In today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants, we explore the latest developments that hold relevance for the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and economic landscape of India. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus.
India-Nepal Bilateral Ties
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News: The Government of Nepal has decided to issue a Rs-100 currency note featuring the country’s map, including territories claimed by India.
Historical Background
- Under the Treaty of Sagauli (1816), signed between the British East India Company and Nepal, the Kali River was designated as Nepal’s western boundary with India.
- However, the treaty did not specify the ridgeline, leading to discrepancies in subsequent British survey maps regarding the source of the Kali River.
- This ambiguity has resulted in boundary disputes between India and Nepal.
Recent Dispute Between the Two Countries
- In 2020, Indian Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new link road from India to China via the Lipulekh pass to facilitate travel for pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar.
- Nepal strongly protested this action, claiming it violated a 2014 agreement between the Prime Ministers of India and Nepal to address outstanding boundary issues in Kalapani and Susta.
- In response, Nepal’s parliament passed a Constitutional Amendment Bill to incorporate Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura into its map, leading to a breakdown in communication between the two countries.
- India rejected Nepal’s updated map, calling it “artificial,” “unilateral,” and “unacceptable,” and urged Nepal to return to dialogue.
News Summary
- The Government of Nepal has decided to issue a new Rs-100 currency note depicting areas like Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura, which are under Indian control.
- This decision, made at a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ drew a sharp response from India.
- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that Nepal’s move would not alter the situation or the ground reality.
- The decision will be forwarded to Rastra Bank, Nepal’s central bank, which may take up to a year to print the new note.
- The central bank will issue tenders for printing quality notes.
- However, the decision has not garnered full support from local political stakeholders, with some former diplomats and central bank governors deeming it “unwise” and “provocative.”
Way Forward
- Given the historical and cultural ties between India and Nepal, India should prioritize resolving this matter.
- With ongoing border disputes with China in Ladakh, India must engage in dialogue with Nepal promptly to end the dispute.
- Since free movement of people is allowed between the two countries, Nepal holds strategic significance for India.
- India’s sizable Nepali diaspora significantly contributes to Nepal’s economy.
- Therefore, it is in the best interest of both countries to resolve the boundary dispute diplomatically.
Source: IE
Supreme Court Declines Centre’s Request for Administrative Spectrum Allocation
Tag: GS-2 Governance
In News: The Supreme Court of India has made a significant decision by rejecting the Centre’s request to permit administrative allocation of spectrum, thereby reaffirming the principle of conducting open and transparent auctions for allocating this limited natural resource.
Why Did the Supreme Court Reject the Centre’s Application?
Reasoning Behind Rejection
- The Registrar of the Supreme Court deemed the Centre’s application for clarification as misconceived under Order XV Rule 5 of the Supreme Court Rules, 2013.
- This rule allows refusal to receive a petition if it lacks reasonable cause, contains frivolous content, or includes scandalous matter.
Key Ruling from the Supreme Court
- The Supreme Court asserted that spectrum allocation to private players must be conducted through open and transparent auctions, as established by the landmark 2G spectrum case judgment from 12 years ago.
- Allowing “administrative allocation” would have vested the government with sole authority to select operators, which contradicts principles of fairness and transparency.
Legal Framework Regarding Spectrum Allocation
Telecommunications Act, 2023
- This legislation empowers the government to assign spectrum for telecommunications through administrative processes, excluding auctions, for entities listed in its First Schedule.
- These entities include those engaged in national security, defence, law enforcement, and satellite communications.
2G Spectrum Scam
- Background
- The 2G spectrum allocation scandal occurred in 2008 when the government allegedly sold 122 licences on a first-come-first-serve basis (FCFS) to specific private telecom operators.
- This led to investigations by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and allegations of a loss of Rs 30,984 crore to the exchequer due to discrepancies in the allocation process.
- Supreme Court Verdict
- In February 2012, the Supreme Court cancelled the 122 telecom licences allocated on an FCFS basis, emphasizing the need for a “non-discriminatory method” like auctions for allocating natural resources to ensure fairness and transparency.
Centre’s Current Plea
- Recent Developments
- More than a decade later, the Union government has requested a specific class of spectrum to be allocated through administrative processes instead of auctions.
- This is to address sovereign and public interest functions such as security and disaster preparedness.
- Citing Constitutional Bench Observations
- The Union government refers to a Constitution Bench’s observations regarding a Presidential reference concerning the 2012 verdict.
- The Bench clarified that while auction is not a constitutional mandate for all natural resources excluding spectrum, it is mandatory for spectrum allocation as per the law declared in the 2G case.
Spectrum Allocation Methods Across the Globe
Countries like New Zealand have used auctions for spectrum allocation since 1989, while the United States transitioned from lotteries to auctions in the 1990s due to the drawbacks of the former method. Canada and the European Union often use an administrative process called a “beauty contest” for spectrum allocation, which aligns decisions with government objectives but is time-consuming.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2020) Q. With reference to Visible Light Communication (VLC) technology, which of the following statements are correct? 1. VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780 nm. 2. VLC is known as long-range optical wireless communication. 3. VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth. 4. VLC has no electromagnetic interference. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 2, 3 and 4 only Ans: (c) Prelims (2011) Q. A layer in the Earth’s atmosphere called Ionosphere facilitates radio communication. Why? 1. The presence of ozone causes the reflection of radio waves to Earth. 2. Radio waves have a very long wavelength. 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 Ans: (d) Prelims (2010) Q. Consider the following statements: 1. The Supreme Court of India tender advice to the President of India on matters of law or facton its own initiative (on any matter of larger public interest). 2. if he seeks such an advice. 3. only if the matters relate to the Fundamental Rights of the citizens. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1 and 2 Ans: (b) |
Source: TH
Balanced Fertilisation
Tag: GS – 3 Direct & Indirect Farm Subsidies, Cropping Patterns, Environmental Pollution & Degradation
In News: Following the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, achieving balanced fertilization is expected to emerge as a primary policy objective for the incoming government.
Understanding Balanced Fertilization
- Definition and Essentials
- Balanced fertilization involves providing plants with optimal nutrient levels for healthy growth.
- It ensures that plants receive the right combination of primary nutrients like Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), alongside secondary nutrients (S, Ca, Mg) and micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, B, Mo).
- These nutrients play crucial roles in various aspects of plant development, from structural integrity to energy production and enzyme activation.
- Factors Influencing Ratios
- Soil type and crop requirements dictate the correct nutrient ratios. Soil tests reveal nutrient profiles, guiding fertilization strategies.
- Different crops demand specific nutrients at varying growth stages.
- For instance, legumes might require more nitrogen during the vegetative stage for nitrogen fixation, while fruiting crops might benefit from higher potassium levels during the fruiting stage for improved fruit quality and yield.
Benefits of Balanced Fertilization
- Enhanced Yields: Optimal nutrient mix supports maximum plant growth by ensuring that plants have access to all the nutrients they need in the right proportions.
- Improved Quality: Stronger plants resist diseases and pests better, leading to higher-quality harvests with better taste, texture, and appearance.
- Soil Health Promotion: Balanced fertilization sustains soil ecosystems by preventing nutrient imbalances and soil degradation, ensuring the long-term fertility and productivity of agricultural land.
- Environmental Protection: Minimized fertilizer use reduces the risk of nutrient runoff, which can contaminate water bodies and harm aquatic ecosystems. By applying only the necessary nutrients, farmers can minimize environmental impact.
- Cost Efficiency: Preventing overuse of fertilizers saves resources and lowers costs for farmers while maximizing the effectiveness of fertilization practices, leading to improved profitability and sustainability.
Challenges and Hindrances
- Price Disparities: Subsidized urea distorts fertilization practices, leading to overuse of nitrogen and neglect of other essential nutrients like phosphorus and potassium.
- MOP Pricing Issues: High Muriate of Potash (MOP) prices deter farmers from using potassium fertilizers, leading to widespread potassium deficiencies in soils and reduced crop yields.
- Soil Testing Gaps: Limited availability of soil testing facilities in rural areas makes it challenging for farmers to access accurate soil nutrient information, hindering informed decision-making regarding fertilizer application.
- Farmer Awareness: Many farmers lack awareness about the importance of balanced fertilization and the specific nutrient needs of their crops, leading to suboptimal fertilization practices.
- Past Scheme Failures: Previous initiatives like the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme failed to effectively promote balanced fertilization due to inadequate implementation and lack of consideration for urea pricing distortions.
Strategies for Implementation
- Integrated Nutrient Management (INM): INM combines chemical fertilizers, organic matter, and crop rotations to ensure holistic soil health and balanced nutrient availability for crops.
- Customized Fertilizers: Tailored fertilizer blends meet the specific nutrient requirements of different crops and soil conditions, optimizing nutrient use efficiency and crop yields.
- Advanced Approaches: Technologies like Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) and Diagnosis and Recommendation Integration System (DRIS) provide precise recommendations based on soil and crop-specific data, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of fertilization practices.
- Education and Training: Farmer education programs and training initiatives can help increase awareness about the benefits of balanced fertilization and provide farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to implement these practices effectively.
- Market Access and Policy Reforms: Ensuring the availability of balanced fertilizers at reasonable prices through policy reforms and targeted subsidies can incentivize farmers to adopt balanced fertilization practices and promote sustainable agriculture.
Conclusion
Balanced fertilization holds immense promise for Indian agriculture, offering increased yields, improved quality, and environmental sustainability. However, overcoming challenges like pricing policies, limited soil testing infrastructure, and farmer awareness gaps is crucial for widespread adoption and success. By implementing strategies such as INM, customized fertilizers, advanced technologies, and farmer education programs, India can harness the benefits of balanced fertilization and ensure the long-term health and productivity of its agricultural sector.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2020) Q. With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements: 1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government. 2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas. 3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) Prelims (2019) Q. With reference to the cultivation of Kharif crops in India in the last five years, consider the following statements: 1. Area under rice cultivation is the highest. 2. Area under the cultivation of jowar is more than that of oilseeds. 3. Area of cotton cultivation is more than that of sugarcane. 4. Area under sugarcane cultivation has steadily decreased. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Ans: (a) Mains (2017)Q1. How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and the economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers? Mains (2015)Q2. In what way could replacement of price subsidy with direct benefit Transfer (DBT) change the scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss. Mains (2013)Q3. What are the different types of agriculture subsidies given to farmers at the national and at state levels? Critically, analyse the agricultural subsidy regime with reference to the distortions created by it. |
Source: IE
WHO Report on Global Immunisation
Tag: GS – 2 Sports & Affairs, Issues Related to Children, Health
In News: A recent study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) unveiled that global immunization endeavours have preserved an approximate total of 154 million lives throughout the past five decades.
Key Findings of the Report
- Immunization’s Contribution
- The report highlights that immunization stands as the single most significant contributor to ensuring the healthy lives of infants among various health interventions.
- Impact of Measles Vaccination
- Measles vaccination has been instrumental in saving an estimated 94 million lives out of 154 million since 1974.
- Despite this, approximately 33 million children missed measles vaccine doses in 2022, leading to a global coverage gap.
- Importance of Balanced Coverage
- Achieving a coverage rate of 95% or higher with two doses of measles-containing vaccine is crucial to prevent outbreaks.
- Role of DPT Vaccine
- The report notes a substantial increase in the coverage of the DPT vaccine, with 84% of infants now protected against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, compared to less than 5% before the launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI).
- Reduced Infant Mortality
- Immunization has contributed to a 40% reduction in infant deaths from various diseases, with over 50% reduction observed in the African Region over the past five decades.
- Disease Eradication and Containment
- Significant progress has been made in eradicating diseases like wild poliovirus, with cases decreasing by over 99% since 1988.
- Additionally, vaccines against malaria and cervical cancer have been effective in containing these diseases.
- Gain in Full Health Years
- For each life saved through immunization, an average of 66 years of full health has been gained, totaling 10.2 billion full health years over the past five decades.
Status of Immunization in India
- Extensive Immunization Programme
- India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) is one of the largest public health programs globally, annually vaccinating millions of pregnant women and children.
- Achievements
- India has been certified polio-free since 2014 and eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus in 2015.
- New vaccines like Measles-Rubella, Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV), and Rotavirus Vaccine (RVV) have been introduced nationwide.
- Challenges and Initiatives
- Despite progress, challenges such as limited access, deaths from infectious diseases, and incomplete coverage persist.
- Initiatives like Mission Indradhanush (MI) and Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) aim to address these issues.
Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)
- Historical Background
- The UIP, formerly known as the Expanded Programme on Immunization, was launched in 1978 and expanded nationally in 1985.
- Objective and Coverage
- The programme provides free immunization against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases nationally and three diseases sub-nationally.
Global Initiatives Related to Immunization
- Immunization Agenda 2030
- A global initiative aimed at promoting equitable access to vaccines and achieving full immunization coverage.
- World Immunization Week
- An annual campaign to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination and celebrate the achievements of immunization programs worldwide.
- Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI)
- Established in 1974, EPI focuses on vaccinating children against various diseases, with universal recommendations for 13 diseases and context-specific recommendations for another 17 diseases.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2016) Q. ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to (a) immunization of children and pregnant women (b) construction of smart cities across the country (c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space (d) New Educational Policy Ans: (a) Prelims (2017) Q. Which of the following are the objectives of ‘National Nutrition Mission’? 1. To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers. 2. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women. 3. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice.To promote the consumption of poultry eggs. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 3 and 4 only Ans: (a) Mains (2021)Q. Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. |
Source: WHO
Blue Corner Notice
Tag: GS-2 GS-3
In News: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is considering issuing a Blue Corner notice against a Member of Parliament from a political party who fled to Germany using a diplomatic passport following accusations of sexual abuse.
About Blue Corner Notice
A Blue Corner Notice is part of Interpol’s comprehensive system of color-coded notices, allowing countries to share alerts and requests for critical information on wanted persons or criminal activities worldwide.
Importance of Notices
- This exchange of vital crime-related information plays a pivotal role in combating criminal activities that span international borders.
- Interpol issues seven types of notices, each serving a different purpose and implication, including Red, Yellow, Blue, Black, Green, Orange, and Purple Notices.
Types of Notices
- Red Notice: Seeks the location and arrest of individuals wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence.
- Yellow Notice: Aids in locating missing persons, particularly minors, or helps identify individuals unable to identify themselves.
- Blue Notice: Collects additional information regarding a person’s identity, location, or activities in relation to a criminal investigation.
- Black Notice: Seeks information on unidentified bodies.
- Green Notice: Warns about a person’s criminal activities, posing a potential threat to public safety.
- Orange Notice: Warns of an imminent threat to public safety posed by an event, person, object, or process.
- Purple Notice: Seeks or provides information on criminals’ modus operandi, objects, devices, and concealment methods.
Issuance and Availability
Interpol’s General Secretariat issues these notices at the request of a member country’s Interpol National Central Bureau, making them accessible to all member countries.
About the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol)
- Interpol, or the International Criminal Police Organization, facilitates global police cooperation and crime control.
- Its mandate involves coordinating international police efforts against cross-border terrorism, trafficking, and various other crimes.
- Governance of Interpol is overseen by the General Assembly, its supreme governing body, which convenes annually.
- Interpol operates as an independent international organization and is not a part of the United Nations system.
Source: IE
Boeing Starliner
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News: On its third test flight, an Atlas V rocket is scheduled to launch carrying a crew capsule named Starliner, manufactured by Boeing, with two experienced astronauts on board for the first time.
About Boeing Starliner
Boeing Starliner is a spacecraft designed to transport astronauts into space following launch by a rocket.
Components
- It comprises a crew capsule and a service module.
- The crew capsule serves as the habitat for astronauts and is equipped to endure re-entry and return to Earth.
- The service module contains essential equipment and systems for astronauts’ survival in space, including air and temperature control, water supply, sanitation, as well as engines and fuel for spacecraft maneuvering.
Specifications
- Starliner measures over 4 meters wide and can accommodate up to seven astronauts.
- Its innovative, weldless structure allows for reusability up to 10 times with a six-month turnaround time.
- It features modern amenities such as wireless internet and tablet technology for crew interfaces.
- The spacecraft can be launched atop an Atlas V rocket, operated by United Launch Alliance, a collaboration between Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
Purpose of Starliner
- NASA awarded contracts to SpaceX and Boeing on September 16, 2014, to transport astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).
- SpaceX has flown 13 missions to the ISS with its Dragon crew capsule, capable of housing seven astronauts.
- Following the retirement of NASA’s Space Shuttle program in 2011 and before the readiness of SpaceX’s Dragon capsule in 2020, Russia’s Soyuz rocket and capsule were the only means to transport astronauts to and from the ISS.
- A successful Starliner mission would provide the U.S. with two spacecraft for launching astronauts into space simultaneously for the first time in history.
- SpaceX and Boeing will alternate launching astronauts to the ISS, with each crew’s expedition lasting up to six months, until the ISS is decommissioned in the next decade.
Source: TH
Air Independent Propulsion
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News: The process of modernizing the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet with a significant Rs 60,000 crore contract has commenced. This contract aims to construct six stealth submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, and trials of competing teams have commenced at Mazagaon Docks in Mumbai.
What is AIP?
AIP, or Air Independent Propulsion, arose as a solution to the challenge of achieving satisfactory underwater propulsion with the emergence of submarines.
Historical Context
- Traditional diesel-electric submarines faced limitations, needing frequent surfacing to charge batteries and having limited underwater endurance.
- The Imperial Russian Navy’s 1908 submarine, Pochtovy, introduced a novel approach using a gasoline engine fed with compressed air, which exhausted underwater.
Principles of AIP
- AIP systems today typically involve using a fuel to power an open-cycle system or providing oxygen to an aerobic engine in a closed cycle.
- These systems often generate electricity to drive propulsion motors or recharge submarine batteries, vastly enhancing underwater endurance.
Implementation
- AIP is commonly used as an auxiliary power source, with traditional diesel engines handling surface propulsion.
- Retrofitting existing submarines with AIP technology involves inserting a new hull section during the retrofit process.
Advantages of AIP
- AIP systems enable submarines to remain submerged for extended periods, enhancing operational capabilities.
- They reduce noise levels, making submarines harder to detect underwater.
Types of AIP Systems
- Open-cycle systems
- Closed-cycle diesel engines
- Closed-cycle steam turbines
- Stirling cycle engines
- Fuel cells
DRDO’s AIP System
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing a fuel cells-based AIP System, unique for generating hydrogen onboard.
- Developed by the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) of DRDO, this system operates in endurance and max power modes as per user requirements.
Types of Submarines
- Conventional or Diesel-electric submarine: They rely on atmospheric oxygen to run diesel generators, which charge batteries.
- Nuclear Submarine: Powered by a nuclear reactor, offering significant performance advantages over conventional submarines.
Source: FPJ
Endosymbiotic Theory
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News: Two recently published papers have reignited interest in the endosymbiotic theory.
About Endosymbiotic Theory
The endosymbiotic theory proposes that certain organelles within modern eukaryotic cells were originally prokaryotic microbes.
Key Concepts
- The theory suggests that the first eukaryotic cell likely resembled an amoeba-like organism, obtaining nutrients through phagocytosis and containing a nucleus formed when a portion of the cytoplasmic membrane enclosed the chromosomes.
- Some of these amoeba-like organisms ingested prokaryotic cells, establishing a symbiotic relationship where the ingested microbes survived within the host cell.
- Mitochondria originated from bacteria capable of aerobic respiration, while chloroplasts formed from photosynthetic bacteria. These organelles lost their cell wall and much of their DNA over time due to their diminished utility within the host cell.
- Evolution over millions of years led to the specialization of mitochondria and chloroplasts, rendering them unable to survive independently outside the host cell.
Prokaryotes vs. Eukaryotes
- Living organisms are categorized into three domains: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.
- Prokaryotes, found primarily in the Bacteria and Archaea domains, consist of prokaryotic cells, the simplest and most ancient cellular structures.
- Eukaryotes, belonging to the Eukarya domain, comprise more complex eukaryotic cells, which can be unicellular or multicellular and include animals, plants, fungi, and protists.
- The primary distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells lies in the presence of a distinct nucleus containing genetic material in eukaryotes, while prokaryotes lack a nucleus.
- Eukaryotes emerged approximately 2.7 billion years ago after 1 to 1.5 billion years of prokaryotic evolution.
- Eukaryotic cells possess membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, golgi complex, and chloroplasts (in plant cells), which are absent in prokaryotic cells.
- Despite their differences, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells share common features such as DNA, cell membrane, cytoplasm, and ribosomes.
Source: TH
Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal
Tag: GS-3
In News: The Centre has designated retired Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra as the President of the Goods & Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT).
About Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT)
The Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal is a specialized authority established to resolve disputes related to GST at the appellate level.
Establishment and Jurisdiction
- It is constituted under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (CGST Act) to hear appeals under this Act and the respective State/UT GST Acts.
- The tribunal comprises one Principal Bench situated in Delhi and 31 State benches located across various States.
Composition
- The tribunal is headed by a President and includes a Judicial Member and two Technical Members, one representing the state and the other the Centre.
- State benches may consist of two Judicial Members and one Technical Member each from the Centre and the state.
Eligibility Criteria
- The President must be either a retired Supreme Court judge or a former Chief Justice of a High Court.
- Judicial Members must have served as High Court Judges or held positions as Additional District Judge or District Judge for at least 10 years.
- Technical Members representing the Centre should be Indian Revenue Service members of Group A or members of All India Service with three years of experience in administering GST.
- Technical Members from the state must be state government officers or All India Service officers ranked above Additional Commissioner of Value Added Tax, with 25 years of Group A Services or equivalent experience.
Age Limit and Tenure
The President and Judicial and Technical Members hold office for a maximum of four years or until they reach the age of 70 years (President) or 67 years (Judicial and Technical Members).
Functions and Powers
GSTAT functions akin to a Civil Court and possesses the authority to pass orders, hear cases, levy penalties, and revoke or cancel registrations related to GST disputes.
Source: BL
Integrated Pensioners’ Portal (IPP)
Tag: GS-3 Economy
In News: GS-2
About Integrated Pensioners’ Portal (IPP)
The Integrated Pensioners’ Portal is a specialized platform designed to facilitate the complete digitization of pension processing and payment services.
Key Features
- The portal consolidates the pension processing and payment services offered by five major banks (Bank of India, State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank, and Canara Bank) into a single window.
- Its primary aim is to enhance transparency and efficiency in pension-related services.
- Pensioners can provide their personal and service details online, enabling the seamless submission of pension forms.
- Retirees receive notifications regarding the progress of their pension sanction through SMS or email, ensuring they remain informed throughout the process.
- The portal allows retirees to access their monthly pension slips, check the status of life certificates, submit Form 16, and view statements of arrears paid.
Bhavishya Platform
- The Bhavishya platform is an online Pension Sanction & Payment Tracking System initiated by the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare.
- It facilitates the online tracking of pension sanction and payment processes by both individuals and administrative authorities.
- The system captures pensioners’ personal and service particulars and enables online submission of pension processing forms.
- Retiring employees are kept informed of the progress of the pension sanction process via SMS/email, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Centralised Pension Grievances Redress and Monitoring System (CPENGRAMS)
- CPENGRAMS is an online system designed for the swift redressal of pension-related grievances by various Central Government Ministries/Departments/Organizations.
- It offers online registration of pension grievances, forwarding of reminders, and querying the status of registered grievances.
- Pensioners have access to the system 24/7 for online submission of grievances and can appeal if they are dissatisfied with the redressal process.
These platforms aim to ensure prompt redressal, effective monitoring of grievances, and improved access to pension-related services for retirees.
Source: MT
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are daily current affairs?
A: Daily current affairs refer to the most recent and relevant events, developments, and news stories that are happening around the world on a day-to-day basis. These can encompass a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, science, technology, sports, and more.
Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?
A: Staying updated with daily current affairs is crucial because it helps individuals make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives. It enables people to understand the world around them, stay aware of significant events, and engage in informed discussions about important issues.
Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?
A: There are various sources for daily current affairs, including newspapers, news websites, television news broadcasts, radio programs, and dedicated apps or newsletters. Social media platforms are also widely used to share and access current affairs information.
Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?
A: To incorporate daily current affairs into your routine, consider setting aside specific times each day to read or watch news updates. You can also subscribe to newsletters or follow news apps to receive curated content. Engaging in discussions with peers or participating in online forums can further enhance your understanding of current events.
Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?
A: When analyzing daily current affairs, it’s essential to cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Additionally, consider the source’s credibility and bias, if any. Develop the ability to identify the main points and implications of news stories, and critically evaluate the significance and impact of the events reported.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
