May 2024 Current Affairs

Table of contents

1   Daily Current Affairs

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Space Applications Centre

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High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS)

2   Monthly Current Affairs

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Venus

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Court’s nudge on hospital charges, a reform opportunity

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Article 31C of the Indian Constitution

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Addressing the Gap

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Article 361

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Diplomatic Passport

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The judiciary’s shadow over standard essential patents

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Supreme Court Declines Centre's Request for Administrative

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Blue Corner Notice

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Mullaperiyar Dam Controversy

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Draft Explosives Bill 2024

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India's Pharmaceutical Industry

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Challenge to the Maintainability of CBI Probes

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Supreme Court to Address Existence of Article 31C

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Smart Cities Mission

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Deepfakes in elections

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Regulating Misleading Advertisements in India

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Potential Prosecution of Political Party

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Criminalisation of Politics

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Five things the next government needs to focus on

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Constitutional Test Mandated for Valid Land Acquisition

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Swachhata Pakhwada

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NIA’s allegations against NSCN

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Supreme Court Ruling on Newsclick

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Supreme Court Curbs ED's Arrest Authority in PMLA Cases

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Overhauling India's Higher Education System

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Undertrials' Disenfranchisement in India

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SC to Reevaluate 1995 Ruling on Protection

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Critical times call for strong judicial adjudication

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Self Help Groups (SHGs)

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Inter-Services Organisations Act

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Section 436A

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Concerns Raised Over ECI's Voter Turnout Data

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Foreigners Tribunals

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Protectors of the Forest: Tribal Guardians

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Authority of the ECI to Deregister Political Parties

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National Council for Cement and Building Materials

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Joint Parliamentary Committees

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Advertising Standards Council of India

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Article 329(b)

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The Time is Ripe for Electoral Bond Reform

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The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India

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Iran-Israel Conflict

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IMF's Stand-By Arrangement

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Japan’s Diplomatic Posture

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International Labour Day

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India-Nepal Bilateral Ties

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The paradox of India’s global rise, its regional decline

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WTO’s Agreement on Agriculture (AoA)

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Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting

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The United Nations Counter-Terrorism Trust Fund

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Panama Canal

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Allegations of Child Labour in Trade Negotiations

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India International Bullion Exchange

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United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

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Chabahar Port Project

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Chabahar Port Agreement

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India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC)

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UK's Graduate Route Visa (GRV) Initiative

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Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Died in a Helicopter Crash

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Arrest Warrants for Hamas Leaders and Israeli Prime Minister

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Ireland, Spain, and Norway Set to Recognize Palestine

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The BIMSTEC charter has been enforced

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Transnational Organised Crime

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India's Foreign Trade Relations with Key Partners

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FTA Strategy Meet

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Solar Radiation Decline in India

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Unclassed Forests

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G7 eyes possible end date for coal-fired power plants

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Great Rift Valley

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Acceleration of Indian Ocean Warming

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De-globalised Food Inflation in India

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La Cumbre Volcano and Galápagos Land Iguanas

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Regenerative Blue Economy

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Red Colobus

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Batillipes Chandrayaani

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Shaksgam Valley

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Garo Hills

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Balanced Fertilisation

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Unprecedented Environmental Transformation

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Climate Migration

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Rat-Hole Mining

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Carbon Farming

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Orangutans

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Shinkun La Tunnel

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Glyptothorax punyabratai

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Pyrenees Mountains

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Constructed Wetlands

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Dice Snake

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Market-Based Approaches to Forest Conservation

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Land Subsidence in Chenab Valley

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Batagay Crater

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The Hindon River

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Carbon Farming: A Pathway to Sustainable Agriculture

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World Bank's Report on Creating a Sustainable Planet

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Sperm Whale

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Scrutiny of India's Sugarcane Subsidy under WTO

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Leopard Cat

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Indian Ocean Basin-wide (IOBW) Index

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Charting India's Journey Towards Sustainability

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Mahi River

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About Sariska Tiger Reserve

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Strait of Gibraltar

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Kanwar Lake

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Ligdus Garvale

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Apple Cultivation

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The Deda Method

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Ambaji White Marble

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National Endangered Species Day

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Iberian Lynx

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Phtheirospermum lushaiorum

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India’s Climate Policy

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India's Solid Waste Management

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Sea Anemone Bleaching

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Red Panda

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New Caledonia

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19th Session of United Nations Forum on Forest

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Scarborough Shoal

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Critical Tiger Habitat

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Rangelands

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Utilizing Biomass Cultivation on Degraded Land

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Bharal and Himalayan Ibex

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Emblica chakrabartyi

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Color-Coded Alerts by the India Meteorological Department

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Tislelizumab and Zanubrutinib

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Impact of Wind Shear on Hurricanes

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Mount Ibu

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The Economic Impact of Climate Change

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New Export-Import Policy in Indian Agriculture

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India's Strategic Mineral Procurement Strategy in Africa

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Microplastics

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Stellaria mcclintockiae

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Nyishi Tribe

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Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting

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Rising Heat Stress in Six Major Indian Cities

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Eucalyptus

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Fire Safety Regulations in India

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Minor Forest Produce

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Himalayan Serow

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Delhi Sizzles at 52 degrees

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The Eurasian Whimbrel

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Building Resilience Against Disasters in India

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Paradox of Savings

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Front-running

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Indian Poultry Sector

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Reasons Behind Scrutiny on Indian Spices

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Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal

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Integrated Pensioners’ Portal (IPP)

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Challenges Encountered by MSMEs in India

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Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)

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Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

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Participatory Notes

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Rise in Tobacco Prices

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The Kotak Mahindra Bank Controversy

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Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)

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Requirement for a Fresh Agricultural Export-Import Policy

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Non-market Economy Status and Anti-Dumping Duties

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Appreciation of the Rupee

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FEMA Regulations

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China Regains Title of India’s Leading Trading Partner

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Different Types of Investment Models

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ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement

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General Provident Fund (GPF) Scheme

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India's Toy Industry

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Global Trade Update: UNCTAD

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Trends in Employment Growth

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IMF's Asia-Pacific Economic Outlook Report

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Essential Collaboration

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Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)

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Spices Board of India

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Small Industries Development Bank of India

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Transforming E-Commerce Terrain

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Economic Capital Framework (ECF)

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Travel & Tourism Development Index

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Decline in Household Savings: Beyond a Simple Alteration

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US Federal Reserve Maintains Interest Rates Amid Ongoing

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Mundra Port

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Rising Debt Strains Household Savings

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Political and Economic Reforms in 1991

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Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) Currency

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Revamping India's Informal Labor Market

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Competition in Digital Markets

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India’s Service Sector

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Pravaah Portal

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About TacticAI

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Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance

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Salmonella

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Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS)

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SMART (Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedoes)

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What is Antares?

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Boeing Starliner

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Air Independent Propulsion

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Endosymbiotic Theory

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MQ-9B Predator

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Choline

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Fusobacterium nucleatum

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Chloropicrin

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Artificial General Intelligence

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West Nile Fever

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The Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) Project

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Widal Test

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AlphaFold3

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Neural Processing Unit (NPU)

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Maillard Reaction

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Auroras

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Kamikaze Drones

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T Cells

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Kawasaki Disease

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Deadbots

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Xenotransplantation

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GPT-4o

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Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre

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Geomagnetic Storms and Solar Wind

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Igla-S Man-Portable Air Defence System

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Bulava Missile

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Amplifying the Global Value of Earth Observation

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Digital Arrest Cyber Scams

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The PREFIRE Polar Mission

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Global Report on Neglected Tropical Diseases 2024

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HPV Vaccine Reduces Cervical Cancer Cases in Economically

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SPECULOOS-3b

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Lab-Grown Diamonds

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Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX)

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Summer Solstice

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Psychedelics

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Genetic Drift

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Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) Aircraft

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Planetary Alignment

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AI Agents

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Protection of Personality Rights

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Naegleria fowleri

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Neanderthals: An Extinct Human Relative

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ASMPA Missile

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Ferroptosis

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Space Tourism

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GSAP SKILLS Platform

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Zero Debris Charter Initiative

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AI Anchors

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Measuring Heat Loss from Earth’s Poles with Tiny Satellite

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INS Kiltan

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Oedocladium sahyadricum

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Astronomical Transients

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Magellan Mission to Venus

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Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)

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Anopheles stephensi

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Securing India's Nuclear Future

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New System to Detect Scam/Fraud Calls

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K-9 Vajra

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CERT-In

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PRAGATI-2024

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Street Vendors Act and Associated Aspects

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Hindu Marriage Act, 1955

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WHO Report on Global Immunisation

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Corporal Punishment

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Understanding India's Youth Unemployment:

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Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)

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Extensive Guidelines Regarding the Dietary Requirements

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Time for a New Approach to Minority Welfare in India

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Vibrant Village Programme

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Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

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Migration Matters

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The Kadars

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Marital rape is antithetical to equality and autonomy

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Menstrual Hygiene in Indian Prisons

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Patachitra Painting

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Kutch Ajrakh

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The Great Pyramid of Giza

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International Booker Prize

3   Monthly Editorial Analysis

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Essential Collaboration: Industry and Academia in Biopharma

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Building Resilience Against Disasters in India

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Securing India's Nuclear Future

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The Time is Ripe for Electoral Bond Reform

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Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting: A Southern Journey

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The Economic Impact of Climate Change

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Marital rape is antithetical to equality and autonomy

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Protectors of the Forest: Tribal Guardians

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Transforming E-Commerce Terrain

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Critical times call for strong judicial adjudication

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Overhauling India's Higher Education System

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Supreme Court Ruling on Newsclick: Upholding Due Process

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Care Economy

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Five things the next government needs to focus on

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The challenge of extra-pulmonary TB

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Deepfakes in elections: They have shaken our faith

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Migration Matters

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Time for a New Approach to Minority Welfare in India

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Carbon Farming: A Pathway to Sustainable Agriculture

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Can India become a green superpower?

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Understanding India's Youth Unemployment: A Critical

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Unprecedented Environmental Transformation:

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The judiciary’s shadow over standard essential patents

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Addressing the Gap: Reforming the EC's Model Code

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Daily Current Affairs

Space Applications Centre


In News: According to a study conducted by scientists at the Space Applications Centre, it has been suggested that the extent of water ice in the northern polar region of the Moon is double that found in the southern polar region.

  • About Space Applications Centre (SAC)
    • SAC is a significant research and development center under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
    • It operates across two campuses and engages in multi-disciplinary activities.
  • Genesis
    • The origins of SAC can be traced back to 1966 when the Experimental Satellite Communication Earth Station (ESCES) was established by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai in Ahmedabad.
    • In 1972, various ISRO units in Ahmedabad focused on space technology applications merged to form SAC.
  • Core Competence and Activities
    • SAC specializes in developing spaceborne and airborne instruments/payloads for national development and societal benefits.
    • Its applications cater to communication, navigation, and remote sensing needs of the country.
    • The center contributes significantly to ISRO's scientific and planetary missions, including Chandrayaan-1 and the Mars Orbiter Mission.
    • Communication transponders developed at SAC for Indian National Satellite (INSAT) and Geo Synchronous Satellite (GSAT) series are utilized by the government and private sector for various purposes like VSAT, DTH, and broadcasting.
    • SAC designs and develops optical and microwave sensors, signal and image processing software, GIS software, and applications for the Earth Observation (EO) program.
    • These applications span diverse areas such as Geosciences, Agriculture, Environment and Climate Change, Oceanography, and Atmosphere studies.
  • Facilities
    • SAC boasts highly sophisticated payload integration laboratories, electronic and mechanical fabrication facilities, environmental test facilities, and systems reliability/assurance groups.
    • It also houses image processing and analysis facilities, project management support groups, and a well-equipped library.
  • Training and Collaborations
    • SAC serves as a host institution for training programs for students from the Asia Pacific region, focusing on satellite meteorology and communication under the Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in Asia and the Pacific (CSSTE-AP).

Source: FP

Keywords: GS-3 Science and Tech.
Daily Current Affairs

High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS)


In News: Recently, the Russian government released new footage purportedly demonstrating the targeting of two Ukrainian High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) shortly after the United States authorized a substantial increase in military aid for Ukraine.

  • Overview of High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS)
    • HIMARS is a lightweight, multiple rocket launcher system designed to engage various targets, including artillery, air defense concentrations, vehicles, and personnel carriers. 
  • Manufacturing and Manufacturer
    • The system is manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation, a prominent US-based security and aerospace company.
  • Features of HIMARS
    • It is mounted on a 5-ton Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), making it air-transportable and highly mobile.
    • HIMARS can carry either a launcher pod containing six rockets or one MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) with a range of 300 kilometers (186 miles).
    • With a rapid preparation time of less than 20 seconds, HIMARS can fire a full launcher load of six rockets within 45 seconds.
    • After firing, the system swiftly moves away from the launch site at high speed to evade detection by enemy forces.
  • Protection and Safety Measures
    • HIMARS is equipped with the Increased Crew Protection cabin, designed to safeguard the three-man operating crew from plume gases, rocket launch debris, and small arms fire.

Source: NW

Keywords: GS-3 Science and Tech.
Monthly Current Affairs

Venus


In News: A group of US scientists has utilized computer simulations to demonstrate that the lack of water on Venus can be attributed to hydrogen chemistry within the planet's atmosphere, rather than solely its extreme heat.

About Venus

  • Position and Characteristics
    • Venus holds the distinction of being the second planet from the Sun and the sixth largest planet in our Solar System.
    • It stands out as the hottest planet in the Solar System, despite Mercury's proximity to the Sun and greater solar exposure.
  • Atmosphere and Temperature
    • Venus boasts an atmosphere that effectively traps heat, resulting in scorching temperatures reaching a blistering 880 degrees Fahrenheit (471 degrees Celsius), ample to liquefy lead.
    • Its atmosphere's extreme greenhouse effect mirrors Earth's but in an intensified form, contributing to its unparalleled heat.
  • Similarity to Earth
    • Often dubbed as Earth's twin, Venus shares striking similarities with our planet, including size, mass, density, composition, and gravity.
    • Its size is marginally smaller than Earth, comprising approximately 80% of Earth's mass. 
  • Composition and Atmosphere
    • Unlike gas giants, Venus is a rocky planet with a core composed of iron and a rocky mantle, mirroring Earth's internal structure.
    • The planet's atmosphere predominantly consists of carbon dioxide (96%) and nitrogen (3.5%), with minor amounts of other gases like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, water vapor, argon, and helium.
  • Distinctive Features
    • Venus stands out for its unique characteristics, notably its lack of a moon, a rarity shared only with Mercury.
    • Additionally, Venus rotates in the opposite direction to most planets, leading to a lengthy rotational period of 243 Earth days.
    • It takes Venus 225 Earth days to complete a full orbit around the Sun, making its day longer than its year.
  • Visibility and Appearance
    • The planet's reflective clouds make it highly visible from Earth, appearing as a radiant white object and ranking among the brightest celestial entities in the night sky.

Source: TT

Keywords: GS-3 Science and Tech.
Monthly Current Affairs

Court’s nudge on hospital charges, a reform opportunity


In News: A recent article delves into the escalating healthcare costs in India and underscores the need for healthcare financing reforms that go beyond simple price regulations to achieve affordable hospital care.

Clinical Establishments (Central Government) Rules, 2012

  • About
    • The Clinical Establishments (Central Government) Rules, 2012 were formulated under the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, granting authority to the Central Government.
  • Appointment of Secretary of the National Council by the Central Government
    • The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare designates a Joint Secretary as the ex-officio Secretary of the National Council for clinical establishments, ensuring coordination and oversight.
  • National Council and its Sub-Committees
    • The National Council categorizes clinical establishments and forms sub-committees with diverse representation to oversee specific tasks, ensuring a balanced approach.
  • Minimum Standards for Medical Diagnostic Laboratories
    • Clinical establishments must adhere to specified standards for diagnostic services, ensuring quality and reliability for patients.
  • Other Conditions for Registration and Continuation of Clinical Establishments
    • Establishments are mandated to display service rates, comply with treatment guidelines, and maintain electronic medical records, enhancing transparency and patient care.

Reasons for Rising Healthcare Costs in India

  • Unregulated and Profit-Oriented Health Sector
    • Private providers prioritize profits, leading to price inefficiencies and overprovision of care, necessitating regulatory oversight.
  • High Out-of-Pocket Expenditures (OOPEs)
    • Over half of healthcare costs are borne by individuals, highlighting the need for comprehensive financing reforms.
  • Weak Implementation of Laws
    • Enforcement challenges hinder effective regulation, impacting care quality and affordability.
  • Issues in Capping Medical Devices
    • Price caps on medical devices face implementation challenges, failing to address stakeholders' incentives.
  • Corporatization of Healthcare
    • Shift towards profit-driven healthcare compromises affordability, necessitating regulatory measures.
  • Inadequate Investments in Public Hospitals
    • Underinvestment in public healthcare leads to overcrowding and infrastructure deficits, exacerbating costs.
  • Inadequate Political Priority
    • Healthcare lacks political attention, hindering reforms essential for accessibility and affordability.

Preventive Measures to Control Healthcare Costs

  • Formulating Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs)
    • STGs can standardize care practices, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost containment.
  • Comprehensive Health Financing Reform Strategy
    • A holistic reform strategy is needed to align incentives and address systemic inefficiencies.
  • Following Models of Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan
    • Procurement of generics and insurance schemes can reduce costs and improve access to medicines.
  • Maintaining Transparency in Rate Standardization
    • Transparent rate displays and adherence to government-prescribed rates promote accountability and affordability.
  • Preventing Irrational Healthcare Interventions
    • Standard protocols can curb unnecessary procedures, improving care quality and reducing costs.
  • Implementing Patients’ Rights
    • Protecting patients' rights ensures transparency and accountability in care delivery.
  • Controlling Commercialization of Colleges
    • Regulating medical colleges' fees and expanding public education can mitigate commercialization in medical education.
  • Reforming National Medical Commission and NEET
    • Reforms in medical education and entrance exams can ensure equitable access and quality standards.

Government Initiatives Related to Healthcare

  • National Health Mission
  • Ayushman Bharat
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
  • National Medical Commission
  • PM National Dialysis Programme
  • Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK)
  • Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK)
  • Increased Allocation for Health in Budget 2021
  • PM Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Scheme
  • National Digital Health Mission
  • National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019
  • Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana

Conclusion

Addressing rising healthcare costs requires comprehensive reforms, including standardization, financing strategies, and regulatory measures, to ensure affordability and accessibility for all.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

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.
  4. 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. “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 Health, Government Policies & Interventions GS – 3 Government Budgeting
Monthly Current Affairs

Article 31C of the Indian Constitution


In News: During a case concerning the government's authority to acquire and redistribute private property, a 9-judge Bench of the Supreme Court opted to address another matter of "radical constitutional consequence": the continued existence of Article 31C.

Article 31C: Upholding Directive Principles

  • Introduction and Purpose
    • Article 31C was incorporated into the Indian Constitution through the Constitution (25th) Amendment Act of 1971. 
    • Its primary objective was to safeguard laws enacted to uphold specific directive principles, notably those outlined in Articles 39(b) and 39(c). 
    • These principles emphasize the equitable distribution of material resources and the prevention of their concentration to the detriment of the common good.
  • Background and Context
    • The genesis of Article 31C can be traced back to the legal challenges faced in implementing certain laws, notably highlighted in the landmark "Bank Nationalisation Case.
    • " The 25th Amendment responded to these challenges by addressing the hurdles encountered in realizing directive principles, particularly concerning the equitable distribution of resources and the prevention of excessive concentration of wealth.
  • Legal Challenges and Amendments
    • Subsequent legal challenges, notably the Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973, prompted modifications to Article 31C. The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 expanded the protective ambit of Article 31C, extending its coverage to encompass all directive principles. 
    • This expansion aimed to shield directive principles from legal challenges based on Articles 14 and 19 of the Constitution, which pertain to the right to equality and certain freedoms, respectively.
  • Legal Evolution and Controversies
    • The evolution of Article 31C encountered significant legal controversies, notably culminating in the Minerva Mills v. Union of India case in 1980. 
    • This case resulted in the partial striking down of Article 31C, questioning the extent of Parliament's authority to amend the Constitution. 
    • The ruling raised pertinent questions about the limitations of constitutional amendments and their potential implications for fundamental rights and directive principles.
  • Current Legal Discourse
    • Presently, the Supreme Court is engaged in deliberations concerning the interpretation and validity of Article 31C, particularly in the context of specific laws, such as those related to property acquisition in Maharashtra. 
    • Arguments presented before the court revolve around the applicability of the doctrine of revival and the impact of previous judicial pronouncements on the standing of Article 31C. 
    • The outcome of these deliberations holds significance for the balance between fundamental rights and directive principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

Addressing the Gap


In News: The Model Code of Conduct (MCC), vital for fair elections in India, has evolved over time but faces challenges today. Analysing its history, identifying current issues, and proposing enforcement measures are crucial.

Origins and Expansion Of MCC

  • The MCC emerged in the 1960s as basic guidelines for election conduct, initially applied in Kerala's Assembly elections. 
  • Over time, it grew in scope and importance under various Chief Election Commissioners (CECs).

Challenges and the Need for Strengthening Enforcement

  • Escalating Violations
    • Political parties and candidates frequently disregard the MCC's provisions, engaging in activities like hate speech and misinformation campaigns.
  • Exploitation of Loopholes
    • Modern political actors exploit MCC loopholes, especially with the advent of technology and social media.
  • Inadequate Deterrents
    • The MCC lacks meaningful consequences for violations, leading to a perception of impunity among politicians.
  • Complexity of Enforcement
    • India's diverse electoral landscape strains the Election Commission's (EC) enforcement capabilities, with lengthy adjudication processes.
  • Erosion of Public Trust
    • Widespread disregard for the MCC erodes public confidence in the electoral process, fostering voter apathy.

Proposed Reforms to Strengthen Enforcement

  • Clear and Comprehensive Guidelines
    • Establishing clear and updated guidelines on permissible conduct during electoral campaigns.
  • Strict Enforcement Mechanisms
    • Imposing proportional penalties for violations and streamlining enforcement procedures for swift adjudication.
  • Indirect Liability for Political Parties
    • Holding parties accountable for MCC violations regardless of individual culpability.
  • Transparency and Public Accountability
    • Maintaining a publicly accessible database of MCC violations to bolster transparency.
  • Timely and Credible Adjudication
    • Prioritizing prompt resolution of cases to maintain the MCC's deterrent effect.
  • Continuous Evaluation and Revision
    • Continuously updating the MCC to address emerging challenges and changing electoral dynamics.

The Role of Political Parties and Election Commission

  • The Role of Political Leadership
    • Promoting ethical standards and responsible conduct within parties to inspire confidence in the electoral process.
  • The Role of Election Commission
    • Impartially adjudicating MCC violations and enforcing regulations to uphold electoral integrity.
  • Enhancing the EC's Capacity
    • Investing in training, technological infrastructure, and human resources to adapt to evolving challenges.

Conclusion

Strengthening the MCC through reforms and fostering ethical leadership can reinforce India's democratic processes and ensure free and fair elections for all citizens.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

Article 361


In News: An employee at Kolkata's Raj Bhavan accused West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose of sexual harassment. Despite this, Article 361 grants him immunity from criminal proceedings.

Understanding Article 361 of the Constitution

  • Overview
    • Article 361 of the Constitution pertains to the immunity granted to the President and Governors of states in India.
  • Immunity Clause
    • According to this article, the President and Governors are not answerable to any court for the exercise and performance of their powers and duties in office. 
    • Nor can they be held accountable for any acts done in the course of exercising their official duties.

Key Sub-Clauses

  • No criminal proceedings whatsoever can be initiated or continued against the President or Governor of a state during their term of office.
  • No process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President or Governor shall be issued from any court during their term in office.

Summary of Article 361

  • Article 361 provides immunity to the Governor of a state from legal liability for their official acts and personal acts during their term in office. 
  • This means they cannot be held accountable to any court for their official duties, and no criminal proceedings can be initiated against them during their tenure. 
  • However, civil proceedings can be initiated for their personal acts after two months' notice. 
  • Additionally, the Governor cannot be arrested or imprisoned while in office. If a Governor commits a criminal offense during their term, they can be prosecuted once their term ends, ensuring they are not above the law.

Supreme Court's Interpretation

  • In the case of Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India, the Supreme Court ruled that Governors enjoy complete immunity, even on allegations of personal malfeasance. 
  • This immunity extends to their discretionary constitutional powers.

Precedents

  • In past cases, criminal action against a Governor has been halted until they complete their term in office. 
  • For instance, in the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition case, criminal charges were allowed against several leaders except for former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Kalyan Singh, who was serving as the Governor of Rajasthan at the time.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Diplomatic Passport


In News: Escaping amidst a sex abuse scandal, a Member of Parliament (MP) from an Indian political party absconded to Germany using a diplomatic passport.

Overview of Diplomatic Passport

  • Diplomatic passports have maroon covers and are typically valid for up to five years.
  • Holders of diplomatic passports are granted specific privileges and immunities under international law, including immunity from arrest, detention, and certain legal proceedings in the host country.
  • The Ministry of External Affairs’ (MEA) Consular, Passport & Visa Division issues diplomatic passports, known as 'Type D' passports, to individuals falling into various categories.

Categories Eligible for Diplomatic Passports

  • Individuals with diplomatic status.
  • Government-appointed personnel traveling abroad for official business.
  • Officers serving under branches A and B of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), usually at the rank of Joint Secretary and above.
  • Relatives and immediate family members of officers employed in IFS and MEA.
  • Select individuals authorized to undertake official travel on behalf of the government.

Visa Notes and Official Travel

  • The MEA issues visa notes to government officials traveling abroad for official assignments or visits.
  • These visa notes facilitate official travel on behalf of the Indian government.

Revocation Procedures

  • According to the Passport Act 1967, the passport authority, with prior approval from the Central government, may cancel a passport or travel document.
  • Grounds for impounding or revoking a passport include wrongful possession, obtaining the passport through suppression of material information or based on false information, or if there's a court order prohibiting departure from India or summoning the individual.
  • A diplomatic passport can be revoked by court order during criminal proceedings against the passport holder.

Operational Visa Exemption Agreements

  • India has operational visa exemption agreements with 34 countries for holders of diplomatic passports.
  • Germany is one of these countries, and under a reciprocal deal signed in 2011, holders of Indian diplomatic passports can visit Germany without a visa for stays up to 90 days.
  • Similar agreements exist with countries such as France, Austria, Afghanistan, Czech Republic, Italy, Greece, Iran, and Switzerland.
  • Additionally, India has agreements with 99 other countries where holders of diplomatic, service, and official passports can enjoy visa exemption for stays up to 90 days.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

The judiciary’s shadow over standard essential patents


In News: India's telecom manufacturing sector is under threat from technology companies leveraging 'standard essential patents' (SEPs), posing a risk to the country's domestic phone manufacturing goals. 

Overview of Standard Essential Patents (SEPs)

  • SEPs cover technologies adopted as industry standards, ensuring interoperability and compatibility among devices.
  • They are crucial for various sectors, including telecommunications, where standards like CDMA, GSM, and LTE are essential.

Challenges Surrounding SEPs

  • Patent Holdup Problem
    • Companies holding SEPs can demand high royalties, creating barriers to competition and innovation.
    • Self-regulation mechanisms like FRAND (Fair, Reasonable, and Non-Discriminatory) licensing have failed to address anti-competitive practices effectively.
  • Legal Issues and Judicial Lethargy
    • CCI Investigation and Litigation
      • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) initiated an investigation into Ericsson's alleged abuse of dominant position in demanding excessive royalties.
      • Legal battles ensued, delaying resolution and leaving India as the only major economy yet to address SEP licensing practices.
    • Delhi High Court's Role
      • The Delhi High Court's handling of SEP-related lawsuits and interim remedies has faced criticism for judicial activism and delays.
      • Court orders requiring defendants to deposit large sums during trials have raised concerns over fairness and impact on manufacturing.

Consequences and Government Intervention

 

  • Impact on Manufacturing and Investment

 

    • Judicial delays and activism hinder India's efforts to attract investment and promote manufacturing.
    • While the government incentivizes manufacturing, judicial actions undermine these efforts by burdening companies with financial obligations.
  • Call for Government Action
    • There's a need for government intervention to regulate SEPs and address related challenges.
    • Modelling after measures enacted by the European Parliament, India can safeguard its manufacturing ambitions and ensure fairness in SEP licensing.

Conclusion

India must address SEP-related challenges promptly to protect its manufacturing interests.

Given its limited influence in SEP selection and enforcement obligations, government intervention is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and fostering innovation in the country.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

Supreme Court Declines Centre's Request for Administrative


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:

The Supreme Court of India tender advice to the President of India on matters of law or fact

  1. on 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

Keywords: GS-2 Governance
Monthly Current Affairs

Blue Corner Notice


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

Keywords: GS-2 GS-3
Monthly Current Affairs

Mullaperiyar Dam Controversy


In News: In the Supreme Court, Tamil Nadu has alleged that while Kerala raises safety concerns about the Mullaperiyar dam, it obstructs essential maintenance efforts on the dam.

Location of Mullaperiyar Dam

  • The Mullaperiyar dam is situated at the confluence of the Mullayar and Periyar rivers, entirely within Kerala.
  • Constructed in the late 1800s in the princely state of Travancore, it was leased to the British-ruled Madras Presidency for 999 years in 1886.
  • The purpose of the dam was to divert a part of the west-flowing Periyar river eastwards to irrigate arid areas of Tamil Nadu.

Situation after Independence

  • After independence, the Kerala government contested the validity of the earlier agreement and renegotiated terms in the 1970s.
  • Tamil Nadu was granted rights to the land, water, and hydro-power projects at the dam site, with Kerala receiving rent in return.

Origin of the Mullaperiyar Dam Dispute

  • Safety concerns arose in 1979 following reports of minor earthquakes causing cracks in the dam.
  • The Central Water Commission recommended lowering the water level as an emergency measure until the structure could be strengthened.
  • Divergent perspectives emerged, with Tamil Nadu seeking to raise the water level and Kerala expressing safety concerns due to the region's seismic activity.

Supreme Court Judgement on Mullaperiyar Dam Conflict

  • In 2006, the Supreme Court allowed Tamil Nadu to raise the water level to 142 feet, dismissing Kerala's apprehensions.
  • Kerala countered with a state law restricting the water level to 136 feet, which was later deemed unconstitutional in 2014.
  • The Supreme Court directed the formation of a supervisory committee to oversee the raising of the water level and address safety concerns.

Provisions for Water Distribution in the Indian Constitution

Relevant provisions include Entry 17 in the State List, Entry 56 in the Union List, and Article 262.

Dam Safety Act and Mullaperiyar Dam

  • About the Act
    • The Dam Safety Act, enacted in December 2021, addresses safety concerns of major dams nationwide.
    • It covers surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of certain dams to prevent disasters related to dam failure.
    • The Act establishes two national institutions: the National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS) and the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA).
  • Key Provisions
    • The Act applies to dams over 15m in height and between 10m and 15m with certain stipulations.
    • It mandates the formation of State Dam Safety Organisations and Committees.
    • Dam owners are held responsible for construction, operation, maintenance, and supervision.

Linkages between Dam Safety Act and the Mullaperiyar Dam

  • The NDSA will perform the role of the State Dam Safety Organisation for dams located in one state and used by another, including the Mullaperiyar dam.
  • Experts suggest that the NDSA may subsume the functions of the supervisory committee as per the Act, potentially impacting the ongoing dispute resolution.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Infrastructure GS-2 Federalism
Monthly Current Affairs

Draft Explosives Bill 2024


In News: The Government of India intends to substitute the Explosives Act of 1884 with the proposed Explosives Bill of 2024.

The Explosives Act of 1884 is a crucial piece of Indian legislation that governs the manufacture, possession, use, sale, transportation, import, and export of explosives in India. Here are the key points about the Act:

Historical Context

  • Enacted during British colonial rule, the Explosives Act of 1884 aimed to regulate various aspects of explosives.

Safety Regulations

  • The Act applies to various types of explosives, including gunpowder, dynamite, nitroglycerin, and other similar substances.
  • The Act mandated safety standards and procedures to mitigate risks associated with explosives, encompassing handling, transportation, and storage guidelines to prevent accidents.
  • The Act empowers the Central Government to make rules regulating the manufacture, possession, use, sale, transport, import, and export of explosives.
  • These rules govern the issuance of licences, fees, conditions, and exemptions.

Prohibition of Dangerous Explosives

  • The Central Government can prohibit the manufacture, possession, or importation of especially dangerous explosives in the interest of public safety.

Exemption

  • The Act does not affect the provisions of the Arms Act, 1959.
  • Provisions are made for licences issued under the Explosives Act to have the effect of licences under the Arms Act.
  • The Arms Act of 1959 regulates the possession, acquisition, and carrying of ammunition and firearms. It also aims to curb illegal weapons and violence.
  • The Arms Act of 1959 replaced the Indian Arms Act of 1878.

Evolution and Amendments

  • Over time, the Explosives Act underwent several amendments to adapt to technological advancements and emerging challenges, primarily focusing on enhancing safety standards and regulatory mechanisms.

Source: BS

Keywords: GS 2 Government Policies & Interventions
Monthly Current Affairs

India's Pharmaceutical Industry


In News: In the fiscal year 2022-23, India reached a notable milestone in the medical goods sector by becoming a net exporter of medical consumables and disposables for the first time.

Status of India's Pharmaceutical Industry

  • Manufacturing and Export
    • India, historically reliant on medical imports, has transitioned to self-sufficiency in medical consumables and disposables, becoming the largest global manufacturer of generic medicines. 
    • The industry is valued at USD 50 billion and serves over 200 countries, with projections to reach USD 65 billion by 2024 and USD 130 billion by 2030.
  • Export and Import Statistics
    • Exports of medical consumables and disposables surged by 16% to USD 1.6 billion, while imports declined by 33% to approximately USD 1.1 billion.

Challenges

  • Lagging R&D: India's pharmaceutical R&D expenditure is lower compared to developed nations, hindering new drug development.
  • Limited Innovation Ecosystem: Weak collaboration between academia, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies slows down high-quality drug and medical device development.
  • Price Controls and Profit Margins: Government price controls on some drugs can limit profits and deter heavy R&D investment.
  • Complex Regulatory Framework: Lengthy and complex approval processes for new drugs lead to bureaucratic hurdles.
  • Skilled Workforce Shortage: Shortage of highly qualified scientists and researchers affects efficiency.
  • Intellectual Property Concerns: Uncertainty around IP protection discourages large pharma investment.
  • Import Dependency: India heavily relies on imports for medical devices and APIs, particularly from China.
  • Substandard Drugs: Occurrence of deaths linked to substandard or counterfeit drugs tarnishes the sector's reputation.

Reform Suggestions

  • Legislative Changes and Centralised Database: Amend the Drugs and Cosmetics Act (1940) and establish a centralised drugs database for enhanced regulation.
  • Encouraging Certification: Encourage more units to obtain WHO Good Manufacturing Practice certification to elevate industry-wide quality standards.
  • Transparency, Credibility, and Accountability: Enhance India's drug regulatory regime for transparency and alignment with global standards.
  • Focus on Sustainable Manufacturing Practices: Emphasise green chemistry, waste reduction, and energy efficiency for environmental sustainability.
  • Moving Beyond Generics: Government support and initiatives like PLI can facilitate the development of novel drugs.
  • Boosting R&D and Innovation: Foster public-private partnerships and provide tax incentives for innovation to improve R&D expenditure.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2019)

Q. Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India? 

  1. Genetic predisposition of some people
  2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
  3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
  4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4

Ans: (b)

Mains (2019)

Q. How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies? 

Source: ET

Keywords: GS – 2 Government Policies & Interventions
Monthly Current Affairs

Challenge to the Maintainability of CBI Probes


In News: The Supreme Court has yet to deliver its verdict on West Bengal's suit alleging that the CBI is conducting investigations into post-poll violence cases without the state's consent. The Centre argued that West Bengal's suit under Article 131 is not maintainable and constitutes an abuse of legal process.

Article 131 of the Constitution of India

  • Description: Article 131 empowers the Supreme Court to exclusively adjudicate disputes between different units of the Indian Federation.
  • Disputes Covered: 
    • Disputes between the Government of India and one or more states.
    • Disputes between the Government of India and any state(s) on one side and one or more states on the other.
    • Disputes between two or more states if they involve a question of law or fact on which the existence or extent of a legal right depends.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

  • Description: The CBI operates under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and is India's premier investigating agency.
  • Origin: Tracing its roots to the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DPSE) Act, 1946, the CBI was formed through an executive order of the government.
  • Jurisdiction
    • Originally established to investigate cases of corruption in government departments, the CBI now handles various economic crimes and special cases.
    • Investigative powers are divided into Anti-Corruption Division, Economic Offences Division, and Special Crimes Division.
  • Consent for Investigation
    • The DPSE Act's Section 6 allows the central government to direct CBI investigations within a state's jurisdiction with the state government's consent.
    • However, the Supreme Court and High Courts can order CBI investigations without state consent.
    • Consent types include general consent and specific consent, affecting the agency's investigative powers within a state.
  • States Withdrawn General Consent
    • Ten states, including Punjab, Jharkhand, and Kerala, have withdrawn general consent to CBI investigations.
  • Impact of Withdrawal 
    • Withdrawal of general consent does not halt ongoing CBI probes or cases initiated by court orders.
    • CBI can challenge the withdrawal in court and continue investigations with specific consent or court orders.

Centre's Plea on CBI Probes' Maintainability

  • Background
    • Originating from a suit filed by West Bengal under Article 131, accusing the Union government of unauthorized CBI investigations within the state.
  • West Bengal's Stand
    • Alleges continued CBI interference despite withdrawing general consent in 2018.
  • Centre's Stand
    • Argues the suit's dismissal, denying involvement in CBI investigations within states.
    • Contends that CBI isn't a 'state' under Article 131, limiting the scope of the original suit. 
  • SC Observations
    • Questioning the Centre's stance, the SC highlights Section 5(1) of the DSPE Act, granting the central government authority over CBI investigations across states.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Governance
Monthly Current Affairs

Supreme Court to Address Existence of Article 31C


In News: In a recent development, a nine-judge Bench of the Supreme Court has decided to examine the validity of Article 31C. This decision was made during the hearing of a case aimed at determining the government's authority to acquire and redistribute private property.

Understanding Article 31C

  • About
    • Article 31C safeguards laws enacted to uphold social objectives, ensuring that the community's material resources are distributed for the common good (Article 39B) and preventing the concentration of wealth and means of production to the detriment of the common interest (Article 39C).
  • Introduction
    • Added to the Indian Constitution in 1971 through the 25th Constitutional Amendment, Article 31C was a response to the Supreme Court's decision in the R.C. Cooper v. Union of India (Bank Nationalisation Case,1969), where the court invalidated the Banking Companies Act, 1969 due to compensation issues.
  • Purpose
    • Article 31C shields directive principles (Articles 39B and 39C) from challenges based on the right to equality (Article 14) or rights under Article 19 (freedom of speech, right to assemble peacefully, etc).

Legal and Constitutional Challenges

  • Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)
    • The Supreme Court established the "basic structure doctrine," holding certain fundamental aspects of the Constitution beyond modification by Parliament.
    • It invalidated a portion of Article 31C, enabling scrutiny of laws enacted to further Articles 39(b) and 39(c) to ensure alignment with their principles.
  • Constitution (Forty-second) Amendment Act, (CAA) 1976 and Minerva Mills Case (1980)
    • CAA, 1976 extended Article 31C's protection to encompass all directive principles outlined in Articles 36-51.
    • The Minerva Mills Case (1980) struck down clauses 4 and 5 of the CAA, 1976, limiting Parliament's authority to amend the Constitution extensively.

Arguments Regarding Article 31C

  • Argument Against Automatic Revival
    • The original Article 31C was replaced entirely by an expanded version in the 42nd Amendment, suggesting that automatic revival is not warranted.
  • Argument for Doctrine of Revival
    • Supporters of the doctrine of revival argue that the original Article 31C should resurface if subsequent amendments are invalidated, citing precedents like the National Judicial Appointments Commission ruling.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2021)

Q. With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements: 

  1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India.
  2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither I nor 2

Ans: (c)

Q. What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26th January, 1950? (2021)

(a) A Democratic Republic

(b) A Sovereign Democratic Republic

(c) A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic

(d) A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic

Ans: (b)

Mains (2017)

Q. Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Smart Cities Mission


In News: The flagship program of the NDA-1 government, the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), has been overshadowed in this year's list of electoral pledges and achievements.

Understanding the Smart Cities Mission (SCM)

Overview of the Smart Cities Mission:

  • The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme initiated by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) on 25 June 2015.
  • Its primary goal is to enhance cities by implementing 'smart solutions' to ensure a decent quality of life for citizens, drive economic growth, and promote sustainable and inclusive development.
  • The mission selected 100 cities over five years without a precise definition of a smart city, with the aim of completing the mission by 2020, extended twice until June 2024.

Financial Support and Funding:

  • The Central Government allocated Rs. 48,000 crores over five years, averaging Rs. 100 crore per city per year, with an equal contribution required from State/Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

Main Components of SCM:

  • The SCM comprises two main aspects: area-based development and pan-city solutions.
  • Area-based development includes redevelopment, retrofitting, and greenfield projects, while pan-city solutions focus on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) initiatives.
  • Components further encompass e-governance, waste management, water management, energy management, urban mobility, and skill development.

Achievements of SCM:

  • Approximately Rs. 2 lakh crore was allocated for the mission, with Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) playing a significant role.
  • An innovative governance model was adopted, with Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) led by bureaucrats or representatives from Multinational Corporations (MNCs).
  • Despite challenges, the SCM achieved an impressive completion rate of 83%, utilizing Rs. 72,571 crore across 21 sectors.
  • Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCCs) were established in participating cities, facilitating disaster response and urban function management.

Success Stories of SCM:

  • Davanagere implemented a successful stormwater drainage system, reducing flooding instances.
  • Jabalpur enhanced water supply to households, demonstrating the mission's focus on improving essential services.
  • However, challenges persist in retrofitting existing infrastructure with new technologies.

Criticisms of SCM:

  • The selection and implementation process of SCM was flawed, lacking adaptability to India's dynamic urbanization.
  • SCM projects saw a decrease in total outlay, falling short of the projected capital flow.
  • The SPV model deviated from the 74th Constitutional Amendment, resulting in a top-down governance structure.
  • Displacement of marginalized communities, such as street vendors, occurred under the guise of executing smart city projects.
  • Urban flooding increased due to infrastructure projects disrupting water channels in some towns.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Governance
Monthly Current Affairs

Deepfakes in elections


In News: A recent article explores the emergence of deep fakes within our current election cycle and their potential to undermine the integrity of the electoral process. It delves into the difficulties posed by deep fakes in authenticating information and exercising personal discernment.

Understanding Deepfakes: Origins, Creation, and Impact on Elections

  • Definition and Origins:
    • Deepfakes are synthetic media generated using AI technology, aiming to deceive individuals by manipulating visual and audio content.
    • The term "deepfake" was coined in 2017 by an anonymous Reddit user known as "Deepfakes," who utilized Google's deep-learning technology for creating and sharing pornographic videos.
  • Creation Process:
    • Deepfakes are created using generative adversarial networks (GANs), consisting of a generator and a discriminator neural network.
    • The generator produces fake images or videos closely resembling reality, while the discriminator differentiates between authentic and fake content.
  • Data Synthesis:
    • The creation of deepfakes requires large datasets, often sourced from the internet or social media without consent, including photos or videos of both source and target individuals.
  • Deep Synthesis:
    • Deepfakes are part of Deep Synthesis, utilizing technologies like deep learning and augmented reality to generate text, images, audio, and video, constructing virtual scenarios.

Advantages of Deepfakes in Elections:

  • Segmentation and Targeting:
    • Deep learning algorithms enable political parties to analyze extensive voter data, including demographics and social media engagement, for personalized targeting.
    • Natural language processing (NLP) algorithms interpret textual data from social media posts, news articles, etc., aiding in targeting voters effectively. 
  • Real-time Monitoring and Adaptation:
    • AI-powered predictive analytics forecast election outcomes by analyzing diverse factors like polling data and social media sentiment analysis.
    • AI algorithms continuously monitor data sources to gauge public sentiment and identify emerging trends.
  • Enhanced Communication Strategies:
    • AI chatbots and virtual assistants engage voters on social media platforms, disseminating information about candidates and policies.
  • Security and Integrity:
    • AI-driven tools detect and prevent electoral fraud, ensuring the integrity of elections.
  • Regulation and Oversight:
    • AI technologies monitor political advertising, ensuring compliance with electoral regulations.

Challenges related to Deepfakes in Elections:

  • Electoral Behavior Manipulation:
    • Deepfake content can manipulate voters by spreading personalized propaganda.
  • Spreading Misinformation:
    • Generative AI models can spread disinformation, influencing voter perceptions.
  • Inaccuracies and Unreliability:
    • Deepfake AI models are susceptible to inaccuracies, posing risks to reliability.
  • Ethical Concerns:
    • Deepfake usage raises ethical questions regarding privacy, transparency, and fairness.
  • Regulatory Challenges:
    • Regulating deepfakes in electoral campaigns is challenging due to rapid technological advancements.

Combatting the Misuse of Deepfakes in Elections:

  • Regulatory Measures:
    • Implement strict laws criminalizing the creation and dissemination of deepfake content during elections.
  • Election Commission Guidelines:
    • Issue guidelines requiring transparency in AI algorithms used for political purposes.
  • Technology-Based Solutions:
    • Develop AI algorithms to detect and authenticate deepfake content in real-time.
  • Awareness and Education Campaigns:
    • Launch public awareness campaigns to educate voters about deepfake technology.
  • Enhanced Fact-Checking:
    • Establish rapid response teams to address the dissemination of fake news and deepfakes.
  • Collaborative Efforts:
    • Foster collaboration among governments, tech companies, and civil society organizations to combat deepfake threats.
  • Learning from International Practices:
    • Draw insights from international approaches to deepfake regulation and prevention.
  • Promoting Ethical AI:
    • Advance AI technologies with ethical principles, prioritizing objectives like mitigating bias and safeguarding privacy.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2020)

Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? 

  1. Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
  2. Create meaningful short stories and songs
  3. Disease diagnosis
  4. Text-to-Speech Conversion
  5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Ans: (b)

Mains (2021)

Q. What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India? 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 GS-3
Monthly Current Affairs

Regulating Misleading Advertisements in India


In News: To protect consumers from deceptive advertising, the Supreme Court of India has mandated that advertisers must provide self-declarations prior to promoting products through the media.

Regulation of Advertisements in India

  • Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)
    • The CCPA, operating under the Department of Consumer Affairs, regulates matters concerning consumer rights violations and unfair trade practices.
    • Established under section 10 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, it aims to prevent false or misleading advertisements and safeguard consumer rights.
  • Enforcement Guidelines
    • The CCPA enforces the ‘Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements and Endorsements for Misleading Advertisements, 2022’, empowered by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
    • These guidelines aim to protect consumer rights by ensuring advertisements refrain from unsubstantiated claims, exaggerated promises, and misinformation.

Objective and Provisions

  • The guidelines define various forms of misleading advertisements and lay down provisions to protect consumers' rights to information, choice, and safety.
  • They outline duties of manufacturers, service providers, advertisers, and advertising agencies to ensure transparency and clarity in advertisements, enabling informed consumer decisions.

Penalties for Violations

  • The CCPA can impose penalties of up to 10 lakh rupees for manufacturers, advertisers, and endorsers for misleading advertisements.
  • Subsequent violations may attract penalties of up to 50 lakh rupees.
  • Endorsers of misleading advertisements can face prohibition from making endorsements for up to 1 year, extendable to 3 years for subsequent violations.

Regulation by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

  • Deceptive advertising falls under Section-53 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, making it punishable.
  • FSSAI mandates truthful, unambiguous, and scientifically substantiated advertisements through the Food Safety and Standards (Advertisements & Claims) Regulations, 2018.

Legislations Governing Advertising

  • Advertisement Standard Council of India (ASCI): A nonstatutory tribunal enforcing advertising ethics through the ASCI code, applicable to advertisements seen in India.
  • Consumer Protection Act, 1986: Grants consumers rights to information and redressal against misleading advertisements.
  • Cable Television Network Act and Amendment Act: Regulates television advertisements to ensure compliance with prescribed codes.
  • Restrictions on Tobacco Advertisement: Prohibits tobacco advertisements in all forms of media under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003.
  • Drug and Magic Remedies Act, 1954 & Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940: Regulates drug advertisements to prevent misuse and false claims.
  • Regulation of Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994: Prohibits advertisements related to prenatal sex determination.
  • Criminality of Advertisements under Indian Penal Code (IPC): Prohibits obscene, defamatory, or inciteful advertisements, with offenses punishable under IPC provisions.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2012)

Q. With reference to ‘consumers’ rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct? 

  1. Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.
  2. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.
  3. In case of death of consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/ her behalf.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (c)

Mains (2013)

Q. What are social networking sites and what security implications do these sites present? 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 Transparency & Accountability, Government Policies & Interventions GS - 4
Monthly Current Affairs

Potential Prosecution of Political Party


In News: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has notified the Delhi High Court of its intention to designate the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as an accused in the ongoing money laundering probe linked to purported irregularities within the Delhi excise policy scam.

Overview of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002

  • Enactment and Objectives
    • The PMLA, enacted in January 2003, aims to combat money laundering in India with three main objectives:
    • Prevent and control money laundering
    • Confiscate and seize property obtained from laundered money
    • Address any other issues related to money laundering in the country.
  • Definition of Offence
    • Section 3 of the Act defines the offence of money laundering as any attempt, assistance, or involvement in activities related to proceeds of crime to present them as untainted property.
  • Amendments
    • The PMLA has been amended multiple times, including through the Finance Acts of 2015, 2018, and 2019.

Political Parties and Money Laundering

  • Section 70 of the PMLA deals with offences by companies, holding individuals in charge liable for contraventions.
  • While political parties are not companies under the Companies Act 2013, the Act's explanation broadens the definition of "company" to include associations of individuals, potentially encompassing political parties.

Potential Prosecution

  • If a political party were directly accused in a money laundering case, it would be a first instance.
  • Political parties have previously faced investigations under the Income Tax Act.

Challenges for the Election Commission

  • Suspension or Withdrawal of Recognition: The EC can suspend or withdraw a party's recognition under specific grounds outlined in The Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, primarily related to violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
  • De-registration: While the EC can register parties under the Representation of the People Act, it has limited grounds for de-registration, mainly if a party obtained registration through fraud, renounces allegiance to the Constitution, or is declared unlawful by the Union Government under specific laws.
  • However, if a political party were implicated in money laundering, the Representation of the People Act lacks provisions to address such situations.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 Polity GS-3 Money laundering
Monthly Current Affairs

Criminalisation of Politics


In News: Recent cases of alleged sexual harassment involving MPs, MLAs, and government employees shed light on a troubling aspect of the criminalisation of politics. These incidents highlight ethical issues like moral responsibility and failure to uphold professional ethics.

Understanding the Concept of Criminalisation of Politics

Definition and Impact

  • Criminalisation of politics occurs when individuals with criminal backgrounds or charges become politicians and secure elected positions.
  • It poses a threat to democratic principles, including fair elections, accountability, and adherence to the law.

Statistics Highlighting the Issue

  • Data from the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) indicates a steady increase in the number of elected representatives with criminal charges since 2004.
  • In the 2019 Lok Sabha, 43% of members faced criminal charges, with 21% facing serious allegations such as rape and murder.

Root Causes of Criminalisation

  • Nexus between politicians and criminal elements, leveraging money and muscle power for electoral success.
  • Weak law enforcement and judicial systems, leading to low conviction rates for politicians with criminal backgrounds.
  • Lack of internal party democracy, allowing leaders to prioritize electability over integrity.
  • Voter apathy and limited political awareness, particularly in rural areas, where immediate benefits may outweigh long-term governance concerns.

Ethical Concerns Associated with Criminalisation

  • Lack of non-partisanship and accountability, evidenced by the defence of politicians facing serious criminal charges.
  • Absence of democratic accountability through public outrage, highlighting the reactive nature of political responses to scandals.
  • Culture of impunity and individual accountability, with women often bearing the burden of pursuing justice against powerful perpetrators.
  • Women's empowerment as a fallacy, with substantive progress on women's issues remaining elusive despite rhetoric.

Ethical Implications of Criminalisation

  • Societal erosion of moral fabric and reduced civic participation due to distrust in corrupt systems.
  • Inequality and exclusion of marginalized communities from political representation.
  • Focus on short-term gains over long-term societal development.
  • Undermining democratic principles of integrity, fairness, and transparency.

Recommendations for Addressing the Issue

  • Strengthening institutional mechanisms for accountability, including anti-corruption agencies and internal party disciplinary processes.
  • Promoting a culture of ethical conduct through comprehensive codes of conduct and mandatory training programs.
  • Empowering citizens and civil society through civic education and greater participation in the political process.

Conclusion

Restoring accountability and ethical standards within India's political landscape requires a multifaceted approach that addresses institutional weaknesses, cultural norms, and societal engagement. While challenging, such efforts are essential for preserving the integrity of the democratic process and advancing equitable governance.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2021)

Q. Consider the following statements:

  1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
  2. In the 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies.
  3. As per the existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her winning in all the constituencies.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 2 and 3

Ans: (b)

Mains (2022)

Q.1 Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws.

Mains (2013)

Q.2 It is often said that ‘politics’ and ‘ethics’ do not go together. What is your opinion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustrations. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS – 2 GS – 4 Transparency & Accountability, Representation of People's Act, Executive, Judgements & Cases, Ethics and Human Interface, Ethics in Human Actions, Ethics in Private & Public Relationships
Monthly Current Affairs

Five things the next government needs to focus on


In News: A recent article delves into the recent economic performance of India and highlights five crucial areas requiring attention from the forthcoming government.

Current State of the Indian Economy in Different Sectors

  • Robust Growth
    • India's economy has demonstrated robust and resilient growth over the past decade, positioning itself as the fastest-growing economy among G20 nations and climbing to the 5th largest globally.
  • Current Account Deficit
    • India's current account deficit has significantly reduced to 1% of GDP in the first half of FY24, attributed to resilient service exports and decreased oil import costs.
  • Foreign Investment
    • Robust foreign institutional investor (FII) inflows have bolstered forex reserves to approximately $643 billion, with FII inflows standing at $41 billion in 2023-24.
  • Infrastructural Development
    • Significant infrastructural development has been witnessed, with the construction of 74 airports in the last 9 years and a surge in capital expenditure (Capex) to 3.3% of GDP for FY24.
  • Manufacturing Sector
    • Manufacturing sector capacity utilization is reaching 74%, nearing the long-term average, indicating potential acceleration in private capital expenditure.
  • Inflation
    • Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation has dipped below the Reserve Bank of India’s upper target band of 6%, with core inflation remaining below 4% in April 2024, primarily due to disinflation in the services sector.
  • Decline in Urban Unemployment
    • Urban unemployment rate saw a decline to 6.6% in 2023-24, accompanied by an estimated economic expansion of 7.3% in the same period.
  • Rural Demand
    • Positive trends in rural demand are evident, with Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) volume growth in rural areas surging from 2.2% to 6.2% in the latter half of 2023, according to a Nielsen report.

Challenges Faced by the Indian Economy in the Past Five Years

  • Slowdown in Economic Growth
    • The COVID-19 pandemic led to a substantial economic decline in India in 2020, causing a negative growth rate, although there was a strong rebound in 2021.
  • Unemployment and Underemployment
    • The pandemic exacerbated job losses, with significant impacts on salaried jobs and a varying unemployment rate.
  • Challenges in Agriculture and Allied Sectors
    • Despite recent GDP growth, the agricultural sector has not shown equivalent progress, with challenges in achieving desired growth rates.
  • Slowing Household Consumption and Income Inequality
    • High levels of income inequality lead to deterioration in consumption demand, especially for lower income classes.
  • Infrastructure Deficit and Private Investment
    • India faces a significant infrastructure deficit and declining private investment, particularly concerning transportation, energy, and healthcare infrastructure.
  • Export Challenges Amid Geopolitical Tensions
    • Geopolitical tensions can disrupt global trade patterns, affecting India's export performance.

Initiatives Taken for the Growth of Different Sectors in the Indian Economy

  • New Economic Policy, 2020
    • A substantial stimulus package aimed at bolstering various sectors and segments of the economy post-COVID-19 crisis.
  • Strategic Disinvestment
    • Privatization of public sector enterprises to enhance efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness.
  • Comprehensive Labour Codes
    • Introduction of labor codes to streamline and consolidate central labor laws, aiming to offer flexibility and simplify procedures for businesses.
  • Production-Linked Incentive (PLI)
    • A scheme to scale up domestic manufacturing capability.
  • PM Gati Shakti- National Master Plan
    • Formulation of a national master plan for multimodal connectivity infrastructure projects.
  • Bharatmala Project
    • A project aimed at improving connectivity, particularly in North East India.
  • Start-up India
    • Initiative to catalyze the startup culture in India.
  • Make in India 2.0
    • Effort to transform India into a global design and manufacturing hub.

Potential Areas of Focus for the Indian Economy

  • Creating Employment Opportunities
    • Policies aimed at boosting consumption to indirectly contribute to sustainable job creation.
  • Reviving Private Investment
    • Expansion of schemes like PLI and introduction of investment incentives to stimulate private sector participation.
  • Agricultural Reform
    • Addressing challenges in the agricultural sector, clarifying trade policies, and standardizing procurement and distribution procedures.
  • Boosting Household Consumption
    • Fiscal measures to stimulate consumption and address declining household savings.
  • Integration into Global Supply Chains
    • Strategic approach to enhance India's participation in global supply chains, particularly in merchandise exports.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2018)

Q. Consider the following statements:

  1. Human capital formation as a concept is better explained in terms of a process that enables individuals of a country to accumulate more capital.
  2. increasing the knowledge, skill levels and capacities of the people of the country.
  3. accumulation of tangible wealth.
  4. accumulation of intangible wealth

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 4

(d) 1, 3 and 4

Ans: (c)

Prelims (2013)

Q. Disguised unemployment generally means 

(a) large number of people remain unemployed

(b) alternative employment is not available

(c) marginal productivity of labour is zero

(d) productivity of workers is low

Ans: (c)


Mains (2023)

Q. Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-3 GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Constitutional Test Mandated for Valid Land Acquisition


In News: The Supreme Court of India issued a landmark verdict emphasizing the necessity for all property acquisitions by the government to adhere to the principles outlined in Article 300A. Specifically, the Court overturned Kolkata Municipal Corporation's decision to acquire private land for a public park, deeming it illegal and unauthorized by law.

The Evolution of Property Rights in India: Transitioning from Fundamental to Constitutional Status

Before the 44th Constitutional Amendment (1978)

  • Part III of the Indian Constitution enshrined property rights in Article 19(1)(f) and Article 31.
  • Article 19(1)(f) granted residents the freedom to buy, own, and sell property.
  • Article 31 safeguarded against arbitrary deprivation of property, seen as an absolute right.

The 44th Amendment to the Indian Constitution

  • Abolished Article 19(1)(f) and redefined Article 31 as Article 300-A, making property rights a legal rather than fundamental entitlement.
  • Article 300-A mandates that property can only be taken away by the government under the authority of law, typically for public welfare purposes.

Judicial Interpretation

  • The Madhya Pradesh High Court (2022) emphasized the need for lawful property acquisition serving a genuine public interest.
  • In Vidya Devi v. the State of Himachal Pradesh (2022), the Supreme Court affirmed the requirement for government entities to follow due process in property seizures.
  • Vimlaben Ajitbhai Patel vs. Vatslaben Ashokbhai Patel underscored property rights as intrinsic human rights, despite losing their fundamental status.

Supreme Court Observations

  • Article 300-A establishes seven fundamental procedural rights for landowners, ensuring fairness and transparency in acquisitions:
  • Property rights are now regarded as both constitutional and human rights.
  • Right to notice
  • Right to be heard
  • Right to a reasoned decision
  • Acquisition solely for public purposes
  • Right to fair compensation
  • Right to efficient conduct of acquisition processes
  • Right to conclusion of proceedings
  • Procedural justice is highlighted as essential, ensuring property acquisitions are conducted fairly and transparently, in accordance with the law.

Source: TOI

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

Swachhata Pakhwada


In News: The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) has initiated efforts to foster cleanliness and environmental sustainability by launching Swachhata Pakhwada, scheduled to run from May 16th to May 31st, 2024.

Overview of Swachhata Pakhwada and Swachh Bharat Mission

Swachhata Pakhwada

  • Swachhata Pakhwada is an initiative launched in April 2016 under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
  • The primary objective of Swachhata Pakhwada is to bring a fortnight of concentrated focus on Swachhata issues and practices by involving central government ministries and departments.
  • It aims to engage all ministries and departments in a common programme to contribute to the Swachh Bharat Mission.
  • Ministries receive an annual calendar in advance to plan their Pakhwada activities effectively.
  • Swachhata Pakhwada activities of observing ministries are closely monitored using the online monitoring system of Swachhata Samiksha, where they upload action plans, images, and videos related to Swachhata activities.
  • Ministries observing Swachhata Pakhwada are designated as ‘Swachhata Ministries’ during the fortnight and are expected to make qualitative Swachhata improvements in their respective areas.

Key Facts about Swachh Bharat Mission

  • The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched by the Indian government on October 2, 2014.
  • It covers both rural and urban areas, with the urban component managed by the Ministry of Urban Development and the rural component overseen by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
  • The mission aims to achieve various objectives including the elimination of open defecation, conversion of unsanitary toilets to pour flush toilets, eradication of manual scavenging, municipal solid waste management, and promoting behavioral changes towards healthy sanitation practices.

Source: PIB

Keywords: GS-2 Governance
Monthly Current Affairs

NIA’s allegations against NSCN


In News: In March 2024, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) lodged a charge sheet in a Guwahati court, implicating the "China-Myanmar module" associated with the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).

Ethnic Composition of Manipur

  • The Meitei, Naga, and Kuki-Zomi-Mizo are the primary ethnic groups in Manipur.
  • The Meiteis constitute the largest community, representing around 53% of the state's total population of 27.21 lakh (2011 Census).
  • The Nagas and the Kuki-Zo, classified into 34 Scheduled Tribes, make up approximately 17% and 26% of the population, respectively.

Insurgency in Manipur

  • Background
    • Manipur's incorporation into India sparked the emergence of several insurgent organizations.
    • These groups advocate for an independent state within Manipur's borders, rejecting its merger with India as involuntary.
    • The insurgency issue in Manipur arose in the late 1960s and 1970s, following its merger with India.
  • Rise of Insurgency
    • The United National Liberation Front (UNLF), founded in November 1964, was the first separatist faction.
    • The insurgency intensified in the 1990s with the onset of Kuki-Naga clashes, triggered by the NSCN's demand to include Kuki-Zo-inhabited areas in its proposed 'Greater Nagaland' project in the 1980s.
    • Insurgent groups demand independent territory for the Kuki-Zo people.
  • Active Insurgent Groups
    • Nearly 30 Kuki insurgent groups operate in Manipur, with 25 under tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) with the Government of India and the state.
    • In 2008, 24 Kuki-Zo insurgent groups signed a tripartite SoO pact with the Manipur government, but in February 2024, the government refused to extend the pact, alleging violations by the groups.

Naga Insurgency

  • Background
    • The Naga National Council (NNC) was established in April 1946 for the social and political upliftment of Nagas.
    • The return of Naga leader Angami Zapu Phizo in 1947 bolstered the faction advocating for full independence.
  • Shillong Accord and Split of NNC
    • The Shillong Accord of 1975, signed by a faction of NNC leaders, aimed to resolve the Naga problem within the Indian Constitution, opposed by Phizo, Isak Swu, and Muivah.
    • Isak Swu and Muivah later formed the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) in January 1980, which subsequently split into NSCN (I-M) and NSCN (K).
  • Demand for Greater Nagaland
    • NSCN-IM has been demanding 'Greater Nagaland,' an extension of Nagaland's borders to include Naga-dominated areas in neighboring states, along with a separate flag and constitution.
  • Naga Peace Accord
    • Since 1997, NSCN (I-M) has engaged in negotiations with the Government of India, culminating in the 2015 Framework Agreement aimed at resolving the Naga issue.
  • Recent Developments
    • Talks broke down in June 2022 after NSCN accused the Indian government's appointed interlocutor of excluding crucial political points.
  • Ethnic Violence in Manipur
    • Ethnic violence erupted on May 3, 2023, between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo tribal community following protests over demands for official tribal status for the Meiteis.
    • The National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet accusing NSCN-IM of conspiring with intent to carry out violent terror attacks targeting the Kuki-Zo community.
  • NSCN's Allegation
    • The NSCN issued a statement accusing Indian security forces of aiding Kuki militant groups in Myanmar to wage war against Meitei revolutionary groups.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Supreme Court Ruling on Newsclick


In News: The article delves into the Supreme Court's ruling regarding Prabir Purkayastha, the founder-editor of Newsclick, highlighting the significant role of due process of law as a longstanding measure for assessing a civilization's maturity.

Invalidation of Purkayastha’s Arrest by the Supreme Court

  • Grounds of Arrest Not Provided
    • The Supreme Court invalidated Purkayastha’s arrest due to the absence of provided grounds, emphasizing the necessity of providing written grounds of arrest to the accused, citing the Pankaj Bansal case of 2023 as precedent.
    • It affirmed that the right to be informed about the grounds of arrest is fundamental under Article 22(1) of the Constitution of India, and any violation of this right renders the arrest and remand process invalid.
  • Copy of Reasons for Arrest: A Fundamental Right
    • The court underscored that individuals arrested under the UAPA or any other offense have the fundamental right to be informed in writing about the grounds of their arrest, with a copy of such grounds furnished promptly and unequivocally.
  • Clandestine Procedure Adoption
    • The bench noted the secretive manner in which the FIR was withheld from the appellant until after the remand order, condemning it as an attempt to circumvent due process, depriving the accused of legal representation and misleading the court.
  • FIR Not an Encyclopaedia
    • The judgment clarified that an FIR serves to initiate criminal justice proceedings and is not exhaustive in its details. It stressed the importance of the written grounds of arrest, which should be personal to the accused, enabling them to defend against custodial remand and seek bail effectively.

Concerns Raised by UAPA 1967 Regarding Due Process of Law

  • Divergence from Regular Criminal Law
    • The UAPA grants extended remand periods and maximum judicial custody periods, differing from standard criminal law procedures, raising concerns about potential abuse.
  • Controversy Surrounding Bail Provisions
    • Section 43D(5) of the Act imposes stringent bail conditions, making it challenging for suspects to obtain bail without a full trial, a provision criticized for its draconian nature.
  • Expanded Scope Over Time
    • The UAPA has expanded its scope to cover various activities threatening national security, including economic aspects, with prolonged proscription periods and increased powers since its inception, raising questions about its balance with individual rights.
  • High Pendency and Low Conviction Rates
    • Despite a significant number of cases under UAPA, conviction rates remain low, and the pendency of cases in courts is notably high, indicating potential flaws in implementation and due process adherence.

Balancing State Security and Due Process of Law

  • Clear Legal Framework
    • Establish precise laws defining state actions for security, ensuring accountability and preventing misuse. A parliamentary committee could oversee and suggest amendments to security legislation.
  • Judicial Oversight
    • Strengthen judicial oversight to review state actions and legality of detentions under laws like UAPA, potentially through a judicial review committee.
  • Independent Monitoring Bodies
    • Create independent bodies to monitor security law implementation and investigate abuses, empowering bodies like the NHRC to hold state actors accountable.
  • Human Rights Training
    • Provide human rights training for law enforcement to ensure individual liberties are protected while maintaining security, potentially through comprehensive training programs.
  • Public Participation
    • Engage civil society and the public in security policy discussions to create balanced and widely accepted policies, utilizing platforms like MyGov for public consultations.
  • International Cooperation
    • Collaborate with international organizations to promote press freedom and share best practices, aligning with initiatives like the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists.

Conclusion

India must ensure that stringent laws like the UAPA do not overshadow fundamental rights. A harmonious balance between state security and individual liberties is crucial for the country's legal and constitutional integrity, reflecting its democratic values and maturity.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2021)

Q. With reference to India, consider the following statements: 

1. Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such accused is locked up in a police station, not in jail.

2. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court.

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: B

Mains (2019)

Q. Indian government has recently strengthed the anti-terrorism laws by amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA Act. Analyze the changesin the context of prevailing security environment while discussing scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by human rights organizations. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS – 2 Fundamental Rights, Indian Constitution, Government Policies & Interventions
Monthly Current Affairs

Supreme Court Curbs ED's Arrest Authority in PMLA Cases


In News: The Supreme Court recently declared that once a special court acknowledges a chargesheet filed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the Enforcement Directorate (ED) no longer retains the power to arrest an accused.

Recent Supreme Court Ruling on PMLA

  • Background and Provisions: The Supreme Court delivered a ruling arising from an appeal against the Enforcement Directorate (ED), challenging a Punjab and Haryana High Court decision denying anticipatory bail.
    • The case revolved around the eligibility of an accused to seek bail under the regular provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and whether such bail would need to meet the stringent conditions under Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
    • Additionally, the court deliberated on whether an accused not arrested during the PMLA investigation would have to meet the rigorous bail conditions if they appeared in court after being summoned or issued a warrant for their non-appearance.

Supreme Court Observations

  • Accused Appearing on Summons: The court ruled that if an accused appears before a designated special court pursuant to a summons, they cannot be deemed to be in custody. Therefore, they need not seek bail under the strict conditions of the PMLA.
    • The ED must separately apply for custody of an accused after their appearance in court, presenting specific grounds necessitating custodial interrogation.
    • This presumption of liberty is significant for safeguarding the fundamental right of personal liberty.
  • Nature of Bonds/Sureties: The special court has the authority to direct the accused to provide a surety/guarantee (bonds) under Section 88 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. However, such surety does not equate to granting bail and does not require adherence to the stringent conditions of Section 45 of the PMLA.
  • Graded Arrest Procedure: In case of failure to appear before the court despite summons, the special court may first issue a bailable warrant, allowing for bail. Subsequently, if the accused still does not appear, the court may issue a non-bailable warrant for arrest without bail.
  • Arresting Non-Accused Parties: The ED retains the power to arrest individuals not named as accused in the initial PMLA complaint. However, to do so, it must follow the proper arrest procedures outlined in Section 19 of the PMLA.

Understanding PMLA

  • Overview
    • The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) aims to prevent money laundering and enable the confiscation of property derived from such activities, including drug trafficking, smuggling, and terrorism financing.
  • Key Provisions
    • Offences and Penalties: PMLA defines money laundering offences and imposes penalties, including rigorous imprisonment and fines.
    • Attachment and Confiscation of Property: The Act allows for the attachment and confiscation of property involved in money laundering, overseen by an Adjudicating Authority.
    • Reporting Requirements: Certain entities, such as banks and financial institutions, must maintain transaction records and report suspicious transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
    • Appellate Tribunal: Section 25 establishes an Appellate Tribunal to hear appeals against orders passed by the Adjudicating Authority.
  • Recent Amendments
    • Prevention of Money-laundering (Restoration of Confiscated Property) Amendment Rules, 2019: Introduces a new rule enabling the Special Court to publish notices in newspapers to call for legitimate claimants of attached/seized/frozen property.
    • Prevention of Money Laundering (Maintenance of Records) Amendment Rules, 2023: Expands disclosure requirements for NGOs and clarifies the definition of "politically exposed persons" to align with FATF recommendations.

Concerns and Way Forward

  • Broad Definition of Proceeds of Crime: There are debates over the broad interpretation of "proceeds of crime" in the PMLA, with concerns about its potential inclusion of legal financial transactions.
  • Coverage of Numerous Offences: The Act includes various offences unrelated to its original purpose, raising questions about its focus.
  • Arrest Procedures: Enforcement Directorate officers have faced criticism for violating constitutional and statutory provisions regarding the communication of arrest grounds.

To address these concerns, suggestions include refining the definition of "proceeds of crime," revising burden of proof mechanisms, establishing independent oversight bodies, promoting international cooperation, and leveraging technological advancements for detection and prevention.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Mains (2021)

Q. Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 Government Policies & Interventions, Statutory Bodies GS – 3 Capital Market, Money Laundering
Monthly Current Affairs

Overhauling India's Higher Education System


In News: A recent discussion revolves around the politicization of higher education in India and emphasizes the urgent need for substantial reforms.

Current Status of the Higher Education System in India

  • Student Enrolment
    • As per the All India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-22, the enrolment in higher education institutes stands at 4.33 crore, indicating a significant increase from previous years.
    • The number of women enrolled has risen to 2.07 crore, marking a 32% jump since 2014-15.
    • Notably, the proportion of women enrolled is highest at the postgraduate level (55.4%).
  • Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) and Gender Parity Index (GPI)
    • The estimated GER for the age group 18-23 years is 28.4% in India.
    • The GPI stands at 1.01 at the all-India level, showcasing gender parity.
  • Discipline-wise Enrolment
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs dominate undergraduate enrolment (34.2%), followed by science, commerce, and engineering.
    • Social science stream leads postgraduate enrolment, with 10.8 lakh students enrolled.
    • Engineering has the highest enrolment at the PhD level, followed by science and social sciences.
  • Primacy of Government Institutions
    • Despite comprising only 58.6% of all universities, government universities attract 73.7% of all students.
    • State public universities hold the largest share of enrollment among government-owned universities, accounting for around 31%.

Key Government Initiatives Related to Higher Education

  • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
    • Aims to revamp the education system, emphasizing multidisciplinary learning, skill development, and research and innovation.
    • Proposes increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio to 50% by 2035.
  • Institutions of Eminence (IoE) Scheme
    • Launched in 2018, granting complete autonomy to 20 selected institutions.
  • National Credit Framework
    • Integrates training and skill development into the education system, with credits stored digitally for accessibility.
  • Revamped Accreditation and Ranking Systems
    • Initiatives like NIRF and revamped NAAC ensure quality standards among institutions.
  • Digital Initiatives
    • Platforms like SWAYAM and the National Digital Library of India offer online courses and educational resources.
  • Study in India Program
    • Aims to attract international students to study in India through scholarships and streamlined admission processes.
  • Foreign Institutions in India
    • Regulations allowing foreign universities to establish branch campuses in India, enhancing international collaboration.
  • SHE under INSPIRE
    • Offers scholarships to attract students to pursue basic and natural sciences at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Current Major Challenges in the Indian Higher Education System

  • Inequitable Access and Low GER
    • Persistent disparities in access based on socio-economic background, gender, and geography.
    • GER, while improving, remains below the global average.
  • Politicization and Lack of Autonomy
    • Concerns about political interference in institutions' affairs, hindering autonomy and innovation.
  • Limited Funding
    • Reduced budget allocations and low investment in research and development compared to global standards.
  • Shortage of Faculty and Brain Drain
    • Vacant teaching positions and talent migration to other countries or sectors due to better opportunities.
  • Inadequate Industry-Academia Collaboration
    • Lack of effective partnerships leading to a skill gap and unmet industry demands.
  • Uneven Regional Development
    • Disparities in the quality and accessibility of higher education across different states and regions.

Measures to Revamp Higher Education System in India

  • Redefining the Role of Universities
    • Shifting focus to practical skill development, social responsibility, and civic engagement.
    • Transforming institutions into skill generators rather than degree issuers.
  • Open Education Resources (OER) Initiatives
    • Enhancing access to educational resources through platforms like the National Digital Library of India.
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centers
    • Establishing centers to foster innovation and support student entrepreneurship.
  • Transnational Education Partnerships
    • Promoting collaborations with international universities to enhance global exposure and competitiveness.
  • Dual Study Programs
    • Implementing programs combining theoretical learning with practical training.
  • Competency-based Credentialing and Blockchain Certificates
    • Adopting systems to recognize and validate skills acquired through diverse learning pathways, leveraging blockchain technology for transparency and trust.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2012)

Q. Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education? 

  1. Directive Principles of State Policy
  2. Rural and Urban Local Bodies
  3. Fifth Schedule
  4. Sixth Schedule
  5. Seventh Schedule

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3, 4 and 5 only

(c) 1, 2 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Ans- (d)

Mains (2020)

Q1. How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate on your answer.

Mains (2021)

Q2. Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 Education, Welfare Schemes, Issues Related to Children, Human Resource, Skill Development, Government Policies & Interventions
Monthly Current Affairs

Undertrials' Disenfranchisement in India


In News: With the 18th Lok Sabha elections currently in progress, over four lakh undertrials across the country find themselves unable to participate in the voting process due to a broad legal prohibition.

Why Undertrials Are Barred from Voting

  • Legal Provisions: Section 62(5) of the Representation of the People Act prohibits individuals confined in prison, under a sentence of imprisonment or transportation, or in police custody, from voting in elections.
  • Continued Electoral Status: Despite the prohibition on voting, individuals whose names are on the electoral roll remain electors.
  • Exclusion of Preventive Detainees: Notably, the ban on voting does not apply to individuals subjected to preventive detention under prevailing laws.
  • Supreme Court Rulings: The Supreme Court has upheld this provision, citing reasons such as resource constraints and the necessity to distance individuals with criminal backgrounds from the electoral process.
  • Legal Framework: While the Supreme Court recognizes free and fair elections as part of the Constitution's 'basic structure', it distinguishes the right to vote (Article 326) and be elected as statutory rights, subject to regulations in laws like the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
  • Constitutional Rights vs. Statutory Rights: Article 326 of the Indian Constitution enshrines adult suffrage, granting every citizen above 18 the right to vote unless disqualified due to factors like non-residence, unsoundness of mind, criminal convictions, or corrupt practices.
  • Disqualification for Contesting Elections: Section 8 of the RPA, 1951 disqualifies individuals from contesting elections only upon conviction for specific criminal offenses, not merely upon being charged.
  • Court's Stance on Criminal Charges: The Supreme Court has rejected pleas to disqualify individuals based on criminal charges or false affidavits, asserting that such alterations to the RPA, 1951 can only be made by the legislature.
  • Exceptions to Disqualification: The Election Commission of India holds the authority to remove or reduce the period of disqualification under certain circumstances.
  • Appeal Provisions: A disqualified Member of Parliament (MP) or Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) can still contest if their conviction is stayed pending appeal to a higher court.

Undertrials' Voting Rights: Should They Have the Right to Vote?

  • Arguments in Favor
    • Presumption of Innocence: Undertrials are presumed innocent until proven guilty, so denying them the right to vote may be seen as punitive.
    • Representation and Political Participation: Allowing undertrials to vote ensures their interests are represented, including those related to prison conditions and the justice system.
    • Disenfranchisement Concerns: Denying undertrials the vote could disenfranchise marginalized groups who may be overrepresented in pre-trial detention.
    • Equality and Discrimination: Critics argue that denying undertrials the right to vote is discriminatory and violates principles of equality, unlike other countries with more nuanced laws.
  • Arguments Against
    • Public Safety Concerns: Allowing undertrials to vote may raise concerns about voter intimidation or interference, particularly in serious crime cases.
    • Logistical Challenges: Facilitating voting within prisons poses administrative challenges, including ensuring ballot secrecy and preventing coercion.
    • Temporary Nature of Detention: Undertrials' voting rights could be restored upon acquittal or completion of sentence.
    • Punishment and Deterrence: Loss of certain rights, including voting, may serve as a deterrent against criminal behavior.

Legal Precedents Regarding Voting Rights in India

  • Indira Gandhi v Raj Narain Case, 1975: Free and fair elections are part of India's constitutional 'basic structure', ensuring laws violating this can be struck down.
  • Praveen Kumar Chaudhary V. Election Commission and Ors Case: The Delhi High Court clarified that voting is a statutory, not a fundamental, right.
  • People’s Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL) vs Union of India Case, 2003: The Supreme Court clarified that voting is a constitutional but not a fundamental right.
  • Anukul Chandra Pradhan, Advocate v. Union Of India & Ors Case, 1997: The Court upheld Section 62(5) of the RPA, citing prisoners forfeiting freedoms, logistical challenges, and excluding individuals with criminal backgrounds from elections.

Way Forward

  • Inclusivity in Electoral Systems: Evolve electoral systems to include incarcerated individuals through methods like mobile voting units or absentee ballots.
  • Focus on Rehabilitation: Provide opportunities for meaningful participation in decision-making processes to avoid further marginalization.
  • Differentiation Between Convicts and Undertrials: Consider differing electoral rights based on legal status.
  • Recognition of Voting as a Fundamental Duty: Incorporate the recommendation to make voting a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution, as suggested by the Swaran Singh Committee (1976).

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2021)

Q. With reference to India, consider the following statements: 

  1. When a prisoner makes out a sufficient case, parole cannot be denied to such prisoner because it becomes a matter of his/her right.
  2. State Governments have their own Prisoners Release on Parole Rules.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither I nor 2

Ans: (b)

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

SC to Reevaluate 1995 Ruling on Protection


In News: SC Exempts Lawyers from Consumer Court Proceedings, Reconsiders Ruling for Medical Professionals

Understanding the Consumer Protection Act (CPA)

  • Overview of the CPA
    • The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) aims to safeguard consumers' interests concerning products or services they acquire.
    • Initially enacted in 1986, the act underwent revision in 2019 to adapt to evolving circumstances.
  • Provisions of the Act
    • Consumers dissatisfied with a product or service can address grievances regarding deficiency through the consumer commission.
    • Deficiency in service, as defined by the act, encompasses faults, imperfections, or inadequacies in quality, nature, or manner of performance mandated by law.
  • Scope of Service Defined
    • The 2019 CPA outlines service as offerings accessible to potential users, including banking, insurance, transport, housing construction, and entertainment, among others.
    • However, services provided free of charge or under a contract of personal service are excluded from the act's purview.
  • Legal Precedents and Interpretations
    • In the Indian Medical Association vs. V P Shantha case (1995), the Supreme Court ruled that doctors fall under the consumer protection law, allowing suits for medical negligence.
    • The recent case before the Supreme Court dealt with lawyers' inclusion under the CPA, where the court clarified that the law doesn't encompass professions or services rendered by professionals.

Arguments for Exemption of Medical Profession

  • Advocates representing the Indian Medical Association contended that medical practitioners cannot be judged by fixed norms and thus shouldn't be covered by the CPA.
  • Commission members lack specialized knowledge in medical matters, making it challenging to adjudicate complex medical issues.

Apex Court's Rationale

  • The court emphasized that doctors owe certain duties to their patients and can be held liable for deficiency in service if these duties are breached.
  • Commission members need not possess specific medical expertise; instead, the burden lies on parties to provide necessary evidence for informed decisions.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 Judiciary
Monthly Current Affairs

Critical times call for strong judicial adjudication


In News: Judicial review must be robust, prompt, and unequivocal when addressing cases involving statutes that are evidently unconstitutional or contentious.

Overview of Supreme Court's Role in Assessing Legislation

  • Reflection on Past Decisions: The top court should have the capacity to reflect on its past decisions and understand the political implications of its actions, especially during crucial moments.
  • Assessment of Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA): The Supreme Court of India will evaluate the constitutionality of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and its accompanying regulations.

Challenges Arising from Recent Legislative Ambiguity

  • Ambiguity in CAA Rules: Recent ambiguity in the CAA Rules regarding the status of individuals denied citizenship has raised concerns, particularly regarding the potential detention of those whose citizenship requests are rejected.
  • Worries about Dual Citizenship: Some petitioners have expressed worries about foreign applicants retaining dual citizenship, which contradicts the essence of the original Act and creates uncertainty.

Traditional Judicial Approach vs. Contemporary Challenges

  • Presumption of Law Validity: Traditional legal doctrine presumes legislative actions to be valid unless they clearly violate constitutional principles, as reiterated in the case of Manish Kumar vs Union Of India (2021).
  • Challenges of Populist Legislation: However, this approach may fall short in addressing contemporary challenges posed by populist regimes worldwide, which often introduce legislation with specific motives and manipulate electoral processes.

Impact on Democratic Foundations & Judicial Authority

  • Diminished Counter-Majoritarian Role: Persisting with an outdated presumption of law validity may diminish the counter-majoritarian role that constitutional courts are expected to fulfill in critical times.
  • Erosion of Judicial Authority: Failure to intervene in legislation that disregards constitutional principles can erode the judiciary's authority, impacting the foundation of democracy.

Instances of Judicial Intervention and Non-Intervention

  • Examples of Intervention: Instances such as Vivek Narayan Sharma vs Union of India (2023) and judgments on Article 370 demonstrate the consequences of failure to intervene in legislation.
  • Anoop Baranwal vs Union of India (2023): This case marked a significant judgment advocating for an independent body to select the Election Commission of India (ECI), but subsequent legislation reinstated executive dominance.
  • Jaya Thakur vs Union of India (2024): Despite challenges, the Court declined to halt the operation of a statute, potentially undermining democracy.

Cases of Targeted Legislation and Their Implications

  • CAA and Triple Talaaq Cases: The CAA and the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act (2019) exemplify targeted legislation, impacting specific groups and inadvertently exacerbating social issues.

Comparative Perspective: U.S. Legal Precedents

  • Evolution of Judicial Scrutiny: In the U.S., there's a growing need for more thorough judicial scrutiny in the face of legislative actions driven by malice, as argued by scholars like Susannah W. Pollvogt.
  • United States Dept. of Agriculture vs Moreno (1973): Legislative actions targeting specific groups reflect discriminatory intent, requiring judicial scrutiny.

Indian Legal Precedents for Judicial Intervention

  • Ashoka Kumar Thakur vs Union of India (2007): The Supreme Court effectively halted the implementation of parliamentary legislation concerning quota allocations.
  • Rakesh Vaishnav vs Union of India (2021): Judicial intervention led to the stay order on controversial farm laws, eventually leading to their withdrawal.

Conclusion and Recommendations

  • Robust Judicial Review: In cases involving unconstitutional or divisive statutes, the process of judicial review should be robust, immediate, and unequivocal.
  • Heeding Lessons from Past Decisions: The Supreme Court should comprehend the political ramifications of its actions, especially during critical junctures, to uphold democratic principles effectively.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Self Help Groups (SHGs)


In News: The 26th anniversary of the Kudumbashree mission, which is an SHG, was recently celebrated in Kerala.

What are Self Help Groups (SHGs)?

  • Definition and Composition: SHGs are self-governed groups comprising individuals with similar socio-economic backgrounds and objectives. Typically, each SHG consists of five to twenty members sharing common economic outlooks and social statuses. 
  • Origins of SHGs in India
    • Early Efforts: Informal SHGs, particularly among women, existed for mutual support and collective action before the 1970s.
    • SEWA (1972): The establishment of SEWA by Ela Bhatt marked a significant milestone, organizing poor and self-employed women workers.
    • MYRADA and Pilot Programs (Mid-1980s): MYRADA pioneered SHGs as a microfinance strategy, focusing on providing credit to rural women.
    • NABARD and SHG-Bank Linkage (1992): NABARD launched the SHG-Bank Linkage Programme, connecting SHGs with formal banking institutions.
  • Government Initiatives and Policies Supporting SHGs
    • Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)
    • SHG-Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP)
    • Mission for Financial Inclusion (MFI)

Impact of SHGs on Women

  • Economic Empowerment
    • Improved access to microfinance and credit.
    • Facilitated income generation activities and entrepreneurship.
    • Contributed to poverty alleviation and financial inclusion.
  • Women's Agency and Empowerment
    • Provided leadership and assertiveness training.
    • Enabled women to challenge traditional gender norms and assume leadership roles.
  • Impact on Family and Society
    • Fostered more equitable family relationships.
    • Increased women’s representation in local governance.
    • Mitigated social issues like domestic violence.

Challenges and Limitations Faced by SHGs

  • Sustainability: Dependence on external support and effective internal management.
  • Dependency: Overreliance on external aid hindering self-sustainability.
  • Intersectional Challenges: Caste, class, and regional disparities impacting inclusivity.
  • Agricultural Focus: Limited engagement in non-agricultural businesses.
  • Lack of Technology: Rudimentary or no technology adoption.
  • Market Access: Limited access to larger marketplaces.
  • Poor Infrastructure: Located in areas with poor connectivity and infrastructure.
  • Politicisation: Political interference leading to conflicts.

Way Forward

  • Technology Integration: Utilize technology for efficiency and scalability, aiding in record-keeping and communication.
  • Linkages with Financial Institutions: Strengthen connections with formal financial institutions to enhance sustainability.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Integrate environmental concerns for resilience and sustainable development.
  • Inclusivity Awareness: Encourage an inclusive approach to address socio-economic disparities within SHGs.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Mains (2013)

Q. The legitimacy and accountability of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and their patrons, the micro-finance outfits, need systematic assessment and scrutiny for the sustained success of the concept. Discuss. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 GS – 1 Social Empowerment, Welfare Schemes, Government Policies & Interventions, Self Help Groups (SHGs)
Monthly Current Affairs

Inter-Services Organisations Act


In News: The recent enactment of the Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act empowers commanders in charge of ISOs to oversee personnel from all military branches, aiming to streamline operations and enhance collaboration.

Key Features of the Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) Act

  • Background
    • The Armed Forces currently operate under separate Service Acts, leading to challenges in maintaining uniform discipline and coordination across inter-service establishments.
    • The ISO Act doesn't propose changes to existing service acts but aims to address coordination issues.
  • Features of the Act
    • Empowering ISO Leadership
      • Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of ISOs gain authority over service personnel under their command, irrespective of branch.
      • This simplifies command structure and enhances decision-making efficiency.
    • Constituting and Classifying ISOs
      • Existing ISOs like the Andaman and Nicobar Command will be formally recognized.
      • New ISOs may be constituted, requiring personnel from at least two of the three services.
      • A Joint Services Command (tri-service) can be formed, led by a Commander-in-Chief.
    • Applicability and Qualifications
      • The Act may extend to other centrally controlled forces beyond the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
      • Eligibility criteria for Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command are specified.
    • Control and Commanding Officer
      • The central government retains authority over ISOs and can issue directives related to national security.
      • The Commanding Officer position is established within ISOs, responsible for specific units and personnel.

Significance of Integration of Armed Forces

  • Enhanced Operational Effectiveness: Joint planning and training improve coordination crucial for modern warfare.
  • Faster Decision-Making: Streamlined command structures enable quicker decisions on the battlefield.
  • Optimum Resource Utilization: Integration reduces duplication and optimizes resource allocation.  

Conclusion

The integration of Indian armed forces, as facilitated by the ISO Act, enhances operational efficiency and decision-making. It's a step toward modernizing defense capabilities to match contemporary warfare requirements, aligning with long-term strategic goals.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2014)

Q. In the Constitution of India, the promotion of international peace and security is included in the 

(a) Preamble to the Constitution

(b) Directive Principles of State Policy

(c) Fundamental Duties

(d) Ninth Schedule

Ans: (b)

Mains (2014)

Q. “The diverse nature of India as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society is not immune to the impact of radicalism which is seen in her neighbourhood.” Discuss along with strategies to be adopted to counter this environment. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 GS – 3 Parliament, Various Security Forces & Agencies & Their Mandate
Monthly Current Affairs

Section 436A


In News: The Supreme Court (SC) has reaffirmed that the provisions of Section 436A of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) extend to individuals accused of money laundering as well.

Overview of Section 436A of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)

  • Introduction
    • Section 436A was incorporated into the CrPC in 2005 through an amendment.
    • It was added to address concerns regarding the prolonged detention of undertrials.
  • Bail Provision
    • According to Section 436A CrPC, an individual who has spent half of the maximum period of the prescribed sentence as an undertrial is eligible for release on bail.
    • This provision applies to offenses where the death penalty is not specified as one of the punishments.
  • Release Conditions
    • The court is mandated to release the individual on their personal bond, with or without sureties, if they have undergone detention for up to half of the maximum imprisonment period specified for the offense.
    • However, the court, after hearing the Public Prosecutor, may extend the detention beyond the half period or release the individual on bail, based on recorded reasons.
  • Maximum Detention Period
    • An individual cannot be detained during investigation, inquiry, or trial for more than the maximum period of imprisonment provided for the offense under the law.
  • Exclusion of Delay Period
    • The calculation of detention period under Section 436A for bail excludes any delay caused by the accused in the proceedings.
  • Applicability to Special Acts
    • The Supreme Court clarified that Section 436A applies to Special Acts as well, even in the absence of specific provisions to that effect.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Concerns Raised Over ECI's Voter Turnout Data


In News: The Supreme Court of India (SC) is scheduled to review a petition filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), an NGO, challenging the accuracy of the voter turnout data provided by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Petitions Alleging Discrepancies in Voter Turnout Data

  • Overview of Allegations
    • The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has highlighted a notable variance of over 5% between initial voter turnout figures released by the Election Commission of India (ECI) post-polling and the final published percentages.
    • Concerns have been raised by the Opposition regarding potential manipulation during the counting phase.
  • Significance of Form 17C
    • Form 17C, as mandated by the Conduct of Election Rules 1961, is essential for maintaining data on electors and votes polled.
    • Part I of the form includes critical details such as EVM identification numbers, total electors assigned, votes recorded, and other pertinent information.
    • Part II contains the outcome of the counting process, facilitating candidates to verify results and address any discrepancies.
  • ADR's Petition to the Supreme Court
    • ADR is urging the Supreme Court to direct the ECI to promptly upload polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website within 48 hours of each Lok Sabha election phase.
    • This initiative aims to ensure transparency, especially when polling agents are unavailable to obtain Form 17C data.
  • Response of the Election Commission of India
    • The ECI clarified that there is no legal obligation to provide Form 17C to anyone except candidates or their agents.
    • However, the ECI voluntarily disseminates voter turnout details through its app, website, and press releases, enhancing transparency.
    • The ECI asserts that allegations against it are part of a consistent malicious campaign to discredit the commission.

Expert Opinion on Voter Turnout Disparities

  • Experts note that while the ECI traditionally discloses absolute voter turnout numbers, this time, only percentages are being revealed.
  • The delay in releasing turnout figures and the significant increase in final turnout percentages are unusual.
  • To enhance transparency, experts suggest uploading scanned copies of Form 17C immediately upon submission by the Presiding Officer, particularly benefiting smaller political parties with limited resources for polling agents.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

Foreigners Tribunals


In News: Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) put a stop to the deportation of a woman who had been deemed a foreigner by a Foreigners' Tribunal in Assam.

Functioning and Significance of Foreigners Tribunals (FTs)

  • Established through the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964, FTs allow state administrations, represented by District Collectors or District Magistrates, to refer individuals suspected of being foreigners to these tribunals.
  • Enacted by the Central government under Section 3 of the Foreigners Act, 1946, the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964, applies nationwide, but currently, FTs are operational only in Assam.
  • In states other than Assam, illegal immigrants are typically produced before local courts and dealt with according to the provisions of the Foreigners Act, 1946.
  • Following the 2019 amendment to the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964, both the Centre and states are empowered to establish FTs.

Purpose of FT

  • FTs play a crucial role in the detection of suspected foreigners, with superintendents of police (SPs) and district commissioners authorized to make references to these tribunals.
  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) can refer cases of Doubtful voters (D-voters) to the local SP, who then forwards them to FTs for citizenship verification.
  • Individuals excluded from the final draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) released in August 2019 have the right to appeal before FTs to prove their citizenship.

Functions of FTs

  • Upon receiving a reference against an individual, the FT serves them with a copy of the grounds for suspicion and a show-cause notice within 10 days.
  • The notice specifies that the burden of proof lies with the individual to demonstrate their non-foreigner status.
  • FTs afford the individual a reasonable opportunity to present their case, either in person or through legal representation, and submit supporting evidence.
  • Failure to provide evidence or arrange for bail may result in detention and transfer to a detention centre as directed by the FT.
  • The Supreme Court has ruled that FT decisions on an individual's nationality hold binding authority, surpassing the decisions of the government or NRC verification authorities.

Source: BB

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

Protectors of the Forest: Tribal Guardians


In News: The article underscores the Indian President's call for Indian Forest Service officers to merge traditional tribal knowledge with modern conservation methods, recognizing its significance in forest preservation and climate change mitigation.

Roles of Tribal Population in Forest Conservation

  • Sustainable Resource Utilization
    • Tribal communities have developed sustainable methods of resource extraction from forests. 
    • For instance, every resource collection practice done by Kadars tribes of South India, whether honey, firewood, resin, or herbs, is designed to allow for regeneration. 
    • Similarly, the Bhotias of Central Himalayas inspect the maturity of leaves before harvesting medicinal plants to prevent overharvesting.
  • Preservation of Sacred Groves
    • Many tribes consider certain forest areas as sacred groves dedicated to folk deities. 
    • For example, the Garasia tribes in Sirohi district, Rajasthan have preserved patches of forests termed sacred groves, protecting threatened plant species listed in the IUCN Red List.
  • Rotational Farming and Grazing
    • Tribes like the Gond, Pradhan, and Baiga of Madhya Pradesh practice Utera farming, where the next crop is sown before harvesting the primary one, utilizing existing soil moisture. 
    • They also follow the Badi cropping system, planting fruit trees along the periphery to prevent soil erosion.
  • Sustainable Fishing Practices
    • Unlike harmful methods like dynamiting, tribes employ sustainable fishing techniques. 
    • For instance, the Wancho and Nocte tribes of Tirap district, Arunachal Pradesh create obstructions in streams using bamboo and stones to trap fish, distributing the catch among the community (Bheta method).
  • Wildlife Protection through Beliefs and Totems
    • Tribal beliefs and totems restrict the culling of certain animals and plants. 
    • For example, for the Adi tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, tigers, sparrows, and pangolins are well-wishers of humankind and are not hunted.
  • Community-based Conservation Efforts
    • Some tribes have declared parts of their forest land as "Community Conserved Areas" governed by locals. 
    • For instance, the Idu Mishmis have taken this step, while the Bishnoi Tiger Force, an environmental campaign group, actively fights against poaching and rescues injured animals in Rajasthan. 

Key Challenges Encountered by Tribals in India

  • Land Alienation and Displacement
    • Tribal communities have faced widespread displacement due to various development projects, such as mining, dams, and infrastructure projects, leading to the loss of their traditional lands and disruption of their way of life.
  • Lack of Implementation of Forest Rights Act
    • The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, aimed to recognize the rights of forest-dwelling communities over land and resources. 
    • However, its implementation has been slow and ineffective, with many tribes facing delays, harassment, and illegal evictions.
  • Threats to Traditional Livelihood Practices
    • Traditional livelihood practices of tribal communities, such as shifting cultivation, hunting, and gathering, are increasingly under threat due to conservation policies and restrictions imposed by forest departments.
  • Loss of Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Erosion
    • With the younger generation of tribals migrating to urban areas in search of better opportunities, there is a risk of losing the traditional knowledge and practices passed down through generations.
  • Impact of Climate Change
    • Tribal communities, heavily dependent on natural resources, are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. 
    • For instance, the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya has witnessed a decline in their traditional agricultural practices due to changing rainfall patterns and temperature increases.

Measures to Integrate Tribal Empowerment with Forest Conservation

  • Eco-tourism Initiatives
    • Promoting eco-tourism initiatives led by tribal communities can provide them with alternative livelihood opportunities while preserving their cultural heritage and traditional knowledge.
  • Tribal Forest Guardians Program
    • Implementing a "Tribal Forest Guardians" program, where members of tribal communities are trained and employed as forest guards or eco-guides.
  • Tribal Knowledge Banks
    • Documenting and integrating traditional ecological knowledge of tribal communities into modern conservation strategies.
  • Forest Product Value Addition and Marketing
    • Establishing value-addition and marketing initiatives for forest products collected by tribal communities.
  • Participatory Forest Management
    • Promoting participatory forest management models, where tribal communities are actively involved in decision-making processes related to forest conservation and management. 

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2019)

Q. Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India: 

  1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
  2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
  3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
  4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 2, 3 and 4

(c) 1, 2 and 4

(d) 1, 3 and 4

Ans: (c)

Prelims (2013)

Q.2 Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the process for determining the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights or both? 

(a) State Forest Department

(b) District Collector/Deputy Commissioner

(c) Tahsildar/Block Development Officer/Mandal Revenue Officer

(d) Gram Sabha

Ans: (d)

Source: IE

Keywords: GS Paper - 2Issues Related to SCs & STsGovernment Policies & Interventions
Monthly Current Affairs

Authority of the ECI to Deregister Political Parties


In News: The Election Commission of India (ECI) recently issued a report regarding the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), highlighting the role of star campaigners in maintaining societal harmony without disruption.

Understanding the Derecognition of Political Parties

  • Definition of Derecognition
    • Derecognition entails the withdrawal of recognition granted to a political party by the Election Commission of India (ECI). 
    • Such parties are then categorized as registered-unrecognized parties, retaining the eligibility to contest elections but losing the privileges associated with recognized parties.
  • Recognition of Political Parties
    • Registered parties not recognized as national or state parties are termed as Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPP).
    • Recognition as a national or state party is conferred under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, based on specific criteria such as winning requisite seats or obtaining a certain percentage of votes in general elections.
    • Presently, there are six national parties and sixty-one state parties recognized by the ECI, enjoying various privileges like reserved symbols and star campaigners during elections.
  • Criteria for Derecognition of National Parties
    • Derecognition of a national party may occur if it fails to meet certain criteria
      • Failure to secure a minimum percentage of votes or seats in general elections.
      • Non-submission of audited accounts to the ECI on time.
      • Failure to conduct organizational elections within the party promptly.

Explaining Deregistration of Political Parties

  • Definition of Deregistration
    • Deregistration refers to the cancellation of a political party's registration, thereby barring it from contesting elections. However, the ECI lacks the authority to deregister parties.
  • Registration of Political Parties
    • Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 outlines the requirements for political party registration, including submission of a constitution pledging allegiance to the Indian Constitution and its principles.
    • Registered parties enjoy benefits such as tax exemption and a common symbol for elections.
  • Grounds for Deregistration
    • A political party can only be deregistered under specific circumstances:
    • Obtaining registration through fraud.
    • Declaration of illegality by the Central Government.
    • Refusal to comply with the Indian Constitution after revising its internal constitution.

Challenges and Proposed Solutions

  • Need for Deregistration
    • Many registered but unrecognized parties do not actively participate in elections, raising concerns about potential misuse of tax exemptions and donations.
    • While recognized parties may breach Model Code of Conduct (MCC) norms, the ECI's authority to penalize them is limited.
  • Proposed Solutions
    • The ECI and the Law Commission have recommended amendments empowering the ECI to deregister inactive parties.
    • Periodic reviews could identify and discourage inactive parties from solely seeking tax benefits.
    • The National Electoral Fund and penalties for defaulting parties have been suggested to enhance transparency and accountability.
    • Granting the ECI the authority to audit political party accounts would further ensure transparency.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Mains (2020)

Q. There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act”. Comment 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

National Council for Cement and Building Materials


In News: Recently, the National Council for Cement and Building Materials-Incubation Centre (NCB-IC) was inaugurated by the Joint Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Support for Startups in the Cement and Building Materials Industry

  • At NCB-IC, startups and entrepreneurs undergoing incubation will receive mentoring from NCB scientists and experts from the cement and building materials sector to enhance and refine their products for commercialization.
  • The number of startups officially recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has risen to 136,584.

National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB)

  • NCB serves as the premier research and development organization operating under the administrative jurisdiction of DPIIT.
  • Dedicated to research, technology development, and transfer, as well as providing education and industrial services, NCB focuses on cement, allied building materials, and the construction industries.

Source: PIB

Keywords: GS-2 Governance
Monthly Current Affairs

Joint Parliamentary Committees


In News: The main opposition party in India has proposed the establishment of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe allegations that the Adani Group sold substandard coal to a state-owned company in Tamil Nadu, misrepresenting its quality.

Understanding Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPCs)

  • JPCs are ad-hoc Committees established by Parliament to conduct thorough examinations of specific subjects or Bills.
  • They comprise members from both Houses and from ruling and opposition parties, chaired by a Lok Sabha member appointed by the Speaker.
  • The composition of JPCs is determined by Parliament without a set limit on the number of members.
  • Upon completing their term or task, JPCs are dissolved.
  • While the committee's recommendations are advisory and not binding on the government, suggestions from committees with a majority of MPs and heads from the ruling party are often accepted.
  • JPCs have the authority to gather evidence from experts, public bodies, associations, individuals, or interested parties either proactively or in response to requests.
  • Examples of cases in which JPCs were formed include the Bofors scandal (1987), the Harshad Mehta stock market scam (1992), the Ketan Parekh share market scam (2001), the National Register of Citizens (NRC, 2016), and the Personal Data Protection Bill (2019).

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Advertising Standards Council of India


In News: In a recent development, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has addressed complaints concerning 101 advertisements that feature celebrities.

Overview of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI)

  • The ASCI is a voluntary self-regulatory organization within India's advertising industry.
  • Established in 1985, it operates as a non-profit company registered under Section 25 of the Company Act.
  • Its membership comprises professionals from marketing, creative, media, and related sectors in India.
  • The ASCI is dedicated to promoting self-regulation in advertising to safeguard consumer interests.

Purpose and Functions

  • The ASCI code aims to regulate advertising content, ensuring it does not unduly offend certain segments of the population while still promoting products effectively.
  • It enforces its Code for Self-Regulation, requiring advertisements to be legal, decent, honest, truthful, and not hazardous or harmful, while also promoting fair competition.
  • The ASCI investigates complaints across various media platforms, including print, TV, radio, hoardings, SMS, emailers, internet/website, product packaging, brochures, promotional material, and point-of-sale materials.

International Affiliation

  • The ASCI holds a position on the Executive Committee of the International Council on Ad Self-Regulation (ICAS), reflecting its involvement in global advertising self-regulation initiatives.

Source: TP

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Article 329(b)


In News: Recently, the Election Commission (EC) invoked Article 329(b) of the Constitution, which bars judicial interference in the functioning of the commission during ongoing electoral processes.

  • Article 329(b) in the Indian Constitution
    • Part XV of the Constitution, encompassing articles 324-329, is dedicated to elections.
    • Article 324 grants the Election Commission powers to direct and regulate elections.
    • Article 329, comprising two clauses, addresses the judiciary's role in electoral affairs.
  • Article 329(a)
    • States that the judiciary cannot challenge the constitutionality of laws concerning electoral district boundaries or seat allocations.
  • Article 329(b)
    • Amended by the Constitution (19th Amendment) Act, 1966.
    • Specifies that no election to either House of Parliament or State Legislature can be disputed except through an election petition presented as per laws enacted by the appropriate Legislature.
  • Legal Provisions
    • Election-related disputes are exclusively handled through election petitions presented according to laws enacted by the Legislature.
    • The Representation of the People Act, 1951, authorizes high courts to hear and decide election petitions.
    • Decisions from these petitions can be appealed to the Supreme Court.
  • Supreme Court Interpretations
    • In the 1952 Ponnuswamy judgment (Ponnuswamy v. Returning Officer Namakkal), the SC defined "election" in Article 329(b) as the entire electoral process from notification to result declaration, barring court interference.
    • The SC, in K. Venkatachalam vs. A. Swamickan (1999), ruled that Article 329(b) does not apply to matters under Articles 191 and 193, which address disqualifications and penalties related to parliamentary and legislative assembly memberships.

Source: TP

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

The Time is Ripe for Electoral Bond Reform


In News: The recent ruling by the Supreme Court, which invalidated the electoral bonds scheme, has provided opposition parties with a significant opportunity to elevate it as a critical issue during the ongoing parliamentary election campaign.

Addressing the Imperative for Transparency and Reform

  • The imperative for transparency and reform has been underscored both by the Supreme Court's rulings and by the prevailing public sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need to curtail the prevalence of untraceable funds within political circles. 
  • As awareness among the public regarding the operational methods and financial resourcing of political entities continues to burgeon, it presents a ripe occasion for the government to enact substantive reforms. 
  • The ensuing proposals are geared towards mitigating the concerns surrounding the operational and monetary aspects of political parties.

Reforms in Political Party Functioning

  • Recognition as Public Bodies: It is proposed that political parties should be recognized as public bodies under the Constitution. Consequently, they should be brought under the purview of the Right to Information Act to ensure transparency.
  • Institutional Regulation: The establishment of a National Commission for Political Parties, akin to the Election Commission of India (ECI), is advocated. This commission would regulate all aspects of political parties, allowing the ECI to focus solely on conducting elections.
  • Non-secular nature: A prerequisite for registration should be that political parties must not indicate a non-secular nature in their names.
  • Secular and Democratic Principles: Political parties should be mandated to operate on secular and democratic principles. Additionally, there should be limited tenures for elected office-bearers to foster inclusivity and prevent the consolidation of power.
  • Annual Audits: It is suggested that the accounts of political parties undergo annual audits, with the results being made public for transparency purposes.

Funding Reforms

  • Transparency in Donations: Complete transparency regarding donors and recipients is deemed essential. To achieve this, all donations should be made through banking channels, and details of each transaction should be reported to the National Commission for Political Parties.
  • Tax Incentives and Liabilities: Political parties should not incur tax liabilities on donations received. Conversely, donors should receive a 100% tax rebate on their contributions. However, to deter the use of cash donations, such contributions should be subject to heavy taxation.
  • Income Tax Returns: Irrespective of tax liability, political parties should be obligated to file income tax returns.
  • Donation Limits: A donation cap should be imposed to prevent any single donor from contributing more than 20% of their average net profits over the previous three years to political parties. Additionally, donors must report all their contributions to the National Commission for Political Parties.
  • Sector-Specific Norms: Donors from tax-exempt sectors, such as agriculture, should channel their donations through banking channels. Norms for such donations should be set by the government based on the respective sector's holdings.
  • Auditing Powers: The National Commission should possess the authority to audit the accounts of any political party, if deemed necessary, utilizing the services of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

Public Consultation and Implementation

  • The central government should engage in soliciting public comments on the proposed policy for funding political parties before finalizing it. 
  • This approach aims to minimize legal challenges and ensure that the policy resonates with public expectations and interests.

Conclusion

The implementation of these reforms holds the potential to enhance the transparency and accountability of political parties, thereby fortifying the democratic process in India. Public support for these measures is imperative, and it is anticipated that many enlightened politicians would endorse these suggestions as they ultimately serve to bolster public trust in their respective parties.

Source: DH

Keywords: GS-2 Polity
Monthly Current Affairs

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India


In News: Recently, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) instructed general insurers to engage with transport authorities across 28 states and eight union territories to ensure the provision of mandatory covers for uninsured vehicles.

About IRDAI: India's Insurance Regulatory Authority

  • Introduction
    • The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) is a statutory body established under the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999, for comprehensive oversight and advancement of the insurance sector in the country.
  • Objectives
    • To safeguard the interests and ensure fair treatment of policyholders.
    • To regulate the insurance industry impartially and uphold its financial stability.
    • To formulate regulations regularly to maintain clarity and transparency in the industry's operations.
  • Headquarters
    • IRDAI is headquartered in Hyderabad.
  • Responsibilities
    • It is responsible for registering and licensing insurance and reinsurance companies, as well as intermediaries, in accordance with regulations.
    • IRDAI sets eligibility criteria, qualifications, and capital requirements for obtaining licenses in the insurance business.
  • Entities Regulated
    • Life Insurance Companies (both public and private sector)
    • General Insurance Companies (both public and private sector, including standalone Health Insurance Companies)
    • Reinsurance Companies
    • Agency Channel
    • Intermediaries such as Corporate Agents, Brokers, Third-party Administrators, Surveyors, and Loss Assessors.
  • Composition
    • IRDAI is composed of a 10-member body, including a chairman, five full-time members, and four part-time members appointed by the Government of India.
  • Significant Responsibilities
    • Ensuring efficient conduct of insurance business and protection of policyholders' interests.
    • Approving product terms and conditions offered by insurers.
    • Regulating investment of funds by insurance companies and maintaining solvency margins.
    • Specifying financial reporting norms for insurance companies.
    • Setting codes of conduct, qualifications, and training for intermediaries or insurance agents.
    • Conducting inspections, inquiries, and audits of insurance entities.
    • Ensuring insurance coverage in rural areas and for vulnerable sections of society.

Source: BT

Keywords: GS-2
Monthly Current Affairs

Iran-Israel Conflict


In News: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has generated a state of unrest, impacting the security of the significant Indian diaspora residing in the Gulf region.

Reasons for the Iran-Israel Conflict:

  • Historical Context
    • The relationship between Iran and Israel has been tumultuous since the Iranian Revolution of 1979.
    • Iran's transformation into an Islamic Republic led to open hostility towards Israel, unlike the previous alliance under the Shah.
  • Religious and Ideological Differences 
    • Iran is an Islamic republic governed by Shia Islam, while Israel is predominantly Jewish.
    • These differences contribute to mutual suspicion and animosity between the two nations.
  • Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
    • Iran supports Palestinian causes and militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, considered terrorist organizations by Israel.
    • Iran's backing of these groups and calls for Israel's destruction heighten tensions.
  • Geopolitical Rivalry
    • Iran and Israel compete for influence in the Middle East, leading to conflicting interests in regional conflicts.
    • Their support for opposing factions in conflicts like Syria and Yemen exacerbates tensions.
  • Nuclear Program
    • Israel views Iran's nuclear program with concern, fearing it could pose an existential threat.
    • Israel opposes the Iran nuclear deal and has taken actions to disrupt Iran's nuclear activities.
  • Proxy Conflicts
    • Both countries engage in proxy conflicts through support for opposing factions in neighboring countries.
    • Iran's support for Hezbollah in Lebanon and Shia militias in Iraq is perceived as a threat by Israel.
  • Regional Power Dynamics 
    • The competition between Iran and Israel shapes the balance of power in the Middle East.
    • This competition contributes to a cycle of tensions and conflicts in the region.

Implications of the Iran-Israel Conflict on India

  • Economic Implications
    • Conflict could disrupt oil supply from the region, impacting global oil prices and India's energy costs.
    • India's oil imports through the strategic Strait of Hormuz may face supply shortages, affecting economic growth.
  • Diaspora
    • The safety of the Indian diaspora in West Asia, particularly the Persian Gulf, could be jeopardized by regional tensions.
    • Evacuation efforts may be necessary to ensure their safety during periods of heightened conflict.
  • Connectivity
    • Tensions could affect India's strategic connectivity interests, including projects like the Chabahar port in Iran.
    • Shipping disruptions in the region could lead to delays and increased costs in global trade.
  • Diplomatic Challenges
    • India's relations with both Iran and Israel pose diplomatic challenges during conflicts between the two nations.
    • Maintaining neutrality while safeguarding national interests becomes more challenging in such situations.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2015)

Q. Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea? 

(a) Syria

(b) Jordan

(c) Lebanon

(d) Israel

Ans: (b)

Prelims (2018)

Q. The term “two-state solution” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of 

(a) China

(b) Israel

(c) Iraq

(d) Yemen

Ans: (b)

Mains (2018)

Q. “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

IMF's Stand-By Arrangement


In News: As part of the bailout package backed by the IMF's Stand-By Arrangement (SBA), the International Monetary Fund has authorized an immediate disbursement of USD 1.1 billion to Pakistan.

The IMF's Stand-By Arrangement: Key Aspects and IMF Overview

  • The Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) is designed to offer short-term financial aid to countries grappling with balance of payments challenges. It has historically been the preferred lending mechanism for both advanced and emerging market economies.
  • Eligibility for the SBA extends to all member nations facing actual or potential external financing difficulties. While it is predominantly utilized by advanced and emerging market economies, low-income countries occasionally access the SBA alongside the Standby Credit Facility (SCF).
  • Conditionality is a central feature of the SBA, requiring recipient countries to address the underlying issues that prompted their request for financial support. Disbursements are contingent upon meeting specified quantitative performance criteria. Additionally, progress in implementing essential structural reforms is evaluated comprehensively, including through predefined benchmarks.
  • The duration of assistance under the SBA is flexible, typically spanning a period of 12 to 24 months, with a maximum extension of 36 months.
  • Key aspects of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) include its role in fostering economic growth and employment through temporary financial aid to facilitate balance of payments adjustments and technical assistance.
  • Established in 1944 at the Bretton Woods Conference, the IMF's primary objective was to reconstruct the international monetary system.
  • Noteworthy publications issued by the IMF include the World Economic Outlook and the Global Financial Stability Report.
  • The IMF's headquarters are located in Washington, DC, USA.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Japan’s Diplomatic Posture


In News: In the evolving landscape of geopolitics, there's a notable shift occurring as Japan, historically synonymous with post-war pacifism, enhances its military prowess. This transition holds the potential to fundamentally reshape the power dynamics not only in Asia but also on a global scale.

Key Facts About Japan’s Diplomatic Posture

Japan's Diplomatic Journey Before World War II

  • Seclusion (1600s-1850s):
    • For over 200 years, Japan remained largely closed off from the world to preserve social order and prevent foreign influence.
  • Catching Up (1850s-1900s):
    • The arrival of Portuguese Commodore Perry's "Black Ships" in 1853 forced Japan out of its self-imposed seclusion. Japan modernised its military, adopted Western technology, and renegotiated treaties to regain control of its trade and foreign policy.
  • Aggressive Stance (1900s-1930s):
    • Despite victories, Japan wasn't treated as a full equal by Western powers, leading to frustration and a shift towards aggressive expansionism, culminating in World War II.

Japan's Diplomatic Journey After World War II

  • Following World War II, Japan embraced pacifism under US-led occupation, focusing on economic rebuilding.
  • Over recent decades, Japan has shifted towards a more assertive role on the world stage.

Factors Leading to Japan's Diplomatic Posture Change

External Factors

  • China's Rise: China's growing military power and assertive claims in the East China Sea have prompted Japan to strengthen its defences.
  • North Korean Threat: North Korea's nuclear weapons development is a major security concern for Japan.
  • Uncertain US Commitment: Japan perceives a decline in US commitment to Asian security, leading to a more self-reliant defence approach.

Internal Factors:

  • Conservative Resurgence: Conservative voices in Japan advocate for a more active security role.
  • Pacifist Fatigue: Some question the sustainability of relying solely on the US for security.

How Japan is Changing its Diplomatic Posture:

  • Manifestations of Change:
    • Increased Defence Spending: Japan has raised its defence budget and plans to reach 2% of GDP by 2027.
    • Military Buildup: Japan is acquiring new military capabilities and easing restrictions on arms exports.
    • Deeper Security Cooperation: Japan is enhancing cooperation with allies like the US through joint military exercises and technology sharing.
    • Active Regional Diplomacy: Japan is strengthening relationships with regional powers and engaging in security dialogues like the QUAD.
    • Support for Ukraine: Japan supports Ukraine against Russian aggression, signaling its commitment to international norms.
    • Shifting Stance on Historical Issues: Japan seeks reconciliation with historical adversaries like South Korea.

How Japan’s Changing Posture will Affect Indian Interest:

  • Potential Benefits:
    • Countering China: Japan's increased military capabilities could strengthen regional deterrence against Chinese aggression.
    • Enhanced Security Cooperation: Japan's emphasis on cooperation with India could lead to joint military exercises and technology sharing.
    • Infrastructure Development: Japanese ODA loans could fund infrastructure projects in India's border areas, improving defence preparedness and connectivity.

Economic Cooperation: Stronger Japan-India ties could boost trade and investment.

  • Potential Challenges:
    • Competition: Arms race potential between India and Japan could strain resources.
    • Diplomatic Challenges: Balancing assertive powers in competing blocs may pose diplomatic challenges for India.
    • Ideological Conflicts: Differences in stance on issues like human rights could create ideological conflicts.

Conclusion

Japan's diplomatic shift has significant implications for Asia. Effective management of the relationship between Japan and India is crucial for maximizing potential benefits and addressing challenges.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2020)

Q. In which one of the following groups are all four countries members of G20? 

(a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey

(b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand

(c) Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam

(d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea

Ans: (a)

Exp:

  • The G20 comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, EU, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, UK and USA. Hence Option(a) is correct

Mains (2020)

Q. Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

International Labour Day


In News: Recently, International Labour Day was observed worldwide to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions made by workers across the globe.

International Labour Day Overview

  • International Labour Day, also known as Workers Day or May Day, is celebrated globally on May 1st each year.
  • It's dedicated to honoring the efforts and achievements of workers and the labour movement.
  • More than 80 countries, including India, Cuba, and China, observe International Labour Day.
  • On this day, people worldwide participate in marches to advocate for working-class rights and to protect them from exploitation.

History of International Labour Day

  • The origins of International Labour Day trace back to the late 19th-century labour movement in the United States.
  • In 1886, a significant demonstration took place where workers demanded an eight-hour workday.
  • The demonstration escalated, resulting in the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, causing injuries to many people.
  • The Haymarket Affair incident marked the inception of International Labour Day.
  • In 1889, various socialist parties in Europe collectively decided to celebrate May 1st as International Labour Day.
  • Since then, the day has been observed annually on May 1st.

International Labour Organization (ILO) Key Facts

  • The ILO is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) dedicated to improving labour conditions and living standards globally.
  • Established in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles, it became the first affiliated specialized agency of the UN in 1946.
  • The organization is committed to advancing opportunities for both women and men to obtain decent and productive work in conditions of freedom, equity, security, and human dignity.
  • Its main objectives include promoting rights at work, encouraging decent employment opportunities, enhancing social protection, and strengthening dialogue on work-related issues.
  • The ILO provides technical assistance in social policy and administration, workforce training, and fosters cooperative organizations and rural industries.
  • Additionally, it compiles labour statistics, conducts research on various social problems, and helps protect the rights of international migrants and organized labour.
  • In recognition of its activities, the ILO was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1969.

Source: NDTV

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

India-Nepal Bilateral Ties


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

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

The paradox of India’s global rise, its regional decline


In News: A recent article highlights that while India's global influence is on the rise, its sway in South Asia is diminishing, posing a considerable challenge to its ambitions as a central player in international politics.

Factors Leading to India’s Global Rise

  • Economic Boom
    • The World Bank projects India's output growth to reach 7.5% in FY24, driven by robust activity in services and industry.
    • This economic strength enhances India's global influence, exemplified by companies like Tata Consultancy Services with significant global presence.
    • A strong economy attracts higher investments as well.
  • Strategic Partnerships and Alliances
    • India has actively cultivated strategic partnerships, including the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific.
    • Participation in multilateral forums like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has bolstered India's global standing.
  • Rising Military Capabilities
    • India's continuous modernization and strengthening of its military, exemplified by projects like INS Sahyadri and LCA Tejas, bolster its regional and global influence.
    • Defense diplomacy efforts, such as delivering BrahMos Missiles to the Philippines, enhance India's military outreach.
  • Strategic Autonomy
    • India's strategy of non-alignment and reformed multilateralism reflects its commitment to strategic autonomy, illustrated by diplomatic stances on global issues.
    • The "India First Policy" prioritizes strategic interests, as seen in purchasing Russian crude oil despite Western concerns.
  • Technological Prowess
    • Advancements in technology, particularly in IT, space exploration, and renewable energy, contribute significantly to India's global ascent.
    • Achievements like Chandrayaan-3 and leadership in the International Solar Alliance demonstrate India's technological capabilities.
  • Soft Power and Cultural Influence
    • India's rich cultural heritage, democratic values, and diaspora contribute to its soft power globally.
    • Indian cinema, cuisine, yoga, and spirituality have found widespread appeal, enhancing India's cultural influence.

Main Challenges India faces with its Neighboring Countries

  • Pakistan
    • Tensions persist over the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism.
    • Disagreements over the Indus Water Treaty and water-sharing remain unresolved.
  • China
    • Long-standing border disputes, including recent tensions over the Line of Actual Control (LAC), impact India-China relations.
    • China's growing influence, demonstrated through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, poses challenges to India.
  • Maldives
    • Concerns arise over "India Out" campaigns and growing Chinese influence in the Maldives, straining bilateral relations.
  • Bangladesh
    • Disputes over river treaties and illegal migration issues strain India-Bangladesh relations.
  • Sri Lanka
    • Tensions exist over issues like ownership of Katchatheevu Island and concerns about Chinese influence.
  • Nepal
    • Boundary disputes and recent contentious actions, like printing new currency notes depicting Indian territories, impact India-Nepal relations.

Steps India can Take to Enhance its Regional Relationships

  • Development-Centric Diplomacy
    • India should prioritize collaborative development projects addressing specific needs in neighboring countries.
  • Cooperative Security
    • Promoting cooperative security measures, such as joint counter-terrorism exercises and disaster response teams, can enhance regional stability.
  • Focusing on Regional Blocs
    • India can strengthen relationships with sub-regional blocs like BIMSTEC or SAARC to foster wider regional influence.
  • Revitalizing Neighbourhood First Policy
    • India must reinvigorate its Neighbourhood First policy, prioritizing inclusive development projects and transparent communication.
  • South Asia at Heart of Global South
    • Showcasing South Asia as pivotal in global summits can enhance India's influence and cooperation within the region.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2020)

Q. Consider the following statements: 

  1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
  2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
  3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (b)

Prelims (2009)

Q. Which one among the following South Asian countries has the highest population density? 

(a) India

(b) Nepal

(c) Pakistan

(d) Sri Lanka

Ans: (a)

Mains (2017)

Q. ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’. In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbour. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

WTO’s Agreement on Agriculture (AoA)


In News: The US and Australia have argued that India has exceeded the permissible limits for sugarcane subsidies outlined in the WTO’s Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), potentially distorting global trade.

Understanding WTO’s Agreement on Agriculture (AoA)

  • Overview of AoA
    • The Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) is an international treaty within the World Trade Organisation (WTO), established during the Uruguay Round of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. 
    • It came into effect on January 1, 1995.
  • Classification of Subsidies
    • The AoA categorizes subsidies into three "boxes" based on their impact on production and trade: Amber, Blue, and Green.
    • Amber subsidies, directly linked to production levels, are subject to reduction, while Green subsidies are exempt from reduction commitments but must adhere to certain criteria.
  • Pillars of AoA
    • Domestic Support: Divided into trade-distorting and non-trade-distorting categories, allowing significant spending by developed countries, leading to concerns about market distortion.
    • Market Access: Involves tariff reductions for developed and developing countries, with exemptions for least developed countries (LDCs) and conditions for others to bind tariffs.
    • Export Subsidies: Requires reduction targets for developed and developing countries over specified timeframes.

Criticism of AoA

  • Civil society groups criticize AoA for reducing tariff protections for small farmers in developing countries while permitting continued subsidies by developed nations.
  • NGOs argue that categorizing subsidies into trade-distorting and non-trade-distorting boxes allows developed countries to increase non-trade-distorting subsidies while pressuring others to reduce trade-distorting support.

Concerns about India’s Sugarcane Subsidies

  • A US-Australia report alleges that India's sugar subsidies exceeded permissible levels, citing the WTO's methodology.
  • India contests this, stating that its Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) and State-Advised Prices (SAPs) do not constitute market price support under AoA.
  • India's appeal against the WTO panel report of 2021 has prevented its adoption due to the non-functionality of the Appellate Body.

India’s Stand on Sugarcane Subsidies

  • India sets the FRP for sugarcane each season, supplemented by premiums for efficiency and State-Advised Prices.
  • India disputes the characterization of these measures as market price support under the AoA.

Impact of Non-Functional Appellate Body

The non-functionality of the WTO's Appellate Body has stalled decisions on appeals, including India's appeal against the WTO panel report.

Source: BL

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting


In News: India will officially communicate to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) its intentions to construct a new research station in Antarctica.

Understanding the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting and India's Engagement

  • The Role of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM)
    • The Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting plays a pivotal role in global efforts to safeguard Antarctica's delicate ecosystem and advance scientific research in the region. 
    • Held annually under the Antarctic Treaty System, these meetings provide a platform for Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties and other stakeholders to address environmental, scientific, and governance challenges in Antarctica.
  • The Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP)
    • Established in 1991 under the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty (the Madrid Protocol), the Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP) advises the ATCM on matters related to environmental protection and conservation in Antarctica.
  • Key Facts about the Antarctic Treaty
    • Signed in 1959 and enforced in 1961, the Antarctic Treaty designates Antarctica as a region devoted to peaceful purposes, scientific collaboration, and environmental preservation. Currently, 56 countries are party to the Treaty.
    • The Treaty enshrines principles such as the peaceful use of Antarctica, freedom of scientific inquiry, and the exchange of scientific findings from the region.
  • India's Engagement with the Antarctic Treaty
    • India became a Consultative Party to the Antarctic Treaty in 1983, participating in decision-making alongside 28 other Consultative Parties.
    • India's involvement in Antarctic research dates back to the establishment of its first research station, Dakshin Gangotri, in 1983. 
    • Presently, India operates two year-round research stations: Maitri (established in 1989) and Bharati (established in 2012).
    • Indian Scientific Expeditions to Antarctica have been conducted annually since 1981, facilitated by the country's permanent research stations.
    • In 2022, India reaffirmed its commitment to the Antarctic Treaty by enacting the Antarctic Act.
  • The Role of the Antarctic Treaty Secretariat (ATS)
    • Established in 2004, the Antarctic Treaty Secretariat (ATS) serves as the administrative center for the Antarctic Treaty System.
    • The ATS coordinates ATCM and CEP meetings, manages information repositories, and facilitates diplomatic exchanges and negotiations related to Antarctic governance and management.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-3 GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

The United Nations Counter-Terrorism Trust Fund


In News: Recently, India reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the global fight against terrorism by contributing $500,000 to the UN Counter-Terrorism Trust Fund.

About The United Nations Counter-Terrorism Trust Fund

  • The United Nations Counter-Terrorism Trust Fund was established in 2009 and transferred to the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) in 2017.
  • It accepts contributions from Governments, inter-governmental and non-governmental organizations, private institutions, and individuals.
  • Contributions may be unearmarked or earmarked for specific initiatives.
  • India's contribution primarily supports UNOCT's global programmes.
  • These programmes focus on Countering Financing of Terrorism (CFT) and the Countering Terrorist Travel Programme (CTTP).
  • The aim is to strengthen the capacities of member states in eastern and southern Africa.
  • The focus is on combating terrorism financing and preventing terrorist movement.

Functions

  • Providing leadership on counter-terrorism mandates entrusted to the Secretary-General by the UN General Assembly.
  • Enhancing coordination and coherence across Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact entities to ensure balanced implementation of the four pillars of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
  • Strengthening the delivery of UN counter-terrorism capacity-building assistance to Member States.
  • Improving visibility, advocacy, and resource mobilization for UN counter-terrorism efforts.
  • Ensuring due priority is given to counterterrorism across the UN system and that efforts on preventing violent extremism are firmly rooted in the Strategy.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR GS-3 Terrorism
Monthly Current Affairs

Panama Canal


In News: Panama stands on the brink of a significant shift in its immigration policy, a change that has the potential to echo from the dense Darien jungle to the United States border.

Exploring Panama: A Land of Diversity and the Panama Canal

  • Introduction:
    • Panama, situated in Central America on the Isthmus of Panama, serves as a pivotal link connecting North and South America. Bordered by Costa Rica and Colombia, it boasts a strategic location between the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean.
  • Geographical Features:
    • Encompassing the isthmus and over 1,600 islands off its Atlantic and Pacific shores, Panama is famed for housing the Panama Canal, a vital waterway slicing through its midsection.
    • The country hosts the largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere outside the Amazon Basin.
  • Cultural Diversity:
    • The population of Panama comprises descendants of indigenous peoples, Europeans, Afro-Caribbeans, and immigrants from various corners of the globe.
  • Key Information about the Panama Canal:
    • The Panama Canal is an engineered marvel, facilitating maritime passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans across the Isthmus of Panama.
    • Among the world's most strategic artificial waterways, it spans approximately 80 kilometers in length.
    • Constructed by the United States between 1904 and 1914, the canal officially opened on August 15, 1914.
    • Since 1999, the Republic of Panama has owned and administered the canal, following its transfer from the United States.
    • The canal features a series of locks that regulate water levels, enabling ships to traverse the continental divide with ease.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Allegations of Child Labour in Trade Negotiations


In News: The recent report by Australia's Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth alleging child labor has been strongly denied by the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Allegations Made by the Australian Panel:

  • The Australian committee's report, based on claims by the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) and the State Public Services Federation (SPSF Group), expressed concerns about child and forced labor practices in India.
  • The report recommended that the Australian Government incorporate human rights, labor, and environmental chapters in its trade agreements, aligning with conventions and declarations signed by Australia.

Facts Supporting Australia’s Claim:

  • According to the 2023 Global Slavery Index estimates by Walk Free, an international human rights group, there were 11 million people living in modern slavery in India in 2021, the highest globally.
  • Census 2011 data indicates that out of the total child population (5-14 years) of 259.6 million in India, 10.1 million (3.9%) are engaged in work, while over 42.7 million children are out of school.

India’s Response:

  • Child Labour Prohibition: The Indian government refuted the allegations, emphasizing that existing regulations prohibit child and bonded labor.
  • Constitutional Protections: India's Constitution safeguards labor rights and authorizes both central and state governments to enact laws such as the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, to protect workers' rights.
  • Strict Licensing and Compliance: All businesses in India must adhere to labor welfare laws prescribed by both union and state governments and are licensed by local governing bodies.
  • Comprehensive Records: Processing units maintain detailed records regarding processing, quality checks, employee training, and compliance with regulations.

India’s Legal Framework on Child Labour and Forced Labour:

  • Constitutional Rights:
    • Article 23 prohibits trafficking in human beings and forced labor, ensuring protection against exploitation and degrading work conditions.
    • Article 24 prohibits the employment of children under 14 in factories, mines, or hazardous occupations, aiming to safeguard children's health, development, and access to education.
    • Article 39 outlines principles for ensuring equal livelihood rights, protection of workers' health, and children's well-being.
  • Legislations Against Child Labour:
    • Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, bans employing children under 14 in all work, with exceptions for family businesses and non-hazardous work.
    • Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, considers working children as "in need of care and protection."
  • Legislations Against Forced Labour:
    • Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, criminalizes bonded labor and provides for the release and rehabilitation of bonded laborers.
    • Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourer, 2021, offers financial assistance for the rehabilitation of freed bonded laborers.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2018)

Q. International Labour Organization’s Conventions 138 and 182 are related to 

(a) Child Labour
(b) Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
(c) Regulation of food prices and food security
(d) Gender parity at the workplace

Ans: (a)

Q. Consider the following countries: 

  1. Australia
  2. Canada
  3. China
  4. India
  5. Japan
  6. USA

Which of the above are among the ‘free-trade partners’ of ASEAN?

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5
(b) 3, 4, 5 and 6
(c) 1, 3, 4 and 5
(d) 2, 3, 4 and 6

Ans: (c)

Mains (2016)

Q. Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS -2 GS – 1 Issues Related to Children, social empowerment, Welfare Schemes, Government Policies & Interventions
Monthly Current Affairs

India International Bullion Exchange


In News: SBI has declared its status as the inaugural trading-cum-clearing member of the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX).

Introduction to India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) and IFSCA

About India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX):

  • Positioned as India's inaugural International Bullion Exchange, the IIBX operates from GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tech City) IFSC in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
  • Its vision is to serve as a conduit for importing bullion into India and fostering a world-class bullion exchange ecosystem, promoting trading, investment in bullion financial products, and offering vaulting facilities within IFSCs.
  • Aims to facilitate Transparent Price Discovery, Responsible sourcing, and supply chain integrity, alongside Quality Assurance and Standardization.
  • Regulated by the International Financial Services Centers Authority (IFSCA), which is responsible for developing and regulating financial products, services, and institutions within IFSCs.
  • Offers diversified products and technology at competitive costs compared to Indian exchanges and global counterparts in Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, London, and New York.

What is Bullion?

  • Bullion denotes physical gold and silver of high purity, typically stored in the form of bars, ingots, or coins.
  • Often recognized as legal tender and held as reserves by central banks or institutional investors.

Key Facts about International Financial Services Centers Authority (IFSCA):

  • Established as a statutory authority under the International Financial Services Centres Authority Act, 2019 (“IFSCA Act”).
  • Mandated to develop and regulate financial products, services, and institutions within International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs).
  • Aims to foster global connections, address Indian economy needs, and serve as an international financial platform for the region.
  • Predecessors to IFSCA included domestic financial regulators such as RBI, SEBI, PFRDA, and IRDAI, which regulated IFSC businesses.
  • GIFT-IFSC stands as India's premier IFSC, marking the inception of IFSCA's regulatory authority.

Source: TOI

Keywords: GS-2 IR GS-3
Monthly Current Affairs

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)


In News: The 2024 World Wildlife Crime Report by UNODC revealed that the rhinoceros and cedar were the animal and plant species most impacted by illegal wildlife trade globally between 2015 and 2021.

Functions and Overview of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

  • Overview of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC):
    • The UNODC is globally recognized for its efforts in combating illicit drugs, international crime, and terrorism, with origins dating back to 1997 when it was formed through the amalgamation of the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Centre for International Crime Prevention.
  • Functions of UNODC:
    • Education on Drug Abuse: UNODC plays a crucial role in raising awareness worldwide about the dangers associated with drug abuse.
    • Strengthening Action Against Illicit Drugs: It works to enhance international efforts to combat the production, trafficking, and crime related to illicit drugs.
    • Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Reform: UNODC focuses on improving crime prevention strategies and supporting reforms in criminal justice systems to bolster the rule of law, foster stable criminal justice structures, and counter the escalating threats posed by transnational organized crime and corruption.
    • Terrorism Prevention: With an expanded mandate since 2002, the Terrorism Prevention Branch of UNODC assists member states in ratifying and implementing eighteen universal legal instruments against terrorism, upon request.
    • Funding Mechanism: The UNODC primarily relies on voluntary contributions, predominantly from governments, to carry out its diverse range of activities.
  • World Wildlife Crime Report:
    • The World Wildlife Crime Report, now in its third edition published in 2024, investigates patterns in the illegal trafficking of protected wildlife species.
    • It conducts systematic analyses of the harms and impacts of wildlife crime, identifies the driving factors behind wildlife trafficking trends, and assesses the effectiveness of various intervention methods employed to address this issue.

Source: DTE

Keywords: GS-2 IR GS-3
Monthly Current Affairs

Chabahar Port Project


In News: India and Iran have recently inked a significant 10-year agreement aimed at the development and management of the Chabahar port. This milestone represents a crucial advancement in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

Overview of Chabahar Port Project

  • Chabahar Port is situated in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchistan province, positioned at the Gulf of Oman's mouth within the Strait of Hormuz.
  • It serves as Iran's sole port directly connected to the Indian Ocean and comprises two sections known as Shahid Beheshti and Shahid Kalantari.
  • Geographically proximate to nations like Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, the port stands as a pivotal transit center on the emerging International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
  • The INSTC is a multimodal route linking the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf to the Caspian Sea through Iran, further extending to northern Europe via Saint Petersburg, Russia.
  • Chabahar Port's strategic location positions it to evolve into a significant commercial center in the region.
  • Distances from Chabahar to Kandla port in Gujarat stand at 550 Nautical Miles, while the distance to Mumbai is 786 Nautical Miles.
  • In May 2016, India entered a trilateral agreement with Iran and Afghanistan to develop the Shahid Beheshti Terminal at Chabahar, marking India's inaugural foreign port venture.
  • The agreement aims to establish an international transport and transit corridor centered around Chabahar.
  • Key components of the project include the construction of Chabahar Port and a rail line extending from the port to Zahedan.
  • The project's vision is to provide India with a route bypassing Pakistan to access Afghanistan and, ultimately, Central Asia.
  • Additionally, the port is envisioned to facilitate transit trade between India, Iran, and Afghanistan, offering an alternative route to the traditional Silk Road through China.

Source: IT

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Chabahar Port Agreement


In News: India and Iran have recently entered into a decade-long agreement for the operation of the Chabahar port in Iran.

Importance of Chabahar Port for India

  • Overview
    • Chabahar Port stands as Iran's sole oceanic port, situated in the Sistan and Baluchistan Province along the Makran coast, within the Gulf of Oman.
    • Comprising two primary ports, namely Shahid Kalantari and Shahid Beheshti, it offers strategic maritime access.
  • Progress and Updates
    • In May 2015, India signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for Chabahar Port development.
    • A trilateral agreement between India, Iran, and Afghanistan in May 2016 established the International Transport and Transit Corridor, enhancing regional connectivity.
    • However, finalizing a long-term agreement faced delays, primarily due to disputes over arbitration venues.

Significance of Chabahar Port

  • Alternative Trade Route
    • It provides India with an alternate route bypassing Pakistan, enhancing trade connections with Afghanistan and beyond.
    • Facilitates access to the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), linking India, Iran, Russia, and Europe.
  • Economic Benefits
    • Enhances India's trade opportunities with resource-rich Central Asian nations and Afghanistan.
    • Expected cost and time savings of 30% and 40%, respectively, through the INSTC route.
    • Interest from Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in leveraging Chabahar for market access.
  • Humanitarian Assistance
    • Serves as a critical entry point for humanitarian aid, notably during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Facilitated the trans-shipment of essential goods from India to Afghanistan.
  • Strategic Influence and Regional Stability
    • Strengthens India's strategic position in the Indian Ocean region, countering China's Gwadar port development in Pakistan.
    • Enhances maritime security and serves as a deterrent against sea piracy.

Challenges in Realizing Chabahar Port's Potential

  • US-Iran Relations
    • US sanctions pose risks to India's involvement in Chabahar development.
  • Regional Security Concerns
    • Instability in Afghanistan and tensions with neighboring countries affect trade relations.
  • Competition and Infrastructure Needs
    • Competition from other transport corridors and infrastructure development requirements pose challenges.

Status of India-Iran Economic Ties

  • Bilateral trade during FY 2022-23 stood at USD 2.33 billion, with a focus on agricultural and petroleum-related products.
  • FDI inflows from Iran to India remain modest, and Indian oil imports from Iran ceased due to US sanctions.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2017)

Q. What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India? 

(a) India’s trade with African countries will enormously increase.

(b) India’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened.

(c) India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

(d) Pakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India.

Ans: (c)

Mains (2018)

Q. In what ways would the ongoing U.S-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to this situation?

Mains (2017)

Q. The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyse India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian countries. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC)


In News: For the first time, an Indian delegation recently visited the UAE to engage in discussions with key entities regarding the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).

Overview of India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC)

  • Formation and Significance
    • Announced during the G20 meeting in New Delhi, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) was established through a memorandum of understanding signed by the European Union and seven countries, including India, the US, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), France, Germany, and Italy.
  • Objectives and Benefits
    • IMEEC aims to create a reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network, complementing existing maritime routes.
    • Its goals include enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, securing regional supply chains, increasing trade accessibility, fostering economic cooperation, generating employment opportunities, and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Corridor Structure
    • The corridor is structured into two distinct corridors: the east corridor linking India to the Gulf region, and the northern corridor connecting the Gulf to Europe.
    • Key components include a shipping route connecting Mumbai and Mundra in Gujarat to the UAE, alongside a rail network linking the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan to the Israeli port of Haifa, facilitating access to the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Connectivity and Expansion
    • Haifa will serve as a pivotal point, connected by sea to the port of Piraeus in Greece, enabling further linkage to Europe.
    • Additionally, the corridor will incorporate undersea cables to facilitate data exchange and long-distance hydrogen pipelines to advance climate and decarbonization objectives for all participating nations.

Source: News18

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

UK's Graduate Route Visa (GRV) Initiative


In News: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is contemplating alterations to the Graduate Route visa (GRV) scheme, with a proposal to restrict visas exclusively to high-achieving students. The proposed change is intended to diminish the influx of international students to the UK.

Popularity of the UK as a Study Destination Among Indians

  • Overview of Indian Student Presence in the UK
    • Indians represent the largest community of international students in the UK.
    • Recent data indicates a substantial surge in student visas granted to Indians.
  • Statistics on Student Visas
    • According to the UK Home Office, student visas issued to Indians surged by 54% between June 2022 and June 2023.
    • Since June 2019, the number of visas granted to Indian nationals has escalated seven-fold.
  • Understanding the Graduate Route Visa (GRV) Scheme
    • Introduced by the UK government in July 2021, the GRV scheme is tailored for international students.
    • It permits graduates who have completed a degree at a UK higher education provider to stay in the UK for work or job hunting for up to two years post their studies.
    • Those completing a PhD can extend their stay for up to three years.
    • Notably, this visa does not mandate a job offer, offering graduates a chance to garner work experience in the UK.
  • Eligibility Criteria for GRV
    • The GRV is accessible to international students who have accomplished a degree at the undergraduate level or above at a Higher Education Provider with a compliant track record.
    • Applicants must hold a valid Tier 4 or Student visa at the time of application.
  • Motivations for Indian Students Seeking GRVs
    • GRVs extend the stay in the UK post-education, facilitating employment opportunities and earning prospects.
    • It serves as a pathway for settlement, particularly appealing to students from regions like Punjab.
    • The GRV's allowance for family accompaniment under certain conditions adds to its popularity.
  • Potential Impact of Restricting the GRV Scheme
    • Experts foresee a decline in international student interest in studying in the UK if GRVs are restricted, owing to uncertainties regarding post-graduation prospects.
    • Limiting GRVs to the best-performing students could impede the prospects of average students.
    • The continuation of the GRV scheme is advocated as it aids UK universities in compensating for financial losses on the domestic front, as per an independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) study.
    • Any curtailment of post-study opportunities could diminish the UK's appeal to overseas students, including Indians, positioning other countries like Canada and Australia as more stable options post-education.
    • Considering Indians constitute a substantial portion of GRV holders, any alterations to the UK's GRV scheme would notably affect them.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Died in a Helicopter Crash


In News: Following a helicopter crash in Iran's northwest, President Ebrahim Raisi, the country's foreign minister, and multiple officials were discovered deceased. 

Authority of the President in Iran

  • Role of the President
    • The President of Iran operates under the authority of the Supreme Leader but holds significant power within the country's political system.
    • They play a crucial role in the functioning of the nation, acting as a mediator between the legislature and the executive branches.
    • The President appoints ministers and vice presidents and makes important decisions regarding foreign policy, as demonstrated during negotiations such as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
  • Major Achievements of President Ibrahim Raisi
    • Notable accomplishments of President Raisi include brokering the Iran-Saudi deal facilitated by China and advocating for the 'Axis of Resistance', an informal coalition of various regional groups.

Ramifications of Raisi’s Death in Iran

  • Raisi's passing is anticipated to intensify the ongoing struggle between conservative and reformist factions within Iranian politics.
  • Given Raisi's status as a hardline cleric and potential successor to the Supreme Leader, his death creates a significant leadership vacuum.

On Succession

  • As per Iran's Constitution, the First Vice President assumes office in the event of the President's death or incapacitation.
  • Mohammad Mokhber, appointed by President Raisi, currently holds this position and will serve as Acting President until a new election is conducted within 50 days.

India’s Concerns

  • India, considering Iran as part of its extended neighborhood, closely monitors developments in the region, particularly concerning Iran's relationship with Israel and its involvement with regional groups like Hezbollah, Houthis, and Hamas.

Iran’s Response after Raisi’s Death

  • Iran's reaction following President Raisi's death, including its stance on international matters and support for regional groups, will be of interest to India, given its proximity to Israel and its engagement with Iran on various fronts.

India-Iran Relations

  • Despite challenges such as India's proximity to the US and Iran's nuclear program, both countries have historically maintained diplomatic ties and engaged in significant agreements, including those related to the Chabahar Port and mutual cooperation in various sectors.

India’s Response to President’s Death

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over President Raisi's demise, and India observed a one-day state mourning on May 21 as a mark of respect.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Arrest Warrants for Hamas Leaders and Israeli Prime Minister


In News: The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) requested arrest warrants against leaders of Hamas and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel regarding the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel and the subsequent war in Palestine.

What is the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

  • Background
    • The ICC is a permanent court established to prosecute serious international crimes committed by individuals, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression.
    • It aims to combat global impunity and ensure accountability under international law, regardless of the perpetrator's rank or status.
  • HQ
    • The ICC is headquartered in The Hague, The Netherlands.
  • Statute
    • Before becoming functional in 2002, the ICC's founding treaty, the Rome Statute, was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1998 in Rome, Italy.
  • Membership
    • To become a member of the ICC, countries must sign and ratify the Rome Statute under their respective legislatures.
    • Currently, 124 countries are members of the ICC, with African countries comprising the largest bloc. Armenia joined the ICC in February 2024.
    • Some notable countries, such as India, China, Iraq, North Korea, and Turkey, have never signed the Rome Statute, while others, including the US, Russia, Israel, and Syria, signed but never ratified it.

Functioning of the ICC

  • Judges & Prosecutors
    • The ICC conducts investigations through the Office of the Prosecutor and has 18 judges, each serving non-renewable nine-year terms.
  • Process
    • The ICC operates through pre-trial, trial, and appellate benches.
    • The prosecutor conducts preliminary examinations before seeking permission from pre-trial judges to open a full investigation, ensuring the crimes meet a certain gravity threshold.
  • Ways to Open Investigations
    • Investigations can be initiated when a case is referred by a member country, by the UN Security Council, or by the prosecutor proprio motu.
    • Non-member states can also be investigated under certain conditions, such as alleged crimes committed on member states' territory or with their consent
  • Jurisdiction over Israel
    • Despite not being a party to the Rome Statute, the ICC has jurisdiction over crimes committed by nationals of both State Parties and non-state Parties, such as Israel, on the territory of a State Party, such as Palestine.
    • Palestine's membership in the Rome Treaty and the ICC's decision in February 2021 extended its jurisdiction over Palestine, including Gaza and the West Bank, thereby extending to Israel.

Demand of Arrest Warrants by the Office of the Prosecutor

  • The Office of the Prosecutor has sought arrest warrants for senior leaders of Hamas and Israeli officials, charging them with crimes against humanity and war crimes.

Accusations on These Leaders

  • The charges include crimes such as murder, extermination, torture, rape, persecution, and other inhumane acts as crimes against humanity, and serious violations of the Geneva Conventions as war crimes.

Next Steps

  • ICC decisions are binding, but the court relies on state cooperation for enforcement, including making arrests, transferring individuals to the ICC, freezing assets, and enforcing sentences.
  • If arrest warrants are issued, all 124 State Parties are obligated to cooperate with the court, making international travel difficult for the accused leaders.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Ireland, Spain, and Norway Set to Recognize Palestine


In News: Norway, Ireland, and Spain have declared their intention to officially recognize the state of Palestine, with the recognition expected to occur on May 28th.

Early Phase

  • During the 19th century, Palestine was home to a diverse population, including Muslims, Christians, and Jews, coexisting peacefully.
  • Zionists, aiming to establish a Jewish homeland, chose Palestine after considering other locations.
  • Hitler's rise prompted increased Jewish immigration to Palestine, leading to growing tensions.

UN Partition Plan

  • In 1947, the United Nations proposed partitioning Palestine, allocating 55% of the land to a Jewish state.
  • Despite resistance, the plan was recommended under Zionist pressure.
  • The ensuing 1948 Arab–Israeli War resulted in territorial changes, with Israel gaining control of 78% of Palestine.

Oslo Peace Process

  • In 1993, Israeli and Palestinian leaders reached a breakthrough agreement in Oslo, Norway, outlining a two-state solution.
  • Implementation challenges hindered progress despite initial optimism.

Issue of Statehood for Palestine

  • Control over Palestinian territories remains divided despite the envisioned neighboring Palestinian state by the 1948 UN decision.
  • While some nations recognize Palestine, UN membership bids have been denied.
  • India advocates direct negotiations for a sovereign and viable State of Palestine living in peace with Israel.

Increasing Support for Palestine

  • Recent UN General Assembly votes reflect growing international support for Palestine's full membership.
  • The International Criminal Court's pursuit of Israeli leaders underscores legal ramifications.

Stand of Western Countries

  • Western nations support an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel but emphasize negotiated settlements.
  • Substantive negotiations have stalled since 2009.

Palestinian Statehood and India's Position

  • India has maintained diplomatic relations with Palestine since 1974, supporting its statehood aspirations.
  • India advocates for direct negotiations to establish a sovereign and viable Palestinian state.

Formal Recognition by Ireland, Spain, and Norway

  • Ireland, Spain, and Norway announced plans to recognize Palestine, marking a significant development.
  • While not immediate recognition, their support enhances Palestinian legitimacy and pressures Israel for peace talks.

Israel's Response

  • Israel reacted swiftly to the recognition announcements, recalling ambassadors from Ireland, Norway, and Spain.
  • The Israeli government opposes international recognition of Palestine, citing security concerns and recent conflicts.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

The BIMSTEC charter has been enforced


In News: After the inaugural charter of BIMSTEC became effective on May 20, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is now able to admit new members and observers.

  • About BIMSTEC
    • BIMSTEC, established in June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration, is an economic bloc initially comprising Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
    • Nepal joined as an observer state in 1998 and became a full-time member in February 2004, followed by Bhutan.
    • The member countries include Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan, with its Permanent Secretariat located in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
  • Aim of BIMSTEC
    • BIMSTEC aims to counter the impacts of globalization by fostering regional growth through mutual cooperation, leveraging regional resources and geographical advantages.
  • Areas of Cooperation
    • Initially, BIMSTEC focused on six sectors: Trade, Technology, Energy, Transport, Tourism, and Fisheries, later expanding to 14 priority areas including Climate Change.
    • Member countries take lead in specific priority areas, with India leading sectors such as Transport & Communication, Tourism, Environment & Disaster Management, and Counter-Terrorism & Transnational Crime.
  • Importance of BIMSTEC
    • With approximately 22% of the world's population and a combined GDP nearing $2.7 trillion, BIMSTEC countries play a significant role in global trade.
    • The region has sustained notable economic growth rates, and a substantial portion of global trade passes through the Bay of Bengal annually.
  • Growth of BIMSTEC as a Regional Forum
    • India's renewed push for BIMSTEC following the Uri terrorist attack in 2016 revitalized the grouping, with an outreach summit hosted alongside the BRICS summit.
    • BIMSTEC gained momentum as countries rallied behind India's call to boycott the SAARC summit, scheduled in Islamabad, after the Uri attack.
  • Significance for Member Countries
    • Member countries view BIMSTEC as an opportunity to enhance regional connectivity, access emerging markets, and balance geopolitical influences.
    • For India, BIMSTEC aligns with its foreign policy priorities, facilitating closer ties with neighboring nations and advancing the Act East policy.
  • Challenges
    • Discord between Bangladesh and Myanmar over Rohingya refugees and China's infrastructure initiatives pose challenges.
    • BIMSTEC has emerged as a battleground for influence between India and China, with China's Belt and Road Initiative excluding India and Bhutan.

BIMSTEC Charter Comes into Force

  • Background
    • In March 2022, BIMSTEC leaders, under Sri Lanka's chairmanship, adopted the charter during the 5th Summit.
  • Charter Comes into Force
    • Nepal's parliament ratified the BIMSTEC charter in April 2024, leading to its enforcement on May 20, 2024.
    • With the charter in force, BIMSTEC gains legal personality, enabling structured diplomatic dialogue and facilitating deeper regional integration.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

Transnational Organised Crime


In News: The leaders of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Interpol, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have underscored the immediate necessity to escalate endeavours aimed at combating the substantial illicit proceeds produced by transnational organized crime (TOC).

Understanding Transnational Organized Crime

  • Definition and Scope
    • Transnational organized crime (TOC) refers to illegal activities orchestrated by groups or networks operating across multiple countries, often involving violence, corruption, and financial gain.
  • Various Forms
    • Money Laundering: Criminals conceal illicit funds, estimated globally at 2% to 5% of GDP, to appear legitimate.
    • Drug Trafficking: Valued at USD 650 billion globally, drug trade remains a significant criminal enterprise.
    • Human Trafficking: Involves exploitation for profit, victimizing millions with annual profits estimated at USD 150 billion.
    • Migrant Smuggling: Generated USD 6.6 billion in 2009, facilitating illegal movement across borders.
    • Illicit Firearms Trafficking: Annual revenue estimated between USD 170 to 320 million, fueling violent crime.
    • Natural Resource Trafficking: Encompasses illegal trade in minerals, wildlife, forestry, and fishery products, with significant environmental impacts.
    • Fraudulent Medicines: Counterfeit medicines endanger lives and contribute to an estimated 1 million deaths annually.
    • Cybercrime and Identity Theft: Exploitation of the internet for illegal gains, including data theft and financial fraud.

Impacts of Transnational Organized Crime

  • Public Health: Counterfeit medicines contribute to over 1 million deaths annually, with a significant impact in Africa.
  • Economic Resilience: Illicit financial flows undermine financial integrity and economic stability, draining foreign exchange reserves.
  • Environmental Degradation: Organized environmental crime drives deforestation, biodiversity loss, and contributes to climate change.
  • Peace and Security: Illicit arms trade fuels armed conflicts and violence, particularly in regions like Central and South America.
  • Local Effects: Destabilizes countries, increases corruption and violence, and strains public resources.

Significance of Targeting Illicit Profits

  • Alignment with Development Goals: Targeting illicit profits supports sustainable development goals, promoting financial stability and inclusive growth.
  • Disruption of Criminal Activities: By cutting off funds, it becomes harder for criminals to sustain their networks and fund other illegal activities.
  • Rule of Law Promotion: Confiscating illicit profits reinforces the rule of law and discourages criminal behavior.
  • Economic Development: Redirecting illicit funds towards legitimate purposes can stimulate economic growth.
  • Enhanced Security: Targeting illicit profits helps combat money laundering and terrorism financing, contributing to global security.
  • Protection of Vulnerable Populations: Many criminal activities financed by illicit profits exploit vulnerable populations, making it crucial to target these funds.
  • Encouragement of International Cooperation: Targeting illicit profits fosters collaboration among nations in combating transnational organized crime.

Challenges in Controlling TOC

  • Legal Complexity: Diverse legal systems complicate international efforts to combat TOC.
  • Lack of Consensus: Varying national interests hinder global consensus on strategies to address TOC.
  • Corruption: TOC often involves corruption, undermining law enforcement efforts.
  • Technological Advancements: Criminals exploit technology for illicit activities, staying ahead of law enforcement.
  • Armed Conflict: TOC fuels violence and instability in conflict regions, complicating control efforts.

Strategies for Progress:

  • Blockchain Forensics: Utilize blockchain technology to track illicit cryptocurrency flows.
  • Dark Web Infiltration: Develop units to navigate the dark web and gather intelligence on TOC operations.
  • Transparency Initiatives: Promote transparency measures in government institutions to reduce opportunities for corruption.
  • Political Will: Foster international cooperation through multilateral instruments and political commitment.
  • Real-Time Fusion Centers: Establish centers for immediate collaboration between law enforcement and intelligence agencies for coordinated responses to organized crime. 

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2021)

Q. Consider the following statements:

  1. The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) has a ‘Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air’.
  2. The UNCAC is the ever-first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument.
  3. A highlight of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is the inclusion of a specific chapter aimed at returning assets to their rightful owners from whom they had been taken illicitly.
  4. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is mandated by its member States to assist in the implementation of both UNCAC and UNTOC.

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: (c)

Mains (2018)

Q. India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What counter-measures should be taken to prevent the same? 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS – 2 GS – 3 Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism, Money Laundering, Challenges to Internal Security Through Communication Networks, Important International Institutions
Monthly Current Affairs

India's Foreign Trade Relations with Key Partners


In News: As per the most recent data from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, India has reported a trade deficit (the variance between imports and exports) with nine out of its top ten trading partners in the fiscal year (FY) 2023-24.

India's Foreign Trade Overview

  • Foreign trade in India, encompassing both merchandise and services, accounted for 48.8% of India's GDP in 2018.
  • The Ministry of Commerce and Industry administers trade at the Central Government level.
  • In 2022, India ranked 15th in total exports and 8th in total imports globally.
  • China was India's primary trading partner until recent years, followed by the UAE and subsequently the US.
  • According to the Commerce Ministry, India's top exports include Refined Petroleum, Diamonds, Packaged Medicaments, Jewellery, and Rice.
  • Major export destinations for India are the United States, United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, China, and Bangladesh.
  • India was the world's largest exporter of Diamonds and Rice in 2022.
  • India's top imports consist of Crude Petroleum, Coal Briquettes, Gold, Petroleum Gas, and Diamonds.
  • Key import sources for India are China, UAE, the US, Saudi Arabia, and Russia.
  • In 2022, India was the world's biggest importer of Coal Briquettes, Diamonds, Palm Oil, Mixed Mineral or Chemical Fertilizers, and Nitrogenous Fertilizers.

Latest Trends of India’s Foreign Trade

  • China has overtaken the US as India's largest trading partner, with a total two-way commerce of $118.4 billion in FY 2023-24.
  • India's exports to China increased by 8.7% to $16.67 billion, while imports rose by 3.24% to $101.7 billion.
  • Conversely, exports to the US slightly decreased to $77.5 billion, with imports dropping by about 20% to $40.8 billion.
  • The UAE ranked as India's third-largest trading partner with $83.6 billion, followed by Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore.
  • India's trade deficit with China, Russia, Korea, and Hong Kong increased in 2023-24 compared to the previous fiscal year.
  • However, India maintains a trade surplus with the US and several other countries, with the total trade deficit narrowing to $238.3 billion in FY 2023-24 from $264.9 billion in the previous fiscal year.

Analysis and Recommendations

  • Imports can be beneficial for manufacturing and exports, but they may lead to currency depreciation and increased debt.
  • To address the trade deficit, measures such as boosting exports, reducing unnecessary imports, developing domestic industries, and managing currency and debt levels effectively are essential.

Source: TOI

Keywords: GS-2 IR
Monthly Current Affairs

FTA Strategy Meet


In News: A meeting convened to strategize for negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) aligns with ongoing discussions within the Commerce and Industry Ministry on multiple trade agreements.

Status of India’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

  • Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)
    • India signed TEPA with a non-EU European Bloc consisting of Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
    • The agreement encompasses investment promotion, with EFTA countries pledging $100 billion investment over 15 years, contingent upon high GDPs and other economic factors.
  • FTAs with UAE, Mauritius, and Australia
    • Negotiations were completed with UAE, Mauritius, and a mini trade deal with Australia in recent years.
  • India-UK FTA
    • Progress has been made, but uncertainties arise due to elections in both countries.
  • India-EU Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)
    • Negotiations commenced in 2007 but stalled in 2013 over unresolved issues.
    • Prospects dimmed further in 2017 when India terminated BITs with several EU Member States.
  • Reviewing Trade Deal with ASEAN
    • The Commerce Ministry is reassessing the trade deal with ASEAN countries to address the trade gap.
  • Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
    • India withdrew from RCEP, a 15-nation Asian and Australian FTA, in 2019.
  • Talks with Eurasian Economic Union (EEU)
    • The government has indicated intentions to resume talks with EEU post-general elections, led by Russia.

Stumbling Blocks for India’s FTA Negotiations

  • "Make in India" Policy: India's push for self-reliance contradicts discussions on free trade.
  • Agriculture Sector Protection: India protects its agriculture sector, often disregarded in most FTAs.
  • Rules of Origin Concerns: India advocates for strict Rules of Origin provisions to prevent flooding of Chinese goods.
  • Intellectual Property Rights: Growing concern over intellectual property rights compels India to accept more foreign patents.
  • Human Rights and Democratic Freedoms: Issues such as human rights and democratic freedoms permeate discussions with EU, EFTA, and Canada.
  • FTA vs. WTO: FTAs bypass global mechanisms for free trade, contrary to the purpose of the WTO.

Discussions at the FTA Strategy Meet

  • Stakeholder Consultations
    • Relevant stakeholder consultations are crucial for inclusive outcomes.
  • Interdisciplinary Expertise
    • Expertise in law, economics, data analytics, and industry-specific knowledge enhances negotiation processes.
  • Utilizing Embassy Resources
    • Leveraging India's embassies or missions abroad aids in understanding partner countries' regulatory regimes.
  • Global Trade Trends
    • Partial de-globalization trends and industrial policy as protectionism influences trade policies.

Suggestions for India at the FTA Strategy Meet

  • Utilize FTAs for Resilient Supply Chains
    • Focus on building resilient supply chains through FTAs.
  • Capacity Building and Interdisciplinary Expertise
    • Emphasize capacity building and interdisciplinary expertise.
  • Adapt to Global Trends
    • Adapt to partial de-globalization and geopolitical influences in trade policies.
  • Negotiate Critical Minerals Chapter
    • Negotiate a dedicated chapter on Critical Minerals to safeguard against supply chain disruptions.
  • SOP and Institutional Memory
    • Establish Standard Operating Procedures and institutional memory before commencing future negotiations.

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-2 IR GS-3
Monthly Current Affairs

Solar Radiation Decline in India


In News: As worries regarding climate change intensify, the significance of renewable energy sources such as solar power becomes more apparent.

Key Highlights of the Study

  • Aerosol Load
    • Increased aerosol load from various sources like carbon emissions and dust contributes to reduced solar radiation.
    • Aerosols can absorb and deflect sunlight away from the ground, affecting solar panel efficiency.
  • Decline in Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Potential
    • Analysis indicates a widespread decline in SPV potential across monitored stations in cities like Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Mumbai.
    • This decline is observed even in regions with large solar parks like Gujarat and Rajasthan.
  • Global Solar Radiation (GR) over India
    • GR varies across India, with maximum in northwest and inland peninsular India and minimum in extreme north and northeast.
    • Reduction in GR attributed to increased atmospheric turbidity and cloudiness, particularly during the monsoon season.
  • Diffuse Radiation (DR)
    • Diffuse radiation, scattered by atmospheric particles, has significantly increased in more than 50% of stations, especially in northwest and some parts of peninsular India.

Implications for India's Solar Power Goals

  • Current Scenario
    • India aims to source 500 GW of electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with solar power contributing a significant portion.
    • Despite ambitious targets, annual solar power additions have struggled to meet expectations.
  • Challenges
    • Hindrances to solar power development include land acquisition, grid integration issues, slow growth of rooftop solar, and limited storage technology.
  • Government Initiatives Related to Solar Energy
    • Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI)
    • Solar Park Scheme
    • PM-KUSUM
    • Rooftop Solar Programme
    • International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Way Forward

  • Analyse Aerosol Types
    • Identify aerosol sources contributing to solar radiation decline, such as black carbon from vehicles and industrial dust.
  • Enact Targeted Policies
    • Implement policies to address specific aerosol sources and partner with local authorities to tackle pollution hotspots.
  • Promote Bifacial Solar Panels
    • Focus on promoting bifacial solar panels to capture sunlight from both sides and incentivize domestic manufacturing to reduce reliance on imports.
  • Partner with International Organizations
    • Collaborate with international organizations like IRENA to share data and best practices for mitigating air pollution's impact on solar radiation.
  • Deploy AI-powered Cleaning Systems
    • Develop AI-powered robotic systems for automated cleaning of solar panels to optimize efficiency, particularly in arid regions.
  • Mandate Rooftop Solar Panels
    • Enact building codes mandating pre-installation of rooftop solar panels on all new commercial and government buildings to increase adoption and reduce reliance on traditional grid power.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2019)

Q.  In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere? 

(a) Creating the artificial rains in some regions

(b) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones

(c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth

(d) Reducing the global warming

Ans: (d)

Prelims (2016)

Q. Consider the following statements: 

  1. The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015.
  2. The Alliance includes all the member countries of the United Nations.

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: (a)

Mains (2020)

Q. India has immense potential of solar energy though there are regional variations in its developments. Elaborate. 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS -2 Government Policies & Interventions, Important International Institutions GS – 3 Solar Energy, Renewable Energy
Monthly Current Affairs

Unclassed Forests


In News: In response to a PIL challenging the Forest (Conservation) Act Amendment (FCAA) 2023, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) uploaded State Expert Committee (SEC) reports on its website as per a Supreme Court order. The petition raised concerns about the status of unclassed forests, which were to be identified by these reports.

Understanding Unclassed Forests

  • Definition and Legal Protection
    • Unclassed or deemed forests encompass areas that may belong to various entities, including government bodies, communities, or private owners, but lack official notification as forests. They received legal safeguarding following the T.N. Godavarman Thirumalpad case of 1996.
  • Forest (Conservation) Act 1980
    • The Forest (Conservation) Act 1980 (FCAA) stipulates regulations concerning unclassed forests, requiring Central Government approval for any diversion of such lands for non-forest purposes. This Act broadens the scope of protected areas but excludes specific land categories from its purview.
  • FCAA Stipulations
    • The FCAA mandates prior permission from the Central Government for activities like dereservation of reserved forests, non-forest land use, and tree clearance for reafforestation. However, it excludes certain land categories, potentially conflicting with the 1996 SC judgment on preventing deforestation.

Challenges in Identifying Unclassed Forests

  • Despite the requirement for State Expert Committees (SECs) to identify unclassed forests, several states have not constituted SECs or provided reliable data on such forests. 
  • Inconsistencies in data sources and lack of geographic location specifics pose challenges in accurately identifying and protecting these forests.

Consequences and Recommendations

  • The absence of proper identification and protection of unclassed forests raises concerns about potential ecological damage and non-compliance with forest policies. 
  • There is a need for accountability among responsible parties and proactive measures by the national government to rectify this issue in line with the 1996 judgment and forest conservation goals.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Environment and conservation
Monthly Current Affairs

G7 eyes possible end date for coal-fired power plants


In News: G7 energy ministers recently discussed phasing out coal-fired power plants during their meeting in Turin, Italy. 

About G7

  • Origin
    • The G7 originated in response to the oil shocks and financial crisis of 1973. 
    • In 1975, the heads of the world's six leading industrial nations held a meeting to address the situation.
    • Initially, the group consisted of the US, UK, France, Germany (West), Japan, and Italy.
    • Canada joined the group in 1976, leading to the formation of the G7.
  • Current Members
    • The current members of the G7 are the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan.
    • These countries represent the most developed and advanced economies globally.
    • The European Union is also represented within the G7 framework.
  • Purpose of G7
    • The G7 serves as a platform for determining the course of multilateral discourse.
    • It aims to shape political responses to global challenges, providing a forum for discussing and coordinating solutions to major issues.
    • Areas of focus include trade, security, economics, and climate change. 

Coal-fired Power Plants

  • About
    • Coal-fired power plants generate electricity by burning coal to produce steam.
    • The steam drives a turbine, which spins a generator to create electricity.
    • Afterward, the steam is cooled, condensed back into water, and recycled in the process.
  • Emissions
    • Emissions from coal-fired power plants include sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulates, carbon dioxide (CO2), mercury, and other heavy metals.
    • These emissions contribute to environmental pollution and health issues.
  • Coal-fired Plants in India
    • Currently, thermal power from coal accounts for almost 60% of India's total installed power generation capacity.
    • Coal-fired power generation supplies over 75% of the electricity to the grid.
    • India heavily relies on coal due to its abundance and affordability.
  • Potential
    • India's coal reserves are expected to last around 100 years.
    • Projections suggest an increase in coal-based power generation capacity to 250 gigawatts by 2030.
    • However, there are plans to decrease coal's share in the electricity generation mix to 50% by 2030.
  • Reasons Against Coal-fired Plants
    • Coal-fired power plants contribute to climate change and environmental pollution.
    • Phasing out coal-fired plants is crucial for limiting global warming and reducing pollutants.
  • Phasing out Coal-fired Plants and G7
    • Ministers from the G7 are considering a common target to shut down coal-fired power plants.
    • This discussion occurred during a meeting in Turin, Italy, led by Italy, the current G7 presidency.
    • The G7's commitment is significant given its economic influence and greenhouse gas emissions.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Environment
Monthly Current Affairs

Great Rift Valley


In News: Heavy rains and floods wreaked havoc in Kenya's Rift Valley region, resulting in a tragic incident where a dam burst its banks near a town, claiming the lives of at least 42 individuals.

Exploring the Great Rift Valley: Features, Formation, and Significance

  • The Great Rift Valley stands as one of the most expansive rifts on Earth's surface, spanning a distance of approximately 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) across East Africa.
  • Stretching from Jordan in southwestern Asia to the central coast of Mozambique in the Indian Ocean, it traverses numerous countries including Eritrea, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • This geological wonder is part of the broader East African Rift System (EARS).

Formation

  • The Great Rift Valley owes its existence to the convergence of three tectonic plates, originating approximately 40 million years ago when these plates split, initiating the formation of the East African Rift.
  • With an average width ranging from 30 to 40 miles (48 to 64 kilometers), the valley widens significantly to nearly 300 miles (480 kilometers) in the Danakil Desert of northeastern Africa.
  • Its steep walls tower above the valley floor, reaching heights of about 3,000 feet (900 meters) and cliffs soaring up to 9,000 feet (2,700 meters) in some regions.
  • Characterized by geological activity, the area boasts features such as volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, and frequent seismic events.
  • Along its expanse, a chain of approximately thirty lakes is found, including the renowned Great Lakes of Africa, such as Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-deepest lake, and Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake by surface area globally.
  • The Great Rift Valley is home to several of Africa's highest peaks, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and Mount Margherita, situated in ranges that flank the valley.

Understanding Rift Valleys

  • A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the movement of Earth's tectonic plates, where they diverge or rift apart.
  • These valleys can be found both on land and beneath the ocean, where they originate from the process of seafloor spreading.
  • Rift valleys are distinct from river valleys and glacial valleys as they are shaped primarily by tectonic forces rather than erosion processes.

Source: News18

Keywords: GS-1 Geography
Monthly Current Affairs

Acceleration of Indian Ocean Warming


In News: A recent study conducted by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune suggests a tenfold surge in marine heatwaves, which could lead to the escalation of cyclones. The study indicates an increase from 20 days to 220–250 days per year.

Key Findings of the Report:

  • Increase in Ocean Temperature
    • Rapid Warming: The Indian Ocean has experienced a temperature rise of 1.2°C from 1950 to 2020, with projections indicating a further increase by 1.7°C to 3.8°C from 2020 to 2100.
    • Marine Heatwaves: Predictions suggest a surge in marine heatwave occurrences, potentially escalating from an average of 20 days per year to 220–250 days annually. These heatwaves can expedite cyclone formation and lead to prolonged heatwave conditions in the tropical Indian Ocean, posing risks to coral reefs, seagrass, and kelp forests vital to fisheries.
  • Changes in Heat Content of the Ocean
    • Deep Ocean Warming: The warming trend extends beyond surface waters, penetrating depths of up to 2,000 meters, elevating the overall heat content of the ocean.
    • Energy Comparison: The projected increase in ocean heat content is likened to the energy output of one Hiroshima atomic bomb detonation every second, persisting for a decade.
  • Sea-Level Rise and Thermal Expansion
    • Thermal Expansion: The escalating heat content contributes significantly to sea-level rise, primarily through thermal expansion, surpassing the effects of glacier and sea-ice melting.
  • Changes in Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and Monsoon Patterns
    • IOD Alterations: The rise in ocean heat content is expected to affect the Indian Ocean Dipole, with projections indicating a 66% increase in extreme events and a 52% decrease in moderate events by the end of the century, impacting monsoon dynamics crucial for agriculture.

Future Outlook

Despite ongoing heatwaves, an "above-normal" monsoon is anticipated for June-September 2024, partially attributed to a positive phase of the IOD.

Impact of Rising Sea Levels on India

  • Rate of Sea Level Rise: The Ministry of Earth Sciences reports an average rise of about 1.7 mm/year along the Indian coast during the last century (1900-2000), with implications for coastal inundation.
  • India's Vulnerability: India faces heightened susceptibility to sea-level rise due to rapid ocean warming, with thermal expansion accounting for a significant portion of sea-level increase in the Indian Ocean.
  • Implications: Compound extreme events, including intensified cyclones and exacerbated flooding, threaten India's coastal regions. Intrusion of saline water from rising sea levels affects river deltas, potentially rendering vast areas uninhabitable.

Ways to Tackle the Threat of Marine Heatwaves and Intensifying Cyclones

  • Mitigation Strategies
    • Emission Reduction: Advocate for emission reduction policies akin to the European Union's Emissions Trading System (ETS) to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, addressing the root cause of marine heatwaves.
    • Renewable Energy Integration: Promote renewable energy sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate long-term impacts on ocean temperatures.
  • Early Warning Systems and Preparedness
    • Advanced Monitoring: Implement advanced ocean monitoring systems like Australia's Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) to gather real-time data on marine heatwaves and cyclone development.
    • Predictive Modeling: Utilize predictive modeling tools such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) hurricane seasonal outlooks to enhance preparedness and response efforts.
  • Coastal Resilience Measures
    • Mangrove Restoration: Restore mangrove forests to serve as natural barriers against storm surges and protect coastal communities from cyclones, drawing inspiration from initiatives in Bangladesh.
    • Infrastructure Improvements: Enhance coastal infrastructure resilience through investments in seawalls and levees, following the example of the Netherlands' robust coastal defense system.
  • International Collaboration
    • Data Sharing and Research: Foster international collaboration in ocean observations and research through platforms like the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) to deepen understanding of marine phenomena.
    • Capacity Building: Provide technical and financial assistance to vulnerable nations through initiatives like the World Meteorological Organization's (WMO) Tropical Cyclone Programme, aiding in cyclone preparedness and response.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2010)

Q.  Stiglitz Commission established by the President of the United Nations General Assembly was in the international news. The commission was supposed to deal with 

(a) The challenges posed by the impending global climate change and prepare a road map

(b) The workings of the global financial systems and to explore ways and means to secure a more sustainable global order

(c) Global terrorism and prepare a global action plan for the mitigation of terrorism

(d) Expansion of the United Nations Security Council in the present global scenario

Ans: (b)

Mains (2017)

Q. ‘Climate change’ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? 

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
Monthly Current Affairs

De-globalised Food Inflation in India


In News: While global food prices experienced a significant drop from their highs in 2022, India's food inflation remained elevated at 9.5% in December 2023, contrasting with the global deflation rate of -10.1%.

Factors Contributing to the Drop in Global Food Prices

  • Abundant Supply of Key Crops: Bumper harvests of major crops like wheat in 2023 led to a surplus in the global market. This abundance contrasts with concerns in 2022 when worries about supply disruptions due to the war in Ukraine, a major grain exporter, caused prices to spike.
  • Improved Supply from Russia and Ukraine: Despite the disruption of the Black Sea Grain Initiative in July 2023, both Russia and Ukraine have managed to maintain wheat exports. This continued flow of grain from the region has helped to alleviate some of the supply anxieties.
  • Lower Demand for Vegetable Oils: The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization Vegetable Price Index saw the biggest drop in 2023, falling by 32.7%. This decline is due to a combination of factors, including improved vegetable oil supplies and a decrease in its use for biofuel production. As more oil becomes available for food purposes, and less is diverted for biofuels, the overall demand for vegetable oil goes down, leading to lower prices.
  • Slowing Demand: High inflation and fears of an economic recession have dampened consumer demand in many parts of the world, including in major food-importing regions, leading to a decline in import demand for certain food commodities and putting downward pressure on global prices.

Reasons for India Experiencing High Food Inflation Despite Falling Global Food Prices

  • Limited Transmission of Global Prices: While global food prices fell, India's food prices stayed elevated due to limited transmission of international prices to domestic markets. India's import dependence is significant only for edible oils (60% of consumption) and pulses. For most other agri-commodities, including cereals, sugar, dairy, and fruits and vegetables, India is self-sufficient or an exporter.
  • Export Bans and Import Duties: The Indian government imposed bans on exports of certain food items like wheat, non-basmati white rice, sugar, and onions and provided import duty waivers on others, effectively reducing global market influences on domestic prices.
  • Domestic Production Challenges: Issues like weather conditions affecting crop yields, particularly for cereals, pulses, and sugar, contributed to supply shortages and higher prices domestically. Cereal and pulse inflation stood at 9.9% and 20.7% year-on-year, respectively, in December 2023.
  • Low Stock Levels: Low stock levels for commodities like wheat and sugar further exacerbated price pressures.

How Food Inflation is Calculated in India

  • Food inflation in India is primarily measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Food and Beverages. 
  • CPI is a key measure of inflation in India that tracks the changes in the prices paid by typical consumers for a basket of goods and services over time.

Recent Trends

  • Food has a weight of 45.9% in the consumer price index, but its contribution to overall inflation has increased from 48% in April 2022 to 67% in November 2023.
  • The government's first Household Consumption Survey released recently showed that food's share of the rural consumption basket fell below 50% for the first time to 46% and to 39% for urban consumers.
  • According to the RBI, about 90% of food inflation is determined by non-cyclical factors like the weather, supply conditions, international prices, and availability. On average, however, 10% of food inflation is driven by demand factors with significant time variation.

How India can Address Food Inflation Effectively

  • Increase Agricultural Productivity: Investing in agricultural infrastructure, technology, and research to improve crop yields and reduce production costs can boost supply and stabilize prices.
  • Efficient Supply Chain Management: Enhancing logistics, storage facilities, and distribution networks can reduce wastage and ensure a steady supply of food items to the market, mitigating price fluctuations.
  • Diversification of Agriculture: Promoting diversification by encouraging the cultivation of a variety of crops and supporting alternative farming practices can reduce reliance on a few commodities and balance market dynamics.
  • Price Monitoring and Regulation: Monitoring food prices regularly and implementing effective price regulation mechanisms can prevent price manipulation and ensure fair pricing for consumers and producers alike.
  • Climate Resilience: Addressing climate change challenges through sustainable farming practices, water management strategies, and crop diversification can reduce production risks and enhance food security in the long term.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2020)

Q. Consider the following statements: 

  1. The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
  2. The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does.
  3. The Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only 
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (a)

Mains (2014)

Q. There is also a point of view that Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) set up under the State Acts have not only impeded the development of agriculture but also have been the cause of food inflation in India. Critically examine. 

Source: IE

Keywords: GS-3 Environment
Monthly Current Affairs

La Cumbre Volcano and Galápagos Land Iguanas


In News: Recent volcanic activity from La Cumbre volcano on the Galápagos Islands has led to the destruction of habitat for rare land iguanas.

La Cumbre Volcano and Galápagos Land Iguanas

About La Cumbre Volcano:

  • Location: Situated on Fernandina Island, the third largest island in the Galápagos archipelago.
  • Geological Significance: Positioned directly atop the mantle plume or hotspot responsible for the formation of all Galápagos Islands.
  • Distance: Located approximately 1,125 kilometers off the coast of mainland Ecuador and experienced its first eruption since 2020.
  • Crater Features: Boasts a sizable crater or caldera at its summit, housing a permanent crater lake.
  • Ecological Importance: The caldera lake serves as a habitat for various wildlife, including tens of thousands of Galápagos land iguanas that lay their eggs within it.

Key Facts about Galápagos Land Iguanas:

  • Endemic Species: One of three land iguana species exclusive to the Galápagos Islands, alongside the Santa Fe land iguana and the Galapagos pink land iguana.
  • Physical Characteristics: A large lizard belonging to the family Iguanidae, primarily herbivorous in nature.
  • Mutualistic Relationship: Often seen hosting finches on their backs, which aid in removing ticks from between their scales.
  • Behavior: Diurnal in nature, spending daylight hours foraging or basking on rocks, while resting in burrows at night.
  • Conservation Status: Classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Source: WION

Keywords: GS-1 Physical Geography
Monthly Current Affairs

Regenerative Blue Economy


In News: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has published a report presenting a roadmap for the development of a Regenerative Blue Economy (RBE).

Key Highlights of the Report

  • Proposal of a Hierarchy
    • The report suggests a hierarchical structure for categorizing interpretations and levels of sustainability within the Blue Economy concept. 
    • It delineates three main tiers: Ocean/Brown Economy, Sustainable Blue Economy, and Regenerative Blue Economy.
  • Ocean/Brown Economy
    • This tier encompasses economic activities related to the ocean, including traditional maritime sectors like shipping, ports, fisheries, and offshore oil/gas. 
    • It primarily focuses on economic contributions without significant considerations for sustainability.
  • Sustainable Blue Economy
    • The Sustainable Blue Economy incorporates principles of environmental sustainability and ecosystem protection. 
    • It extends beyond economic activities to include conservation and restoration of marine/coastal ecosystems and the valuation of ecosystem services. 
    • This tier aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14.
  • Regenerative Blue Economy
    • The Regenerative Blue Economy aims to actively restore and revitalize marine ecosystems while promoting sustainable, low or no carbon economic activities. 
    • Its founding principles emphasize protection and restoration, inclusive economic systems, inclusive and participatory governance, and prioritizing low or no carbon activities.
  • Spectrum of Sustainability
    • The report acknowledges various sustainability levels within the Blue Economy concept, with the Regenerative Blue Economy representing the most ambitious and restorative approach.
  • Principles of Blue Economy
    • It states that various organizations propose sets of principles for the Blue Economy concept, emphasizing common themes such as ecosystem health, sustainability, inclusivity, and good governance.
  • Blue Carbon and Nature-based Solutions
    • The report underscores the importance of valuing coastal/marine ecosystem services like carbon sequestration. 
    • It highlights Blue Carbon as an emerging market opportunity and component of sustainable economies, aligning with broader Nature-based Solutions for climate change and biodiversity.
  • Key Sectors and Considerations
    • The report outlines considerations for key sectors within the Blue Economy, including fishing and aquaculture, maritime transport, and the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to offset extractive activities.
  • Connections to Other Approaches
    • It emphasizes the need to integrate Blue Economy principles with those of the circular economy, Bioeconomy, and Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) for holistic and sustainable development.

Initiatives Promoting Regenerative Blue Economy

  • Global Initiatives
    • IUCN Nature 2030
    • Great Blue Wall Initiative
    • Clean Seas Campaign
    • Moroni Declaration and Cape Town Manifesto
  • India
    • Maritime India Vision 2030
    • Deep Ocean Mission
    • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
    • Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)
    • Blue Economy 2.0

UPSC Previous Year Questions

Prelims (2019)

Q. What is blue carbon?

(a) Carbon captured by oceans and coastal ecosystems
(b) Carbon sequestered in forest biomass and agricultural soils
(c) Carbon contained in petroleum and natural gas
(d) Carbon present in atmosphere

Ans: (a)

Prelims (2023)

Q. ‘Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations?

(a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature

(b) The United Nations Environment Programme

(c) The United Nations World Commission for Environment and Development

(d) The World Wide Fund for Nature

Ans: (a)

Mains (2018)

Q. Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India. 

Source: IUCN

Keywords: GS-3 Environment and conservation
Monthly Current Affairs

Red Colobus


In News: A recent study conducted by an international team of scientists has suggested that conserving red colobus monkeys could play a crucial role in safeguarding tropical forests.

  • About Red Colobus
    • Red colobus monkeys, a rare and endangered group of primates found across Africa, serve as important indicators of biodiversity.
    • They belong to one of the two major simian groups globally, with colobines primarily being leaf-eaters, distinguishing them from the omnivorous cercopithecines.
    • In addition to Africa's red colobus monkeys, colobines also include langurs found in South and Southeast Asia.
  • Distribution
    • Red colobus monkeys are distributed across forests from Senegal to the Zanzibar Archipelago, encompassing diverse habitats.
  • Threats
    • Most red colobus populations face extinction due to threats such as hunting for trade and local subsistence, as well as habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation caused by various human activities.
  • Initiative to Conserve Red Colobus
    • The Red Colobus Conservation Action Plan, spearheaded by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission Primate Specialist Group and the African Primatological Society, aims to prioritize red colobus conservation efforts.
    • The action plan seeks to secure Africa's tropical forests and mitigate unsustainable hunting for wild meat.
  • Conservation Efforts
    • A Red Colobus Working Group (RCWG) has been established to oversee the implementation of the action plan.
    • Additionally, a Red Colobus Conservation Network (RCCN) has been formed to facilitate communication, capacity-building, and monitoring of red colobus conservation initiatives.

Source: DTE

Keywords: GS-3 Environment and conservation
Monthly Current Affairs

Batillipes Chandrayaani


In News: Researchers at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) have named a newly discovered species of marine tardigrade found off the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu as Batillipes chandrayaani, in honor of the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission.

About Batillipes Chandrayaani

Batillipes Chandrayaani was discovered in the intertidal beach sediments at Mandapam in Tamil Nadu, India.

Features

  • This newly discovered species shares a similar size to other tardigrades, measuring approximately 0.15 millimeters in length and 0.04 millimeters in width.
  • It possesses a trapezoid-shaped head and is characterized by four pairs of legs equipped with sharp-tipped sensory spines.
  • Both male and female individuals exhibit similar morphology and size characteristics.
  • Batillipes Chandrayaani represents the 39th species described within the genus Batillipes.

Source: TH

Keywords: GS-3 Environment and conservation
Monthly Current Affairs

Shaksgam Valley