage.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Support Systems: Develop targeted programs for skill training, financial assistance, and rehabilitation to help individuals exit child marriages, promoting economic stability and social reintegration.
- Enhance Education and Awareness: Implement comprehensive sex education and awareness initiatives in communities to empower young individuals and discourage child marriage through informed decision-making and better access to reproductive rights.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Empowering women is the key to controlling the population growth.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)
Q Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree? (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to EPR;
Why in the News?
The Indian government’s 2022 “Extended Producer Responsibility” guidelines mark progress, but a recent report states that stronger measures are needed to fully enforce the “polluter pays” principle in plastic waste management, per a recent CSE report.
What is the CSE report?
- A CSE report is a publication by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a prominent Delhi-based think tank focused on environmental research and advocacy.
- CSE reports analyze pressing environmental issues, often providing data-driven insights and policy recommendations.
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach where producers are given significant financial and sometimes operational responsibility for the treatment or disposal of post-consumer products.
- The primary goal of EPR is to make manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, especially in terms of environmental impact, by ensuring that they take part in the collection, recycling, and disposal processes.
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Extent of the misuse of EPR certificates in India’s plastic recycling industry
- Fake Certificates: An assessment by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and findings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed the generation of over 700,000 fake recycling certificates, indicating widespread fraud among plastic recyclers.
- Certificate Inflation: Some processors and recyclers reported volumes vastly exceeding their registered capacities.
- For example, cement plants engaged in end-of-life co-processing claimed to process 335.4 million tonnes annually, despite an actual capacity of only 11.4 million tonnes.
- Undermined Trust: Fraudulent activities result in artificially low certificate prices, undermining the credibility of the EPR system and making it difficult to accurately track plastic waste management.
How does this impact environmental compliance and plastic waste management?
- Underreported Waste Generation: PIBOs introduced 23.9 million tonnes of plastic packaging in April 2022, translating to an annual waste generation of approximately 8 million tonnes. However, CPCB’s estimate of 4.1 million tonnes of plastic waste generation annually indicates significant underreporting.
- Limited Stakeholder Participation: The absence of key contributors, such as urban local bodies and informal waste collectors from the EPR system, reduces traceability and leaves much of the waste management burden on local governments.
- Compromised Recycling Integrity: Due to low-cost fraudulent certificates, genuine recycling efforts suffer from underfunding and inadequate regulation, jeopardizing sustainable plastic waste management efforts and hindering the implementation of the “polluter pays” principle.
What measures can be implemented to improve oversight and accountability within the EPR framework?
- Inclusion of Informal Sector: Recognizing and formalizing the role of informal waste collectors and urban local bodies within the EPR framework could enhance waste collection, segregation, and recycling rates, creating a more transparent value chain.
- Combatting Fraud: Strengthening the auditing and certification process to identify and remove fraudulent recyclers and processors, supported by stricter legal and financial penalties, would help deter misuse.
- Transparent Reporting: Enhancing the EPR portal to ensure accurate data collection on plastic waste generation and disposal, and setting fair prices for recycling certificates to prevent undervaluation.
- Standardizing Products: By mandating uniform standards for plastic packaging materials and designs, recyclability could be improved, reducing contamination and making recycling more effective.
- Enhanced Monitoring and Accountability: Strengthening CPCB and State Pollution Control Boards’ (SPCBs) monitoring capacity and ensuring consistent enforcement of guidelines at both the state and central levels.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), International Monitoring System (IMS)
Why in the News?
- Two earthquakes struck Iran sparking rumours of a nuclear test.
- However, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) in Vienna swiftly refuted these claims using its International Monitoring System (IMS) designed to detect nuclear tests.
About International Monitoring System (IMS):
- IMS is a global monitoring network established by the CTBTO to detect nuclear explosions anywhere in the world.
- It is a global network of over 300 monitoring facilities across 89 countries, using seismic, infrasound, hydroacoustic, and radionuclide technologies to detect nuclear explosions worldwide.
- The CTBTO shares IMS data with member-states in near real-time, ensuring access to accurate, verified data.
- Over 16 gigabytes of data are transmitted daily from IMS stations to the CTBTO’s International Data Centre (IDC) in Vienna.
- Analysts use this IMS data to distinguish natural events (like earthquakes) from nuclear explosions.
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About Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO):
|
Details |
| Location |
Based in Vienna, Austria. |
| Established |
Created to implement the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), opened for signature in 1996. |
| Purpose of the CTBT |
Aims to ban all nuclear explosions worldwide, regardless of purpose (military or civilian). |
| Key Elements of the CTBT |
• Total Ban on Nuclear Tests: Prohibits all nuclear explosions.
• Verification Mechanisms: Establishes a global monitoring network and allows for on-site inspections.
• Distant Monitoring by IMS: Employs technologies for monitoring compliance. |
| Signature and Ratification |
Signed by 183 states and ratified by 164; has not entered into force as eight specific states among 44 Annex-2 states have yet to ratify. |
| Key Non-Ratifying States |
The states that have not ratified the treaty include United States, China, Iran, Egypt, Israel, India, Pakistan, and North Korea. |
| Compliance Verification |
CTBT establishes a global monitoring network of over 300 facilities for detection and verification, along with provisions for on-site inspections. |
| Significance |
Plays a crucial role in global efforts toward nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, fostering international cooperation and stability. |
PYQ:
[2018] What is/are the consequence/consequences of a country becoming the member of the ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’?
- It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies.
- It automatically becomes a member of “The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)”.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[2011] Recently, the USA decided to support India’s membership in multilateral export control regimes called the “Australia Group” and the “Wassenaar Arrangement”. What is the difference between them?
- The Australia Group is an informal arrangement which aims to allow exporting countries to minimize the risk of assisting chemical and biological weapons proliferation, whereas the Wassenaar Arrangement is a formal group under the OECD holding identical objectives.
- The Australia Group comprises predominantly Asian, African and North American countries whereas the member countries of Wassenaar Arrangement are predominantly from the European Union and American Continents.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Importance of Myanmar;
Why in the News?
The 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane highlighted growing regional issues, especially Myanmar’s crisis. Despite ASEAN’s peace efforts, Myanmar’s turmoil persists, testing the group’s commitment to stability.
What are the key challenges facing ASEAN and India in their efforts to stabilize Myanmar?
- Lack of Consensus within ASEAN: ASEAN’s principle of consensus-based decision-making complicates strong, unified responses.
- Nations like Indonesia and Malaysia advocate for firm action, while others, including Thailand and Laos, maintain closer ties with Myanmar’s military government, slowing decisive actions.
- Failure of the Five-Point Consensus: Despite ASEAN’s efforts to enforce the 2021 Five-Point Consensus, which mandates an end to violence and inclusive dialogue, Myanmar’s military has shown little interest in cooperating, undermining ASEAN’s credibility.
- Exclusion of Key Groups: ASEAN’s initiatives mainly engage the junta without including the National Unity Government (NUG) or Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), limiting the inclusiveness and effectiveness of peace efforts.
- Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Myanmar’s civil war has led to massive displacement and humanitarian needs, with over 18.6 million people requiring aid.
- This poses logistical and diplomatic challenges for ASEAN and complicates India’s border security and refugee policies.
- Balancing Regional and Security Concerns for India: India faces a dilemma balancing its Act East Policy objectives and the need for stability on its Myanmar border.
- Issues such as cross-border militancy, illegal activities, and the refugee crisis strain India’s relations with the junta and impact regional connectivity projects.
How can Inclusive dialogue be achieved among all stakeholders in Myanmar?
- ASEAN must involve non-state actors like the NUG, EAOs, and the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) in dialogue efforts to ensure all key groups have a stake in Myanmar’s peace process.
- Thailand’s recent ‘Troika’ proposal to host talks with ASEAN chairs (current, past, and future) and possibly other stakeholders indicates a potential pathway for more flexible discussions, albeit with the need for junta cooperation and broader participant involvement.
- Establishing humanitarian corridors that operate beyond junta-controlled areas, with the cooperation of EAOs, could lay the groundwork for inclusive engagement and build trust among conflicting parties.
What role does India’s Foreign Policy play in addressing the Myanmar crisis? (Way forward)
- Strategic Engagement and Regional Connectivity: Under its Act East Policy, India invests in key infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, linking Myanmar and ASEAN.
- Balanced Relations with Junta and Democracy Advocates: Need to principles of non-interference, India maintains ties with Myanmar’s military and democratic groups, addressing security needs while ethically supporting democratic aspirations.
- As per Gujral Doctrine: India should engage constructively with Myanmar, respecting its sovereignty, promoting regional connectivity, and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders to enhance stability and mutual prosperity.
Mains PYQ:
Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Women Reservation; Implication of reservation in politics;
Why in the News?
The Centre has hinted that the delayed Census might begin next year and finish by 2026, which would play a key role in redrawing constituencies and starting women’s reservations in elected bodies.
What are the implications of the Women’s Reservation Bill for women’s political representation in India?
- Increased Representation: The bill, once implemented, will reserve 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women, marking a significant increase in women’s representation and fostering a more inclusive legislative environment.
- Long-Term Social Change: With more women in legislative positions, issues relevant to women’s rights, safety, and empowerment could receive greater legislative focus, driving long-term societal shifts toward gender equality.
- Gradual Integration: By mandating women’s reservation for 15 years post-implementation, the bill allows time for systemic integration of women into Indian politics, potentially encouraging more women to enter politics.
Key features of the Women’s Reservation Bill:
- Reservation of Seats: The bill reserves one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, including those seats already reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
- Implementation Timeline: The reservation will come into effect after the next census is conducted and published, which has not yet been scheduled. The law is set to remain in place for 15 years, with provisions for extension.
- Rotating Constituencies: Reserved seats will be rotated after each delimitation exercise to ensure fair representation across different regions.
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How does the delimitation process affect the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill?
- Dependency on Delimitation: The reservation will only be implemented following a census-based delimitation exercise, making the timeline for reservation contingent on the next Census, expected to conclude in 2026.
- Thus, the reservation may only be actionable around the 2029 general elections.
- Impact on Seat Allocation: The delimitation exercise will likely increase the total seats in the Lok Sabha, which could make implementing the 33% reservation less disruptive.
- For example, if Lok Sabha seats rise to around 770, this will allow for a more balanced accommodation of both male and female representatives without substantial loss of seats for male incumbents.
Challenges and Criticisms Surrounding the Women’s Reservation Bill and Its Implementation:
- Delay in Implementation: As the reservation is contingent on delimitation, the immediate impact of the bill remains deferred.
- Critics argue that the reservation could be enacted sooner if it did not depend on the Census and delimitation.
- Intra-Party Resistance: Male incumbents might resist the bill due to concerns over losing their seats, and political parties might face difficulties balancing this resistance with the need for compliance, despite an increase in overall seats.
- Exclusion of Other Marginalized Women: The bill lacks sub-quotas for women from marginalized communities, such as SC/ST/OBCs, sparking criticism that it may predominantly benefit women from privileged backgrounds rather than addressing the political representation gap for all women.
- Dependence on Census Accuracy: Any delays or inaccuracies in Census data could delay the bill’s impact or result in skewed representation due to reliance on outdated demographic data.
Way forward:
- Expedite Delimitation and Census: Streamline Census and delimitation processes to ensure timely data collection and boundary adjustments, enabling earlier implementation of the reservation without prolonged delays.
- Include Sub-Quotas for Marginalized Women: Introduce provisions for SC/ST/OBC sub-quotas within the reservation to ensure fair representation of women from diverse social backgrounds, addressing inclusivity concerns in political representation.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment. (UPSC IAS/2019)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Democracy and Challenges in India;
Why in the News?
In her book “Democracy on Trial: Majoritarianism and Dissent in India”, Zoya Hasan points out that, though India’s democracy is strong in elections, it has struggled with fairness and freedoms due to growing majoritarianism since 2014.
What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?
- Majoritarian Politics: Since a decade ago, India’s democracy has seen a shift toward majoritarianism, with the rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, facing marginalization.
- This tilt toward majoritarian views fosters unequal treatment, weakening the universal protection of civil liberties and undermining the democratic principles of inclusion and equality.
- Compromised Media Landscape: Traditionally, media acted as a watchdog on power, but now it frequently functions as a government advocate.
- This shift has narrowed public discourse on civil rights and accountability, reducing the media’s role in preserving civil liberties.
- Legislation Targeting Minorities: Laws such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) are seen as religiously discriminatory, especially when considered with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
- Such laws challenge the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights for all citizens, placing undue pressure on certain communities and further eroding civil liberties.
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Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:
- Judicial Autonomy and its Challenges: While the judiciary has traditionally been a pillar of democracy, recent trends indicate compromised judicial independence.
- There are instances where courts appear reluctant to challenge the executive because political pressure may be impacting judicial autonomy, thereby diminishing an essential check on power.
- Media’s Decline as a Check on Power: Media independence has weakened as corporate and political influences have taken root, limiting its role in holding power to account.
- Legislative and Executive Power Dynamics: The increasing concentration of power within the executive, combined with a legislative body that often aligns with the ruling agenda, limits checks and balances.
Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:
- Divisive Identity Politics: Identity-based polarization is intensifying, with significant events such as the Ayodhya dispute and the Shaheen Bagh protests illustrating how political narratives can frame majority identities against minority rights.
- Silencing of Dissent: Governmental responses to protests, like those against the CAA, often include the use of force, indicating reduced tolerance for opposition.
Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:
- Voter Education and Awareness Campaigns: The ECI has launched extensive voter education campaigns to promote awareness about the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
- Monitoring and Regulation of Political Parties: The ECI has increased scrutiny over political parties’ funding and activities to ensure transparency.
- Strengthening Electoral Laws: Recent amendments to electoral laws have been made to enhance the integrity of elections.
- Use of Technology: The ECI has implemented technology-driven solutions such as Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and reliability in the voting process.
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Way forward:
- Strengthening Institutional Independence: Reinforce the autonomy of key institutions like the judiciary, media, and law enforcement through stricter legal safeguards and transparent appointment processes.
- Promoting Inclusive and Balanced Governance: Establish mechanisms to ensure equal representation and protection for all communities, addressing grievances through impartial review processes. Implementing inclusive governance policies can help counter majoritarian biases and foster a more cohesive democratic environment.
Mains PYQ:
Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Women Empowerment; Impact of solar energy production on society;
Why in the News?
Rooftop solar (RTS) can transform India’s energy landscape by providing a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution for rising electricity needs and could empower consumers (women and other sections of society) toward greater self-reliance.
How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?
- Income Generation and Financial Independence: Solar technology enables women to generate income directly, especially in rural areas where traditional energy sources are scarce or costly.
- For instance, solar-powered pumps have empowered women salt farmers in Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, who, after shifting from diesel to solar, saw a 94% income boost and lower CO₂ emissions.
- Employment Opportunities: The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, employing around 4.9 million people in 2022, has been particularly impactful for women, who make up about 40% of its workforce.
- Empowerment Programs: Initiatives like Barefoot College in India and Solar Sister in Africa train women as solar engineers. These programs enhance skills, improve self-reliance, and create employment in remote communities.
What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?
- Community Well-being and Social Development: Women’s participation in the solar sector promotes local economic growth and strengthens social structures.
- Leadership and Decision-Making: When women lead or actively participate in renewable energy projects, they often advocate for inclusive policies and better community engagement.
- Gender-Sensitive Energy Policies: Women’s involvement highlights the need for energy policies that address the unique needs of women, improving both economic participation and social inclusion.
What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?
- Access to Training and Financing: Women often face limited access to training and funding.
- Overcoming these barriers requires accessible, affordable training programs in solar technology, as well as microfinance schemes specifically for women-led renewable energy projects.
- Gender Bias and Occupational Segregation: The renewable energy sector, like many others, is affected by gender biases that can limit women’s roles to lower-level positions.
- To address this, it’s important to promote women’s leadership and equal opportunities through gender-sensitive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
- Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Energy access policies frequently lack a gender perspective, which limits their reach and inclusiveness.
- Integrating gender-focused policies in energy and rural development sectors can enhance the socio-economic impacts of solar energy for women.
Conclusion: Governments should integrate gender-focused policies within renewable energy frameworks, ensuring accessible financing options and training programs specifically for women. Microfinance schemes and subsidies for women-led solar projects can foster broader participation.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India’s Imports and Exports; Impact of global crises on fertilizer;
Why in the News?
As the crises in Ukraine and Gaza persist, experts and policymakers are increasingly concerned about further rises in the costs of components essential for producing petroleum-based chemical fertilizers.
Current Scenario of Fertilizer Imports:
- India’s domestic fertilizer production capacity does not meet the full demand, requiring substantial imports to bridge the gap.
- Urea: Approximately 20% of India’s urea requirement is met through imports.
- Diammonium Phosphate (DAP): Around 50-60% of DAP demand is fulfilled by imports.
- Muriate of Potassium (MOP or Potash): 100% of India’s MOP demand is met through imports, as there is no domestic production.
- The Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers (August 2023) expressed concern about India’s dependence on imports for fertilizers, recommending an increase in domestic production capacity.
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How did the conflict in Ukraine impact the Global Fertilizer Market?
- Market Instability: Ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza are disrupting the stability of the global fertilizer market, particularly affecting the prices of oil and petroleum-based fertilizers.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: These conflicts affect global supply chains, particularly for fertilizer-producing countries such as Russia, which has been a significant source of fertilizer imports for India.
- Price Volatility: Higher oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Gaza indirectly drive up costs of fertilizers, as these are often by-products of petroleum.
Its effects on India
- Rising Import Costs: Increased global fertilizer prices lead to higher import costs for India, putting pressure on the fertilizer subsidy budget.
- Potential Supply Constraints: India’s reliance on imports from conflict-affected regions like Russia and West Asia (including the Middle East) poses risks of reduced fertilizer availability.
- Budget Strain: India’s fertilizer subsidy allocation for 2023-24 was ₹1.79 lakh crore, with substantial amounts dedicated to both indigenous and imported fertilizers.
- Need for Self-Reliance: The conflicts underscore the importance for India to reduce dependency on imports by increasing domestic production capacity, promoting alternatives like nano urea, and exploring sustainable practices like natural farming.
Steps taken by the government:
- New Investment Policy (NIP): NIP supports new urea manufacturing units by PSUs and private companies, boosting production capacity from 207.54 LMTPA in 2014-15 to 283.74 LMTPA.
- Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS): The government included Potash from Molasses under NBS in 2021, encouraging local production and reducing import dependency.
- Public-Private Joint Ventures: PSUs and private firms collaborate in urea production, establishing units like the Ramagundam Fertilizers in Telangana and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan plants in northern states.
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Way forward:
- Boost Domestic Production: Increase India’s fertilizer production capacity through investment in domestic infrastructure and support for nano urea and alternative sustainable fertilizers to reduce import dependency.
- Adopt Policy Reforms: Implement policies promoting self-reliance in fertilizers, with targeted subsidies and incentives for private, public, and cooperative sectors to enhance production and ensure affordable supply amidst global market volatility.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: United Nations; Role of UN peacekeeper;
Why in the News?
During mid-October, 34 UNIFIL troop-contributing Nations condemned attacks on peacekeepers and urged respect for UNIFIL’s mission. Although not listed, India expressed full alignment with the joint statement.
About UNIFIL:
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) is a peacekeeping mission established in 1978, focused on monitoring the cessation of hostilities, supporting Lebanese stability, and ensuring security along the Lebanon-Israel Blue Line. |
What prompted the condemnation from India and Spain regarding the attacks on UN peacekeepers?
- Repeated Targeting of Peacekeepers: Peacekeepers, including Indian personnel, faced direct attacks, such as IDF tank fire on UNIFIL positions and deliberate disabling of surveillance systems. Spain, along with other European countries, condemned these attacks as “unjustifiable.”
- Violation of International Norms: These attacks on UN peacekeeping personnel and facilities violated the UN mandate, undermining the peacekeepers’ protection under international humanitarian law. Both India and Spain view this as a significant breach of norms that safeguard the sanctity of UN missions.
- Response to Escalating Risk to Peacekeepers: Statements from both India and Spain emphasized the need for respecting UN premises’ “inviolability” and maintaining safety for peacekeepers amidst escalations, underscoring the importance of ensuring the protection and security of peacekeepers.
What is the significance of UNIFIL’s role in Lebanon, and how do India and Spain view it?
- Peacekeeping and Stability: UNIFIL is crucial in mediating and maintaining peace along the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon. Its presence serves as a stabilizing force, helping prevent spillovers of conflict, which is essential for regional peace.
- India’s Role as a Major Contributor: With 903 personnel deployed, India plays a substantial role in peacekeeping efforts, reflecting its commitment to UN missions and highlighting the need for global respect toward UN mandates.
- Spain’s Support for UNIFIL’s Mission: Spain aligns with other European countries in reinforcing UNIFIL’s role in regional stability. By condemning attacks, Spain emphasizes the importance of this mission in Lebanon and, by extension, its support for UN peacekeeping mandates globally.
How do these events relate to broader geopolitical tensions in the region?
- Regional Escalations and Proxy Conflicts: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly in Lebanon, feeds into broader geopolitical dynamics involving Israeli security concerns, Lebanese stability, and Iran’s influence through Hezbollah.
- Impact on Global Diplomacy: The hostilities and targeting of UN peacekeepers may strain diplomatic relations, as countries urge Israel to respect international norms and safeguard peacekeepers. This may influence the UN Security Council’s approach, emphasizing a unified international stance against actions threatening UN missions.
- Pressure on Multinational Cooperation and Regional Security: The events underscore the risks of operating in volatile zones where multinational peacekeeping efforts face direct threats.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Diplomatic Engagement: India should actively engage with the UN Security Council and regional stakeholders to advocate for stringent measures ensuring the protection of UN peacekeepers and upholding the sanctity of UN mandates in conflict zones.
- Enhance Contingency Protocols for Peacekeepers: India should work with UNIFIL and other troop-contributing countries to strengthen on-ground security protocols and response mechanisms.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Sustainable production;
Why in the News?
India’s Anusandhan National Research Foundation and the BioE3 policy promote academia-industry collaboration, driving the bioeconomy for economic growth, sustainability, and climate action commitment.
What is BioE3 policy?
The BioE3 policy aims to transform chemical industries into sustainable bio-based models, promoting biotechnology to drive economic growth, protect the environment, and create jobs, supporting India’s sustainable development and climate goals. |
Primary Environmental impacts associated with FMCG production and consumption:
- Resource Depletion: The production of FMCGs often requires significant natural resources, such as water, energy, and raw materials. For example, palm oil, widely used in food and personal care products, leads to deforestation when forests are cleared for plantations.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The manufacturing and distribution of FMCGs contribute to greenhouse gas emissions at multiple stages, from sourcing raw materials to production processes and transportation.
- Waste Generation: FMCGs, especially those with single-use packaging (e.g., plastics), generate a considerable amount of waste, which ends up in landfills or the ocean, causing environmental pollution.
- Water Pollution: The production and use of FMCGs, such as soaps, detergents, and other chemicals, can lead to water pollution through the discharge of untreated wastewater containing harmful substances.
- Loss of Biodiversity: The agricultural practices used to source raw materials like palm oil can lead to habitat destruction, thereby threatening biodiversity. Monoculture farming and deforestation disrupt ecosystems and endanger wildlife.
How can FMCG companies implement sustainable practices across their supply chains?
- Companies should adopt responsible sourcing policies, such as using certified sustainable palm oil and other raw materials that adhere to ‘No Deforestation, No Peat’ policies.
- Implementing energy-efficient processes, switching to renewable energy sources, and optimizing logistics to reduce emissions can minimize the carbon footprint across the supply chain.
- Emphasizing recycling, reusing materials, and developing biodegradable or compostable packaging can help reduce waste and resource depletion.
- The integration of bio-based or synthetic alternatives to traditional materials can also be beneficial.
- Companies should implement measures to reduce water usage in manufacturing and treat wastewater to prevent water pollution.
- Working with smallholder farmers to implement regenerative agricultural practices can help restore soil health, improve biodiversity, and support sustainable livelihoods.
What metrics should be used to measure the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives in FMCGs?
- Carbon Footprint Reduction: Tracking greenhouse gas emissions across the supply chain and setting targets for reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
- Sustainable Sourcing Percentage: Measuring the proportion of raw materials sourced sustainably, such as certified palm oil or recycled materials.
- Waste Reduction and Recycling Rates: Monitoring the volume of waste generated, the amount sent to landfills, and the recycling rate of packaging materials.
- Water Usage and Pollution Levels: Tracking water consumption in production and measuring the quality of wastewater discharged to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
- Biodiversity Impact: Assessing the effect of sourcing practices on ecosystems and tracking initiatives to protect or restore biodiversity.
- Product Sustainability Index: Developing a sustainability index for products that takes into account their entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Collaboration and Innovation: Foster partnerships between academia, industry, and government to drive research and development of sustainable alternatives to traditional materials, such as palm oil, and implement innovative practices throughout the FMCG supply chain.
- Implement Comprehensive Sustainability Frameworks: Establish regulatory frameworks that incentivize sustainable practices, including mandatory reporting on sustainability metrics, eco-labelling for products, and support for circular economy initiatives to minimize waste and resource depletion.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Supreme court role;
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court ruled that Aadhaar cards cannot be accepted as proof of age, as other official documents like the School Leaving Certificate are more appropriate for this purpose.
What are the legal implications of the SC’s ruling on Aadhaar as proof of date of birth?
- The ruling reinforces the legal stance that Aadhaar is primarily intended for identity verification rather than as a document for verifying age or date of birth. This aligns with the previous Supreme Court judgment in 2018, which defined Aadhaar as “proof of identity” rather than proof of age or residence.
- By citing the Juvenile Justice Act and previous HC judgments, the SC emphasized that statutory provisions and established legal precedents should guide the determination of age.
- This consistency ensures that legal processes are not diluted by using documents like Aadhaar, which lack stringent verification for date of birth.
- The ruling adheres to UIDAI’s own circular, which states that Aadhaar is not intended to serve as proof of date of birth. This reduces potential misuse or misinterpretation of the Aadhaar card’s scope and usage.
How will this decision impact individuals and agencies that utilize Aadhaar for identity verification?
- Impact on Identity Verification Practices: While Aadhaar remains a valid document for identity verification, organizations and institutions will need to reassess the supporting documents they accept for age-related verification.
- For instance, banks, insurance companies, and government agencies may need to request additional documents when the date of birth is a critical factor.
- Review of Policies in Government Schemes: Agencies implementing government schemes may need to revise their processes to comply with this ruling, ensuring that alternative documents are requested for verifying age-related eligibility.
- Impact on Legal and Compensation Cases: In cases where age is a factor in calculating benefits, legal entities must rely on more reliable documents, such as birth certificates or school records, instead of Aadhaar.
What alternative documents can be used for verifying the DoB following this ruling?
- School Leaving Certificate/Matriculation Certificate: This is often considered the most reliable document for verifying the age of an individual, as it is issued based on records from the time of schooling.
- Birth Certificate: The birth certificate remains the primary document for establishing a person’s date of birth as it is issued by a government authority at the time of birth.
- Passport: As an official government document that undergoes strict verification, the passport can serve as valid proof of age.
- Government-issued Certificates (e.g., PAN Card): While not always requested for age verification, documents like the PAN card can also be used in some cases where other primary documents are unavailable.
- Driver’s License or Voter ID (if Date of Birth is Mentioned): These documents, where the date of birth is explicitly recorded, could be used as supporting evidence for age verification.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Guidelines for Acceptable Age Verification Documents: Government agencies, financial institutions, and service providers should clearly outline which documents are accepted for age verification, prioritizing reliable records like birth certificates and school certificates to ensure consistency and compliance.
- Enhance Public Awareness on Aadhaar’s Usage Limitations: The government should initiate campaigns to educate citizens about Aadhaar’s limitations as age proof and encourage the use of appropriate documents for age-related matters, reducing confusion and potential legal disputes.
Mains PYQ:
Q Two parallel run schemes of the Government, viz the Adhar card and NPM, one of voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations. On merits , discuss whether or not both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve development benefits and equitable growth (UPSC IAS/2014)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India-USA relation;
Why in the News?
The recent news highlights how Donald Trump has been leveraging Kamala Harris’s multifaceted identity—being Black, Indian-American, and a woman—to create divisions within the Democratic Party’s diverse coalition.
How does Kamala Harris’s multifaceted identity impact her political positioning?
- Diverse Representation: Kamala Harris’s identity as a Black woman of Indian descent allows her to connect with multiple voter demographics, potentially uniting diverse groups under a common political agenda.
- Target for Opposition: Her identity also makes her a target for opponents, like Donald Trump, who may attempt to exploit racial and cultural tensions to drive wedges within the Democratic base.
- Advocacy for Intersectionality: Harris’s multifaceted identity supports her advocacy for policies that address various forms of discrimination, appealing to progressive voters who value diversity and inclusion.
Supreme Court Ruling on Minority on June 2023:
- Violation of Equal Protection: The Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling declared Harvard and UNC’s (University of North Carolina) race-based admissions unconstitutional, citing violations of the Equal Protection Clause and racial stereotyping.
- Minority Representation: The decision is likely to decrease African-American enrollment at top universities while benefiting Asian-American admissions, raising concerns about equity.
- The ruling could extend beyond higher education, affecting K-12 schooling and race-related employment practices under Title VII.
| K-12 education refers to the comprehensive educational system that spans from kindergarten (K) through 12th grade. This structure is designed to provide a standardized framework for formal education, primarily in the United States, Canada, and several other countries. |
What are the implications of the SC’s ruling on affirmative action for Minority Groups?
- Shift in Demographics: The Supreme Court’s ruling, which prohibits race-based considerations in college admissions, has resulted in a significant decrease in African-American representation at prestigious universities while benefiting Asian-American admissions.
- Heightened Tensions: The ruling exacerbates existing tensions between different minority groups, particularly between African Americans and Asian-Americans, as the latter may perceive an advantage in admissions due to the ruling, creating conflict over perceived equity in opportunities.
- Reevaluation of Policies: Minority groups may need to reassess their strategies for achieving representation and equity in educational and professional fields in light of changing admission policies and their implications on access.
How do intersectional conflicts among minority groups manifest in contemporary politics?
- Competing Interests: Conflicts arise when minority groups, such as African-Americans and Asian-Americans, have differing views on policies like affirmative action, leading to a fragmented approach to addressing discrimination and inequality.
- Political Polarization: Issues like immigration and welfare policies create further divisions, as different groups may align with political parties based on how they perceive their interests are being served or threatened.
- Influence on Electoral Dynamics: The intersections of race, ethnicity, and social issues complicate the electoral landscape, as political candidates and parties navigate these dynamics to appeal to various voting blocs, often leading to strategic alignments or divisions within the broader minority coalition.
Conclusion: Kamala Harris’s identity influences U.S. politics, highlighting racial dynamics and intersectional conflicts. The Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling fuels tensions among minority groups, while the election’s outcome could reshape U.S.-India relations and diaspora engagement policies.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Health Care; Passive Euthanasia; Palliative Care;
Why in the News?
Min. of Health and Family Welfare issued draft Guidelines for the withdrawal of life support in terminally ill Patients, aimed at implementing the Supreme Court’s 2018 and 2023 rulings that uphold the right to die with dignity for all Indians.
What is Passive euthanasia?
Passive euthanasia involves allowing a terminally ill patient to die naturally by withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments, like ventilators when they no longer provide benefits. |
What are the draft guidelines released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare?
- The guidelines aim to operationalize the Supreme Court’s 2018 and 2023 orders, which recognize the right to die with dignity as part of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
- Key Mechanisms Proposed:
- Primary and Secondary Medical Boards: Hospitals are required to set up these boards to determine when further medical treatment for a terminally ill patient would no longer be beneficial.
- Nomination of Doctors: District Chief Medical Officers will nominate doctors to serve on Secondary Medical Boards to confirm or reject the Primary Medical Board’s recommendations.
- While India does not have dedicated legislation on withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment, these guidelines and the Supreme Court’s judgments provide a defined legal framework to make these actions lawful.
What is meant by withholding/withdrawing life-sustaining treatment?
- It refers to discontinuing medical interventions, such as ventilators or feeding tubes, when they no longer contribute to the patient’s recovery or only prolong suffering.
- Life-sustaining treatments replace essential bodily functions artificially (e.g., mechanical ventilation, artificial nutrition).
- The intention is to allow the underlying illness to take its natural course while providing comfort care, focusing on symptomatic relief and palliative care.
- The right to refuse medical treatment is recognized under common law and is considered part of India’s fundamental right to life and personal liberty (Article 21).
Is Withholding/Withdrawing treatment akin to giving up on the patient?
- Withholding or withdrawing treatment does not mean the doctor is giving up on the patient. It is an acknowledgment that continued medical intervention may no longer be beneficial and could cause unnecessary suffering.
- The process involves shifting the focus from life-sustaining measures to palliative care to manage pain and ensure the patient’s comfort.
- Often, doctors practice “discharge against medical advice” because of misconceptions about the legality of withholding/withdrawing treatment. This practice leads to patients suffering without appropriate care.
What medical procedure is laid down by the SC and reaffirmed by the guidelines?
- Primary Medical Board assessment: A hospital-level board, including the treating doctor and two experienced experts, evaluates the patient’s condition to recommend withholding/withdrawing treatment.
- Secondary Medical Board review: A different board, nominated by the district Chief Medical Officer, reviews the Primary Board’s decision for an additional level of checks.
- Consent and Judicial notification: Consent from the patient’s surrogate decision-makers or advance directive nominees is required, and the decision must be notified to the local judicial magistrate.
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Way forward:
- Public Awareness and Training: Educate the public and healthcare professionals about the legal framework for end-of-life care, emphasizing the distinction between withholding treatment and euthanasia, to reduce misconceptions.
- Strengthen Palliative Care Services: Expand access to palliative care across hospitals and healthcare facilities, ensuring that terminally ill patients receive compassionate and effective pain management and comfort care.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Climate Change; Biodiversity; Biodiversity Intactness Index;
Why in the News?
According to a recent study conducted by the Natural History Museum (NHM) in London, biodiversity is decreasing more rapidly within key protected areas than outside of them.
What did the Biodiversity Intactness Index (BII) say?
- The Biodiversity Intactness Index (BII) is a quantitative measure designed to assess the state of terrestrial biodiversity with its natural baseline, before significant human impact.
- It decreased by 1.88% points globally between 2000 and 2020, indicating a loss in the average natural biodiversity of regions worldwide.
- Within the 22% of ‘Critical Biodiversity Areas’ that are protected, biodiversity has declined by 2.1 percentage points, while non-protected areas saw a decline of 1.9 percentage points during the same period.
Why is the decline happening?
- Inadequate Ecosystem Protection: Many protected areas focus only on specific species rather than the entire ecosystem, failing to prioritize overall biodiversity intactness.
- Pre-existing Degradation: Some protected areas may have been already degraded before being designated as protected, limiting their effectiveness in conserving biodiversity.
- External Threats: Activities such as oil, gas, and mining concessions encroach on protected areas, leading to habitat destruction and further biodiversity loss.
- Climate Crisis Impact: Increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as droughts and wildfires, has severely affected protected areas, undermining their conservation efforts.
Steps taken by the Indian Government to conserve biodiversity:
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Legislative Framework
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- Biological Diversity Act, 2002: Established to conserve biological resources and regulate access to these resources, ensuring equitable sharing of benefits derived from their use.
- Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972: Facilitates the creation of Protected Areas for wildlife conservation and imposes penalties for illegal hunting.
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Conservation Policies:
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- Project Tiger: Launched in 1973, this initiative aims to protect tiger populations across designated reserves.
- Project Elephant: Initiated in 1992, it focuses on the management and protection of wild elephant populations and their habitats.
- National Biodiversity Mission: A mission mode initiative aimed at documenting and conserving India’s biodiversity.
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Protected Areas
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- Establishment of a Protected Area Network: This includes National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, and Community Reserves to provide better protection for wildlife and their habitats.
- Designation of Biosphere Reserves: These reserves are aimed at conserving representative ecosystems.
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What should be done? (Way forward)
- Ecosystem-Centric Management: Shift focus from individual species to the overall health of ecosystems to ensuring comprehensive protection of habitats and their interdependent species.
- Strengthened Protection and Regulation: Implement stricter regulations to limit industrial activities (e.g., oil and gas exploration) within and around protected areas, alongside enforcing more robust land-use policies.
- Community Engagement and Education: Involve local communities in conservation efforts and enhance public awareness about biodiversity’s importance, fostering a collective responsibility for sustainable practices.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Carbon market;
Why in the News?
In preparation for the 29th edition of the COP in Baku, Azerbaijan, next month, there is renewed momentum within government circles to expedite the transition of Indian industry to carbon markets.
What is meant by the Carbon Trade Policy?
- It is a market-based approach to control pollution by providing economic incentives for achieving reductions in the emissions of pollutants.
- It sets a quantitative limit on emissions, by allowing member countries with lower emissions to sell rights to emit carbon to higher-emitting entities, promoting cost-effective carbon reduction.
Why India must develop a transparent Carbon Trade Policy?
- A clear and transparent policy will boost investor confidence, attracting both domestic and foreign investments in green technologies and carbon-reduction projects.
- Establishing robust verification and reporting mechanisms will enhance the integrity of carbon credits, preventing issues like double counting and greenwashing, and fostering trust among stakeholders.
- A transparent policy will help align India’s efforts with global climate commitments, enabling effective tracking of emissions reductions and promoting sustainable economic growth.
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How effective is ‘Fair Trade’ in achieving its Goals?
- Promotion of Sustainable Practices: Just as Fair Trade supports environmentally sustainable agriculture practices, carbon markets incentivize companies to adopt greener technologies and reduce emissions. Both aim to create a more sustainable future.
- Empowerment of Stakeholders: Fair Trade empowers marginalized producers by providing fair prices and market access, similar to how carbon markets can benefit developing countries like India by enabling them to sell carbon credits generated from emissions reductions.
- Economic Benefits: Fair Trade aims to create economic stability for producers, while carbon markets can generate revenue for countries that invest in carbon-reduction projects, creating a financial incentive for participating in emissions trading.
- Global Impact Awareness: Both Fair Trade and carbon markets raise awareness about global issues—Fair Trade regarding trade equity and carbon markets regarding climate change, fostering a sense of responsibility among consumers and companies.
What are the limitations and challenges facing Fair Trade certification?
- Certification Costs: The financial burden of obtaining Fair Trade certification can be a significant barrier for small producers. Similarly, transitioning to carbon markets may involve high initial costs for companies to implement the necessary technologies and processes.
- Market Accessibility: Fair Trade products may not have guaranteed market access, mirroring potential challenges in carbon markets where the demand for carbon credits may fluctuate based on regulations and market conditions.
- Complex Standards: Just as Fair Trade certification has varying standards, the guidelines under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement can also lead to confusion about which carbon-reduction activities are eligible for trading.
How can consumers effectively support Fair Trade initiatives?
- Support Certified Products: Consumers can choose Fair Trade products, which, like carbon credits, require a conscious decision to support ethical and sustainable practices.
- Educate and Advocate: Just as consumers can promote Fair Trade awareness, they can also advocate for transparent carbon markets and support policies that foster sustainable practices.
- Engagement with Companies: Consumers can encourage businesses to participate in Fair Trade and carbon markets by demanding accountability and sustainability in their supply chains.
- Community Participation: Involvement in local Fair Trade events can parallel participation in climate action initiatives, such as local carbon offset programs or sustainability projects, thereby supporting both movements.
- Utilizing Social Media: Consumers can leverage social media to share information about Fair Trade and carbon markets, helping to amplify their importance and drive consumer engagement.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Certification Accessibility: Lower the cost and simplify the certification process to make Fair Trade more accessible for small-scale producers, boosting their participation and benefits.
- Enhance Consumer Education: Increase awareness campaigns about the impact of Fair Trade, encouraging more people to support certified products and promoting ethical consumption habits.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Right to education;
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court’s move to block the NCPCR’s recommendations to stop funding madrasas that don’t follow the RTE Act, 2009, and conduct inspections, along with related actions by the Centre and states, has brought some relief to minorities and secular-minded people.
What reforms are necessary to modernize madrasa education and address public perceptions?
- Curriculum Integration: Need to introduce a balanced curriculum that combines religious studies with modern subjects like science, mathematics, and social studies to make madrasa education more holistic and aligned with mainstream education standards.
- Teacher Training and Certification: Ensure that madrasa teachers receive proper training in contemporary pedagogy and modern subjects.
- Infrastructure Development: Improve madrasa facilities to provide a conducive learning environment. This includes better classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and access to technology for digital learning.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a framework to regularly assess and monitor the quality of education in madrasas.
- Vocational and Skill-Based Training: Incorporate vocational courses and skill development programs to equip students with practical skills that can improve their employability.
- Awareness Programs: Need to run awareness campaigns to inform the community about the value of modernizing madrasa education.
How do political narratives and policies affect the perception of madrasas among the Muslim community?
- Communal Narratives and Stereotyping: Political narratives often portray madrasas as breeding grounds for extremism, which affects the public’s perception, especially among non-Muslims.
- Legislative and Policy Decisions: Policies such as withdrawing government funding or enforcing stringent regulations can create a perception of bias against Muslim educational institutions.
- Historical Reason and Islamophobia: Historical events like the U.S.-Taliban conflict have influenced perceptions of madrasas, linking them to extremism. Political rhetoric often builds on these associations to foster Islamophobic sentiments.
- Social Justice versus Appeasement: There is a debate on whether supporting madrasas financially is an act of social justice (ensuring access to education) or appeasement.
What role can madrasas play in promoting social cohesion and countering extremism?
- Interfaith Learning and Dialogue: Madrasas can include teachings that promote understanding and respect for other religions.
- Combating Radicalization: By modernizing curricula to include secular education and critical thinking, madrasas can counter extremist narratives. An informed and educated student body is more resilient to radical ideologies.
- Community Engagement Programs: Madrasas can play a role in community service and outreach, helping bridge the gap between Muslim communities and others. This engagement can dispel misconceptions and build mutual trust.
- Promoting National Values and Secular Ideals: Incorporating national education standards in madrasas can help in promoting the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution, such as secularism, social justice, and equality.
Way forward:
- Comprehensive Policy Reforms: Develop a national framework that integrates modern subjects into madrasa education, provides teacher training, and ensures quality monitoring.
- Community and Interfaith Initiatives: Launch awareness programs to highlight the benefits of modernizing madrasa education while encouraging interfaith dialogue and community engagement.
Mains PYQ:
Q The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2016)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Rights of nonhuman;
Why in the News?
Colorado’s highest court recently reviewed whether older African female elephants can legally contest their captivity, as the NonHuman Rights Project claims they are unlawfully confined.
What is nonhuman?
- Nonhuman animals are living beings other than humans, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and insects, recognized for their capacity to feel, behave, and interact.
What is Legal personhood?
- Legal personhood is the status granted to an entity, allowing it to hold legal rights and obligations, traditionally applied to humans and some organizations.
- Example: All human individuals are recognized as legal persons. This allows them to enter into contracts, sue, and be sued in court.
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What Constitutes Legal Personhood for Nonhuman Animals?
- Legal Personhood Definition: Legal personhood refers to the capacity of an entity to have legal rights and duties. In law, a “person” is not strictly limited to human beings; corporations, for example, are considered legal persons.
- Application to Nonhuman Animals: Extending legal personhood to nonhuman animals involves granting them certain legal rights, such as the right to not be unlawfully confined or exploited. This would require redefining animals’ status from property to beings with inherent rights.
- Arguments in Favor: Proponents argue that certain highly intelligent and socially complex animals, such as elephants, dolphins, and great apes, should be granted legal rights because they can experience suffering and possess a degree of autonomy akin to that of humans.
- Arguments Against: Opponents of legal personhood for animals argue that the legal system is designed for human society and extending personhood to animals could lead to complex legal issues.
- They contend that animal welfare can be ensured through legislative protections rather than redefining personhood.
How can societies balance animal welfare with cultural practices that might clash with today’s views on animal rights?
- Engagement and Dialogue: Encourage conversations between cultural leaders, communities, and animal rights advocates to understand different perspectives and find common ground on how to improve animal welfare while respecting traditions.
- Education and Awareness: Promote education about animal welfare and the capacity of animals to feel pain and suffering, helping communities to reconsider practices and adopt alternatives that align with both cultural values and humane treatment.
- Legal Frameworks: Implement laws that protect animal welfare while allowing for cultural practices to continue in a regulated manner, ensuring that such practices do not involve cruelty or inhumane treatment of animals.
What are the Rights of Animals in the Indian Context?
- Traditional and Cultural Practices: In India, animals play a significant role in various cultural and religious practices. For instance, cows are considered sacred in Hinduism, while elephants are used in festivals and ceremonies.
- Legal Framework for Animal Rights: India has several laws aimed at protecting animal rights, such as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. These laws establish standards for animal welfare and criminalize cruelty.
- However, they stop short of granting legal personhood to animals.
- Judicial Intervention: The Indian judiciary has taken progressive stances on animal rights in some cases.
- For example, the Uttarakhand High Court in 2018 declared all animals in the state to be legal entities, with citizens acting as guardians. This ruling emphasized the need to protect animals’ dignity and well-being, though it did not grant full legal personhood.
Conclusion: India can look toward a framework that balances animal welfare with cultural practices by adopting context-specific policies. This could include creating more robust welfare standards, engaging with communities to find humane alternatives, and fostering a cultural shift toward greater empathy for animals.
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