Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues and significance of delimitation;
Why in the News?
The delay in the 2021 Census and the upcoming Delimitation (2026), could widen representation gaps at all three layers of governance.
- Most states in India (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu) are formed based on language, and many have roots in ethnic or linguistic regions which is also becoming one of the major causes of layered discrimination.
What is Layered Discrimination?
Layered discrimination refers to the compounded and interconnected forms of discrimination that individuals or groups face due to multiple, overlapping identities, such as gender, race, class, or ethnicity. |
What are the present causes behind the layered discrimination in India?
- Central Governance: Since 1947, the population share of languages like Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu has dropped, while the proportion of Hindi speakers has risen significantly from 36% to nearly 43%.
- This means that the regions with Linguistic and cultural dominance will gain more influence in the Parliament, while those that have controlled their population will have less say and will mainly contribute revenue.
- This will also deepen the structural disparities between the different states affecting our federal structure.
- State Governance: With longstanding differences wrt ‘Total Fertility Rates’ among different states (like Bihar vs. Kerala), lead to issues regarding resource allocation and policy formation remain unsettled.
- For example, the decision of the 16th Finance Commission to include the 2011 Census instead of the 1971 Census to devolve funds to States will be even more discriminatory to developed States.
- It reflects the continuation of the existing bias against the non-Hindi States.
What are the implications of layered discrimination on policy and legal frameworks?
- Policy Impact: When policies, such as Delimitation, unintentionally favor certain regions or communities over others, it can reinforce inequalities.
- In this case, non-Hindi-speaking states that have successfully controlled their populations and contribute a significant share of national revenue may face decreased representation in the Lok Sabha, reducing their influence on Union policy.
- Legal Framework Impact: Layered discrimination underscores the need for legal frameworks that recognize regional disparities and protect equitable representation.
- Legal principles such as “No taxation without representation” suggest the necessity for reforms that balance contribution with influence, ensuring that states contributing more to the GDP and population control policies do not lose their political voice.
Significant Potential of Delimitation in this Scenario:
- Redistribution of Political Power: Delimitation could reshape the political landscape by adjusting Lok Sabha seat allocations based on population, potentially giving more representation to populous regions.
- Incentivizing Population Control: By rewarding states with controlled population growth, delimitation could encourage better family planning policies and demographic balance.
- Enhancing Representation: A fair delimitation process could lead to more accurate representation of the population, aligning political influence with current demographic realities.
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Way forward:
- Need to work on Intersectionality: The Intersectionality Framework in policy implementation reveals that individuals and groups experience discrimination based on multiple, overlapping identities such as gender, race, class, language, and region rather than a single factor.
- It shows how various systems of power (like patriarchy, racism, and economic inequality) intersect and create unique challenges.
- This approach helps us to understand how certain groups face compounded disadvantages due to intersecting social structures.
- Balancing Delimitation and Decentralization: Implement delimitation reforms with careful consideration of regional contributions, ensuring equitable representation for both populous and less-populous states.
PYQ:
Mains:
Q Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation-one election” principle. (2024)
Q What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. (2024) |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to criminal accusations;
Why in the News?
On November 13, 2024, the Supreme Court criticized states for using bulldozers to demolish homes of accused individuals, condemning it as a display of “might is right” that leaves families destitute.
What guidelines has the Supreme Court laid down to regulate future demolition actions?
- 15-Day Notice Requirement: The authorities must issue a prior notice of at least 15 days to the occupants of a property before demolition.
- The notice must include details of the unauthorized construction, violations, and grounds for demolition, providing the affected party an opportunity to challenge the action.
- Fair Opportunity to Contest: Occupants must be given a fair chance to contest the demolition before the designated authority. The authority must provide reasoned conclusions in its final order, ensuring transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
- Videography of Demolitions: All demolitions must be videographed to ensure that the process is carried out lawfully and without excessive force. This acts as a safeguard against abuse of power.
- Penalty for Non-Compliance: Public officials who fail to comply with these guidelines will face contempt action and prosecution, with personal liability for restitution of demolished property.
- Exceptions: The guidelines do not apply in cases of encroachment on public property or where demolition is ordered by a court, ensuring that the ruling does not interfere with lawful orders.
What are the implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling on demolitions linked to criminal accusations?
- Protection of Fundamental Rights: The ruling safeguards individuals’ fundamental rights, particularly the right to life and property under Article 21 of the Constitution.
- The Court emphasized that an accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty and that demolishing a property without due process violates the constitutional guarantee of fair treatment.
- Accountability of Public Officials: The ruling holds public officials accountable for actions that undermine justice and fairness. Violations of the prescribed guidelines will result in contempt charges and personal liability for restitution, reinforcing the responsibility of the state to adhere to the rule of law.
- Prevention of Arbitrary Executive Action: By limiting the state’s power to demolish properties, the Court has curtailed arbitrary executive actions that could be seen as collective punishment. The executive must now act within the bounds of natural justice and due process.
How the Ruling Addresses Concerns About Selective Targeting and Discrimination in Demolitions?
- Addressing Communal Bias: The Court acknowledged concerns that demolitions were being carried out with a communal bias. By invoking Article 142 to issue binding directives, the Court seeks to curb discriminatory practices, ensuring that no group or individual is targeted based on religious, social, or other factors.
- Prevention of Selective Targeting: The Court emphasized that demolitions should not be selective or targeted. It pointed out that if one structure is chosen for demolition while similar structures remain untouched, it could indicate mala fide intent.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Oversight Mechanisms: Establish independent bodies to monitor demolition actions and ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s guidelines, preventing misuse of power and ensuring transparency in the process.
- Ensure Comprehensive Legal Reforms: Advocate for legislative changes that reinforce the principles of due process, protecting individuals from arbitrary state actions and ensuring fair treatment for all, particularly marginalized communities.
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy. (UPSC IAS/2017)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Significance of PMUY;
Why in the News?
The International Energy Agency reports that 681 million people in India rely on solid fuels for cooking, causing health and environmental concerns. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) provides subsidized LPG connections to promote clean fuel adoption in Jammu and Kashmir.
What is Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)?
- The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) is a government scheme aimed at providing subsidized LPG connections to poor households, promoting clean cooking fuel, improving health, and reducing dependence on solid fuels.
What specific benefits has the PMUY provided to households in Jammu and Kashmir?
- Increased LPG Adoption: The PMUY scheme has significantly increased the availability of LPG in rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Around 85.07% of households in rural areas now have official LPG connections, with 68% of them having obtained these connections through PMUY.
- Health Benefits: PMUY adoption has led to a marked reduction in respiratory problems, such as coughing, chest infections, and headaches, particularly among BPL and AAY households.
- Health improvements were more prominent in households with additional appliances like rice cookers and those with educated members.
- Reduction in Solid Fuel Usage: Although not completely eliminating the use of traditional fuels, the scheme has led to moderate reductions in the reliance on solid fuels like firewood. The average consumption of firewood per household was 226 kilograms over six months.
- Cultural and Health Improvements: For households that adopted LPG under PMUY, there was a noticeable reduction in indoor smoke exposure, leading to better health outcomes, especially for women who were primarily responsible for cooking.
How has the implementation of PMUY addressed local challenges related to fuel availability and usage?
- Enhanced Fuel Access: PMUY has addressed the issue of limited access to clean cooking fuel in rural areas by providing subsidized LPG connections. This has significantly reduced the reliance on harmful solid fuels, such as firewood, in many areas, particularly those with difficult topography like Rajouri.
- Dual-Fuel Usage and Financial Barriers: Despite increased LPG adoption, 85% of households still practice fuel stacking, using both LPG and traditional fuels. This is largely due to the high cost of refilling LPG cylinders. The scheme has not entirely solved financial barriers, which continue to force households to rely on cheaper, polluting fuels.
- Awareness and Education Gaps: One of the key challenges to exclusive LPG use is the lack of awareness about its health benefits. Nearly half of the surveyed households were unaware of the risks associated with solid fuel use. This barrier has been compounded by limited access to communication devices, such as televisions and mobile phones, particularly for women who are the primary cooks.
- Cultural Attachment to Traditional Cooking Methods: Despite the availability of LPG, traditional cooking methods (e.g., chulhas) continue to persist in the region due to cultural attachment. This presents a challenge in transitioning entirely to clean cooking fuels.
- However, the study found that households with educated members and modern appliances like rice cookers were more likely to use LPG exclusively.
Way forward:
- Targeted Awareness Campaigns: Launch region-specific awareness programs, particularly for women, highlighting the health benefits of LPG and addressing misconceptions, while utilizing mobile and community outreach for wider reach.
- Financial Support for LPG Refills: Introduce subsidies or microfinance schemes to ease the financial burden of LPG refills, encouraging exclusive use of clean fuels and reducing reliance on harmful solid fuels.
Mains PYQ:
Q Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.Comment on the progress made in India in this regard. (UPSC IAS/2018)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India and Indonesia relations;
Why in the News?
On October 20, Indonesia saw a big change in leadership. Nationalist Prabowo Subianto became president.
What are the implications of Indonesia’s new leadership for India-Indonesia relations?
- Increased Competition with China: Prabowo’s administration may lead to a more assertive Indonesian foreign policy that seeks to leverage its strategic position between China and India. However, the extent of this assertiveness will depend on how Indonesia navigates its growing economic reliance on China while maintaining its sovereignty.
- Potential for Enhanced Cooperation: Despite the challenges posed by China’s influence, India has an opportunity to deepen its engagement with Indonesia. This could involve collaborative efforts in sectors such as defence, maritime security, and trade, particularly given Indonesia’s strategic location and resource-rich economy.
How does Indonesia’s relationship with China impact its foreign policy choices?
- Strategic Balance: Prabowo’s decision to make China his first visit signals Indonesia’s pragmatic balancing between major powers. Despite concerns about China’s assertiveness in the Natuna Sea, Indonesia engages China for its economic clout and investments, especially in sectors like infrastructure and technology.
- Wariness Over Chinese Influence: Indonesia’s hesitance toward China’s extensive control over economic assets provides India an opportunity to position itself as a complementary partner that respects Indonesia’s sovereignty, especially given mutual interests in upholding maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.
- US-Indonesian Relations: Prabowo’s tenuous ties with the U.S. due to historical human rights allegations might encourage him to seek alternative partnerships, where India can play a constructive role in regional stability.
What opportunities exist for India to enhance its economic engagement with Indonesia?
- Energy and Mineral Resources: Indonesia’s rich reserves of coal, palm oil, nickel, and tin offer significant opportunities for India to secure its mineral and energy requirements, which aligns with India’s growing manufacturing and EV industries.
- Infrastructure and Maritime Cooperation: India’s existing partnerships in infrastructure, such as developing the Sabang port, can be expanded to reinforce connectivity and enhance trade routes between the Nicobar Islands and Indonesia.
- Services Sector Collaboration: India’s strength in IT and financial services can support Indonesia in reducing business costs and improving economic efficiency, particularly as it seeks to modernize and diversify its economy.
- Tourism and Cultural Exchange: Given Indonesia’s growing middle class and India’s appeal as a tourist destination, there is potential to expand tourism and cultural exchanges that celebrate shared heritage, including Hindu-Buddhist traditions.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Strategic and Economic Partnerships: India should actively engage Indonesia in joint initiatives across defense, maritime security, and infrastructure, leveraging Indonesia’s strategic location and resources to build a resilient Indo-Pacific framework that counters China’s regional influence.
- Deepen Cultural and Economic Ties: Expanding collaborations in sectors like IT, energy, and tourism, and celebrating shared heritage, will foster goodwill and position India as a trusted and complementary partner to Indonesia, reinforcing mutual growth and stability in the region.
Mains PYQ:
Q Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South-East Asian countries’ economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South- East Asia in this context. (UPSC IAS/2017)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Significance of IMEC;
Why in the News?
The India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), announced at the 2023 G20 summit, aims to cut travel time by 40% and costs by 30%, which could transform global shipping once it’s up and running.
What is IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor)?
- The IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor) is a major trade route connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe to reduce transit times and transportation costs, launched in 2023 during the G20 Summit.
- It aims to strengthen regional partnerships through improved infrastructure, energy grids, and digital connectivity, providing an alternative to traditional maritime routes like the Suez Canal.
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What are the current challenges facing the IMEC initiative?
- Geopolitical Tensions: The Israel-Palestine conflict, which escalated in October 2023, has stalled progress on the IMEC’s western segment, with Saudi Arabia and Jordan delaying collaboration due to potential geopolitical and optics issues related to their interactions with Israel.
- Lack of Progress in West Asia: Due to the conflict, connectivity efforts in West Asia are moving slowly, affecting the northern part of the corridor, particularly the integration of infrastructure and trade processes with Israel and other stakeholders.
- Incomplete Development of Additional Infrastructure: Beyond basic connectivity, elements such as clean energy exports, undersea fiber-optic cables, and telecommunication linkages are delayed and are expected to proceed only once stability is restored in West Asia.
- Organizational and Logistical Framework: The absence of a central governing structure, like an IMEC secretariat, hinders streamlined cross-border trade processes and systematic project implementation, leading to coordination challenges among participating nations.
How IMEC Aims to Enhance Regional Cooperation and Economic Growth?
- Strengthening India-UAE Economic Relations: India and the UAE are advancing bilateral trade, leveraging frameworks like the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the Virtual Trade Corridor to standardize trade processes, reduce costs, and simplify logistics.
- Improving Connectivity in the East: Progress on the eastern segment, particularly between India and UAE, is increasing trade and setting a foundation for cooperation through standardized trade practices and growing non-oil trade, which diversifies exports and enhances India’s regional integration.
- Capacity Building: As the western segment awaits resolution of the regional conflict, eastern countries, especially India, are enhancing port infrastructure, digitalizing logistics, and developing economic zones to support connectivity and reduce trade barriers.
- Potential for Economic Integration: Once operational, IMEC can link South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, encouraging deeper economic ties, lowering costs, and creating a stable trade pathway that could foster regional development and integration.
What are the implications of IMEC for global trade dynamics?
- Reduced Dependency on the Suez Canal: IMEC offers a strategic alternative to the Suez Canal, with an anticipated reduction in transit time by 40% and costs by 30%, which could significantly impact global trade routes by diversifying options and lowering shipping times and expenses.
- India’s Role as a Supply Chain Alternative: By leveraging IMEC, India can enhance its position in global value chains as an alternative supply chain hub, aligning with its manufacturing ambitions and increasing export competitiveness through improved infrastructure and reduced logistics costs.
- Reshaping Trade Infrastructure: The project introduces a new corridor that supports not only connectivity but also potentially includes energy infrastructure and digital linkages, providing a comprehensive trade infrastructure model that could influence future trade frameworks in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
- Attracting Participation: The IMEC secretariat, once established, could guide strategic decision-making, build empirical support for trade benefits, and encourage more countries to join the corridor, potentially expanding IMEC’s impact on international trade and cooperation in regions connected to it.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Geopolitical Stability: Address regional tensions, especially in West Asia, to ensure smoother collaboration among stakeholders and accelerate the development of the western segment of the IMEC.
- Develop an IMEC Secretariat: Establish a central coordinating body to streamline operations, facilitate cross-border trade, and guide infrastructure projects, ensuring systematic progress and attracting further global participation.
Mains PYQ:
Q How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Caste-based discrimination;
Why in the News?
On October 3, the Supreme Court in Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India (2024) struck down caste-based segregation in prisons, deeming it discriminatory and a violation of prisoners’ fundamental rights to equality.
What are the key findings regarding caste-based discrimination in Indian prisons?
- Prevalence of Caste-based Roles: The recent Supreme Court decision in Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India (2024) highlighted discriminatory practices based on caste within Indian prisons.
- Specifically, prisoners from marginalized castes were relegated to menial labour like cleaning, while other prisoners were assigned tasks such as cooking. This segregation was rooted in prison manuals that cited traditional caste roles.
- Violation of Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court ruled that such caste-based segregation violates Articles 14 (Right to Equality) and 15 (Prohibition of Discrimination) of the Indian Constitution. The Court noted that assigning prison labour based solely on caste perpetuates harmful caste hierarchies and obstructs prisoners’ equal rights to reform and rehabilitation.
- Historical Precedents: Previous cases like Prem Shankar Shukla v. Delhi Administration (1980) and Inacio Manuel Miranda v. State (1988) also struck down irrational classifications within prison rules that discriminated based on economic or social status, reiterating that discrimination in any form within prisons is unconstitutional.
What actions has the Supreme Court mandated to combat this discrimination?
- Abolition of Caste-based Job Assignments: The Supreme Court directed that prison rules segregating labour assignments based on caste be abolished. It ordered that job assignments within prisons must reflect prisoners’ individual abilities and should not perpetuate caste stereotypes.
- Amendment of State Prison Rules: The Court instructed state governments to review and amend existing prison rules that institutionalize caste-based roles, ensuring that prisons become more inclusive and non-discriminatory spaces.
What challenges remain in implementing these reforms effectively?
- Resistance to Cultural Change: Prison administrations may resist or be slow in adapting to changes in labour assignments and other reforms, given the deeply ingrained social norms and bureaucratic rigidity.
- Lack of Resources and Training: Ensuring non-discriminatory job assignments will require retraining prison staff to implement reforms sensitively. Resource limitations and an undertrained workforce can impede effective reform.
- Need for Comprehensive Prison Reforms: While the Court’s decision targets caste-based discrimination, broader systemic reforms are needed, such as improving prison conditions, expanding prisoner rights to amenities, and aligning all states with the Model Prison Manual 2016 for consistent standards across India.
Way forward:
- Comprehensive Training and Monitoring: Implement mandatory training for prison staff on anti-discrimination practices, coupled with regular monitoring to ensure caste-neutral job assignments and adherence to reformed rules.
- Standardized Prison Reform Across States: Uniformly adopt the Model Prison Manual 2016 nationwide, with added emphasis on equality and dignity for all prisoners, ensuring consistent and humane treatment across all states.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (UPSC IAS/2018)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Role of AI in infrastructure;
Why in the News?
With 270 million people set to move to Indian cities in the next 20 years, rapid urbanization will bring major challenges. AI can help tackle these by improving data handling and coordination, supporting India’s vision for a developed nation by 2047.
How can AI technologies be effectively integrated into India’s sustainable development strategies?
- AI-Driven Decision Support: AI systems, such as decision support models, can assess impacts of policy decisions (e.g., zoning changes) by simulating various outcomes. This aids urban planning by providing insights into environmental and economic effects.
- Enhancing Urban Infrastructure: AI can improve last-mile connectivity for public transport, making it more efficient and accessible by continuously analyzing data on transit needs and traffic patterns.
- Multimodal Urban Transit Systems: AI can support seamless integration of multiple forms of urban transport, allowing coordinated planning for buses, trains, and other transit modes on a digital platform.
- Digital Twins for Municipal Governance: AI-based digital twins of cities can assist municipal governments in monitoring and predicting urban needs, streamlining operations, and making governance more responsive and data-driven.
- Energy Distribution and Environmental Monitoring: AI technologies can optimize energy distribution networks, as seen in partnerships like Airawat and Adani, and enable high-precision air and water quality monitoring for real-time governance action.
What ethical and regulatory frameworks are necessary to ensure responsible AI deployment?
- Data Privacy and Security: With the vast data required for AI in urban planning, robust data privacy laws are essential to protect individual and community information.
- Transparency and Accountability: AI decisions, especially those affecting urban infrastructure and environmental policies, should be transparent. Regulatory bodies should ensure AI-driven decisions can be audited, and stakeholders are accountable for outcomes.
- Equity and Inclusivity: AI systems must avoid biases that could disadvantage marginalized communities. Regulations should mandate fairness, requiring AI models to consider equitable access and outcomes for all socioeconomic groups.
- Environmental Sustainability Mandates: Given India’s resource constraints, frameworks should prioritize energy-efficient and environmentally conscious AI deployments. Environmental impact assessments should be integrated into the approval process for new AI systems.
What collaborative efforts are required among stakeholders to maximize AI’s impact on sustainable development?
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Effective collaboration between government, industry, and research institutions, as demonstrated by Airawat’s partnerships with Adani and TCS, can drive advancements in sustainable energy and urban management systems.
- Government Oversight and Support: Ministries like the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MOHUA) play an essential role in offering guidance and oversight, ensuring AI initiatives align with national sustainability objectives and regulations.
- Research and Academic Collaboration: Involvement of academic institutions such as IITs, as seen with Airawat, brings research rigor and technical expertise to AI solutions, fostering innovation tailored to India’s unique needs.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities ensures that AI solutions are grounded in real needs, enhancing acceptance and the relevance of AI in addressing local sustainability challenges.
- Standardized AI Governance Platforms: Partnerships, such as those with eGovernance Foundation’s DIGIT platform, are essential to create uniform AI governance tools that can be scaled across multiple cities, promoting a cohesive approach to sustainable development across India.
Mains PYQ:
Q Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2016)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Renewable energy;
Why in the News?
Tamil Nadu, a leader in wind energy with turbines over 30 years old, introduced a new policy for upgrading old windmills in August 2024. However, wind energy producers opposed it, took the issue to the Madras High Court, and obtained a stay.
What is Tamil Nadu’s wind power capacity?
- Installed Capacity: As of November 2023, Tamil Nadu has an installed wind energy capacity of approximately 10,377.97 MW, making it the second-largest wind energy producer in India after Gujarat. This represents about 23% of India’s total installed wind capacity.
- Age of Turbines: Many turbines in Tamil Nadu are over 30 years old, which raises concerns about efficiency and technological advancements5.
- Potential for Repowering: The state has a repowering potential of over 7,387 MW, which could significantly enhance its energy generation capabilities if older turbines are replaced or refurbished.
What about national wind energy capacity?
- Total Potential: The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) estimates that India has a wind power potential of 1,163.86 GW at a height of 150 meters, ranking fourth globally for installed capacity.
- Current Utilization: At 120 meters (the standard height for modern turbines), India’s potential is around 695.51 GW, with only about 6.5% currently utilized nationally and nearly 15% in Tamil Nadu.
- Leading States: The states contributing most to India’s wind power include Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh, which collectively account for approximately 93.37% of the country’s installed capacity.
What does the repowering and refurbishing of wind turbines mean?
- Repowering involves replacing old turbines with new ones to enhance efficiency and output. Refurbishing includes upgrading components like gearboxes and blades to improve performance without complete replacement.
- Regulatory Framework: The Tamil Nadu government introduced a new policy aimed at facilitating these processes. However, generators argue that the policy lacks provisions that effectively promote wind energy generation and financial viability.
Why are wind energy generators opposing the new policy of the TN government?
- Concerns from Generators: Wind energy generators have opposed the new “Tamil Nadu Repowering, Refurbishment and Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects – 2024”, claiming it does not adequately support the promotion of wind energy generation. They have approached the Madras High Court and received a stay on the policy implementation.
- Financial Viability Issues: The opposition stems from concerns that repowered turbines will be treated as new installations without banking facilities for generated energy, impacting financial returns on investments.
- Generators emphasize that without a commercially beneficial framework, investments in repowering will decline.
Way forward:
- Revise the Policy to Ensure Financial Viability: The Tamil Nadu government should amend the policy to provide incentives like banking facilities for energy generated from repowered turbines, making the projects financially viable for investors.
- Promote Technological Advancements and Infrastructure Upgrades: The policy should focus on facilitating the replacement of old turbines with modern, high-capacity ones and improving wind energy transmission infrastructure to harness the full potential of Tamil Nadu’s wind resources.
Mains PYQ:
Q Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above bjective? Explain. (UPSC IAS/2022)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Demographic dividend in the context of Indian economy;
Why in the News?
Since liberalization opened up new opportunities, there has been a lot of excitement about India’s demographic dividend, which is the advantage of having a large working-age population but there are major challenges like the middle-income trap.
Can India leverage its sustained economic growth?
- Harnessing the Demographic Dividend: With a large working-age population, India has a potential advantage, but it must ensure that this workforce is employed in productive sectors, particularly by shifting labor from low-productivity agriculture to higher-productivity manufacturing and services.
- Strengthening the Manufacturing Sector: The manufacturing sector, especially labor-intensive industries like textiles, has the potential to create millions of jobs. By addressing barriers such as complex regulations, high tariffs, and infrastructure constraints, India can boost manufacturing growth, empower women, and drive economic mobility.
- Reforming Infrastructure and Business Environment: Improving ease of doing business, simplifying trade and labor regulations, and increasing investment in infrastructure are critical for unlocking India’s potential for sustained growth. These reforms will enable large-scale job creation and enhance India’s global competitiveness.
Challenges arising due to the middle-income trap
- Declining Demographic Dividend: The proportion of working-age individuals in India’s population is set to decline in the coming decade, marking the potential end of the demographic dividend. Fertility rates have dropped across various states, which means India may face an aging population sooner than expected.
- Stagnation in Key Sectors: India has struggled to reduce its agricultural workforce in the same way China did after liberalisation, making it harder to transition people to higher-productivity industries. Despite some growth in the services sector, manufacturing has stagnated and failed to generate the necessary number of jobs, especially in labor-intensive industries.
- Limited Economic Mobility: High levels of youth unemployment and the lack of opportunities for individuals to move up the economic ladder have hindered India’s economic progress. The country’s labor force participation rate (LFPR) remains low, particularly among women, and urban job creation has not been sufficient to absorb the growing population.
- Infrastructure and Regulatory Bottlenecks: The business environment is constrained by complex regulations, high tariffs, cumbersome licensing procedures, and a lack of access to land, all of which prevent the manufacturing sector from thriving. India’s slow regulatory reforms have stifled growth in manufacturing, which is essential for absorbing the workforce.
How the Manufacturing sector can help India grow?
- Job Creation: Manufacturing, especially in labour-intensive sectors like textiles and apparel, can create large numbers of jobs. This is vital for absorbing the surplus labour from agriculture and providing employment opportunities for the youth.
- For example, the textile and apparel industry employs 45 million people compared to just 5.5 million in IT-BPM, highlighting its potential for mass employment.
- Women’s Empowerment: Manufacturing, particularly industries like textiles, offers significant employment to women (60-70% of factory workers), helping reduce gender disparities in the labour force.
- Economic Mobility: By creating better job opportunities, manufacturing helps people transition from low-productivity agricultural jobs to higher-wage, more stable positions in the industrial and service sectors. This transition is key to achieving sustained economic growth and avoiding the middle-income trap.
- Global Competitiveness: Reducing barriers to manufacturing — such as simplifying business licensing, lowering tariffs on inputs, improving access to land, and streamlining trade regulations — can help India increase its competitiveness globally. Expanding market access through free trade agreements and making the business environment more conducive to manufacturing can unlock the potential of this sector.
Steps taken by the government:
- “Make in India” Initiative: Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub by promoting domestic production, reducing regulatory hurdles, and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in key manufacturing sectors such as electronics, textiles, and automobiles.
- Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India): This program focuses on reducing dependence on imports by boosting local manufacturing, especially in strategic sectors like defense, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
- It includes initiatives such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which offers incentives for manufacturing and exporting specific products like electronics, textiles, and solar panels.
Way forward:
- Enhance Skill Development and Workforce Transition: India must invest in targeted skill development programs to equip its labor force, particularly those transitioning from agriculture, with the necessary skills for higher-productivity manufacturing and services sectors.
- Accelerate Regulatory and Infrastructure Reforms: To unlock the full potential of the manufacturing sector, India should expedite regulatory reforms, simplify land acquisition processes, and enhance infrastructure.
Mains PYQ:
Q Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to low fertility rate;
Why in the News?
The Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have recently voiced concerns over the low fertility rates in their states.
What is the current demographic situation, especially in the southern States?
- Falling Fertility Rates: Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala have fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1.
- For instance, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded fertility rates of 1.4 (2019-21), and Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala at 1.5.
- Ageing Population: These states face an advanced demographic transition with an increasingly ageing population. The share of elderly in Kerala is expected to rise to 22.8% by 2036, in Tamil Nadu to 20.8%, and in Andhra Pradesh to 19%.
- End of Demographic Dividend: With a rising old age dependency ratio — Kerala (26.1), Tamil Nadu (20.5), and Andhra Pradesh (18.5) in 2021 — the demographic window for leveraging a young workforce is closing or has already closed in these states.
What is the likely economic impact?
- Rising Healthcare Costs: The elderly demographic is likely to increase healthcare costs. Southern states, comprising one-fifth of India’s population, accounted for 32% of out-of-pocket cardiovascular healthcare expenditure in 2017-18.
- Reduced Economic Growth Potential: A declining working-age population means a lower potential to reap economic benefits from a young labor force. This demographic shift may impact productivity and economic growth.
- Impact on Women’s Labor Force Participation: Pro-natalist policies to increase fertility may lead to a reduction in women’s participation in the labor force, hindering economic growth further.
What are the political implications?
- Federal Representation Changes: With the 2026 delimitation, seats in Parliament are expected to be adjusted based on population. Southern states could lose representation due to slower population growth, with Tamil Nadu potentially losing nine seats, Kerala six, and Andhra Pradesh five, while northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan may gain seats.
- Resource Allocation: Slower-growing southern states contribute more tax revenue yet may receive a smaller share of resources from the central pool, as allocation formulas often consider population.
What are the solutions being considered? (Way forward)
- Pro-natalist Incentives: Some southern leaders advocate incentivizing families to have more children. However, international experiences show limited success with pro-natalist incentives.
- Gender Equity and Family Policies: Policies such as paid maternity/paternity leave, accessible childcare, and employment protections can support sustainable fertility rates without economically disadvantaging women.
- Increasing Working Age and Migrant Inclusion: Extending working lifespans and better integrating economic migrants in social security and political representation can help mitigate the impact of an ageing population.
- Balancing Migration Needs: Southern states, which attract many economic migrants, face challenges as these migrants are still counted in their home states, impacting political representation and resource distribution in the host states.
Mains PYQ:
Q Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the mains cause of population increase in India. (UPSC IAS/2015)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to Gig workers;
Why in the News?
Amid the ongoing evolution of the “gig worker” concept, India recently witnessed a groundbreaking movement a nationwide digital strike organized by women gig workers this Deepavali.
What are the specific exploitative practices faced by gig workers?
- Wage Theft and High Commissions: Many gig workers receive only a fraction of their earnings after substantial deductions for company commissions, which can range from 10% to 35% of their total income. This often leaves them with minimal take-home pay, insufficient to meet basic living expenses.
- Forced Purchases and Costs: Workers are often required to buy product kits at full retail prices from their employers, which further erodes their earnings. This practice restricts their ability to purchase necessary supplies at more affordable wholesale rates.
- Job Insecurity and Rating Systems: Gig workers are subjected to biased rating systems that can lead to job insecurity. If they refuse “auto-assigned” jobs or fail to meet performance metrics, they risk being blocked from the platform or terminated without recourse.
- Lack of Social Security: Gig workers are excluded from essential benefits such as minimum wages, health protections, and social security rights, leaving them vulnerable in times of need.
How do platform dynamics contribute to labour exploitation?
- Misclassification of Workers: Gig workers are often classified as independent contractors rather than employees, which denies them access to fundamental labour rights and protections. This legal loophole allows companies to evade responsibilities related to wages and benefits.
- Algorithmic Control: Companies utilize complex algorithms to manage worker assignments and ratings, creating a system where workers are constantly monitored and evaluated based on performance metrics that may not accurately reflect their work quality.
- Patriarchal Structures: The gig economy perpetuates existing patriarchal norms by relegating women to traditionally female roles such as beauticians and housekeepers, limiting their job options and negotiating power within the labour market.
What measures can address and combat labour exploitation in this sector? (Way forward)
- Legal Recognition as Employees: Governments should legislate the recognition of gig workers as employees rather than independent contractors, thereby extending labour rights such as minimum wage laws and social security benefits.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Establishing comprehensive labour laws specific to the gig economy would help protect workers’ rights. This includes mechanisms for grievance redressal, ensuring fair treatment and accountability from platform companies.
- Collective Bargaining Rights: Supporting unionization efforts like those of the Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU) can empower workers to negotiate better wages and working conditions collectively. This grassroots organizing is crucial for achieving meaningful change in labour practices within the sector
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (UPSC IAS/2021)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: X-ray applications;
Mains level: Biotechnology; Issues related to Health care Machines;
Why in the News?
On the evening of November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen was conducting experiments in his laboratory at the University of Würzburg in Germany when he made an unusual discovery.
Did you know the Röntgen’s discovery story of X-rays?
- While experimenting with cathode rays in a glass vacuum tube, Röntgen noticed a fluorescent screen glowing at a distance, despite being too far to be affected by the rays he was studying.
- Intrigued by this unexpected glow, he wondered if this mysterious ray could penetrate organic materials, so he experimented by photographing his wife’s hand, capturing her bones and ring. This was the world’s first recorded X-ray image of the human body.
- Röntgen documented his findings in an article titled “On a new kind of rays,” in 1895 which was published by introducing “X-rays” to the scientific community.
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How did Röntgen’s discovery transform Medical practices and Diagnostics?
- Revolution in Diagnostic Medicine: Physicians rapidly adopted X-rays, which allowed them to view the human body without surgery. This was transformative for diagnostics, especially in orthopedics and internal medicine.
- Surgical Advancements: By February 1896, British physician Major John Hall-Edwards had successfully used X-rays to guide the surgery. Within months, armies began using X-ray technology to locate bullet wounds and diagnose fractures, marking the beginning of its use in trauma care.
What are the long-term implications of Röntgen’s discovery on Public health and Safety?
- Development of Radiology: this discovery led to the birth of radiology, with subsequent advancements leading to CT, MRI, ultrasound, and other imaging technologies that are essential in modern medicine.
- Radiation Safety and Awareness: Initially, x-rays were used liberally, even for non-medical purposes (such as in shoe stores to fit footwear), with little awareness of potential harm. It wasn’t until early reports of radiation burns and later research in the early 20th century that the health risks of radiation exposure were acknowledged, prompting the development of safety protocols.
- Ongoing Safety Protocols: Today, radiation safety is central to radiology practices. Equipment advancements and regulatory standards have minimized exposure risks, making x-rays safe for patients and medical personnel while ensuring their continued benefits.
- Public Health and Preventive Care: The ability to detect diseases, fractures, and other internal injuries without invasive procedures has been crucial for preventive care, enabling early detection and treatment. This has significantly impacted patient survival rates and quality of care, solidifying diagnostic imaging as a pillar of modern public health.
Issues related to X-ray machines in Rural areas:
- Limited X-ray Equipment: Rural Community Health Centres (CHCs) in India often need more X-ray machines, with only 68% of available units functioning, primarily due to high operational costs and shortages of technicians.
- Maintenance and Operational Delays: Even when X-ray machines are present, many remain non-functional due to installation delays and insufficient maintenance, as imaging services are not prioritized in CHC guidelines.
- Access and Specialist Shortages: Rural patients face long travel distances to access imaging services, further limited by a concentration of radiologists in urban areas, reducing timely access to diagnostic interpretation.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Infrastructure and Access: Increase the availability and functionality of X-ray machines in rural areas by improving equipment maintenance, investing in portable and mobile X-ray units to bring diagnostic services directly to underserved populations.
- For example, Teleradiology enables remote interpretation of images, improving access to diagnostic services.
- Telemedicine and Remote Diagnostics: Expand telemedicine platforms like ‘XraySetu’, enabling healthcare workers in rural areas to share X-ray images for remote analysis by radiologists, improving diagnostic capabilities without requiring patients to travel long distances.
Mains PYQ:
Q Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Judiciary; Landmark Judgements; Issues related to Minority status;
Why in the News?
In a 4:3 majority decision, the Supreme Court overturned its 1967 Azeez Basha ruling, which had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) minority status, directing that AMU’s status be reassessed according to the principles outlined in the current judgment.
Constitutional Provisions and Historical Background of the case:
- The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) was founded in 1875 and incorporated by imperial law in 1920.
- Article 30 of the Constitution empowers religious and linguistic minorities to establish and administer educational institutions – AMU had enjoyed minority status.
- A 1951 amendment to that imperial law, the AMU Act, did away with compulsory religious instructions for Muslim students.
- In India, compulsory religious instruction is prohibited in state-funded educational institutions under Article 28.
- In S. Azeez Basha vs. Union of India (1967), the SC ruled that AMU could not be considered a minority institution, as it was established by a central act, categorizing it as a central university.
- This ruling denied AMU the rights of minority institutions under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution.
- In 1981, an amendment to the AMU Act attempted to restore AMU’s minority character, aiming to secure rights for it as a minority-administered institution.
- The Allahabad High Court (2006) struck down the 1981 amendment, reinforcing the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling and reasserting that AMU did not qualify as a minority institution.
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What criteria will be used to assess AMU’s minority status?
- The SC emphasized that an educational institution must be established by a minority community to qualify for minority status under Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution.
- This involves examining who initiated the idea of the institution and whether it was primarily intended to benefit that community.
- Holistic Two-Fold Test: The Court introduced a two-fold test:
- First Limb: Identify the “brain behind” the establishment, which includes reviewing correspondence and documentation that reflect the intentions of the founders.
- Second Limb: Assess whether the administrative structure of the institution affirms its minority character and serves to protect and promote the interests of the minority community.
- Broad Interpretation of “Established”: The ruling clarified that “established” should be interpreted broadly, meaning that an institution can still be considered a minority institution even if it is governed by a statutory body or has undergone changes in its legal status over time.
How does this ruling affect the legal precedent set by the 1967 Azeez Basha case?
- The overruling of Azeez Basha: The SC’s decision effectively overruled its previous 1967 ruling, which had declared AMU as not being a minority institution because it was established through a government statute rather than directly by a minority community.
- New Framework for Minority Status: This ruling marks a shift towards a more inclusive interpretation of what constitutes a minority institution, allowing for a reassessment of AMU’s status based on historical context and community intent rather than solely on formal legal definitions.
- Legal Autonomy Reaffirmed: The judgment underscores that legislative recognition does not negate an institution’s minority character, challenging previous interpretations that linked statutory establishment with loss of minority status.
What are the implications of this ruling for Educational rights and Reservations?
- Potential for Reservations: If AMU is recognized as a minority institution, it could reserve seats specifically for Muslim students in various programs without needing to adhere to general reservation policies applicable to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) under Article 15(5) of the Constitution.
- Autonomy in Administration: The ruling provides AMU greater autonomy in managing its affairs, including admissions and staff appointments, thereby allowing it to align its policies with the interests of the Muslim community it serves.
- Broader Educational Rights: This decision reinforces the constitutional rights granted to minorities under Article 30(1), ensuring that they can establish and administer educational institutions without undue interference from state laws, thereby promoting educational diversity in India.
Way forward:
- Define Minority Status Framework: Parliament could establish a clear legislative framework based on the Supreme Court’s criteria, ensuring consistent and streamlined recognition of minority institutions across India.
- Balance Autonomy and Accountability: Policies should support minority institutions’ autonomy while maintaining accountability to uphold educational standards, ensuring both community-focused goals and inclusive, high-quality education.
Mains PYQ:
Q Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2016)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Sustainable Agriculture; Significance of CSR;
Why in the News?
Ten years ago, India became the first country to legally mandate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The section 135 of the Companies Act 2013 establishes the rules governing CSR.
- According to the National CSR Portal, ₹1.84 lakh crore in CSR funds was disbursed between 2014 and 2023.
About CSR:
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a business practice where companies contribute to social, economic, and environmental betterment, addressing societal needs alongside their profit-making objectives.
- In India, the minimum percentage of a company’s net profit that must be spent on corporate social responsibility (CSR) is 2%.
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Sectoral division of CSR:
- Education: Receives the highest CSR share (33%-40%) for building schools, scholarships, infrastructure, and vocational training.
- Health Care: Allocates 20%-30% of CSR funds to hospitals, health camps, sanitation, and disease prevention.
- Environmental Sustainability: Accounts for 5%-10% of CSR funds, with projects in biodiversity conservation, waste management, and renewable energy.
CSR’s Role in Agriculture
- Claims 10%-15% of CSR funds, targeting infrastructure, agricultural practices, and livelihood support.
- Since the enactment of the Companies Act in 2013, which mandates CSR spending, a total of Rs 1.84 lakh crore has been disbursed in CSR funds from 2014 to 2023.
- These funds have increasingly targeted sustainability initiatives within agriculture, with 23% of surveyed companies prioritizing “environment and sustainability” in their CSR activities.
- Over 90.8% of farmers involved in CSR programs reported improvements in income or risk reduction due to these initiatives.
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How much of an impact does Agriculture have on India’s GDP?
- Agriculture contributes approximately 15% to 18.2% of India’s GDP, reflecting a decline from 35% in 1990-91 due to rapid growth in the industrial and service sectors. The average annual growth rate of the agricultural sector has been around 4% over the last five years. (acc to pib data)
- Agriculture remains crucial for employment, providing livelihoods for about 42% of the population, which is significantly higher than the global average of 25%.
What are the key requirements to improve agricultural sustainability?
- Investment in Infrastructure: There is a pressing need for capital investment in infrastructure development, including irrigation systems, cold storage, and transportation networks to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access.
- Technological Advancements: Adoption of modern agricultural practices and technologies is essential. This includes better seed varieties, efficient irrigation methods, and sustainable farming techniques to enhance productivity.
- Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: Projects focusing on water conservation, energy-efficient irrigation, and agroforestry are critical for maintaining ecological balance while improving agricultural output.
What hinders CSR’s potential for agriculture?
- Lack of Clear Reporting Mechanisms: One of the main obstacles is the absence of robust frameworks to track and categorize CSR funding specifically directed towards agricultural initiatives. Current reporting practices do not emphasize agriculture-related CSR activities adequately.
- Diverse Allocation Categories: CSR activities can fall under multiple categories (e.g., gender equality, and environmental sustainability), making it difficult to isolate funds specifically aimed at agricultural sustainability. This lack of specificity hampers effective monitoring and impact assessment.
- Need for Distinct Sector Identification: To maximize CSR contributions to agriculture, it is crucial to identify agriculture as a distinct sector within CSR activities. This would streamline funding processes and enhance transparency and accountability in how funds are utilized for agricultural development.
Way forward:
- Establish Agriculture as a Separate CSR Category: Need to create a distinct sector for agriculture in CSR reporting to streamline funding, improve transparency, and enable targeted monitoring of agriculture-focused initiatives.
- Implement Comprehensive Reporting Frameworks: The government should develop robust mechanisms for tracking CSR funds specifically allocated to agricultural projects, ensuring clear categorization and facilitating better impact assessments.
Mains PYQ:
Q With a consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Companies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the challenges expected in its implementation in right earnest. Also discuss other provisions in the Bill and their implications. (UPSC IAS/2013)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Regional Groupings; Trade Relations; Significance and issues related to RCEP;
Why in the News?
According to NITI Aayog CEO, India should join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
What are the implications of India joining RCEP and CPTPP?
- Enhanced Trade Opportunities: Joining RCEP and CPTPP could significantly boost India’s trade by providing access to larger markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific regions.
- These agreements encompass a wide range of goods and services, potentially increasing India’s exports, especially from its Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which account for 40% of exports.
- Integration into Global Supply Chains: Participation in these trade blocs would facilitate India’s integration into global supply chains, allowing it to benefit from the ‘China plus one’ strategy that many countries are adopting to diversify their supply sources away from China.
- This could enhance India’s manufacturing sector and attract foreign investment.
- Regulatory Alignment: Being part of these agreements would necessitate aligning India’s regulatory frameworks with international standards, which could improve the business environment and attract more foreign direct investment (FDI).
How does India’s current tariff structure affect its competitiveness in global trade?
India’s current tariff structure is characterized by relatively high average tariffs compared to other major economies. For instance:
- Average Tariffs: India has an average applied tariff of approximately 13.8%, which is higher than that of China (9.8%) and the U.S. (3.4%) but lower than some other countries when considering trade-weighted averages.
- High Bound Tariffs: Many of India’s bound tariff rates on agricultural products are among the highest globally, ranging from 100% to 300%, creating significant barriers for foreign exporters.
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What are the risks associated with joining RCEP, particularly concerning competition with China?
- Increased Competition with China: One of the primary risks of joining RCEP is the potential for increased competition with Chinese firms, which may have cost advantages due to economies of scale and established supply chains.
- Pressure on Domestic Industries: Opening up to international competition might pressure local industries, particularly in sectors where they are less competitive compared to their counterparts in member countries.
- This could lead to job losses and require significant adjustments within certain sectors.
- Easy geopolitical Impact on the economy: Increased reliance on trade agreements may expose India to external economic fluctuations, particularly if global demand shifts or if geopolitical tensions impact trade dynamics within these blocs.
Way forward:
- Selective Tariff Reductions and Safeguards for Sensitive Sectors: India should negotiate phased tariff reductions and secure safeguards for vulnerable sectors like agriculture and small manufacturing.
- This approach would protect local industries while allowing gradual integration into RCEP and CPTPP markets.
- Strengthening Domestic Industries and MSMEs: India can boost competitiveness by enhancing MSME support through targeted subsidies, infrastructure improvements, and technology upgrades. Strengthening these sectors will help India leverage new market access and build resilience against foreign competition.
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: Indian education system;
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004 (Madarsa Act), except for the provisions related to higher education.
What were the grounds for the SCt’s decision to uphold the UP Madarsa Act?
- Applicability of Basic Structure Doctrine: The Supreme Court clarified that the basic structure doctrine, which is typically applied to constitutional amendments, does not apply to ordinary legislation like the Madarsa Act.
- The court emphasized that a law can only be struck down for violating fundamental rights or legislative competence, not for infringing on the basic structure of the Constitution.
- State Regulation of Education: The court affirmed that states have the authority to regulate educational institutions, including madrasas, as long as such regulations are reasonable and do not infringe on minority rights.
- Right to Education: The Supreme Court referenced its previous rulings regarding minority institutions’ rights to provide religious education while managing their administration.
- It concluded that the Madrasa Act does not violate the right to free and compulsory education under Article 21A, as it allows madrasas to offer religious instruction alongside secular education.
About Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004 (Madarsa Act):
- The Uttar Pradesh Board of Madrasas Education Act, 2004 (Madarsa Act) provides a legal framework for the operation and regulation of madrasas in the state.
- It aims to standardize education in these institutions by integrating both religious and secular curricula, primarily following the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) guidelines.
- The Act established the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education, which is responsible for preparing course materials, conducting examinations, and overseeing educational standards from the ‘Maulvi’ level (equivalent to Class 10) to ‘Fazil’ (equivalent to a Master’s degree).
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How does this ruling affect the regulation of madrasa education and its alignment with secular principles?
- Regulation of Madarsa Education: The ruling empowers the state to regulate madarsa education, ensuring that it meets certain standards without compromising its religious identity.
- It ensures that madrasas can continue to provide Islamic education alongside secular subjects, but within a structured and monitored environment that does not undermine the state’s authority over educational standards.
- Alignment with Secularism: The SC’s judgment does not force madrasas to secularize completely. Instead, it recognizes the coexistence of religious and secular education within the institution’s framework, reflecting India’s constitutional commitment to religious freedom and secularism.
- By upholding the law, the SC suggested that the government can promote secular education while respecting the rights of minority institutions to impart religious education.
Implications of Striking Down Higher Education Provisions:
- Conflict with the University Grants Commission (UGC) Act: The SC struck down provisions that allowed the Madarsa Board to grant higher education degrees (such as Kamil and Fazil), ruling that such powers conflicted with the UGC Act, which reserves the authority to grant degrees to universities recognized under central or state law.
- This decision limits Madarsas’ ability to independently issue degrees for advanced religious education.
- Impact on Madarsa Students: Students seeking degrees like Kamil (bachelor’s equivalent) or Fazil (master’s equivalent) from Madarsas will no longer receive these credentials through the Madarsa Board.
- This may affect the formal recognition of madrasa graduates, limiting their ability to pursue higher education or professional opportunities that require university-recognized degrees.
- Alignment with National Educational Standards: The SC’s decision brings madrasas in line with the UGC Act, ensuring that degree-awarding powers are centralized within recognized institutions. This promotes uniformity and compatibility with the broader national education system.
Way forward:
- Collaborate with Recognized Universities: Madarsas can partner with recognized universities to offer degrees for advanced religious studies, ensuring compliance with the UGC Act while retaining the essence of religious education.
- Integrate Secular and Religious Education Standards: To enhance educational outcomes, the government could provide support for curriculum development in madrasas, balancing religious teachings with secular subjects in alignment with national educational standards.
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/2022)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Global Geopolitics; Regional Stability; Impact of USA election on Foreign Policy;
Why in the News?
New Delhi’s enthusiastic reception of Trump 2.0 will be moderated by apprehensions about his social media posts and harsh stance on trade and tariffs.
Trump 2.0 Impact on India-U.S. Trade Relations:
- Trade Negotiations and Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Trump is likely to pick up negotiations for an India-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a process that began during his first term but was shelved after his loss in 2020. This could provide opportunities for greater market access and trade partnerships.
- Focus on Tariffs: Trump’s administration has been vocal about reducing trade tariffs. This could lead to pressure on India to lower its tariffs, as it did during Trump 1.0 when counter-tariffs were imposed, and India lost its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) status.
- U.S. Military and Technology Access: India is likely to benefit from increased access to U.S. military hardware and technology. Trump’s administration has historically supported closer defense ties with India, which could be further solidified in his second term, benefiting India’s defense capabilities.
- Energy Deals and Trade: Trump could encourage India to increase purchases of U.S. oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), as seen with previous deals like the Driftwood LNG plant. This could bolster trade, while also positioning the U.S. as a key energy partner for India.
Note: The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is a U.S. trade program that grants duty-free access to certain goods from developing countries to promote economic growth.
Implications for India’s Foreign Policy (Russia and Iran):
- Relations with Russia: Trump’s pro-Russia stance suggests that India will face less pressure to distance itself from Moscow.
- While previous U.S. administrations have criticized India’s defense ties with Russia, Trump may adopt a more pragmatic approach, focusing on other strategic aspects like defense cooperation without pressing India on Russian relations.
- Iran Policy: Trump’s previous sanctions against Iran caused India to reduce its oil imports from Iran. Under Trump 2.0, India is likely to face fewer sanctions-related pressures, as Trump has historically shown a less critical stance on countries like Iran compared to other U.S. leaders.
- India could therefore maintain or revive its ties with Iran without facing significant U.S. backlash.
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Challenges from Trump’s Domestic Policies (Immigration and Technology Transfer):
- Immigration and H-1B Visa Policy: Trump’s tough stance on immigration and H-1B visas could pose challenges for India, especially in terms of its highly skilled workforce.
- India’s tech sector relies heavily on H-1B visas, and stricter immigration policies under Trump 2.0 could limit opportunities for Indian professionals to work in the U.S., affecting India’s IT and services sector.
- Technology Transfer: Trump has shown a preference for protectionist policies, which may slow down the transfer of advanced technologies to India.
- This could impact India’s aspirations to become a global hub for high-tech industries, particularly in sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and defence technology.
- Increased Focus on U.S. Jobs: Trump’s focus on bringing jobs back to the U.S. may result in policies that prioritize domestic industries over foreign collaborations, limiting the scope for Indian companies in certain sectors and creating trade tensions.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Bilateral Trade Negotiations: India should actively engage in FTA negotiations with the U.S., seeking mutually beneficial terms that address tariff concerns, market access, and defense collaboration, while also ensuring safeguards for sensitive sectors like technology and agriculture.
- Diversify Technology and Energy Partnerships: India can focus on diversifying its sources of technology transfer and energy imports, strengthening ties with other global players in these sectors to mitigate potential risks from Trump’s protectionist policies and ensuring sustainable growth in high-tech industries and energy security.
Mains PYQ:
Q What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Federal Issues; Issues related to the Nagaland Government;
Why in the News?
After months of inactivity, the Nagaland government announced last week that it is now prepared to submit its feedback on the Centre’s draft Memorandum of Settlement, which proposes greater Autonomy for the state’s six eastern districts.
What are the historical and socio-economic factors driving the demand for greater autonomy in Eastern Nagaland?
- Historical Background: The six eastern districts—Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, and Tuensang—were part of an area historically set apart for special governance.
- After Nagaland’s creation from Assam in 1963, these districts were administered differently due to their relative lack of infrastructure and resources.
- 16-Point Agreement & Article 371(A): Nagaland was formed with special provisions, including Article 371(A), to protect Naga customs and address unique challenges in the “Tuensang region” (now the six eastern districts).
- Initially, a regional council governed these districts, reflecting an early recognition of their distinct needs.
- Development Deficit: Despite Article 371(A), these districts continue to face significant development challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, healthcare, and educational facilities.
- This lack of development fuels the demand for separate governance, as the existing state-level administration is perceived to overlook their needs.
Note: Article 371(A) grants special provisions to Nagaland, protecting its cultural practices, land, resources, and customary laws from parliamentary laws.
How does the proposed ‘Frontier Nagaland Territory’ differ from existing governance structures, and what specific powers would it entail?
The “Frontier Nagaland Territory” is a unique model of autonomy within the state of Nagaland. Key points of the proposed arrangement include:
- Separate Legislature, Executive, and Financial Powers: This proposed setup would give the region greater control over local legislative decisions, executive functions, and financial resources.
- Regional Council: The regional council for Eastern Nagaland would manage local issues and is in line with the provisions of Article 371(A) but would expand these powers further.
- Headquarters in East Nagaland: Unlike current governance structures that are centered in the state capital Kohima, this arrangement suggests an independent headquarters within East Nagaland, giving local leaders more direct control over the region’s administration.
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What role do local organizations like the ENPO (Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization) play in advocating for this autonomy?
- Driving the Demand: ENPO has been the primary advocate for autonomy since its 2010 memorandum to the Prime Minister’s Office. The group argues for a separate state or enhanced autonomy based on longstanding neglect and developmental disparities.
- Political Leverage: ENPO’s influence is evident in their strategic actions, such as boycotting the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections to pressure both the state and central governments. This boycotting tactic has effectively highlighted the intensity of the demand and brought national attention to the issue.
- Insistence on Direct Negotiations: ENPO maintains a strong stance on discussing autonomy only with the central government, not with the state, which underscores its dissatisfaction with the state administration’s handling of Eastern Nagaland’s interests.
How might their demands influence state and central government responses?
- Central Government’s Response: The Centre has shown some willingness to explore a “mutually agreed solution,” as seen in the draft Memorandum of Settlement and repeated assurances to the ENPO.
- This indicates that the central government may consider some form of autonomy, though it balances this with state interests.
- State Government’s Position: The state government, which initially delayed providing input on the proposal, has now agreed to submit its comments, likely to avoid further regional dissent.
- However, it is navigating a complex situation where conceding autonomy could impact its overall governance framework.
- Further Deliberation and Possible Compromises: Both the Centre and the state are expected to engage in detailed negotiations with the ENPO and other stakeholders.
- The discussions will likely center on balancing the autonomy demands with the broader interests of Nagaland, seeking to avoid full separation while addressing developmental grievances.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Local Governance and Infrastructure: Need to establish a robust framework for local governance with dedicated funds and authority to address the developmental deficits in Eastern Nagaland, ensuring that the “Frontier Nagaland Territory” arrangement grants meaningful legislative, executive, and financial autonomy to meet the unique needs of the region.
- Inclusive Dialogue and Regular Consultations: Facilitate ongoing, inclusive dialogues among the Centre, state government, ENPO, and local representatives to address concerns transparently and collaboratively.
Mains PYQ:
Q Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate state. Discuss. 10 marks-200 words (UPSC CSE 2013)
Q The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has heen a continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Q “While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy.” Comment. (UPSC CSE 2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Private Property; DPSP;
Why in the News?
A 9-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, in a majority judgment (8:1), held that not every private resource can be considered a ‘material resource of the community’ to be used by the government to serve the ‘common good’ under Article 39(b).
- This overturns the earlier interpretation formed in 1977 that has been followed by the Supreme Court till 1997.
What are Constitutional Provisions?
- Part IV of the Constitution contains the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) where government should strive to achieve social and economic justice in our society.
- Article 39(b) in Part IV provides that ‘ownership and control of material resources of the community are so distributed as best to subserve the common good.’
- Articles 19(1)(f) and 31 originally guaranteed right to property and compensation for acquisition as a Fundamental Right respectively.
- Article 31C that was added through the 25th amendment in 1971, provided an exception that laws made to fulfil the principles under Articles 39(b) and (c) shall not be void on the ground that it violated Fundamental Rights including right to property.
- In the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), a 13-judge Bench of the Supreme Court upheld the validity of Article 31C but made it subject to judicial review.
- In 1978, the right to property was omitted from Fundamental Rights and made a constitutional right under Article 300A.
- Any law to acquire private property by the government should only be for a public purpose with adequate compensation meted out.
What were earlier judgments?
- In the State of Karnataka vs. Ranganatha Reddy (1977) case, the Supreme Court upheld a law nationalizing private bus services, with Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer interpreting “material resource of the community” in Article 39(b) to include all national wealth.
- This minority opinion influenced the Sanjeev Coke Manufacturing Company vs. Bharat Coking Coal Limited (1982) case, which also supported nationalization, and was referenced in Mafatlal Industries Limited vs. Union of India (1996).
What is the current ruling?
- The SC recently ruled in the Property Owners Association vs. State of Maharashtra case that not all privately owned properties qualify as “material resources of the community” under Article 39(b).
- A 9 judge bench, stated that only certain properties, based on their nature and impact on public welfare, can be considered for state acquisition to serve the common good.
- This decision marks a shift from earlier interpretations that emphasized that individual property rights are protected and not every private asset can be appropriated by the state.
- The ruling also noted that the term “distribution” in Article 39(b) includes both state acquisition and redistribution to private entities when it benefits the community.
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What criteria should determine if a privately owned resource qualifies as a ‘material resource of the community’?
- Purpose and Public Utility: Privately owned resources may be classified as “material resources of the community” if they are essential for societal welfare, addressing collective needs, or fulfilling significant public purposes, such as energy, water, or land critical for infrastructure.
- Proportionality and Fairness: The court emphasized that any state action must be proportional, balancing public benefit with the impact on private owners.
- Economic Impact and Control: Resources that substantially impact the national economy or are crucial for maintaining societal equity (such as natural resources) may be considered community resources, but this does not apply to general private property.
How does this ruling impact the balance between individual property rights and the state’s ability to intervene for public welfare?
- This ruling reinforces individual property rights, clarifying that private property cannot be arbitrarily acquired under the guise of benefiting society. The state must justify the acquisition based on substantial, verifiable public welfare needs.
- Limitations on State Power: By rejecting an expansive interpretation of Article 39(b), the court limits state power, ensuring that only properties directly tied to public interest and welfare fall under this category.
What are the potential economic implications of this ruling in India?
- Investment Climate: This ruling strengthens protections for private property, likely improving investor confidence by assuring that property rights are safeguarded from excessive state intervention.
- Economic Development and Social Equity: By narrowing the scope of Article 39(b), the ruling limits redistributive policies to sectors where public welfare is a clear priority, allowing economic resources to be distributed in a manner that considers social equity while respecting individual rights.
- Real Estate and Industrial Sectors: The ruling could positively affect sectors with high-value assets, such as real estate and industry, as businesses will have greater certainty regarding property ownership and security.
How might this decision influence future legal interpretations and legislative actions?
- Refined Scope for Article 39(b) Applications: Future legislation under Article 39(b) must specifically justify how resources qualify as “material resources of the community,” likely limiting nationalization or acquisition to specific, strategically important sectors.
- Increased Judicial Scrutiny on Property Rights: Courts are likely to more critically evaluate state actions that aim to redistribute private property, requiring robust evidence of public interest and alignment with constitutional principles.
- Potential for Policy Revisions: Laws that invoke Article 39(b) and related provisions may need to be reviewed to ensure they comply with this interpretation, leading to a more nuanced application of public welfare policies.
Way forward:
- Establish Clear Guidelines for Public Interest Acquisition: The government should define transparent criteria for categorizing “material resources of the community,” ensuring acquisitions serve substantial public welfare needs and align with societal priorities, especially in areas like infrastructure and essential services.
- Strengthen Judicial and Legislative Safeguards: Introduce legal safeguards to protect individual property rights, allowing courts to rigorously assess state actions on property acquisition, ensuring proportionality, fairness, and adherence to constitutional principles.
Mains PYQ:
Q How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers? (UPSC IAS/2021)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to vigilantism;
Why in the News?
On July 30, Uttar Pradesh toughened its 2021 anti-conversion law, increasing the maximum sentence to life imprisonment, tightening bail conditions, and expanding “illegal conversion” to include promises of marriage and trafficking.
How do current laws facilitate vigilante actions under the guise of protecting societal values?
- Expansion of Complainant Scope: The amended law allows any individual, regardless of personal involvement or direct impact, to lodge complaints about alleged unlawful conversions.
- Broad Interpretation of “Public Interest”: By permitting police officers and unrelated third parties to file FIRs, the law can be exploited to initiate cases that target religious minorities or interfaith couples, framing these as societal threats.
- Legal Ambiguity and Arbitrary Application: The inconsistent interpretations of “aggrieved person” under Section 4 by different courts have led to uncertainty.
- This ambiguity has allowed authorities and vigilantes to target groups and individuals selectively, often with little or no evidence of wrongdoing, undermining personal freedoms and due process.
- Reduced Threshold for Evidence: By widening the scope of what constitutes “illegal conversion” to include vague terms like “promise of marriage,” the law can easily be manipulated.
- This opens the door for complaints based on assumptions or suspicions, rather than clear, proven instances of forced conversion.
What measures can be implemented to ensure effective enforcement of laws against mob violence and vigilantism?
- Strict Definitions and Limits on Complainants: Restricting who can file complaints to genuinely aggrieved parties—directly affected individuals or close relatives—could help prevent misuse by third-party vigilante actors.
- Accountability Mechanisms for Law Enforcement: Police officers who file unfounded FIRs based on ideologically motivated complaints should face accountability measures.
- Disciplinary action or judicial oversight in cases of misuse would help discourage officers from acting on non-substantial complaints.
- Enhanced Legal Protections for Victims of Vigilantism: Establishing a separate body to investigate and prosecute cases of mob violence and vigilante actions can protect targeted groups.
- Promotion of Public Awareness and Legal Literacy: Initiatives to raise awareness about individual rights and legal processes can empower citizens to resist unlawful actions by vigilantes.
What role do societal perception and political influence play in the rise of vigilantism?
- Ideological Justifications for Vigilantism: Laws like the anti-conversion amendment are often framed as measures to protect cultural or religious values, creating a narrative that justifies vigilante actions as morally and socially acceptable.
- Political Endorsement and Implicit Encouragement: When political entities endorse such laws or publicly support vigilante actions, they create a permissive environment for vigilantism.
- Media Influence and Public Perception: Coverage of interfaith relationships or religious conversions as “threats” to societal harmony often fuels public support for vigilante actions.
- Sensationalist media narratives contribute to a heightened perception of certain groups as “others,” justifying vigilantism as a form of social correction.
- Inadequate Legal Deterrence: Weak penalties for mob violence or leniency in prosecuting vigilantes reinforce the perception that vigilantism will be tolerated, especially if aligned with popular or politically endorsed views.
Way forward:
- Enact Clearer Legal Boundaries and Protections: Define strict limits on who can file complaints under anti-conversion laws, ensuring only directly affected individuals or close family members can do so.
- Strengthen Public Awareness and Judicial Oversight: Promote legal literacy campaigns to educate citizens on their rights and the dangers of vigilante actions, and establish judicial oversight for cases involving mob violence and vigilantism to ensure accountability and protection for targeted groups.
Mains PYQ:
Q Mob violence is emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving suitable examples, analyze the causes and consequences of such violence. (UPSC IAS/2017)
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