Editorial Note

Indian Republic @70 (People who steered 's founding document)

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar: A scholar of law, economics, sociology Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer,” Ambedkar said about him. and political science, BR Ambedkar was born in 1891 in the K. M. Munshi: The lawyer, educationist and writer was born Central Provinces at a time when people from oppressed in 1887 in Gujarat and spent his initial years as a lawyer castes faced formidable barriers in education and jobs. before jumping into politics. In the Constituent Assembly, Nevertheless, Ambedkar earned doctorates from Columbia he was a member of 11 committees—the highest University and the London School of Economics before number for any person. plunging into Indian politics and organising the lower After Independence, he became the agriculture minister castes. and then the governor of . A prolific writer in Often called the Father of the Constitution, Ambedkar Gujarati, English and Hindi, he founded the Bharatiya was the head of the drafting committee and India's first Vidya Bhavan and was one of the founding members of law minister. Swatantra Party.

Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar: Born in 1883 in the erstwhile Jaipal Singh: A politician, writer and athlete, Jaipal Singh , Ayyar was responsible for key sections Munda was born in 1903 near Ranchi and emerged as one of the Constitution, and on whom praise was heaped by BR of the most vocal advocates for India's tribal communities Ambedkar. The son of a priest, Ayyar studied history and in the Constituent Assembly. He spent his childhood then law, quickly becoming a leading member of the looking after cattle but academic brilliance saw him Madras bar. graduate from the University of Oxford, before joining the He was knighted in 1932 and was the advocate general of Indian Civil Services. the Madras Presidency from 1929 to 1944. He was invited to He was also a gifted hockey player and part of the Indian the Constituent Assembly by Jawaharlal Nehru for his legal team that lifted the Olympic gold in 1928. expertise. He was part of nine committees, including the He became president of the Adivasi Mahasabha in 1939 drafting committee. and was among the first to articulate the demand for a “There were in the drafting committee men bigger, better separate tribal homeland of Jharkhand. and more competent than myself such as my friend Sir In the Constituent Assembly, he was part of three https://t.me/UPSC_PDF Website ➡ https://upscpdf.com https://t.me/UPSC_PDF

committees and called for greater representation Kazi Syed Karimuddin: Born in 1899 in , from tribes, and said the government should Karimuddin studied at the Aligarh Muslim University and concentrate on welfare of the marginalised community. became a noted criminal lawyer.

Jawaharlal Nehru: India's first prime minister and one He was a prominent member of the Congress and was a of its tallest leaders of the freedom struggle, Jawaharlal member of legislative assembly of the erstwhile Central Nehru was a barrister. He was among MK Gandhi's Provinces. He was also a member of the closest associates and one of the leading members of the from 1954 to 1958.

Constituent assembly who chaired three important He is remembered for having articulated the need for committees. As prime minister for 17 years, he steered protecting the privacy of an individual by moving an the country's economy and foreign policy, while also amendment to protect individuals from unreasonable giving direction to its education policy. search-and-seizure, on the lines of the American Begum Aizaz Rasul: The only Muslim woman member of Constitution. This was probably the first time that the the Constituent Assembly, Rasul was born in 1909 in right to privacy was articulated in the Constituent to a branch of the royal family of Malerkotla in Assembly. His amendment received some support from Punjab. She was one of a handful of women to fight the BR Ambedkar but the right to privacy did not find an 1937 election and get elected from present day Uttar explicit place in the Constitution at the time.

Pradesh. Rajendra Prasad: The staunch Gandhian and Congress She was staunchly against separate electorates for stalwart from Bihar was the president of the Muslims and is credited with having turned the opinions Constituent Assembly and the first President of of some more conservative members; and a great independent India. Born in Swan in 1884, he spent his believer in the Constitution. college years in Calcutta before returning home and

“As a woman, I have very great satisfaction in the fact that nurturing a student movement. no discrimination will be made on account of sex…I am K. T. Shah: A leading advocate and economist, Shah was sure women can look forward to equality of opportunity appointed by the Congress as the general secretary of under the new Constitution,” she said in a speech in the National Planning Committee in 1938 under the November 1948. chairperson J.L. Nehru. The committee aimed to tackle

She also headed the Indian Women's Hockey unemployment and focus on industrialisation. Federation for two decades. In the Constituent Assembly, he was a part of two

Vallabhbhai Patel: The first deputy prime minister and committees and two sub-committees. He is home minister of India was born in 1875 in Gujarat. He remembered for two attempts at including the word practised as a top barrister in Ahmedabad before taking 'secular' in the Constitution – both of which were the plunge in the freedom struggle. Patel was one of M.K. rejected by the assembly. Gandhi's trusted lieutenants who led the Salt Satyagraha He was a strong votary of states' rights and argued that from the front, and was one of the most vocal states should not be seen as secondary to the Union proponents of the Quit India Movement. Patel was government. He also argued that the freedom of the chairman of two committees, and member of two others. press be explicitly mentioned in the Constitution. Shah He was also credited with uniting 565 princely states into was also the principal opponent of Rajendra Prasad in the Union. the first presidential election of India in 1952.

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Chairperson and Managing Director (CMD) : Dear Students, Mr. V.P. Gupta Chief Executive Officer : Abhishek Gupta FOCUS is the Study Circle's monthly publication of contemporary issues Executive Editor : Ritesh Kumar Singh and current affairs analysis. It is in fact a collective effort, by experienced Editorial Team : Ritesh Kumar Singh, Gajanan Dwivedi, educators in varied themes, of identifying current affairs in light of the Naweed Akhter, Sanjeev Kumar Pandey, Jasmine Sokhi, M Burhanuddin, Vrinda Gupta, Mangal Singh, Nagendra UPSC syllabus, supplementing them with background information, Pratap, Pradip Singh, Basava Uppin, Shubhangi Sharma, explaining their related dimensions, lending them a generalist viewpoint Jaikrit Vatsal, Michael Suren, Preeti Kaushik, Pallavi Sarda, Arun Bhardwaj, Vaibhav Mishra, Sagar Chourasia and thus producing critical notes for the preparation of General Studies' Design and Production : Rohit Rajput, Deepti Gupta, syllabus. Khurshid Alam The purpose of Focus is to expound the applied nature of The publication, as the name suggests, focuses solely on issues which are General Studies to Civil Services aspirants thereby making relevant to the factual as well as applied aspects of the General Studies' them aware of the real demand of UPSC exam. syllabus. That is how Focus covers all anticipated issues and themes for the The sources relied for selection and analysis of issues are: 1. The Hindu, The Hindu (Sunday) upcoming Civil Services Examination (CSE). 2. The Indian Express 3. The Times of India Features 4. Asian Age 5. The Tribune Part One | Current Affairs Analysis 6. The Economic Times 7. Hindu Business Line n This month edition covers analysis of news from the 8. Frontline immediately preceding month. 9. Economic and Political Weekly 10. IDSA n All news/issues are categorized and clubbed syllabus-wise 11. BBC (International Relations, Polity & Governance, Science & Technology, 12. Yojana 13. Kurukshetra Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude and so on) for efficient study. 14. Down to Earth n Background information has been added to provide context. n Related and Additional information-dimensions have been explained to add depth to your understanding. n Maps and figures have been provided for associative and retentive learning. HEAD OFFICE & NEW DELHI CAMPUS n 309, Kanchanjunga Building, Barakhamba Road, Connaught Practice Questions Place, New Delhi-110 001 Tel : 011 – 4078 6050, 23317293, 23318135/36, 23738906/07 Part Two | Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude BENGALURU CAMPUS n 2nd Floor, AKS Plaza, 10 Industrial Layout, Coverage from varied sources Jyoti Niwas College (JNC) Road, 5th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru – 560 095 (Karnataka) Tel : 080 – 255 35536/ 37/ 38/ 39, 9916035536 Part Three | Essays for you n JAIPUR CAMPUS Selected essays from Rau's GSI students 3rd Floor, UDB Corporate Tower (Nawal Tower), A-1. J.L.N. Marg, Near Fortis Hospital, Jaipur – 302017 Tel : 0141 – 4106050/57, 2722050 For further understanding or discussion in any topic, please consult your respective professors. email : [email protected]

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part ONE CORRIGENDUM 15 PRACTICE QUESTIONS 16 Current Affairs Analysis 17 01 CONSTITUTION, POLITY AND GOVERNANCE INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II (Main) # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II (Main) SUPREME COURT ON INTERNET SHUTDOWN IN J&K IRAN CRISIS #Rights 17 #Geopolitics 02 BRU REFUGEES DECLINING US HEGEMONY (OR CHANGING WORLD # Schedule 20 ORDER) #Geopolitics 04 COMPETITION COMMISSION # Act #Regulation 20 OPEC+ # International Organizations 05 STATE’S PREROGATIVE TO GIVE 10 PERCENT RESERVATION UNDER EWS # Provision 21 19th SCO MEET IMPORTANCE OF MAYORS IN URBAN INDIA # International Organisations 06 # Governance 22 CHINA’s ECONOMIC CORRIDORS IN INDIA’s NEIGHBOURHOOD PUBLIC ORDER, LAW & ORDER AND SECURITY OF STATE #India and its Neighbourhood 07 # Governance 23 CHINA-MYANMAR-INDIA SC ON RIGHT TO PROPERTY #India and its Neighbourhood 09 # Rights 25 INDIA AND SRI LANKA ANTICIPATORY BAIL NOT TIME BARRED – S.C. # Bilateral Relationship 11 # Rights 26 INDIA-RUSSIA RESTRICT PEOPLE HAVING CRIMINAL BACKGROUND FROM ENTERING POLITICS – EC TO SC #Bilateral Relationship 12 # Reforms 26 MAHATMA GANDHI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE JALLIKATTU #India-Africa relations #International Institutions 12 # Rights 27 BLUE DOT NETWORK MECHANISM TULU LANGUAGE # Geopolitics 13 # Schedule 29 RAISINA DIALOGUE 2020 CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX # Summits 13 # Index 30 BHASAN CHAR ISLAND TUSSLE OVER BELAGAVI # Location 13 # Administration 32 SAGARMATHA DIALOGUE INDIAN PASSPORT RANKED 84TH IN THE WORLD # India and her neighbourhood 14 # Ranking 33 IMPACT OF DOMESTIC POLICIES ON FOREIGN RELATIONS POLICE COMMISSIONERATE SYSTEM # Foreign Policy 14 # Governance 34

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DEMOCRACY INDEX DSSS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS # Index 36 #Government Policies 57 WORLD PRESS FREEDOM INDEX DIGITAL INDIA- DIGILOCKER # Index 36 #Government Policies 58 PRACTICE QUESTIONS 37 NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE PIPELINE #Infrastructure 59 39 RESTRUCTURING OF RAILWAY BOARD #Infrastructure 62 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MODEL BILATERAL INVESTMENT TREATY # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main) #Investment 63 AGRICULTURAL MARKETING REFORMS TIME TO CARE REPORT #Agriculture 39 #International Report 64 IS INDIAN ECONOMY STARING AT STAGFLATION? GLOBAL INVESTMENT TREND MONITOR REPORT #Economic Growth 42 #International Report 65 LATEST GDP ESTIMATES RATE OF INFLATION RISES TO 5 YEAR HIGH #Economic Growth 44 #Economic Indicator 66 OFF-BUDGET FINANCING PRACTICE QUESTIONS 67 #Budgeting 45 GOVERNMENT SITTING ON UNUTILISED CESS WORTH 3.9 LAKH CRORE RUPEES #Budgeting 47 69 NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION SOCIETY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE #Banking 48 # GS Paper I & GS Paper II (Main) ONLINE PLATFORM- eBkray TRANSIT-ORIENTED HUB # Banking 49 # Urbanisation 69 CHALLENGES BEFORE MAKE IN INDIA ILO CONVENTION 190 # Manufacturing 50 #Vulnerable Sections #Rights 70 END OF CAPTIVE COAL MINING BODO PEACE ACCORD 2020 # Coal Sector Reforms 51 #Regionalism 71 PRADHAN MANTRI VAYA VANDANA YOJANA SDG INDIA INDEX 2019 #Govt Policies 52 # Poverty and Development #Index 72 STATE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX 2019 PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE #Energy Sector 53 # Health 73 NATURAL GAS BASED ECONOMY GLOBAL SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX #Energy Sector 54 #Inequality #Index 74 MANDATORY HALLMARKING OF GOLD ASER REPORT 2019: EARLY YEARS #Government Policies 55 #Issues related to Education 74 NATIONAL START-UP ADVISORY COUNCIL #Government Policies 56 INDIGENOUS MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC TOOL TB # Health 74 PARIS CONVENTION ON INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY #Government Policies 56 WHO LISTS MAJOR HEALTH PRIORITIES # Health 74

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PRACTICE QUESTIONS 77 IRRAWADDY DOLPHIN #Aquatic Species 95 REDUCTION IN TIGER DEATHS 78 #Conservation 95 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ANALYSIS OF 2019 WEATHER # Climate 96 # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main) PRACTICE QUESTIONS 97 CORONAVIRUS #Health 78 NATIONAL POLICY FOR TREATMENT OF RARE DISEASES 98 #Health 79 ISRO’s 2020 TARGET HISTORY, HERITAGE & CULTURE #Space Technology 80 # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper I (Main) VYOM MITRA ELEPHANTA CAVES # Space Technology 81 #Art and Culture #Ancient India 98 INDIAN DATA RELAY SATELLITE SYSTEM BOJJANNAKONDA #Space Technology 81 #Art and Culture #Ancient India 99 GSAT-30 KALARIPAYATTU #Space Technology 82 # Art and Culture 100 SUN’S CORONA BIHU #Space Technology 82 #Art and Culture 100 CARBON NITRIDE NANO MATERIALS REGIONAL HARVEST FESTIVALS #Technology 83 # Art and Culture 101 VIRTUAL HUMAN’ NEONs KOLAMS # Technology 83 #Art and Culture 102 PRACTICE QUESTIONS 84 MOHINIYATTAM #Art and Culture 102 BIBI KA MAQBARA 86 #Art and Culture 103 GEOGRAPHY, ENVIRONMENT, BIODIVERSITY & SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER DISASTER MANAGEMENT #Medieval India 104 PRIVY PURSE # GS Paper (Prelims) and GS Paper I & III(Main) #Modern and Post-Modern India 104 AUSTRALIAN BUSH FIRE PRACTICE QUESTIONS 104 # Environment 86

E-MOBILITY MISSION # Alternative Technologies 89 106 GREEN NOD FOR OIL, GAS EXPLORATION WAIVED SECURITY # Environment Impact Assessment 91 # GS Paper III (Main) SMOG TOWERS, ANTI-SMOG GUNS #Pollution 92 INDIAN CYBER CRIME COORDINATION CENTRE (I4C) # Cyber Security 106 HAPPY SEEDER

# Pollution #Agriculture 94

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NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL # Monument 108 Part Three PRACTICE QUESTIONS 109 Essays of the month

110

MISCELLANEOUS 124

WINNERS: AUSTRALIAN OPEN, 2020 WISDOM FINDS TRUTH #Grand Slam #Tennis 110 # ETHICS QUIZ TIME SUBMITTED BY: MUSKAAN ARYA (RAU’S DELHI # General Knowledge 110 STUDENT) 125 WHAT AILS THE IAS? I MEASURE THE PROGRESS OF A COMMUNITY BY THE # Books to read 111 DEGREE OF PROGRESS WHICH WOMEN HAVE ACHIEVED # Social Issues

SUBMITTED BY: LOKESH SHARMA (RAU’S BENGALURU STUDENT) 126 Part TWO DIGITAL ECONOMY – A LEVELLER OR A SOURCE OF ECONOMIC INEQUALITY Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude # Economy #Technology SUBMITTED BY: DIVYANSHA CHOUDHARY (RAU’S DELHI STUDENT) 128 112 ROLE OF OPPOSITION IN DEMOCRACY INDIAN REPUBLIC@70 AND # DEMOCRACY 130 LESSONS FROM DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR’S CONTRIBUTIONS #PERSONALITY #ETHICS, INTEGRITY AND APTITUDE 113 CASE STUDIES FOR PRACTICE MAINS GS PAPER IV 121

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Part ONE

Current affairs analysis

logical . simple . targeted analysis & explanation of all relevant news of the month

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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II (Main)

Lead Article

IRAN CRISIS #Geopolitics

IN NEWS Iran’s top security and intelligence commander, Major Qassem Soleimani, was killed in a US drone attack in Baghdad.

The incident: General Soleimani has been killed in USA drone strike outside Baghdad airport. Other military commanders of Iran have also been killed in the attack. The attack has been claimed by USA. He was in charge of Quds Force of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard corps (IRGC). It is important to note here that the same organization had been • According to some analysts this killing is equivalent of declared a “Terrorist Organization” by USA last year. killing USA’s vice President. IMPORTANCE OF GENERAL SOLEIMANI IMPACTS OF THIS ATTACK

• He was very close to the top leadership of Iran (Supreme ►Retaliation by Iran: Leader). • Iran carried out a ballistic missile attack on air bases • He headed the intelligence gathering and military housing US forces in Iraq, in retaliation. operations. • Iran’s state television reported that the country will no • He had a massive public appeal due to his clean and larger longer abide by any of the limits set under the nuclear deal than life image. signed with six major powers in 2015. However, Iran said • He played the crucial role in Iran’s proxy wars in Syria, that its cooperation with the IAEA “will continue as before.” Yemen and Iraq. ►Instability in the Middle East: • His efforts in Syria brought down ISIS. It will have direct impact on crude oil prices. In fact, the prices • He is behind the creation of “Arc of influence” or which have started rising as soon as the reports of the attacks Iranians call “Axis of resistance” i.e. “Extending from the started trickling in. Gulf of Oman through Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon to the Domino Effect - The domino effect refers to how one action eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea” can have a knock-on effect to other related subjects. The unravelling of Iraq, the battleground of the U.S.-Iran conflict, is bound to affect Syria and Lebanon.

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International Relations

►Consequences for Lebanon Since 2003, Iraq has become the principal arena in which U.S.-Iran competition has played out in West Asia. The • Lebanon is home to Iran’s most important regional escalation of this rivalry is likely to add to its inherent fragility, collaborator, Hezbollah. Although an autonomous political once again opening up the possibility of its eventual descent player, Hezbollah takes help from Iran for financial and military support that has helped it solidify its base in into a failed state. Lebanon and confront Israel, a strong U.S. ally. Iraq is the centrepiece of the regional order that was constructed at the end of World War I. Its unravelling is • Hezbollah has acted as Iran’s foremost proxy in the Syrian bound to affect Syria and Lebanon, both suffering from state civil war and has contributed substantially to the Assad regime’s victory over rebels. Hezbollah considers Israel its debilitation, and could lead to an unstoppable domino effect that may well change the map of West Asia. foremost enemy against whom it last fought a major war in 2006. ►Implications for India

• Thus, this attack could also destabilise Lebanon politically. • Rising oil prices will lead to inflation and pressures on forex reserves. ►Consequences for Iraq • Balancing USA-IRAN • The U.S. strike that killed Soleimani took place in Iraqi territory. So, this attack directly violated Iraqi sovereignty. o Iran is not only important for energy security but it is also In addition to it, it also killed Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the an important regional player. It is crucial for our access to deputy head of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Afghanistan. and the commander of Kata’ib Hezbollah, which played a o India had to curb its relations with Iran due to ongoing leading role in the storming of the American embassy a American sanctions. But as the hostilities rise, the task will few days earlier. PMF is a coalition of Shia militias that now become even more difficult. acts as an arm of the Iraqi armed forces. In retaliation for • Diaspora: As around 8 million Indians reside in Middle Soleimani’s assassination, Iran has targeted two U.S. East and any likelihood of war would threaten their military bases again in Iraq. Thus, Iraq is central to the U.S.- livelihood; Will require a massive evacuation effort. Iran confrontation. • Shia Population in India: India has significant Shia • A sympathy wave has turned the tide of popular opinion in population (largest in the world outside Iran) and the favour of Iran as majority of citizens of Iraq are Shia possibility of some youth being radicalized against USA Muslims. cannot be ruled out. • The wave of anti-Americanism also clearly depicts the Related information: Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action fissure within the Iraqi polity between the Kurds and the Shia Arab majority. This was highlighted when the Kurdish • In 2015, Iran agreed a long-term deal on its nuclear representatives, in addition to most Sunni Arab members, programme with a group of world powers known as the boycotted the parliamentary session that passed the P5+1 - the US, UK, France, China, Russia and Germany. resolution calling for U.S. withdrawal. • It came after years of tension over Iran's alleged efforts to • This was because most Kurds consider American military develop a nuclear weapon. Iran insisted that its nuclear presence essential to safeguard their autonomy in the programme was entirely peaceful, but the international north and to continue the fight against the Islamic State community did not believe that. (IS). • Under the accord, Iran agreed to limit its sensitive nuclear • The projected removal of U.S. forces and Soleimani’s killing activities and allow in international inspectors in return for are likely to embolden IS cells in Iraq to increase their the lifting of crippling economic sanctions. terrorist attacks in the country and emerge once again as a threat to the Iraqi state and its population.

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International Relations

o The idea was to put immense pressure on Iran to force it DECLINING US renegotiate the nuclear deal.

o But Iran countered this “Maximum Pressure” by “Maximum HEGEMONY (OR Resistance” and also took following aggressive actions: CHANGING WORLD . It shot down an American drone and captured British oil tankers ORDER) . Attack on Saudi oil facilities by Houthi rebels, who are #Geopolitics closer to Iran. • Cracks in NATO: The creation and sustenance of NATO has been led by USA to counter now dysfunctional USSR. But the military alliance has come under strain in recent SOME IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GLOBAL past due to following reasons: POLITICS IN YEAR 2019 • Emergence of populist and nationalist leaders which view • China’s growing assertiveness in trade as well as in foreign these alliances as too much of commitment (Trump in policy. USA, Erdogan in Turkey and Putin in Russia). • Iran’s calculated defiance of USA. . Actions on behalf of Turkey • Emergence of Turkey as a key player in West Asia. • It created a buffer zone in bordering areas of Turkey to be • Relative decline of America’s power. guarded by combination of Russian and Turkish forces.

HOW USA HAS SHOWED ITS DOMINANCE IN PAST • Turkey has purchased S-400 missile system from Russia FEW DECADES? which led to its expulsion from F-35 (considered the most advanced fighter jet) program. • It controlled and manipulated global institutions like UN, IMF and World Bank RELATED INFORMATION: NATO

• It maneuvered international support in its favour to attack • North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is an alliance of Afghanistan and Iraq despite UN opposition. countries from North America and Europe committed to fulfilling the goals of the North Atlantic Treaty (Washington DEVELOPMENTS SUGGESTING DECLINE IN US’S treaty) signed in 1949. ABILITY TO SHAPE GLOBAL POLITICS • NATO originated after World War II to counter the • The Afghan War: expansion of Soviet Union into Central & Western Europe o The war which started in 2001 is nowhere near conclusion. through the Warsaw Pact.

o The US entered into the war with the intention of toppling • NATO’s cores tasks are: Collective defence, Crisis- the Taliban regime but lately it is actively negotiating with management & Cooperative security the later.

o The whole Afghan fiasco indicates that USA has a superior conventional power and hence it can topple any regime, OPEC+ but it lacks the prowess to stabilize the governments that it props up. The early withdrawal of USA from Afghanistan # International Organizations will leave Afghanistan troubled for a very long time.

• The Iran standoff:

o The current standoff between USA and Iran began after unilateral withdrawal of the earlier from Nuclear deal IN NEWS followed by the attack on General Soleimani. OPEC+ countries has been capping its production since 2017 to balance demand and supply of global oil market to their

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International Relations

advantage. Recently, they have decided to prolong oil output are Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, restriction. This will keep the oil prices to the higher margins. Mexico, Oman, Russia, Sudan and South Sudan. IMPLICATIONS ON INDIA

India is the third largest importer of crude oil. So, higher crude prices will adversely affect the twin deficits of the 19th SCO MEET economy (Fiscal deficit and Current Account Deficit). This will # International Organisations have spillover impact on the monetary policy and consumption & investment behavior in the economy. However, it is expected that Non-OPEC global supply may rise IN NEWS due to higher output from countries like the United States, India will invite the heads of SCO member countries including Brazil, Norway and Guyana. for the 19th Heads of Government Council meeting of ABOUT OPEC SCO scheduled to be held in India.

• OPEC is a permanent intergovernmental organization of 14 For the 1st time, India will host the SCO summit meeting this oil-exporting developing nations that coordinates and year after India took over the presidency of ‘Heads of unifies the petroleum policies of its Member Countries. Government’ council of the SCO in Tashkent meeting held in June 2019. • It was created at the Baghdad Conference in 1960, by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela. ABOUT SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANISATION

• The five Founding Members were later joined by ten other • SCO is an 8-member Eurasian economic and security bloc Members: led by China. It was founded in 2001 with China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan as its • Qatar (1961) – terminated its membership in January 2019; founding members. India and Pakistan became full time Indonesia (1962) – suspended its membership in January members in 2017 in the backdrop of Astana summit of 2009, reactivated it in January 2016, but decided to SCO in Kazakhstan. (Russia had been pushing for India’s suspend it again in November 2016; Libya (1962); United leadership since 2009). Arab Emirates (1967); Algeria (1969); Nigeria (1971); • Two permanent bodies of SCO include Secretariat, Beijing Ecuador (1973) – suspended its membership in December and Executive Committee of RATS (Regional Anti- 1992, but reactivated it in October 2007; Angola (2007); Terrorist Structure), Tashkent Gabon (1975) - terminated its membership in January 1995 but re-joined in July 2016; Equatorial Guinea (2017); and • SCO has 4 observers and 6 dialogue partners. The observer states include Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran and Congo (2018). Mongolia. The dialogue partners include Azerbaijan, • So, currently it has 14 members including five from Middle Armenia, Cambodia, Nepal, Turkey and Sri Lanka. East, two from South America and seven from Africa. SIGNIFICANCE OF SCO • OPEC's objective is to co-ordinate and unify petroleum • SCO is the largest inter-governmental organization policies among Member Countries, in order to secure fair covering 40% of the global population and more than the and stable prices for petroleum producers; an efficient, 22% of the world GDP. It is commonly seen as an eastern economic and regular supply of petroleum to consuming counter balance to NATO. nations; and a fair return on capital to those investing in the industry. • SCO is the culmination of the geopolitical centre of gravity shifting to Asia and consequent need for an alternate • OPEC had its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, in democratic world order. the first five years of its existence. This was later moved to Vienna, Austria, on September 1, 1965. MOST IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES OF SCO INCLUDE ►Promoting regional security About OPEC+: OPEC+ is a group of OPEC countries and its allies. It also includes non-OPEC oil producing countries. They • South and Central Asia faces common challenges of terrorism, extremism, and separatism.

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International Relations

• In order to tackle the common challenge of terrorism, the • Energy Security: The Central Asian region is richly Regional Anti-Terror Structure was established as a endowed with energy resources which India is trying to permanent organ in 2004. gain access to through the Chabahar port construction in • In the backdrop of Qingdao Summit 2018, India floated Iran and construction of the International North-South the idea of ‘SECURE’ which stands for ‘S’ for security for Transport Corridor. citizens, ‘E’ for economic development, ‘C’ for connectivity • Security Cooperation: RATS is increasingly viewed by in the region, ‘U’ for unity, ‘R’ for respect of sovereignty, ‘E’ India as a solution to regional security cooperation. SCO is for environmental protection increasingly being active in finding a solution to Afghan • Under RATS, a number of joint military exercises have problem which is important for security of the sub- been held including one in 2018 in Russia and ‘Sary-Arka- continent. Antiterror 2019. • Gateway to Eurasia: India’s membership in the SCO is an Resolving Border Issues: SCO has been emphasizing on opportunity for India to engage the Eurasian Economic political and diplomatic settlement of border disputes among Union (EEU) thereby Eurasian market. the member-states. • Forum for bilateral cooperation: The SCO membership offers a platform for India to engage Pakistan in anti- ►Promoting Connectivity terrorism cooperation and provide a platform to resolve • In order to promote connectivity through people-to-people their differences. contact, India has emphasized on promotion of tourism. India has repeatedly opposed the Belt and Road Initiative of • Accordingly, SCO has declared 8 important sites as 8 China in the SCO forum citing sovereignty issues arising out wonders of SCO under which Statue of Unity on the bank of CPEC. of river Narmada was declared as one of the 8 wonders of SCO. The Eight Wonders of the SCO are: 1) India — the Statue of Unity CHINA’s ECONOMIC 2) Kazakhstan — the Archaeological Landscape of Tamgaly 3) China — The Daming imperial palace complex CORRIDORS IN INDIA’s 4) Kyrgyzstan — Lake Issyk-Kul 5) Pakistan — The Great Mughals’ heritage at Lahore NEIGHBOURHOOD 6) Russia — The Golden Ring cities #India and its Neighbourhood 7) Tajikistan — The Palace of Nowruz 8) Uzbekistan — the Poi Kalon complex IN NEWS ►Economic Integration To embark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of • Given the size of the region which is home to 40% of world diplomatic ties, the Chinese president has visited Myanmar. population and more than 20% of world GDP, SCO is seen He promised to turn a region that was once known as the as an alternative to current global financial mechanisms. “back door” to China into a “highway” to the Bay of Bengal by • Accordingly, a number of proposals, including the creation launching multiple projects under China-Myanmar Economic of the Council for the Development of Digital Economy and Corridor. The CMEC, in turn, is being presented as a critical setting up of SCO Development Bank (SDB) and SCO element of Beijing’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. Development Fund (SDF) are being floated by the members. GEOPOLITICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF CMEC ►Importance for India Like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that connects Beijing’s far western province of Xinjiang to Karachi India’s security, geopolitical, strategic and economic interests are closely intertwined with developments in the Central and Gwadar on the Arabian Sea, the CMEC to the Bay of Asian region. Bengal has begun to define the changing economic geography on India’s eastern flank.

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2. Myanmar-China Border Economic Cooperation Zones, and 3. New urban development of Yangon City Among the major infrastructure projects under consideration are the development of a special economic zone and a deep- sea port at Kyaukpyu. And the construction of a railway line from the China border to Mandalay in central Myanmar.

And between the two is the China-Nepal Economic Corridor (CNEC) which was unveiled last year. It links Tibet to Nepal Instead of seeing itself in irreconcilable competition with and knocks at the doors of the Gangetic plain. Beijing in Myanmar, India should focus on making more effective contribution to Myanmar’s development and security. In tune with it, India can bring fresh energy to the dormant dialogue with China on BCIM corridor involving Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar. With this, India can reap the economic benefits of the corridor along with coping China’s new strategic salience in the Bay of Bengal.

CHINA-MYANMAR-INDIA #India and its Neighbourhood

IN NEWS Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Myanmar, the first visit of a Together the three corridors underline the economic rise Chinese premier since 2001. The two countries signed 33 of China and its impact on the subcontinent and its agreements including major infrastructure projects that will immediate periphery. It is in tune with China’s Policy of enable China to make deeper inroads in the Indian Ocean encircling India from all sides. CMEC opens up and cope with Region. China’s new strategic salience in the Bay of Bengal. GROWING CHINESE INFLUENCE IN MYANMAR China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC): It includes ►Background infrastructure projects of connectivity such as roads, railways, • Since 2015 the relations between China and Myanmar is electric power and energy based on three pillars, namely, on the upswing. China is successfully increasing its 1. Kyauk Phyu Special Economic Zone, influence in Myanmar in the recent times.

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• In the current visit China has signed a number of Mandalay, terminating in Kyaukphyu port. Another line agreements with Myanmar for consolidation and will also be built from Mandalay to Yangon. implementation of major infrastructure projects including rail-road projects, industrial and power projects, oil and gas pipelines, construction of deep sea port etc.

►China-Myanmar Economic Corridor • China and Myanmar have signed a number of agreements for the implementation of the China Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) which is akin to CPEC.

• CMEC, a part of China’s ambitious BRI, is a giant connectivity project linking the landlocked China’s Yunnan province to Indian Ocean Region. ►Alternate route to Strait of Malacca • China has also built the strategic 1,060 km gas and oil pipelines across Myanmar linking Kunming in Yunnan province and Kyaukphyu deep seaport in Indian Ocean Region.

• The Kyaukpyu deep seaport is strategically critical for ►China’s role in Rohingya crisis China as it would provide it with an alternative to Straits of • Amidst the international criticism against Aung San Suu Kyi Malacca, which is currently their lifeline for energy over Rohingya issue at the ICJ, China has been brokering a transportation. negotiation between Myanmar and Bangladesh for repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar in a phased manner.

• Thus, Myanmar’s dependence on China has risen in the recent times.

INDIA’S CONCERNS

►Against CMEC

• India is fundamentally opposed to Belt and Road Initiative of China due to sovereignty concerns over CPEC.

• Further, the CMEC runs parallel to the Bangladesh-China- India and Myanmar Initiative (BCIM), which is said to remain a non-starter.

►Impact in Indian Ocean Region (IOR)

• The construction of the Kyaukpyu port is a major concern ►Rail-road project given that it is a gateway for China to eastern flank of IOR.

• China and Myanmar also signed an agreement to conduct • India is already wary of increasing Chinese presence in IOR feasibility studies for a number of rail-road projects along through its ‘String of Pearls” policy with Gwadar in the west the CMEC in October 2019. and Hambantota in the south. Now with Kyaukpyu which

• The project involves high-speed railway line from Kunming could end up being a “dual use" facility it will complete a to Muse on the Myanmar-China border and from there to full circle. It will need India to step up its security capabilities to monitor Chinese activities in the Bay of Bengal.

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►Impact in North East INDIA AND SRI LANKA • India has recently been stepping up engagement with Myanmar to curb cross-border insurgency through a # Bilateral Relationship number of initiatives including Operation Sunshine 1 and 2. • Increased Chinese presence in Myanmar could mean CONTEXT constraints on India’s deepening cooperation with The article highlights about the plight of Tamil Repatriates who Myanmar. were brought back to India from Sri Lanka, after India and Sri Lanka signed two pacts namely: Sirimavo-Shastri Pact, • This could have a serious impact given the proximity to October 1964 and Sirimavo-Gandhi Pact, June 1974. ‘Golden Triangle’ which is the global hub of drug trafficking They are those Tamilians who were taken to Sri Lanka by the particularly trafficking of heroin and amphetamine British to work in the tea, coffee and coconut plantations. stimulants like Ecstasy, Methamphetamine, Synthetic These repatriates worked mostly as labourers in Farms & Tea drugs from China. Estates and remained marginalised, impoverished and ►Impact in ASEAN landless. Further, they are also socially discriminated and have to mostly stay in Repatriated Colonies in and • China’s influence on ASEAN is said to increase if Myanmar Kerala. They are socially discriminated because they are grows closer to China. China is already influential in ASEAN believed to be LTTE supporters. due to its overpowering dominance over Laos and Now, they also have the new fear of being unable to prove Cambodia. their citizenship due to lack of documents. • This is detrimental to as it is imperative for India to 1964 - SIRIMAVO-SHASTRI PACT increase its trade with ASEAN. • It was agreement between the government of India and • Besides India’s capacity to negotiate particularly in matters the government of Ceylon on the status and future of related to RCEP will further be affected. persons of Indian origin in Ceylon by exchange of letters.

• Further addition of Myanmar will weaken ASEAN’s power • The declared objective of this agreement is that all persons to take any tough anti-China postures on issues like the of Indian origin in Ceylon who have not been recognised South China Sea dispute. This is said to affect India’s Indo- either as citizens of Ceylon or as citizens of India should become citizens either of Ceylon or of India. Pacific construct that advocates rule-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. • The number of such persons is approximately 975,000 as of date. This figure does not include illicit immigrants and WAY FORWARD FOR INDIA Indian passport holders. • India’s best bet in Myanmar is the Kaladan multi modal • 300,000 of these persons together with the natural transport project which envisages linking of the Sittwe increase in that number will be granted Ceylon citizenship port of Myanmar with India’s north eastern state of by the Government of Ceylon; the Government of India will accept repatriation to India of 525,000 of these persons Mizoram by upgradation of the Kaladan river waterways together with the natural increase in that number. The and construction of all-weather roads in Myanmar and Government of India will confer citizenship on these Mizoram. persons.

• India should continue to expedite the completion of • The status and future of the remaining 150,000 of these projects under KMMT as the costs have already escalated persons will be the subject matter of a separate given the delays. agreement between the two governments. • The Government of India will accept repatriation of the persons to be repatriated within a period of 15 years from

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the date of this Agreement according to a programme as • An official highlight that these numbers clearly reveal the evenly phased as possible. gap between the wishes of the people concerned and the arbitrary decisions of the two governments for their 1974 - SIRIMAVO-GANDHI PACT repatriation. • Later, a follow-up agreement called the Sirimavo-Gandhi Pact was signed between Prime Ministers Bandaranaike SUSPICION & STIGMA and Indira Gandhi for the repatriation of 75,000 more • The repatriate communities have also faced challenges in persons of Indian origin. integrating with the local communities.

• Following this, Sri Lanka again agreed to grant citizenship • As a majority of the repatriates who were first sent to Sri to another 75,000 persons of Indian origin. Lanka were Dalits from some of the most impoverished

• Of the remaining persons, Sri Lanka Government will grant regions of Tamil Nadu, their return to India and citizenship to 50%, that is, 75,000 with the natural increase rehabilitation in the Nilgiris was met with stern disapproval in that number; and the Government of India will accept from the local communities. repatriation to India of 50%, that is 75,000 together with • These repatriates were also thought to be LTTE supporters the natural increase in that number. The Government of who wanted to create a separate country of Tamils in Sri India will confer citizenship on these persons. Lanka. • The repatriation of the 75,000 persons to India will • Such social stigma became a challenge for the children of commence after the repatriation of the 525,000 persons such repatriates to seek education and better referred to in clause (3) of the original agreement has been opportunities in life outside Nilgiris where they were re- completed and will be phased over a period of 2 years. settled.

• The grant of Sri Lanka citizenship to the 75,000 persons • Now, the conditions have become better for those who will commence after the 300,000 persons referred in worked in tea and coffee plantations and even some original agreement of 1964 have been granted citizenship repatriates own their land and educate their children in and will be in the ratio of 1:1 to the number repatriated to college.

India. • But those who were working in spinning mills, were forced CONSEQUENCE OF THE AGREEMENTS to move out to seek better opportunities after closing of such spinning mills and still lead an impoverished life. • These two agreements were signed by the two governments without taking into consideration the views DOCUMENTS LOST of the affected people. When invitations for applications • The repatriates today have new worries. While they face an for Sri Lankan and Indian citizenship were thrown open, uncertain future due to the fall in tea prices, a bigger the overwhelming majority applied for Sri Lankan concern is the government’s proposal to rollout the citizenship. National Population Register and the National Register of • Though Sri Lanka had earmarked only 4 lakhs for Sri Citizens, which may require them to furnish documents to Lankan citizenship, the number of applicants was as high prove their citizenship.

as 6.25 lakh. • Many repatriates misplaced or lost their documents in • There was a shortfall in applications for Indian citizenship transit several decades ago. Some others recently lost as only 4 lakh people applied in the prescribed period, their documents in the rains that triggered landslips and though 6 lakh people were to be given Indian citizenship. floods in the hills.

• Subsequently, another 87,000 people whose applications • Some of the repatriates were cheated as when they first for Sri Lankan citizenship were rejected also applied for arrived in India, brokers who promised to re-settle them Indian citizenship, pulling up the total number of people took away their travel documents and made a lot of who applied for Indian citizenship to 4.87 lakh. money by applying for loans and settlement packages on • This agreement did not extend beyond 31st October, 1981. behalf of the repatriates. But the repatriation process continued till 1984. NEED FOR CLARITY FROM GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ON REPATRIATES

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• The repatriated communities in the Nilgiris, who comprise roadmap for creating new synergies between India and of about a third of the total population, are now a major Russia. political force as they can bargain politically. ABOUT INTERNATIONAL NORTH–SOUTH • If they are unable to prove their citizenship, they could be TRANSPORT CORRIDOR (INSTC) deprived of their right to vote or their right to government benefits and this might become a problem for the INSTC is the shortest multimodal transportation route government. linking the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf via Iran to Russia and Europe. It was initiated by Russia, India and Iran • Another problem is that the police and even the in September 2000 to establish transportation networks government have little or no understanding of the among the member states and to enhance connectivity with difference between Sri Lankan Tamils, who are refugees in the land locked region of Central Asia. The North-South India, and repatriates who were granted Indian Citizenship. Transport Corridor is an ancient route that connected South Thus, there is need of clarity from the government on what Asia with North Europe for centuries. awaits the members of the community who have lost their travel documents and cannot prove their Indian Citizenship. It will substantially reduce time taken and cost for transport of goods between India and Eurasia once fully functional and

increase economic activities between India and the resource- INDIA-RUSSIA rich Russia as well as markets of Europe. #Bilateral Relationship

IN NEWS The 1st edition of Ganga-Volga Dialogue of Civilizations 2020 between India and Russia was held in New Delhi. It was based on the theme “Connectivity”. Apart from the well-known connectivity proposals to link Russia and India like the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the concept of Connectivity also included greater academic and economic exchanges, as well as Digital Connectivity.

THE DIALOGUE TOUCHED UPON FOUR BROAD THEMES IN THE CONTEXT OF GANGA AND VOLGA • India-Russia bilateral cooperation; viz. education, culture The role of the two major river systems of the Ganga and and civilization; Volga in providing the framework for a host of activities was • Entrepreneurship and innovation; highlighted. It includes culture and civilization; development • Trade routes including inland navigation; and of economic activity using riverine systems; and connecting people from the two river basins. • India, Russia and Greater Eurasia. RIVER VOLGA The maiden Ganga Volga Dialogue was conceptualized during the October 2018 India-Russia Summit between River Volga is the longest river of Europe. It is considered to President Putin and Prime Minister Modi. be the principal waterway of western Russia and the historic cradle of the Russian state. Its basin, sprawling across about The need for the Dialogue was prioritised to contribute to two-fifths of the European part of Russia, contains almost half greater people-to-people exchanges between India and of the entire population of the Russian Republic. Russia. The Dialogue would facilitate identification of

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The convention centre has been designed as a spacious, modern and eco-friendly facility which includes a 2,000 capacity Plenary Hall. It aims to witness high-level and wide- ranging participation from African Union member states and other high-level conventions. The construction of MGICC was completed in record time despite several logistical and technical challenges.

The establishment of the Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) is a landmark for India-Niger friendship. It is a symbol of India's firm commitment towards Africa. The fourth edition of the India-Africa summit will be held in New Delhi later this year.

The recommendation of the Dialogue was to institutionalize the process, so that the Ganga Volga Dialogue could become a Track 1.5 platform for enhancing the special and privileged BLUE DOT NETWORK strategic partnership between India and Russia.

MECHANISM # Geopolitics MAHATMA GANDHI INTERNATIONAL

CONVENTION CENTRE IN NEWS #India-Africa relations #International During the talks in Washington, India and US had agreed to “promote practical cooperation in infrastructure development, Institutions counter-terrorism, cyber security and regional connectivity.” To that end, with India refusing to join China’s BRI, there have been efforts to get India to join the U.S.-led Blue Dot Network. BLUE DOT NETWORK

• The U.S., Japan and Australia unveiled the Blue Dot Network at Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Bangkok. The initiative is not intended to be a financing pipeline. Instead, it will evaluate infrastructure projects according to standards set by a steering committee of government agencies, development finance institutions and the private sector. Worthy projects will be awarded a Blue Dot, piecing together a global map of quality infrastructure undertakings.

• The network is “ratings mechanism” that would grade infrastructure projects in the Indo-Pacific region on External Affairs Minister of India and the President of Niger different parameters to ensure transparency and is seen jointly inaugurated the first Mahatma Gandhi International as a counterbalance to China’s extensive Belt and Road Convention Centre (MGICC) at Niamey in Western African Initiative (BRI). state of Niger to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi.

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• However, unlike the BRI, the BDN would not offer public Delhi to discuss the cooperation on a wide range of funds or loans for the project. Moreover, with no ASEAN pertinent international policy matters. It is India’s flagship leaders picking up the cause so far, it does not look like the annual geopolitical and geostrategic conference. network will gain much traction in the region. • The conference is hosted by the Observer Research • Blue Dot could benefit from growing concern about Foundation in collaboration with the Government of countries like Sri Lanka and Tajikistan becoming India, Ministry of External Affairs.

unsustainably indebted to China from their Belt and Road It is considered to be the Indian version of Shangri La projects. Dialogue which is ‘Track-1’ inter-governmental security forum • India is neither part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nor of 28 Asia Pacific states hosted by an independent think-tank, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. It is the International Institute for Strategic Studies, Asia also absent from the Indo-Pacific Business Forum created (Singapore).

by the U.S., Japan and Australia as is from the Blue Dot network. BHASAN CHAR ISLAND RAISINA DIALOGUE 2020 # Location

# Summits IN NEWS It is a silt island in Bangladesh which is built to accommodate 100,000 Rohingya Muslims who have fled waves of violent

persecution in their native Myanmar. IN NEWS Bangladesh is a low-lying delta nation. The island, 21 miles (34 The 5th edition of the Raisina Dialogue was held at New Delhi kilometres) from the mainland, surfaced only 20 years ago and where it brought together 700 international participants from was never inhabited. over 100 countries (of which 80 are from Africa). It is one of the largest gathering of its kind. The theme for this year was “21@20 Navigating the Alpha Century”.

Major Highlights: The dialogue covered 5 thematic pillars namely:

1) The nationalist impulses challenging global institutions and collective action.

2) The debate on the global trading architecture.

3) The role of technologies in determining political, economic and military power.

4) The global development agenda.

5) The state-individual relationship in the age of digital communities and cyberspace. ABOUT RAISINA DIALOGUE

• The Raisina Dialogue is a multilateral conference committed to addressing the most challenging issues

facing the global community. Every year, global leaders in

policy, business, media and civil society are hosted in New

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ABOUT ROHINGYAS ‘Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of the Humanity’. Rohingya are an ethnic group from Myanmar, mostly Muslims, who are based in Rakhine province of West • For the 2020 April dialogue, invitations have been sent to Myanmar. Myanmar has not granted them full citizenship over 150 foreign guests including heads of government and they are classified as “resident foreigners” or as and heads of states, Ministers, business leaders, media, “associate citizens.” They speak a dialect of Bengali as against members of multilateral organisations, think tank experts, Burmese. Most of them eke out a meagre existence in the academics, civil society leaders and activists. world’s largest and most densely populated refugee camp, Considering the large number of dignitaries who will attend Kutupalong, near Cox’s Bazar. the dialogue, the event is expected to emerge as a venue for bilateral interaction among leaders.

SAGARMATHA DIALOGUE # India and her neighbourhood IMPACT OF DOMESTIC POLICIES ON FOREIGN

IN NEWS RELATIONS Nepal has invited the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan, along with several other heads of governments and states, for # Foreign Policy the Sagarmatha Dialogue which will start from 2nd of April, 2020. IN NEWS ABOUT SAGARMATHA SAMBAAD – DIALOGUE The decision to amend Article 370 of the Constitution on • The Sagarmatha Sambaad is a multi-stakeholder dialogue Jammu and Kashmir, the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, forum committed to deliberate on the most prominent or the CAA, 2019, and the proposal for the National Register of issues of global, regional and national significance. Citizens (NRC) have been called into question by several • As a platform, it brings together people from all walks of countries and international organisations. life from broader spectrum, having the stake, influence INTERNATIONAL FALLOUTS and capacity to shape and drive the discourse for positive change. • The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights called the CAA “fundamentally • The Sambaad (dialogue) is named after the world’s tallest discriminatory” mountain Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) which is also a symbol of friendship and is meant to promote the notions of • The United States, arguably India’s best friend today, common good and collective wellbeing of humanity. urged the country to “protect the rights of its religious minorities in keeping with India’s Constitution and • The Sambaad was established in 2019 as a permanent democratic values”. global forum and is headquartered in Kathmandu. • The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) referred to • It is a joint collaborative initiative of Nepal’s Ministry of CAA as not only “highly discriminatory and arbitrary” but Foreign Affairs, Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) and also contrary to New Delhi’s “obligations under the Policy Research Institute (PRI) to host a permanent international human rights laws”. biennial global dialogue. It is expected to be the biggest diplomatic initiative in Nepal’s recent history. • India’s External Affairs Minister pulled out of a meeting with senior members of the U.S. Congress after U.S. • The first edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad will be held in lawmakers refused New Delhi’s demands to exclude Kathmandu from 2 to 4 April 2020 featuring the theme Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal — she has been critical of the Indian government’s policies in Kashmir — the

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International Relations

message that went out was that India is unable to justify its • If Indian government continues the path of risking own policies. Or that it does not bother with what others diplomatic capital at the cost of domestic policies, then its think of it. stature in the world and its ability as a soft power may be impacted. It may not be able to mould responses from • The same issues found voice in the U.K. Parliament. responsible and powerful states. RELATION WITH BANGLADESH • A great power, among other things, is a state that is willing • In the past decade, and especially after completing the to live up to certain global expectations and has the ability Land Boundary Agreement, Dhaka and New Delhi had and willingness to help with system maintenance. India worked hard on building connectivity, opening energy must not fall far behind in this regard. routes, trade and developing travel links. • Great powers have traditionally been supportive of India’s • By clubbing Bangladesh with Pakistan and Afghanistan on rise in the global order and have more or less stood by treatment of minorities, India has introduced a note of India in its pursuit of power and reputation. However, this bitterness that is hard to mistake in the bilateral might change sooner if concerns highlighted by engagement. international community are not heeded and if the • Some in Sheikh Hasina’s government have pointed out government continues on its path of domestic that the Modi government’s desire to naturalise only one preoccupations. group of immigrants from Bangladesh but castigate the • If there is change of power at Washington next election others as “illegal immigrants” will be seen in a communal with Democrats winning the Presidential polls, then it light by Bangladesh Government. might become more difficult for India to maintain steady • This will also affect India’s relation with Islamic countries relations with the US. including Arab countries as such step will be seen as • Both Moscow and Beijing will not support India either in discriminatory on grounds of religion. order to consolidate their position in the new global order. • The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation plans for a special Way Forward: Instead of fighting for domestic issues on meet on Kashmir and the CAA in April 2020, possibly in international front, India must re-focus on negotiating the Islamabad. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), GLOBAL EXPECTATIONS initiating Afghan peace process and put together her activities for new initiatives in the Indian Ocean Region.

CORRIGENDUM

Topic: INDIA AND U.S. Edition: January, 2020 Incorrect: It was mentioned that:- “India has signed only 2 of the foundational agreements, namely, GSOMIA (in 2002) and LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement)”.

Correction: India and US have already signed three US foundational agreements, namely GSOMIA (in 2002), LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement) and COMCASA in 2018. India and the U.S. signed the COMCASA on sept 6, 2018 on the side-lines of the inaugural 2+2 dialogue. Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) is yet to be signed.

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International Relations practice questions MCQs

Q.1 Consider the following statements about OPEC: 2. It finally empties its water into Black Sea. 1. It is a permanent intergovernmental organization of oil- Which of the statements given above is/are correct? exporting nations. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 2. Qatar terminated its membership in 2019. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only Q.4 Consider the following countries: (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 1. India 2. Russia 3. Kazakhstan 4. Afghanistan Q.2 Consider the following statements about 5. Sri Lanka 6. China International North–South Transport Corridor Which of the above countries are not the members of SCO? (INSTC): (a) 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 4 and 5 1. It is the shortest multimodal transportation route linking (c) 4 and 5 only (d) 5 only the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf.

2. It was initiated by USA and India. Q.5 Consider the following statements about BHASAN Which of the statements given above is/are correct? CHAR ISLAND: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. It is located on eastern side of Myanmar. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 2. It is a silt island.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Q.3 Consider the following statements about River Volga: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. It is the longest river of Europe. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

descriptive Questions

Q1. There is growing perception that the world is moving from unilateralism to multilateralism. In light of the above statement, discuss the declining hegemony of USA.

Q2. China has been brokering a negotiation between Myanmar and Bangladesh over Rohingya issue. What are its implications on India-Myanmar relations? Discuss the role that India can play over Rohingya crisis.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (c), 2 (a), 3 (a), 4(c), 5(b)

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CONSTITUTION, POLITY AND GOVERNANCE # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II (Main)

Lead Article

• Blanket ban of internet not only impacted the right of free SUPREME COURT ON speech of individuals but also impinges on their right to trade.

INTERNET SHUTDOWN IN • Lastly, the petitioners argued that the restrictions on the J&K liberties of citizens under Article 19 failed to satisfy the tests of reasonableness and proportionality as laid #Rights down by the Supreme Court in the Puttaswamy case on right to privacy. RELATED INFORMATION: K.S. PUTTASWAMY ON IN NEWS LEGITIMATE RESTRICTIONS ON PRIVACY In the case of Anuradha Bhasin v Union of India & Others and • Right to Privacy is not an absolute right like other rights Ghulam Nabi Azad v Union of India & Others, Supreme Court which form part of the fundamental freedoms protected has declared that the fundamental right to freedom of speech by Part III, including the right to life and personal liberty and expression and the right to carry on trade or business under Article 21. using the Internet are constitutionally protected. This • A law which encroaches upon privacy will have to judgment came in the backdrop of the five-month-long withstand the touchstone of permissible restrictions on Internet shutdown in Kashmir. Let us understand the fundamental rights. important highlights of this judgment along with rules providing for Internet Shutdown. • In the context of Article 21, an invasion of privacy must be justified on the basis of a law which stipulates a procedure • The two petitioners Anuradha Bhasin and Ghulam Nabi which is fair, just and reasonable. Azad had filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court of India under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution claiming • The law must also be valid with reference to the violation of fundamental rights primarily under Article 19 encroachment on life and personal liberty under Article 21. of the Indian Constitution. • An invasion of life or personal liberty must meet the three- • Further the petitioners also argued that no reason existed fold requirement of for blanket ban of communication in the former state 1. Legality - which postulates the existence of law; including shutting down of internet services and asked 2. Need - defined in terms of a legitimate state aim; and state to show the rules under which telecommunications including internet were banned in the former state. 3. Proportionality - which ensures a rational nexus between the objects and the means adopted to achieve them

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SC’s OBSERVATIONS WERE BASED ON THE occupation, trade or business over the internet is a part FOLLOWING: of the fundamental rights under Part III of the Constitution? A. Whether the government can claim exemption from producing all orders passed under Section 144 Cr. PC and • The Court highlighted that Fundamental Rights provided in other orders under Suspension Rules? the Constitution are prescribed as Negative List so that no person could be denied such right until Constitution itself • The Court held that Article 19 of the Indian Constitution prescribes such limitations (except Article 21A). mandates right to information as an important facet of the right to freedom of speech and expression. A • The Court observed that there was a need to distinguish democracy which is sworn to transparency and between internet as a tool and the freedom of expression accountability, necessarily mandates the production of through the internet. In Shreya Singhal v Union of India, it orders as it is right of the individual to know. was acknowledged that freedom of speech and expression includes the right to disseminate information to a wide • Moreover, fundamental rights itself connote a qualitative section of population and thereby internet becomes one requirement wherein the state has to act in a responsible such medium through which information is spread to a manner to uphold Part III of the Constitution and not to wider section of the society. take away these rights in an implied fashion or in a casual or cavalier manner. • The development of jurisprudence in protecting the medium of expression can be traced to the case of Indian • Supreme Court quoted a number of Jurists to drive the Express v Union of India wherein the Supreme Court point that state cannot make a law in secret and withhold declared that the freedom of print medium is covered such law from its citizens and also refuse to produce such under the freedom of speech and expression. This law when demanded. protection was further expanded to airwaves as a medium  LON L. FULLER – “There can be no greater legal monstrosity to disseminate information. than a secret statute.” • Thus, previous SC judgments have accepted and  JEREMY BENTHAM – He spoke about open justice as the recognised freedom of speech and expression using “keenest spur to exertion.” different medium of communication. In this regard, the  JAMES MADISON – “A popular government, without popular Supreme Court recognised that expressions through information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a prologue to internet has gained contemporary relevance and is one of a farce or a tragedy; or perhaps both. Knowledge will forever the major means of information diffusion. govern the ignorance and a people who mean to be their own • Therefore, freedom of speech and expression through the governors must arm themselves with the power which medium of Internet is an integral part of Article 19(1)(a) knowledge gives.” and accordingly any restrictions on the same must be in • Supreme Court asked the central government to produce accordance with Article 19(2) of the Constitution. orders of internet shutdown which the centre did not • The Court further observed that internet has become a produce earlier claiming exemption under Suspension very important tool for trade and commerce. The Rules, but later produced certain sample orders and cited globalisation of the Indian Economy and the rapid difficulty in producing all the orders of internet advances in information and technology have opened vast suspension. business avenues and transformed India as a global IT • On this, the Court held that it was not a valid ground to hub. So, there are certain trades which are completely refuse production of orders of internet shutdown before dependent on internet. Such a right through internet also the state. The Court said that State has to give specific fosters consumerism and availability of choice. ground of privilege which overrides public interest. • Therefore, the freedom of trade and commerce through the medium of internet is also constitutionally protected B. Whether the freedom to speech and expression and under Article 19(1)(g), subject to the restrictions provided freedom to practice any profession or to carry on any under Article 19(6).

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• Note* - It is important to note that the Supreme Court did  Orders for internet suspension under Suspension Rules, not specifically declare Right to Access Internet as a 2017 must adhere to the principle of Proportionality and Fundamental Right but rather mentioned that right to must not extend beyond necessary duration. freedom of speech and expression and right to carry any  Any orders suspending internet is subject to judicial review trade or business using the medium of internet is by the Review Committee to be done within 7 days of the constitutionally protected under Article 19(1)(a) and Article Order. 19(1)(g) respectively.  It has directed state as well as concerned authorities to

allow government websites, localised/limited e-banking C. Whether the Government’s action of prohibiting facilities, hospital services and other essential services in internet access is valid? those regions where internet is not likely to be restored • With respect to prohibiting internet access completely, the immediately. Supreme Court elaborated on “Reasonable Restrictions” • Thus, considering the test of reasonableness and as provided under Article 19(2) and Article 19(6) of the Proportionality, Supreme Court did not accept Constitution and the Proportionality Principle used to government’s contention of complete ban on determine the appropriateness of Reasonable Restrictions. telecommunication including internet. The Court held that • Reasonable restrictions connote that limitation imposed government should consider other options or alternatives on a person on the enjoyment of his rights or liberties under Article 19(2) so that freedom of speech and should not be arbitrary or of an excessive nature beyond expression is affected in the least possible manner. what is required in the larger public interest. OVERALL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SC JUDGEMENT • By Proportionality, it is understood whether while • Freedom of speech and expression through the medium regulating exercise on fundamental rights, the appropriate of internet is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) of or least restrictive choice of measures has been made by the Constitution. The restrictions on internet have to the legislature or the administrator so as to achieve the follow the principles of proportionality under Article 19(2). object of the legislation or the purpose of the administrative order. Further, in the test of proportionality, • Freedom of trade and commerce through internet is also a it is also to be seen that the administrative authority constitutionally protected right under Article 19(1)(g). maintain a proper balance between adverse effects which • Suspension of internet for indefinite period not the legislation or the administrative order may have on the permissible. It can only be for a reasonable duration and rights, liberties or interests of the people keeping in mind periodic review should be done. the purpose which they were intended to serve. The • Government should publish all orders of prohibition to legislature and the administrative authority are however, enable affected persons to challenge the same. given an area of discretion or a range of choices but as to whether the choices made infringes the rights excessively • Prohibitory orders under Section 144 Cr.PC cannot be or not is for the Court. That is what is meant by imposed to suppress legitimate expression of opinion Proportionality. or grievance or exercise of any democratic rights.

• There is a need for peaceful and harmonious co-existence • Section 144 Cr.PC orders can be imposed when there is of balance between rights and liberties on one hand and apprehension of danger but such danger must be in the security of state on the other hand. nature of an "emergency".

• Supreme Court on Internet Suspension • While passing orders under Section 144 Cr.PC, Magistrate has to balance interests of individual rights and concerns  Any order suspending internet under 2017 Telecom of state. Suspension Rules indefinitely is not permissible and can be done for temporary purpose only. • The orders under Section 144 Cr.PC should state material facts to enable judicial review. The power should be exercised in a reasonable and bona fide manner.

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• In Tripura, they are recognised as a Particularly BRU REFUGEES Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). # Schedule SETTLEMENT OF BRU REFUGEES IN TRIPURA • On November 16, 2019, Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, scion of Tripura’s erstwhile royal family, wrote to Home Minister IN NEWS seeking the resettlement of the Bru in the state which was Displaced Bru tribals from Mizoram, living as refugees in also supported by Chief Minister of Tripura. Tripura since 1997, were allowed to permanently settle in • Under the new agreement, around 34,000 Bru refugees Tripura. This was facilitated by an agreement between will be settled in Tripura and would be given aid from the Government of India, Governments of Tripura and Mizoram Centre to help with their rehabilitation and all round and Bru-Reang representatives in New Delhi to end the 23-year development.

old Bru-Reang refugee crisis. • These refugees will get all the rights that normal residents ABOUT BRU REFUGEES of the States get and they would now be able to enjoy the benefits of social welfare schemes of Centre and State • The Brus are spread across Tripura, Mizoram and parts of governments. southern Assam are the most populous tribe in Tripura. • All cash assistance will be through Direct Benefit Transfer • Also known as Reangs in the state, they are ethnically (DBT), and the state government will expedite the opening different from the Mizos, with their own distinct language of bank accounts and the issuance of Aadhaar, permanent and dialect and form one of the 21 scheduled tribes of residence certificates, ST certificates, and voter identity Tripura. In Mizoram, they are largely restricted to Mamit cards to the beneficiaries. and Kolasib districts.

• Over two decades ago, they were targeted by the Young Mizo Association (YMA), Mizo Zirwlai Pawl (MZP), and a few ethnic social organisations of Mizoram who demanded COMPETITION that the Bru be excluded from electoral rolls in the state. COMMISSION • In 1997, following ethnic tension, around 5,000 families comprising around 30,000 Bru-Reang tribals were forced # Act #Regulation to flee Mizoram and seek shelter in Tripura.

• Since 2010, Government of India has been making sustained efforts to permanently rehabilitate these IN NEWS

refugees. The Union government has been assisting the Competition Commission has ordered an investigation into two State governments for taking the care of the refugees. alleged competition law violations by Amazon.com Inc. and Till 2014, 1622 Bru-Reang families returned to Mizoram in Walmart’s Flipkart following a review of allegations that different batches. Amazon and Flipkart were promoting some “preferred sellers” • On 3rd July, 2018, an agreement was signed between the and in turn impacting the business of other smaller sellers. Let Union government, the two State governments and us understand about the backdrop to this case and also about representatives of Bru-Reang refugees, as a result of which Competition Commission of India. the aid given to these families was increased substantially. • In this regard, CCI noted four alleged anti-competitive • There had been a sustained demand of most Bru-Reang families that they may be allowed to settle down in practices namely exclusive launch of mobile phones by the Tripura, considering their apprehensions about their e-commerce firms, promoting preferred sellers on their security. websites, deep discounting practices and prioritising some seller listings over others.

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• The order highlighted that exclusive launch of mobile phones coupled with preferential treatment to a few STATE’S PREROGATIVE TO sellers and the discounting practices create an ecosystem that may lead to an appreciable adverse effect on GIVE 10 PERCENT competition. RESERVATION UNDER ABOUT COMPETITION COMMISSION EWS • Competition Act, 2002 replaced Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, (MRTP) which was enacted in 1969. # Provision • The Competition Act was created on the basis of SVS Raghavan Committee which suggested the formation of IN NEWS Competition Law in India in 2001. The Central Government has informed the Supreme Court that • The Competition Act, 2002 derives its constitutional it would be the States’ prerogative to provide 10% economic mandate from Article 39(b) and Article 39 (c) of the reservation in government jobs and admission to education Indian Constitution. institutions as per provisions of the newly inserted Articles

• The mandate of Competition Law in India is threefold 15(6) and 16(6) of the Constitution. namely: CONSTITUTION (ONE HUNDRED AND THIRD

1. To check Anti-Competitive agreements; AMENDMENT) ACT, 2019 • The reservation of 10% will be over and above the existing 2. Prohibit Abuse of dominance by strong companies over 50 per cent reservation enjoyed by the members of weak organisations; and Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and the Other 3. To regulate Mergers and Acquisitions or Takeovers taking Backward Classes. This will take the total reservation to 60 place in the market. per cent.

• Competition Act provides for the establishment of a • The proposed reservations intends to include such Competition Commission for the following:- members who do not avail the benefits of reservation, This includes members in the general category as well as 1. To prevent practices having adverse effect on competition; members of the minority communities including Muslims, 2. To promote and sustain competition in markets; Sikhs, Buddhists, Christian and other communities who do 3. To protect the interests of consumers; and not enjoy any kind of reservation.

4. To ensure freedom of trade carried on by other • The following are the criteria to avail the benefits of reservation of 10 per cent: participants in Indian market.  Persons whose family has gross annual income of less • The Competition Commission shall consist of a than Rs. 8 lakh per annum; Chairperson and not more than six members to be  appointed by Central Government. The Chairperson and Persons possess less than 5 acres land; Members shall hold office as such for a term of five years  Have agricultural land of less than 5 acres; (not to hold office after attaining the age of 65 years) and  Have a house smaller than 1,000 square feet; shall be eligible for re-appointment.  In a municipality – a residential plot smaller than 100 • Competition Appellate Tribunal has been established to yards; hear and dispose of appeals against any direction issued  In a non-notified municipality – a residential plot of less or decision made or order passed by the Competition than 200 yards. Commission of India.

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Note* "Economically Weaker Sections" shall be notified by backward class of citizens which, in the opinion of the the State from time to time on the basis of family income and State, is not adequately represented in the services other indicators of economic disadvantage.’ under the State. ENSURING FAIR OPPORTUNITY • The Act Amends Article 16 by inserting a new provision Article 16(6) where the state may make any provision for • The directive principles of State policy contained in Article the reservation of appointments or posts in favour of any 46 of the Constitution mentions that the State shall economically weaker sections of citizens in addition to the promote with special care the educational and economic existing reservation and subject to a maximum of ten per interests of the weaker sections of the people, and, in cent. particular, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes. But, economically weaker sections of citizens • The reservation of up to 10% for “economically weaker were not eligible for the benefit of reservation. sections” in educational institutions and public employment will be in addition to the existing reservation. • Thus, the proposed amendment aims to ensure that economically weaker sections of citizens get a fair chance • The central government will notify the “economically of receiving higher education and participation in weaker sections” of citizens on the basis of family income employment in the services of the State. This will also fulfill and other indicators of economic disadvantage. the mandate of Article 46. AMENDMENT IN ARTICLE 15

• Article 15 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination IMPORTANCE OF MAYORS against any citizen on the grounds of race, religion, caste, sex, or place of birth. IN URBAN INDIA

• However, as per Article 15(4), the government may make # Governance any special provision for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes. IN NEWS

• The Act inserts a new provision – Article 15(6), whereby There is a need for directly elected Mayors in India as they are (a) State can make any special provision for the advancement left with little authority to influence urban development, of any “economically weaker sections of citizens” planning and operation and have to share power with bureaucrats with respect to city development. Let us (b) State can make any special provision for the advancement understand this need for a directly elected Mayors in India. of any “economically weaker sections of citizens” relate to their admission to educational institutions including PRESENT PROBLEMS private educational institutions, whether aided or unaided • As Indian cities grow in number and size, the pressure for by the State. better urban governance increases. However, Indian urban (c) However, such reservation will not apply to minority governance in its current form is fraught with inefficiency educational institutions. and mismanagement. According to new research, this is a (d) Reservation to such educational institutions would be in result of the restricted executive powers mayors of Indian addition to the existing reservations and subject to a cities enjoy.

maximum of 10 per cent. • Introducing direct election of mayors could improve AMENDMENT IN ARTICLE 16 efficiency in urban governance. At present, mayors are elected by city councillors who themselves are directly • Article 16 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination in elected by urban voters. employment in any government office. However, as per Article 16(4), the state may make any provision for the • Despite being considered the political and executive head reservation of appointments or posts in favour of any of the municipal body; mayors assume a largely titular

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position with the government-appointed municipal NEED FOR A DIRECTLY ELECTED MAYORS FOR CITIES commissioner holding executive power. This leaves the 1. A direct mandate from urban residents adds to the mayor with little authority to influence urban legitimacy and accountability of the mayor’s office. It development, planning and operation. would also resolve the power tussles between mayors • Metros have been deprived of empowered Mayors who and Municipal Commissioners. can raise efficiency, productivity and liveability. Mayors in 2. Fixed tenures for mayors offer greater continuity as many global cities go on to lead their country, which opposed to state-appointed bureaucrats who can be possibly explains why they have been reduced to obscure, abruptly transferred. ceremonial figures by national parties in India. 3. In the current model, councillor elections are held at the • The Economic Survey of 2017-18 notes that a third of the ward level and are based on hyper-local issues, which may population now lives in urban areas which produce three- not resonate with the whole city. A directly elected mayor fifths of the GDP. But India’s overflowing cities lack would ensure a focus on the whole city instead of certain capacity, infrastructure and leadership. The Survey wards. attributes it to the absence of a single city government in

charge, and low spending on infrastructure. State governments amass the large economic output from urban agglomerations, but are averse to a strong Mayoral PUBLIC ORDER, LAW & system. ORDER AND SECURITY OF • Chief Ministers see a potential threat from a charismatic and empowered Mayor with progressive policies. Some of STATE them have used the excuse of poor performance of urban local bodies as a justification to replace direct election of # Governance Mayors with an indirect system.

• There are some states where Mayors are elected by direct CONTEXT elections but in none of the mega cities of India, mayors are directly elected. Several States are averse to directly- Public order implies the absence of disturbance, riot, revolt, elected Mayors even for their biggest cities, in spite of the unruliness and lawlessness. Irrespective of the nature of a Mayor being deprived of any significant powers. polity – democratic or autocratic, federal or unitary – maintenance of public order is universally recognised as the • Thus, 74th Amendment must be respected and followed in prime function of the State. Anarchy would result if the State letter and spirit. Directly elected Mayors with adequate failed to discharge this duty. Such persistent anarchy would power and authority can help solving problems faced by lead to decay and destruction and the eventual disintegration large cities. It can also solve the problems associated with of the State. This chapter has been taken from the Fifth Report achieving goals of Sustainable Development Goals, the of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission on Public Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the UN Habitat Order. Let us understand about Public Order and how does it New Urban Agenda. differ from Law and Order and Security of State. • Dr. Shashi Tharoor introduced a Private Members Bill in PUBLIC ORDER PROBLEMS IN INDIA Lok Sabha in 2016 advocating direct election of Mayors in India but was not passed by the Parliament. The Bill also • A democratic society is necessarily characterised by suggested to constitute a Mayor-in-Council which would public expression of dissent. Such dissent arises from a variety of socio-economic, political and cultural factors. In have consisted of the Mayor and other members to be India, the situation is further compounded by factors such nominated by the Mayor from amongst the directly elected as caste, religion, poverty, illiteracy, demographic members of the Municipal Corporation or the pressures, ethnic and linguistic diversity. Metropolitan Authority.

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• In a liberal democracy every citizen has a right to dissent • Clarifying the distinction between ‘law and order’, ‘public and the expression of such dissent need not in itself order’ and ‘public disorder affecting the security of the breach public order. Even within a democratic society, a State’, Justice Hidayatullah observed: “Just as public order situation viewed as a public disorder by one stakeholder apprehends disorders of less gravity than those affecting the may not be disorder for another stakeholder. For example, security of state, law and order also apprehends disorders of if a dominant section of society indulges in degrading less gravity than those affecting public order. One has to forms of exploitation of the underprivileged sections, the imagine three concentric circles. Law and order represents the resultant protests by the latter are often perceived by law largest circle within which it is the next circle representing enforcement agencies as public disorder. But for the public order and the smallest circle represents the security of exploited sections, the injustice is a breach of their human state. It is then easy to see that an act may affect law and rights against which they have vented their ire. order but not public order, just as an act may affect public

• This brings us to the distinction between ‘established order but not the security of state.” [Ram Manohar Lohia v. order’ and ‘public order’. Established order may not always State of Bihar, 1 SCR 7009(746), 1966]. be as per the tenets of the rule of law. Perpetuating established order does not necessarily constitute public order in a society governed by democratic norms and the rule of law. The law enforcement machinery often tends to concentrate on maintaining status quo, since, for them, public order means ‘absence of any disturbance’.

• Laws and public policies aimed at desirable social change may sometimes lead to disturbance or even violence and yet such laws need to be enforced firmly if the core values of the Constitution and human rights are to be protected. In the ultimate analysis, public order is strengthened by protecting the liberty and dignity of citizens and bringing about social change. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAW & ORDER, PUBLIC ORDER & SECURITY OF STATE • Thus, every situation in which the security of the State is • If two families quarrel over irrigation water, it might breach threatened is a public order problem. Similarly, all law and order but in a situation where two communities situations which lead to public disorder, are necessarily fight over the irrigation water, then it might lead to public law and order problems also. But all law and order order. So, a similar approach cannot be taken to remedy problems are not public order problems. both the situation. • Thus, petty clashes between groups whose impact is • The law enforcement machinery often tends to limited to a small area are minor in nature with no impact concentrate on maintaining status quo, since, for them, on public order. public order means ‘absence of any disturbance’. • But widespread violent clashes between two or more • Laws and public policies aimed at desirable social change groups, such as communal riots, would pose grave threats may sometimes lead to disturbance or even violence and to public order. A major terrorist activity could be classified yet such laws need to be enforced firmly if the core values as a public order problem impinging on the security of the of the Constitution and human rights are to be protected. State. • In the ultimate analysis, public order is strengthened by protecting the liberty and dignity of citizens and bringing about social change.

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state cannot use the doctrine of 'adverse possession' to SC ON RIGHT TO grab the property of a private citizen. • The Court held that State being a welfare State, cannot be PROPERTY permitted to take the plea of adverse possession, which # Rights allows a trespasser i.e. a person guilty of a tort, or even a crime, to gain legal title over such property for over 12 years. IN NEWS • The Court noted that an illiterate widow was divested of The Supreme Court granted relief to an 80-year-old illiterate her property for nearly half a century by the state without widow, whose land was forcibly acquired by the Himachal any legal sanction. So, the Court found it fit to invoke the Pradesh government in 1967-68 without following due process extraordinary power under Article 142 of the Constitution of law for construction of road. and accordingly exercise its extraordinary jurisdiction under Articles 136 and 142 of the Constitution and ADVERSE POSSESSION directed the State to pay compensation to the • When a person who does not have legal title to a piece of Appellant. land, claims title of land based on continued possession is SC ON RIGHT TO PROPERTY AS FUNDAMENTAL termed as adverse possession. RIGHT • Thus, adverse possession allows a person who possesses or resides on someone else's land for an extended period • SC observed that the appellant was forcibly deprived of of time to claim legal title to that land. her property in 1967, when right to property was fundamental right guaranteed under Article 31 contained • If successful in proving adverse possession, the claimant is in Part III of the Constitution. not required to pay the owner for the land. • Article 31 guaranteed the right to private property which WHAT DID THE SUPREME COURT HOLD? could not be deprived without due process of law and • SC held that state cannot invoke the doctrine of adverse upon just and fair compensation. possession to perfect title over land grabbed from private • The right to property ceased to be a fundamental right by citizens. The Court held that that forcible dispossession of the Constitution (Forty Fourth Amendment) Act, a person from his private property is violative of human th 1978. Prior to the 44 Amendment, Right to property was right and constitutional right under Article 300A. provided under Article 19 (1) (f) which was part of • Article 300A - No person shall be deprived of his property fundamental right. save by authority of law. • However, after 44th Constitution Amendment, right to • Referring to Article 300A of the Constitution, the SC said property was removed from Part III and was inserted as :"To forcibly dispossess a person of his private property, Article 300A in the Indian Constitution. without following due process of law, would be violative of a • Thus, as per Article 300A, State cannot dispossess a human right, as also the constitutional right under Article 300 citizen of their property except in accordance with A of the Constitution". the procedure established by law and also pay • The Court further said that in a democratic polity governed adequate compensation in case of acquisition of property by the rule of law, the State could not have deprived a by state. citizen of their property without the sanction of law. The • So, after going through the constitutional provisions, SC State being a welfare State governed by the rule of law held that forcibly dispossessing a person of his private cannot arrogate to itself a status beyond what is provided property without following due process of law would be by the Constitution. violative of human right as well as violative of • The SC expressed surprise at the plea of 'adverse constitutional right under Article 300A. possession' forwarded by the State. It said that a welfare

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• In this case, SC held that the Appellant could not have deprivation of the fundamental right to personal liberty in been forcibly dispossessed of her property without any a free and democratic country. But if there are any special legal sanction and without following due process of law. or peculiar features necessitating the court to limit the So, depriving her of payment of just compensation was tenure of anticipatory bail, it is open for it to do so.

bad in law as right to property was a fundamental right on • The Court further held that life or duration of an the date of forcible dispossession in 1967. anticipatory bail order does not normally end at the time and stage when the accused is summoned by the court, or when charges are framed, but can continue till the end of ANTICIPATORY BAIL NOT the trial. However, if there are any special or peculiar features necessitating the court to limit the tenure of TIME BARRED – S.C. anticipatory bail, it is open for it to do so. • It was also acknowledged by Justice Arun Mishra that # Rights anticipatory bail acts as a protection because it prevents influential powers from implicating their rivals in false

cases. Anticipatory bail also helps shielding members of IN NEWS opposition in cases of political rivalry.

The Supreme Court ruled that no time limit could be fixed • On importance of Anticipatory Bail – According to Justice while granting anticipatory bail, and that it could continue till Bhat, the freedom movement has shown how the the end of trial. A five-judge Constitution bench headed by likelihood of arbitrary arrest and indefinite detention and Justice Arun Mishra said the court could extend pre-arrest bail, the lack of safeguards played an important role in rallying with suitable conditions, under Section 438 of the Code of the people to demand independence. Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

Anticipatory Bail has been defined under Section 438 of Code of Criminal Procedure – When any person has reason to RESTRICT PEOPLE HAVING believe that he may be arrested on an accusation of having committed a non- bailable offence, he may apply to the High CRIMINAL BACKGROUND Court or the Court of Session for a direction under this section; and that Court may, if it thinks fit, direct that in the event of such FROM ENTERING POLITICS arrest, he shall be released on bail. Non-Bailable Offence - When a person is accused of non- – EC TO SC bailable offence, then in such case, bail can only be granted by the Court and not by an officer. Application for bail has to # Reforms be made in Court in such cases of non-bailable offence. QUESTION REFERRED TO THE CONSTITUTION BENCH IN NEWS

1. Whether the protection granted to a person under Section The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a proposition made 438 should be limited to a fixed period till the accused by the Election Commission (EC) to ask political parties to not surrenders in court? give ticket to those with criminal antecedents. It was submitted 2. Whether the life of anticipatory bail should end when the in the Court that as of now, 46% of Members of Parliament has accused is summoned by the court? criminal records. Supreme Court has asked the lawyers to come up with a joint proposal detailing how it can be ensured SUPREME COURT’S RULING that parties did not fall in with criminal politicians within a • Five Judge Constitution Bench ruled that the protection of week. anticipatory or pre-arrest bail cannot be limited to any

time frame or “fixed period” as denial of bail amounts to

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THE PLEA OF ELECTION COMMISSION CANDIDATES WITH CRIMINAL BACKGROUND • The Election Commission pleaded that it tried several • Candidates with criminal antecedents are required to measures to curb criminalisation of politics, but to no avail. publish information in this regard in newspapers and • A contempt petition has been filed for not complying fully through Television channels on three occasions during the with a September 2018 judgment of a Constitution Bench, campaign period. which had directed political parties to publish online the • A political party that sets up candidates with criminal pending criminal cases against their candidates. antecedents is also required to publish information about

• The ruling by a five-judge Bench led by then Chief Justice of criminal background of its candidates, both in its website India Dipak Misra concluded that rapid criminalisation of and also in newspapers and Television channel on three politics cannot be arrested by merely disqualifying tainted occasions. legislators but should begin by “cleansing” the political GUIDELINES FOR SOCIAL MEDIA parties. • Candidates are required to furnish details of his/her social UNION OF INDIA V ASSOCIATION FOR DEMOCRATIC media account (if any) at the time of filing of nominations. REFORMS AND ANOTHER • All political advertisement on Social Media will also require • In 2002, in a landmark judgment in Union of India v precertification from Media Certification & Monitoring Association for Democratic Reforms and Another Committees (MCMC). directed the Election Commission to call for information on • Candidates and political parties shall include all affidavit under Article 324 of Indian Constitution on – expenditure on campaigning, including expenditure on  Criminal background including previous conviction, advertisement on social media in their election acquittal or discharge along with fine; expenditure account. This among other things shall include payments made to internet companies and  Declaration of assets of the candidate and his/her spouse websites for carrying advertisements and also campaign along with number of dependents; related operational expenditure on making creative  Liabilities including debts owed to any financial institution development of content, salaries and wages paid to the or otherwise; and team of workers employed to maintain their social media  Educational qualification of the candidate. account. AFFIDAVIT BY CANDIDATES • All the provisions of Model Code of Conduct shall also apply to the content being posted on social media by • All the candidates are required to file an affidavit (in Form candidates and political parties. 26) along with their nomination papers. • All the election management related news would be • This affidavit will include information on the criminal monitored vigorously on all the major national and antecedents of the candidate, if any, assets (including the regional news channels during elections. movable, immovable properties and investments even in foreign countries, of the candidate, his/ her spouse and dependents), liabilities of the candidate, his/ her spouse and dependents and his/ her educational qualifications. JALLIKATTU • The format of Form 26 has been amended vide Ministry of Law & Justice Notification dated 26th February, 2019. # Rights

• With the amendment, it has been expressly provided that declaration on assets shall include full information about offshore assets. The candidates are also required to IN NEWS declare the total income shown in the Income Tax return Jallikattu was played in the state of Tamil Nadu during the filed for the last five years for the candidates, spouse, HUF festival of Pongal and many casualties were observed in the (if candidate is Karta or Coparcener in HUF), and for state. The practice of Jallikattu was banned by the Supreme dependents. Court in the year 2014. However, state of Tamil Nadu passed a

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law which allowed for the practice of Jallikattu. Tamil Nadu’s  Whether the state laws on bull cart racing are in synch with Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act the basic objectives of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

of 2017 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of  Does the Tamil Nadu Amendment Act go contrary to Jallikattu) Rules of 2017 has allowed the bull taming sport Articles 51A (g) and 51A (h), and can be said to be Jallikattu in the State of Tamil Nadu despite a ban by Supreme unreasonable and violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Court in the year 2014. Two Judge Bench while hearing the ? petition filed by People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Article 51A – Fundamental Duties has referred the matter to a Constitution Bench. In this analysis, let us understand about the issue surrounding 51A. It shall be the duty of every citizen of India— (g) to Jallikattu with respect to preserving cultural rights under protect and improve the natural environment including Article 29 of the Indian Constitution. forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living creatures; (h) to develop the scientific temper, Jallikattu means an event involving bulls conducted with a humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform; view to follow tradition and culture on such days from the months of January to May of a calendar year and in such CONFLICT BETWEEN FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT & places, as may be notified by the State Government, and PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS includes “manjuviratu”, “vadamadu” and “erudhuvidumvizha”. Fundamental Right for preservation of Culture: Article 29 PETA’s CLAIM (1) comes under Part III of the Indian Constitution and is a part of Fundamental Right. Article 29 (1) says that any section Petition filed by PETA claimed that State Laws including Act and Rules pertaining to Jallikattu and bull cart racing violated of citizens residing in the territory of India or any part thereof having a distinct language, script or culture of its own, shall five internationally recognised freedoms of animals, have the right to conserve the same.  Freedom from hunger, malnutrition and thrust; Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960: Let us  Freedom from fear and distress; understand aims, objective and few basic provisions of the  Freedom from physical and thermal discomfort; Act so as to understand the complexity of the conflict posed  Freedom from pain injury and disease; in the case.

 Freedom to express normal pattern of behaviour. The Act prevents the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals. Supreme Court while hearing the matter said that it will look into the following issues with respect to Jallikattu in The Act defines "captive animal" as any animal (not being a the state: domestic animal) which is in capacity or confinement, whether permanent or temporary, or which is subjected to  Can a State of India claim constitutional protection under any appliance of contrivance for the purpose of hindering or Article 29 (1) to preserve its cultural heritage preventing its escape from captivity or confinement or which (jallikattu) is pinioned or which is or appears to be maimed. If any Article 29 (1) says that any section of citizens residing in person treats animals cruelly, then they shall be punishable the territory of India or any part thereof having a distinct with fine or imprisonment language, script or culture of its own, shall have the right The Act restricts exhibition and training of performing to conserve the same. animals unless specifically registered for such exhibition or  Whether the state laws which permit jallikattu and other training bull cart races subserve the objective of ‘prevention’ of THE CONFLICT cruelty to animals under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. • The Supreme Court while hearing the case referred to Article 29(1) and said that state of Tamil Nadu comes  Whether the state of Tamil Nadu or Maharashtra is legally within the territory of India and its citizens have equal right competent to legislate on the matter amending the to preserve their local culture within the provisions of Principal Act. Article 29(1).

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• However, the conflict which remains is how far in the Bodo. 4. Dogri. 5. Gujarati. 6. Hindi. 7. Kannada. 8. name of preservation of culture, cruelty to animals Kashmiri. 9. Konkani. 10. Maithili. 11. Malayalam. 12. can be justified. The Constitution Bench as constituted by Manipuri. 13. Marathi. 14. Nepali.] 15. Odia. 16. Punjabi. the Supreme Court will soon decide the issue. 17. Sanskrit. 18. Santhali. 19. Sindhi. 20. Tamil. 21. Telugu. 22. Urdu.

• However, the Union must provide a way to include more languages in the 8th Schedule or provide certain alternative TULU LANGUAGE whereby these different languages gets same protection which is being received by the 22 mandated languages.

# Schedule • This is because many unscheduled languages have a sizeable number of speakers such as: Bhili/Bhilodi, Gondi, Garo, Ho, Khandeshi, Khasi and Oraon.

IN NEWS TH CASE FOR TULU LANGUAGE TO BE INCLUDED IN 8 Tulu is a Dravidian language whose speakers are concentrated SCHEDULE in two coastal districts of Karnataka and in Kasaragod district • Tulu is a Dravidian language whose speakers are of Kerala. There has been a plea to include Tulu Language in concentrated in two coastal districts of Karnataka and in the Eight Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Let us Kasaragod district of Kerala. understand the significance of including Tulu Language in the Eight Schedule. • Kasaragod district is called ‘Sapta bhasha Samgama Bhumi (the confluence of seven languages)’, and Tulu is among LANGUAGE TO BE CULTURALLY PROTECTED UNDER the seven. The Census reports 18,46,427 native speakers ARTICLE 29 of Tulu in India. • Placing all deserving languages on an equal footing will • The Tulu-speaking people are larger in number than promote social inclusion and national solidarity. Article 29 speakers of Manipuri and Sanskrit, which have the Eighth of the Constitution provides that a section of citizens Schedule status. having a distinct language, script or culture have the right • Robert Caldwell (1814-1891), in his book, A Comparative to conserve the same. Grammar of the Dravidian or South-Indian Family of • According to 2001 Census, India has 30 languages that are Languages, called Tulu as “one of the most highly spoken by more than a million people each. Additionally, developed languages of the Dravidian family”. India has 122 languages that are spoken by at least 10,000 • The present-day Tulu linguistic majority area is confined to people each. It also has 1,599 languages, most of which the region of Tulu Nadu, which comprises the districts of are dialects. Dakshina Kannada and Udupi in Karnataka and the • These are restricted to specific regions and many of them northern part of Kasaragod district of Kerala up to the river are on the verge of extinction. There is a need to Payaswani, or Chandragiri. The cities of Mangaluru, Udupi accommodate this plethora of languages in its cultural and Kasaragod are the epicentres of Tulu culture. discourse and administrative apparatus by giving them TH recognition and protection under Article 29 of the Indian BENEFITS OF INCLUDING TULU LANGUAGE IN 8 Constitution. SCHEDULE

CERTAIN LANGUAGES SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN 8TH • If included in the Eighth Schedule, Tulu would get recognition from the Sahitya Akademi. Tulu books would SCHEDULE be translated into other recognised Indian languages. • The Constitution has 22 languages which are protected • Members of Parliament and MLAs could speak in Tulu in through 8th Schedule namely - 1. Assamese. 2. Bengali. 3. Parliament and State Assemblies, respectively. Candidates

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could write all-India competitive examinations like the Civil Services exam in Tulu.

THE YUELU PROCLAMATION

• The Yuelu Proclamation, made by the UNESCO at Changsha, The People’s Republic of China, in 2018, says: “The protection and promotion of linguistic diversity helps to improve social inclusion and partnerships, helps to reduce the gender and social inequality between different native speakers, guarantee the rights for native speakers of endangered, minority, indigenous languages, as well as non- official languages and dialects to receive education, enhance

the social inclusion level and social decision-making ability by encouraging them to participate in a series of actions to promote cultural diversity, endangered language protection, and the protection of intangible cultural heritage...”

• Placing of all the deserving languages on equal footing will KEY HIGHLIGHTS ABOUT CORRUPTION PERCEPTION promote social inclusion and national solidarity. It will INDEX (CPI), 2019 reduce the inequalities within the country to a great • The Corruption Perceptions Index ranks 180 countries and extent. territories by their perceived levels of public sector • So, Tulu, along with other deserving languages, should be corruption, according to experts and business people. included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution in • This year’s analysis shows that corruption is more order to substantially materialise the promise of equality pervasive in countries where big money can flow freely of status and opportunity mentioned in the Preamble. into electoral campaigns and where governments listen only to the voices of wealthy or well-connected individuals.

• In democracies such as India and Australia, unfair and CORRUPTION opaque political financing, undue influence in decision- making and lobbying by powerful corporate interest PERCEPTION INDEX groups have resulted in stagnation or a decline in the # Index control of corruption. • The report has revealed that a majority of countries are showing little to no improvement in tackling corruption. IN NEWS • More than two-thirds of countries score below 50, with an

As per 2019 Corruption Perception Index released by average score of only 43. Since 2012, only 22 countries have significantly improved their scores, including Estonia, Transparency International, India’s ranking in 2019 has slipped from 78 to 80 in a period of one year. The main reason Greece and Guyana. Twenty-one have significantly attributed has been the “Unfair and Opaque Political Funding”. declined, including Australia, Canada and Nicaragua. • The research shows several of the most advanced Methodology adopted for calculating CPI: The CPI 2019 is calculated using 13 different data sources from 12 different economies cannot afford to be complacent if they are to institutions that capture perceptions of corruption within the keep up their anti-corruption momentum. past two years. • 2019 CPI reveals that anti-corruption efforts are also stagnating in G-7 Countries. Four G7 countries score lower than last year: Canada (-4), France (-3), the UK (-3) and

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the US (-2). Germany and Japan have seen no improvement, while Italy gained one point.

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WHAT IS THE COST OF CORRUPTION IN A SOCIETY? • Control political financing: In order to prevent excessive money and influence in politics, governments should • Corruption impacts societies in a multitude of ways. It improve and properly enforce campaign finance costs lives, freedom of people, health as well as hard regulations. Political parties should also disclose their earned money by honest. The cost of corruption can be sources of income, assets and loans, and governments divided into four main categories namely 1. Political, 2. should empower oversight agencies with stronger Economic, 3. Social and 4. Environmental. mandates and appropriate resources. • On the political front, corruption is a major obstacle to • Strengthen Electoral integrity: For democracy to be democracy and the rule of law. In a democratic system, effective against corruption, governments must ensure offices and institutions lose their legitimacy when they’re that elections are free and fair. Preventing and sanctioning misused for private advantage. This is harmful in vote-buying and misinformation campaigns are essential established democracies, but even more so in newly to rebuilding trust in government and ensuring that emerging ones. It is extremely challenging to develop citizens can use their vote to punish corrupt politicians. accountable political leadership in a corrupt climate. • Empower Citizens: Governments should protect civil • On Economic Front - corruption depletes national wealth. liberties and political rights, including freedom of speech, Corrupt politicians invest scarce public resources in expression and association. Governments should engage projects that will line their pockets rather than benefit civil society and protect citizens, activists, whistleblowers communities, and prioritise high-profile projects such as and journalists in monitoring and exposing corruption. dams, power plants, pipelines and refineries over less spectacular but more urgent infrastructure projects such WHAT ARE THE CRITICISMS OF THE OVERALL INDEX? as schools, hospitals and roads. Corruption also hinders 1. Corruption is too complex a concept to be captured by a the development of fair market structures and distorts single score. For instance, the nature of corruption in rural competition, which in turn deters investment. India will be different from that in the city administration • On Social Front - Corruption corrodes the social fabric of of New York, yet the Index measures them in the same society. It undermines people's trust in the political way. system, in its institutions and its leadership. A distrustful or 2. By measuring perceptions of corruption, as opposed to apathetic public can then become yet another hurdle to corruption itself, the Index may simply be reinforcing challenging corruption. existing stereotypes and clichés. • Environmental degradation is another consequence of 3. The Index only measures public sector corruption, corrupt systems. The lack of, or non-enforcement of, ignoring the private sector. environmental regulations and legislation means that precious natural resources are carelessly exploited, and 4. Media outlets frequently use the raw numbers as a entire ecological systems are ravaged. From mining, to yardstick for government performance, without clarifying logging, to carbon offsets, companies across the globe what the numbers mean. continue to pay bribes in return for unrestricted destruction. WHAT ARE THE MEASURES SUGGESTED BY TUSSLE OVER BELAGAVI TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL? # Administration • Manage conflicts of interest: Governments should reduce the risk of undue influence in policy-making by tightening controls over financial and other interests of government officials. Governments should also address IN NEWS “revolving doors”, establish cooling-off periods for former The recent tension along the Maharashtra- Karnataka border officials and ensure rules are properly enforced and has brought back into focus the border dispute over Belgaum. sanctioned. The border dispute between Maharashtra and Karnataka over

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Belagavi district is a longstanding issue. In this regard, let us treated as final. The State argues that the issue would understand this issue in detail. reopen border issues that have not been contemplated under the Act, and that such a demand should not be BACKGROUND permitted. • After India's Independence, there was demand for the formation of states on linguistic lines. Accordingly, the RECOMMENDATIONS OF MAHAJAN COMMITTEE ON States Reorganization committee was formed. The BORDER DISPUTE Committee recommended for the formation of states on • In order to resolve the border dispute, the Central linguistic lines, while keeping in mind the administration Government appointed Mahajan Committee in 1960. The efficiency. committee recommended for the following:

• Based upon recommendations of this committee,  Continued Inclusion of Belgaum city in Karnataka. Belgaum was included in the Karnataka State in 1956.  Around 247 villages/places from Maharashtra such as This was done so, because in the year 1881, Kannada Sholapur should be transferred to Karnataka. Speaking population comprised the majority and the  Around 264 villages/places from Karnataka such as Marathi speaking population comprised of only around 25%. Nippani, Khanapur should be transferred to Maharashtra.  Transfer of Kasaragod District from Kerala to Karnataka. • Subsequently, the Maharashtra Government objected to the inclusion of Marathi-speaking areas under Karnataka • Response: Both Maharashtra and Kerala Government and petitioned the Centre to set up a committee to look rejected the recommendations of the committee. The into the issue. Maharashtra Government termed the report biased and insisted that the report is against the wishes of the people of Belgaum. On the other hand, Kerala Government refused to hand over Kasaragod.

INDIAN PASSPORT RANKED 84TH IN THE WORLD # Ranking

ARGUMENTS AND COUNTER ARGUMENTS OF BOTH STATES IN NEWS

• Maharashtra: Maharashtra claims Belgaum district mainly According to the latest edition of Henley Passport Index, the on the grounds of geographical contiguity, relative Indian passport is closer to the bottom, ranked 84th in the linguistic majority and wishes of the people. It has also laid world among 107 countries. According to the Henley Index, claim over Karwar (a city in Uttara Kananda District) where Japan has the world’s strongest passport and Afghanistan at Konkani is spoken by citing Konkani as a dialect of Marathi. rank 107 is the weakest. Maharashtra has also claimed these areas on historical • According to Henley & Partners, the residence and grounds by pointing out that the revenue records in these citizenship planning firm that publishes the ranking, the areas were kept in Marathi during the British era. Index lists the world’s passports “according to the number • Karnataka: It has argued that the settlement of of destinations their holders can access without a prior boundaries as per the States Reorganisation Act should be visa”.

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• The ranking is based on data from the International Air WHAT IS POLICE COMMISSIONERATE SYSTEM? Transport Association (IATA), a trade association of some • Police has been listed under Entry 2 of State List Seventh 290 airlines, including all major carriers. Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Thus, states have • Japan has been topping the Index for three straight years. jurisdiction and power to legislate and control According to the 2020 index, its citizens are able to administration of police according to their specific needs access 191 destinations without having to obtain a visa and requirements. in advance. • In the arrangement in force at the district level, a ‘dual • Singapore, in second place (same as in 2019), has a visa- system’ of control exists, in which the Superintendent of free/visa-on-arrival score of 190. Germany is No. 3 (same Police (SP) has to work with the District Magistrate (DM) for position as in 2019), with access to 189 destinations; it supervising police administration. shares this position with South Korea, which dropped from • However, at the metropolitan level, many states have the second place it held a year ago. replaced the dual system with the Commissionerate • Since the index began in 2006, the Indian passport has system, as it is supposed to allow for faster decision- th ranked in a band of 71st to 88 . The Indian passport’s making to solve complex urban-centric issues. 2020 ranking of 84th translates into visa-free access to 58 • In the Commissionerate system, the Commissioner of destinations, including 33 which give Indians visas on Police (CP) is the head of a unified police command arrival. The Indian passport ranked higher in both 2019 structure, is responsible for the force in the city, and is (82, with visa-free access to 59 destinations) and 2018 (81, accountable to the state government. The office also has with visa-free access to 60 destinations). magisterial powers, including those related to regulation, • The top 10 most powerful passports this year are ranked control, and licensing. in this order: Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Germany, • The CP is drawn from the Deputy Inspector General rank Italy, Finland, Spain, Luxembourg and Denmark. or above, and is assisted by Special/Joint/ Additional/ Deputy Commissioners. HOW MANY STATES HAVE COMMISSIONERATE POLICE SYSTEM? COMMISSIONERATE • Almost all states apart from Bihar, , Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, and some Northeastern SYSTEM states have a commissionerate system. # Governance • The British brought the system first in Kolkata and followed it in Mumbai and presidencies. Delhi turned into a commissionerate during the Morarji Desai regime. In 1978, an initiative to introduce the system in IN NEWS UP, beginning with Kanpur, never materialised. Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the Commissionerate • As per the Police Act, 1861, the system is to be system of policing for state capital and for NOIDA. implemented in cities with more than 10 lakh population The system gives more responsibilities, including magisterial but it is not always the case for all cities having population powers, to IPS officers of Inspector General of Police (IG) rank of 10 lakhs or more. posted as commissioners. Previously, only four cities had the commissionerate system of policing: Kolkata, Mumbai, HOW IS THE COMMISSIONERATE SYSTEM DIFFERENT Hyderabad and Chennai. Now, it will be implemented in FROM NORMAL SYSTEM? Lucknow and Noida. • Under the colonial system, the overall in-charge of a district or region was the district collector and the Superintendent of Police reported to him. The powers of

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the executive magistrate, such as issuing orders for preventive arrests or imposition of Section 144 CrPC, were DEMOCRACY INDEX vested in the district collector. This was called the dual # Index system of police administration. • In Commissionerate system, the police does not report to his administrative counterpart and have greater powers IN NEWS with respect to law and orders. In the latest Democracy Index published by Economist

Intelligence Unit, India has slipped 10 places to 51 with an overall score of 6.9 among 167 countries from 41 last year. In addition, the EIU has categorized India as flawed democracy.

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Constituti0n, Polity and Governance HIGHLIGHTS ON DEMOCRACY INDEX, 2019 WORLD PRESS FREEDOM • Democracy Index is published by EIU, the research and analysis division of The Economist Group. INDEX • As per 2019 Democracy Index, the average global score has fallen from 5.48 in 2018, to 5.44 and this is the worst # Index average global score since The Economist Intelligence Unit first produced the Democracy Index in 2006. The Survey attributes the primary cause of “the democratic IN NEWS regression” to “an erosion of civil liberties in the country”. India has dropped two places on World Press Freedom Index • The fall in average global score is driven by sharp 2019 and has been ranked at 140 out of 180 countries in the regressions in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa, four Annual Reporters Without Borders Analysis having a score of out of the five categories that make up the global average 45.67. Topped by Norway, the ‘World Press Freedom Index score have deteriorated. 2019′, reveals an increased sense of hostility towards journalists across the world, with violent attacks in India • Although there were some dramatic downturns in the leading to at least six Indian journalists being killed in the line scores of certain countries, others have bucked the overall of their work in 2018. trend and registered impressive improvements. 2019 WORLD FREEDOM INDEX – A CYCLE OF FEAR FIVE INDICATORS OF DEMOCRACY INDEX • The 2019 World Press Freedom Index compiled by 1. Civil liberties: include freedom of the press, freedom to Reporters without Borders (RSF) shows how hatred of protest, unrestricted access to the Internet, an journalists has degenerated into violence, contributing to independent judiciary, religious tolerance, equal treatment an increase in fear. of all citizens and basic security. • The number of countries regarded as safe, where 2. Political culture: refers to popular support for democracy, journalists can work in complete security, continues to a strong tradition of separation of religion and State, etc. decline, while authoritarian regimes continue to tighten 3. Political participation: voter turnout, share of women their grip on the media. parliamentarians, etc. • The Index, which evaluates the state of journalism in 180 4. Governance: refers to influence of elected representatives countries and territories every year shows that an intense in determining government policy, supremacy of the climate of fear has been triggered one that is prejudicial to legislature etc. a safe reporting environment. 5. Electoral Pluralism: refers to free and fair elections, • The hostility towards journalists expressed by political universal adult suffrage, equal campaigning opportunities, leaders in many countries has incited increasingly serious etc. and frequent acts of violence that have fuelled an RELATED INFORMATION: OTHER REPORTS BY EIU unprecedented level of fear and danger for journalists.

• Global Microscope for Financial Inclusion report PRESS RANKINGS

• Global Broadband Index • Norway is ranked first in the 2019 Index for the third year • Worldwide Cost of Living Survey running while Finland (up two places) has taken second place from the Netherlands (down one at 4th), where two • Global Liveability Ranking reporters who cover organized crime have had to live • Technological Readiness Ranking under permanent police protection. An increase in cyber- harassment caused Sweden (third) to lose one place. • In Africa, the rankings of Ethiopia (up 40 at 110th) and Gambia (up 30 at 92nd) have significantly improved from last year’s Index.

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• Many authoritarian regimes have fallen in the Index. They Map) or “fairly good” (yellow), as opposed to 26 percent include Venezuela (down five at 148th), where journalists last year. have been the victims of arrests and violence by security forces, and Russia (down one at 149th), where the Kremlin has used arrests, arbitrary searches and draconian laws to step up the pressure on independent media and the Internet.

• At the bottom of the Index, both Vietnam (176th) and China (177th) have fallen one place, Eritrea (up 1 at 178th) is third from last, despite making peace with its neighbour Ethiopia, and Turkmenistan (down two at 180th) is now last, replacing North Korea (up one at 179th). CRITERIA FOR THE INDEX

• Only 24 percent of the 180 countries and territories are classified as “good” (coloured white on the Press Freedom

practice questions

MCQs

Q1. Which of the following can be said to be the (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only functions of Competition Commission of India? 1. To prevent practices having adverse effect on Q3. Consider the following statements about competition. Corruption Perception Index, 2019: 2. To promote and sustain competition in markets. 1. The Corruption Perceptions Index ranks 180 countries 3. To protect the interests of consumers and territories by their perceived levels of public sector 4. To ensure freedom of trade carried on by other corruption. participants in Indian market. 2. It is released by World Bank in association with World Select the correct answer using the code given below: Justice Project. (a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only 3. India’s ranking in 2019 has slipped from 78 to 80 in a (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 period of one year. Which of the statements given above are correct? Q2. Which of the following languages have been (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only included in the Eight Schedule of the Indian (c) 2 and 3 only (d) None of the Above Constitution? 1. Gujarati. 2. Kannada. Q4. The tussle over Belagavi is between which of the 3. Tulu 4. Kashmiri. following two states? 5. Konkani. (a) Maharashtra and Gujarat Select the correct answer using the code given below: (b) Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only (b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only (c) Maharashtra and Karnataka

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(d) Maharashtra and Telangana 3. World Press Freedom Index - Economist Intelligence Unit Q5. Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1. Rule of Law Index – World Justice Project (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only 2. Democracy Index - Reporters Without Borders (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 2 and 3 only

descriptive Questions

Q1. “Public order implies the absence of disturbance, riot, revolt, unruliness and lawlessness.” In light of this statement highlight the importance of public order, law and order and security of state in a democratic society.

Q2. Whether the freedom to speech and expression and freedom to practice any profession or to carry on any occupation, trade or business over the internet is a part of the fundamental rights under Part III of the Constitution? Give reasons for your answer.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (d), 2 (a), 3 (b), 4(c), 5(a)

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main)

Lead Article

Agriculture marketing in India has a much broader AGRICULTURAL connotation and basically includes all activities in the procurement of farm inputs by the farmers as well as the MARKETING REFORMS movement of agricultural produce from farm land to the end- consumers, industries and traders. This covers broad range #Agriculture of activities which include storage, physical handling, transportation, primary processing, grading and packaging, sale of agri-commodities etc. Thus, agricultural marketing involves all the aspects related to agriculture, while excluding the core activity of cultivation. An efficient agricultural IN NEWS marketing system is extremely critical for the growth of The overall development of Indian agriculture is extremely agriculture sector in a country on account of number of vital for faster, sustainable and more inclusive growth. It can reasons. be argued that the development of agriculture would have • Firstly, an efficient and well-connected agricultural local multiplier effect in terms of nutritional security, women marketing enables the farmers to buy agricultural inputs empowerment, increase in income levels and consequently such as fertilisers, seeds etc at affordable prices. This holistic development of rural areas. becomes quite important since the agricultural input costs It is being said that poor marketing infrastructure in India is have been increasing over a period of time. one of the biggest hurdles before farmers for realising • Secondly, it provides signals to the farmers with respect to optimum prices on their agricultural produce. However, the planning for sowing of crops. By making use of market increase in the agricultural production has neither benefitted signals, the farmers would be able to grow those crops the farmers nor the end-consumers. While on one hand, which are in high demand and get remunerative prices. A farmers continue to get lower prices, on the other hand, the well-connected and an efficient market would also be able consumers continue to pay more money. This can be to address the food inflation since it would be able to attributed to fragmented agricultural market, lack of match the supply with the demand. integrated domestic market, restrictions imposed on the • Thirdly, an integrated domestic marketing system would storage, movement and sale of agricultural commodities etc. considerably reduce the price variations in the agricultural Hence, let us understand the importance of Agricultural commodities across India. This would enable the farmers Marketing in India, its weakness and what should be done in to sell their produce anywhere in India and get best prices. order to address these challenges. • Fourthly, a High level Expert Committee constituted by UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL Ministry of Agriculture has estimated that 25 to 30 % of MARKETING fruit and vegetables and 8 to 10 % of food grains are wasted annually due to lack of post-harvest technology

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Economic Development

and non-existence of integrated transport, storage and transportation costs for the farmers and cut down post- marketing facilities, etc. Thus, an efficient marketing harvest losses. Accordingly, the National Commission for infrastructure would enable the farmers to reduce their Farmers had recommended that each APMC should serve a post-harvest losses and improve their incomes. market area of around 80sq.km and it should be available to

• Lastly, there is lot of scope for India to boost its export of farmers within a radius of 5km. However, an average APMC in agricultural commodities. However, India has failed to India serves an area of around 450 sq.km, which denotes make optimum use of this opportunity. In this regard, the poor access of the farmers to the APMCs. On account of this, agricultural marketing policies can act as an enabler for the farmers are forced to sell their produce at lower prices boosting agri-exports. outside the APMCs. PROBLEMS WITH AGRICULTURE MARKETING Against the Interests of Small and Marginal Farmers: Almost 85% of the farmers in India are small and marginal. : Under the present APMC Act, only Regulation of markets These farmers with lower marketable surplus find it difficult the State Governments are permitted to set up markets. The to aggregate their produce and sell it in the APMCs through Act requires that farm produce be sold only at regulated auction. Hence, these farmers resort to sell their produce to markets through registered intermediaries. Further, the local agents and traders at much lower prices. Essential Commodities Act allows central and state Poor Infrastructure of the APMCs: Even though the APMCs governments to place restrictions on the storage and earn regular revenue through the imposition of Mandi tax, movement of commodities deemed essential by the infrastructure in the APMCs such as Godowns, Cold chain governments. Such kind of regulations has stifled the private infrastructure etc continue to remain quite poor. This leads to sector investment in the agricultural marketing improper storage and consequently higher post-harvest infrastructure. Such restrictions also create artificial barriers losses. Further, most of the APMCs have not able to set up and unnecessarily hinder free flow of agricultural electronic auction platforms which are quite important for commodities in India. Thus, the focus of the government has offering remunerative prices to the farmers. so far been on regulating rather than facilitating agricultural trade. Rather than facilitating options for the farmers to sell Imposition of Multiple Fees in APMCs: The APMCs charge their produce, it constraints their selling options. market fee for the buyers as well as licensing fee from the traders. Apart from that, they also charge licensing fee from Fragmented Agricultural Marketing: There are about 2500 other agents such as warehousing agents and loading agents. regulated APMCs and around 5000 sub-market yards These multiple fees are estimated to be around 15% of the regulated by the respective APMCs in India. Apart from that, value of the agricultural produce in some of the states. These there are thousands of Rural Markets or Grameen Haats. charges imposed have a cascading effect on the prices of the Hence, due to this fragmented marketing infrastructure, the commodities which adversely affect the end consumers. agricultural commodities pass through multiple middlemen and traders who are operating in the APMCs. This leads to Higher Post-harvest Losses: According to the recent study, escalation in the cost of prices and prevents the farmers from the total estimated loss in India is around Rs 92,000 crores. getting remunerative prices. Ideally, the farmers should be The higher post-harvest losses could be attributed to allowed to sell their produce anywhere throughout India fragmented market, lack of access to proper storage, poor based on prices which they get. This can significantly improve handling and transportation etc. their bargaining position and enable them to earn more INITIATIVES TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT SO FAR incomes. Hence, the present fragmented marketing Model APMC Act: The Ministry of Agriculture has developed infrastructure goes against the interest of both farmers as a model APMC Act, 2003 and has been pursuing the state well as consumers. In this regard, there is a need to develop governments to modify their respective Acts along the lines integrated domestic market by removing all the existing of the Model APMC Act, 2003. The Model APMC Act provides agricultural trade related barriers. for the freedom to the farmers to sell their produce outside Lack of Access to APMCs: Adequate number of markets the APMCs to the exporters, processors and end-consumers. should be set up closer to agricultural fields so that the It permits private sector entities to establish new markets for farmers have access to APMCs. This also leads to decrease in

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Economic Development

agricultural produce in any area. It seeks to do away with between MSP and selling price (Price Deficiency Payment multiple levies and instead impose a single levy of market fee Scheme) and procurement of commodities by private sector on the sale of notified agricultural commodities in any market agencies (Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme). It is area. Similarly, it does away with the need for multiple expected that proper implementation of this scheme would licensing requirements for the traders and has instead prevent distress sale of commodities by the farmers and proposed licensing of market functionaries which would enable the government to fulfil its stated objective of allow them to operate in multiple markets. doubling the farmers' income by the end of 2022.

National Agricultural Market (e-NAM):In order to integrate Further, Agriculture is a state subject. Therefore, the success agriculture markets throughout India, the Government has of the policies and programmes of the Government of India set up National Agriculture Market (NAM) in 2016. It is a pan- depends on how effectively they are adopted and India electronic trading (e-trading) portal which seeks to implemented by the state governments. Some of the states network the existing APMCs through a virtual platform to have been quite progressive in implementing various create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. reforms. On the other hands, many states have lagged The e-NAM platform promotes better marketing behind leading to inter-state income disparities. Hence, in opportunities for the farmers to sell their produce through order to incentivise the states to undertake the agriculture online, competitive and transparent price discovery system marketing reforms, the central Government has come out and online payment facility. various indices to measure the progress on marketing

Contract Farming: The contract farming agreement is an Reforms. For Instance, NITI Aayog has launched Agricultural agreement between the farmers and buyers such as MNCs Marketing and Farm Friendly Reforms. On similar lines, the where in the buyers provide for necessary inputs such as Ministry of Agriculture has launched the Ease of Doing Agri- seeds to the farmers and the farmers agree to sell their Business Index. produce at a pre-determined price. In this regard, the Model FURTHER REFORMS NEEDED APMC Act provides for contract farming agreement to reduce The European Union, consisting of multiple countries, has barriers to agricultural trade and ensure remunerative prices been able to set up Common Market for all products by to the farmers. There are few notable successes on contract eliminating all forms of trade barriers. In this regard, India farming by Pepsi Co India in respect of potato, tomato, would also be able to reap benefits by setting up a "Single groundnut etc in different parts of country. Market". One of the major impacts of removing the inter Farmer producer organisations (FPOs): Farmer Producer State barriers would be the realisation of better prices by the Organisation (FPO) is an entity formed by primary producers Indian farmers as supply chain between the producer and the such as farmers, milk producers etc. which provides for consumer would be reasonably streamlined. This would also sharing of profits/benefits among the members. The small benefit the consumers. and marginal farmers do not have the large marketable Hence, in this regard, the National Commission on Farmers surplus and hence formation of FPOs by these farmers (NCF) headed by M.S. Swaminathan had recommended increase their bargaining power and avoid the long chain of creation of a single integrated market for farmers. The intermediaries to sell their produce directly to end- Commission also recommended that agricultural marketing consumers. In this regard, the Union Budget 2018-19 be placed under the Concurrent List. Even the Committee on announced a five-year tax holiday and small credit guarantee Doubling Farmers’ Income (DFI) had argued for placing fund of Rs 100 crore for promoting FPOs. Further, the central agricultural marketing under the Concurrent List. Government has been encouraging the states to directly Apart from that, both the Central and State Governments support the FPOs through various schemes. must come together with the spirit of cooperative federalism PM-AASHA: The Government has launched a new Umbrella in order to address all the structural challenges associated Scheme “Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan’ with the agricultural marketing infrastructure highlighted (PM-AASHA).It involves different components such as physical before. The states must amend their APMC Acts so as to procurement of commodities by the Government agencies facilitate internal trade and provide the necessary ecosystem (Price Support Scheme), payment of difference amount to ensure fair and remunerative prices to the farmers. There

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Economic Development

is a need to promote new models of marketing such as markets, farmer producer organizations, agricultural Contract Farming, Commodity Exchanges, private wholesale cooperatives etc.

ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

rate of inflation increases, the rate of unemployment IS INDIAN ECONOMY decreases and vice-versa. STARING AT STAGFLATION? #Economic Growth

IN NEWS

India's real GDP growth rate is expected to grow at 5% in 2019- 20, which is considered to be lowest since 2008 global financial crisis. Similarly, the nominal GDP growth rate is estimated at 7.53% which is considered to be lowest in the last 42 years. So far, in spite of decrease in the GDP growth rates, the positive This was formulated on an assumption that higher economic aspect of the Indian Economy was the lower rate of Inflation. growth is accompanied by increase in the prices of the goods However, in the month of December 2019, the rate of inflation and services leading to higher inflation. At the same time, as as measured by CPI has increased to six-year high of 7.35%. the economy grows, more employment opportunities are Hence, recently former PM Manmohan Singh has highlighted created leading to decrease in the unemployment. Thus, the that the lower GDP growth rate accompanied by the higher Philips curve postulates that the increase in inflation rate of inflation would lead to Stagflation in the Indian translates into lower level of unemployment. Economy. However, this view put forth through the Philips curve has What is Stagflation? Stagflation is a combination of two been proven wrong on account of number of reasons. economic terms "Stagnation" and "Inflation". It implies an Firstly, as the rate of inflation increases, the unemployment economic scenario which denotes simultaneous existence of within an economy may reduce only to a certain level and low GDP growth rates, high rate of inflation and high rate of beyond that level, the unemployment level remains constant. unemployment within an economy. This is referred to as Natural rate of unemployment and it is a Relationship between Inflation, Growth and Employment combination of structural and frictional unemployment. Traditionally, the nature of relationship between Inflation and (Structural unemployment refers to unemployment which is Unemployment was explained through the "Philips Curve". caused due to mismatch between the skill set of the workers and According to this conventional view, there is an inverse the demand of the job wherein the skill set of the workers may relationship between Inflation and Unemployment i.e. as the not be sufficient enough to fulfill their job requirements. Such form of unemployment is caused to rapid technological

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Economic Development

advances. Frictional Unemployment refers to temporary accentuate the stagflation. Hence, the Economists have unemployment which is caused when people switch from one job cautioned that both RBI and Government must be extra to another). Hence, the increase in the rate of inflation would cautious in enhancing the money supply within the economy.

not have impact on reducing natural rate of unemployment Counterarguments: Stagflation usually takes place when the with an economy. Inflation rate within an economy remains higher for a Secondly, a very high rate of inflation would lead to decrease long term and the prices of almost all the goods and services in the GDP growth rates in the long run and hence would lead increase. We need to realize that even though Indian to increase in unemployment. This was seen in the US economy is facing higher rate of Inflation, the Inflation is economy during 1970s wherein higher rate of inflation in the neither broad-based nor long term and hence it cannot long run had in turn led to economic stagnation and higher strictly be called as "Stagflation". The Inflation is not broad unemployment rates (Stagnation). based since the increase in the CPI rate of inflation has taken

Hence, in order to promote economic growth and place primarily on account of increase in the prices of fruits employment within an economy, the rate of Inflation has to and vegetables under the category of Food products which be at moderate levels. Both zero rate of inflation and higher account for the highest weightage under the CPI. The Core rates of inflation are considered to be equally bad for an rate of Inflation (Inflation measured after excluding volatile economy. That is why, the Central banks across the world commodities such as Food) for December 2019 stands at target to maintain a moderate rate of Inflation in order to 3.7% and it is still below the RBI's ideal inflation rate of 4%. promote economic growth and employment opportunities. In Secondly, the inflation has primarily taken place on account case of India, the RBI has been mandated to maintain rate of of demand-supply mismatch of agricultural commodities and Inflation at 4% which could either increase or decrease by 2%. hence it is expected to come down within next 3-4 months.

IS INDIAN ECONOMY STARING AT STAGFLATION? So, unless there is a broad-based increase in the prices of all the goods and services over a long term, it would be wrong to Arguments in favour: There has been decline in the call the present economic scenario as "Stagflation". economic activity within India as evident in the various high frequency indicators such as GDP growth, IIP, Index of Eight Way Forward: Even though the Indian Economy may not be Core Industries etc. The Unemployment level within India has facing the classical case of "Stagflation" presently, yet there also increased to 45-year high of 6.1% as highlighted by PLFS are concerns that it may face such an economic scenario in report. The 7.35% CPI rate of inflation for the month of future. If the Government and RBI keep on enhancing the December 2019 has also crossed the RBI's threshold limit of money supply and if such an increase in the money supply 6%. Hence, on account of these factors, some of the does not translate into higher GDP growth rates in future, economists have argued that Indian Economy is staring at then there is a danger that Indian Economy may slip into Stagflation. Stagflation.

These economists have highlighted that going forward, the Hence, apart from enhancing the money supply within stagflation would make it difficult to counter the economic economy, the Government needs to address the structural slowdown. The slowdown within India is mainly on account of problems that have led to present economic slowdown. The decline in the consumption expenditure which accounts for Government must bring about the structural reforms in the 60% of India's GDP. Hence, both RBI and Government are financial sector so as to strengthen the balance sheets of the trying to inject money into the economy to boost the banks and improve the health of NBFCs. The Government declining demand. The RBI has been reducing repo rates must also focus on other structural reforms such as reforms while the Government has been undertaking higher in the Labor laws, land acquisition etc. so as to kick start expenditure to boost the money supply. However, going investment cycle within the Indian Economy. forward, if more money in injected into the economy to boost the GDP, it would lead to higher rate of Inflation and hence

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Economic Development

year. Thus, the Real GDP negates the inflation in goods LATEST GDP ESTIMATES and services. #Economic Growth • In case of high rate of inflation, the nominal GDP would be quite higher than the real GDP. However, in case of deflation, the real GDP would be higher than the nominal GDP.

IN NEWS

Recently, the National Statistical office (NSO) released the first advance GDP Estimates for the financial year 2019-20. According to this report, India's real GDP growth rate is expected to grow at 5% in 2019-20. Similarly, the nominal GDP growth rate is estimated at 7.53% which is considered to be lowest since 7.35% growth in 1975-76. This is also the first time since 2002-03 that nominal GDP growth has been in single digits.

GDP Deflator= (Nominal GDP/ Real GDP) * 100. The GDP Deflator measures the overall inflation in Goods and Services within an economy.

The GDP in India is estimated by National Statistical Office (NSO) which works under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme implementation. IMPLICATIONS • Decrease in the Tax Collections: The Indian Economy is set to register the lowest Nominal GDP Growth rate since 1975-76. It is pertinent to note that the lower nominal GDP growth rate translates into lower tax collection for the UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS Government.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) refers to the market value • Breach of Fiscal Deficit Target: There are mainly 4 of all final goods and services produced within an economy. It drivers of GDP Growth- Private Consumption, Government can be calculated into two ways: Expenditure, Investment and Exports. Except Government Expenditure, all other major drivers of the GDP growth • Nominal GDP: It refers to the GDP at the current market have seen a decline. The present economic slowdown has prices i.e. the GDP is calculated as per the market prices in turn put pressure on the Government's revenues. for the year for which the GDP is calculated. Thus, it takes Hence, going forward, Government may find it difficult to into account the factor of inflation in the economy. sustain its higher expenditure and hence would not be • Real GDP: It refers to the GDP at base year prices i.e. the able to meet its Fiscal Deficit target of 3.3 % of GDP. GDP is calculated as per the market prices in the base • Decrease in Investment and Consumption Expenditure: The single-digit growth rate of the Nominal

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Economic Development

GDP would translate into lower profits for the companies. However, these measures have so far failed to revive the This would have two adverse impacts. Firstly, this would Indian Economy.

force the companies to reduce their investment • Global Challenges: The release of the first advance expenditure. Secondly, this would lead to slow increase in estimates comes at the backdrop of growing volatility in the salaries of the employed class leading to decline in the International politics. Already, the Indian Economy was consumption expenditure. facing the onslaught of trade war and rising protectionism • Failure of Government's previous policies: In the recent which led to decrease in its exports. Now, this problem has past, both the Government and RBI have taken a number further been compounded by the growing tensions of measures to revive the economy. For instance, the between Iran and USA. The escalation of the Conflict in the Government reduced the corporate tax rates and came West Asia would lead to increase in International crude oil out with set to reforms to boost exports. Similarly, the RBI prices. This would, in turn, put pressure on India's trade has consistently reduced the Repo rate by almost 135 deficit leading to increase in Current Account Deficit (CAD). basis points in the last one year.

GOVERNMENT BUDGETING

and mechanism of Off-Budget Financing and how it has an OFF-BUDGET FINANCING adverse impact on Government's finances. #Budgeting WHAT IS OFF-BUDGET FINANCING? The Off-Budget Financing refers to the expenditure undertaken by the Public sector undertakings (PSUs) through IN NEWS the market borrowings based upon guarantee of repayment of loans given by Government. For example, let's say the The Government of India had stated that the Fiscal Deficit for government needs to invest in the Railways. It may ask the the financial year 2018-19 was around 3.5% of the GDP. Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) to borrow money However, in reality the fiscal deficit was much higher at 4.4% from the market and finance railway projects. However, the of the GDP. Similarly, for the financial year 2019-20, the Government guarantees the repayment of principal and Government has budgeted the fiscal deficit to be around 3.4%, interest for the money borrowed by Indian Railway Finance however, once again, in reality it could be much higher at 4.7% Corporation in case it fails to repay the borrowed money. of GDP. Now, these are some of the glaring financial Such kind of expenditure undertaken by Indian Railway irregularities which have been highlighted by Former Finance Finance Corporation can be considered to be "Off Budget" Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg recently. financing. It is to be noted that this guarantee of the Subhash Chandra Garg has highlighted that the Government is government could become a liability in future, however it is under-reporting its fiscal deficit so as to ensure compliance not accounted under the Government Budget. with the FRBM Act. Such kind of under-reporting of the Fiscal MECHANISM OF OFF-BUDGET FINANCING deficit hurts the sanctity of the Government's finances and reduces the parliamentary control over the Government. Capital Expenditure: The Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) was launched during 1996-97 to give Such kind of under-reporting of the Government's fiscal deficit assistance to States to help them complete irrigation projects. has taken place primarily on account of Off-Budget Earlier, expenditure for AIBP was provided directly through Expenditure. In this regard, let us discuss about the concept the Budget. However, a dedicated Long-Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF) was created in 2016 under National Bank for

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Economic Development

Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for funding through off-budget financing provides flexibility in meeting and fast tracking the implementation of irrigation projects. requirement of capital-intensive projects. However, such The money to be spent under Long Term Irrigation Fund financing remains outside budgetary control of the (LTIF) was raised through issuance of bonds by NABARD but Parliament. Hence, it reduces parliamentary control over guaranteed by Government of India. the Government's finances.

On the similar lines, money was raised by Indian Railway • Decrease in Fiscal discipline: The increase in the off- Finance Corporation (IRFC) and Power finance budget expenditure highlights that the Government has corporation (PFC) through the issue of bonds for investing in not been able to manage its finances efficiently and thus Capital Projects. there is greater level of fiscal indiscipline.

Further, the Government of India has infused around Rs • Enhanced Financial Risk: The increase in off-budget 80,000 crores into the Public sector banks (PSBs) through the financing poses enhanced risk for the Government, issuance of Recapitalization Bonds. Ideally, these particularly when the Government agencies which borrow Recapitalization bonds should be accounted as government's money from market based on government guarantee fails borrowings. However, the Fiscal deficit has failed to take into to repay such loans. Under such circumstances, the account these bonds. Government would be required to pitch in and fulfill its

Revenue Expenditure: The Government has been deferring obligations. the payment of subsidies to the Food Corporation of India • Reduced Sanctity of Government's Finances: Ideally, the (FCI) in order to reduce its revenue expenditure and keep its Government guarantee on repayment of bonds should be fiscal deficit under check. accounted under Debt and Liabilities so as to provide

The Government needs to pay the subsidy bill to the FCI for correct picture about its finances. However, since it is not undertaking procurement and distribution of Food grains accounted, it would lead to understating of under the Public Distribution system (PDS). However, instead Government's borrowings and do not present correct of paying this subsidy bill, the Government has been asking picture related to fiscal indicators such as Fiscal Deficit and the FCI to borrow money from the market through the Revenue Deficit. issuance of bonds based on government guarantee. The How to address this problem? The office of CAG has given a Government has also resorted to giving loans to FCI from the number of recommendations to tackle the problem of off- National Small Savings Fund (NSSF) maintained by it. budget financing. Some of these recommendations

On similar lines, the Government has deferred the payment include: of subsidies to fertilizer Companies. The Government has • The Government of India must put in place policy made ‘Special Banking Arrangement’ (SBA) in which loans framework for off-budget financing in order to provide from certain PSU banks are arranged to the fertiliser for enhanced disclosure to the Indian parliament. Such a companies which are required to be paid with the subsidies. policy framework must mandate the Government to The Government is guaranteeing the repayment of such highlight the rationale and objective of undertaking off- loans by the fertiliser companies. budget financing.

CONCERNS WITH OFF-BUDGET FINANCING • The Government must come out with the quantum of off- budget financing and the way it has been undertaken According to various Estimates put forward by Subhash every year. Chandra Garg, the Off-budget Expenditure accounts for at least 1% of India's GDP, which appears to be quite huge. The • The Government must disclose all the details about the same concern was raised even by Comptroller and Auditor off-budget financing through the disclosure statements in General (CAG) in March 2019. the Budget.

• Decrease in Government's Financial Accountability: The Government’s strategy to meet capital expenditure

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Economic Development

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM TAX? GOVERNMENT SITTING Any tax collected goes into Consolidated Fund of India (CFI) ON UNUTILISED CESS which can be allocated for any purpose. However, Cess is a different form of tax and may initially get credited to the CFI WORTH 3.9 LAKH CRORE but has to be ultimately used for the purpose for which it is imposed. In order to utilise the cess proceedings, the RUPEES government has to create a dedicated fund. The proceeds of such funds are non-lapsable.

#Budgeting Example: Prarambhik Shiksha kosh (Primary Education), Madhyamik and Uchchtar Shiksha kosh (Secondary and Higher Education),

IN NEWS Further, unlike the normal taxes, Cess fund need not be While replying to a question raised in the Parliament, the shared by the Central Government with State Union Minister of Finance has highlighted that the total Governments. Government also resorts to Cess as it is easy unutilized cesses collected between FY15 and FY20 stands at to introduce, modify and abolish compared to normal taxes staggering amount of Rs 3.59 lakh crores. This amounts to 22 as any change in normal tax need to go through a lot of per cent of the budgeted tax revenues for FY20. The fact that procedure. the Government has failed to utilize the collected cess shows EXAMPLES OF SOME IMPORTANT CESSES IN INDIA that the Government has not been able to manage its finances • Health and Education Cess: It is imposed at 4% on major efficiently. More importantly, the present economic slowdown central taxes such as Corporate Tax and Income Tax. The requires the Government to increase its expenditure so as to Government has set up separate funds such as provide stimulus. However, the Government has failed to Prarambhik Shiksha kosh (Primary Education) Madhyamik efficiently utilize the cess amount which can prove crucial to and Uchchtar Shiksha kosh (Secondary and Higher enhance the money supply in the Indian Economy. Education) to transfer the cess collected.

• Cess on Crude oil: The Oil Industry (Development) Act, 1974 provides for collection of cess as a excise duty on indigenous crude oil. The cess was levied at Rs 60 per tonne in July 1974 and subsequently revised from time to time. The Cess is currently levied at the rate of 20 per cent of the value of oil. The cess first gets credited to the Consolidated fund of India and from there it is transferred to Oil Industry Development Fund.

• Cess on Bidi: It is provided under THE BEEDI WORKERS WELFARE CESS ACT, 1976. It is a form of excise duty which UNDERSTANDING CESS is imposed on the manufactured beedis. The proceeds of this cess is directly credited to the Consolidated fund of A cess is considered to be "Tax on tax". It is levied by the India and is used for the welfare of the bidi workers. government for a specific purpose. Cess collected for a particular reason has to go towards the purpose for which it • Road and Infrastructure Cess: It is imposed at the rate of was charged. It cannot be used for, or diverted, to other Rs 10 per litre on the imported and domestic sale of petrol purposes. For example, Health and Education Cess is and high speed diesel. It is to be used for the development imposed at 4% on major central taxes such as Corporate Tax of various infrastructure projects such as National and Income Tax. It is to be used only for the promotion of Highways, Railway projects etc. education and health and cannot be diverted for other purposes.

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Economic Development

NOTE: Krishi Kalyan Cess, Clean Environment Cess, Swachh Taxation Laws Amendment Act 2017 Bharat Cess have been subsumed under the GST through

BANKING AND FINANCE

CRISIL identified three critical parameters of basic banking NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR services namely branch penetration, deposit penetration and credit penetration. The CRISIL Inclusix indicate that FINANCIAL INCLUSION there is an overall improvement in the financial inclusion in #Banking India. Causes of Financial Exclusion: Lack of Financial Literacy; Dominance of Bank Branches in Urban Areas; lack of requisite documents to open Bank accounts; Lack of IN NEWS awareness about Insurance products; Lack of Surplus The promotion of Financial inclusion is considered to be Income; Poor quality of services rendered. essential to promote economic growth and development Important Measures to promote Financial Inclusion: across the world. Access to formal finance can boost job Nationalisation of Banks (1969 and 1980); Setting up of creation, reduce vulnerability to economic shocks and increase Regional Rural Banks (RRBs); Priority sector lending norms; investments in human capital. Seven of the United Nations Opening of Basic Savings Bank Accounts (BSBA); PM Jan Dhan Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of 2030 view financial Yojana; Setting up of Payment banks and Small Finance inclusion as a key enabler for achieving sustainable Banks; Launch of UPI, BHIM app etc. development worldwide. Strategy for Financial Inclusion: The RBI believes that the In this regard, the RBI has recently released National Strategy Financial Inclusion depends upon 3 parameters- Financial for Financial Inclusion 2019-24. Inclusion policies, Financial Literacy and Consumer trust. FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN INDIA The Consumer confidence and trust can be strengthened by providing for effective Grievance redressal mechanism. Definition: According to Raghuram Rajan Committee on Accordingly, based on such a strategy, the RBI has identified Financial Sector reforms, Financial Inclusion refers to certain pillars to promote financial inclusion. universal access to a wide range of financial services at a reasonable cost. These include not only banking products but STRATEGIC PILLARS FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION also other financial services such as insurance and equity product. Importance of Financial Inclusion: Financial Inclusion has multiplier effect in boosting economic output, reducing poverty and income inequality. Financial inclusion of women is important to promote gender equality and women empowerment. Extent of Financial Inclusion: As per census 2011, only 58% of households are availing banking services in the country. However, as compared with previous census 2001, availing of banking services increased significantly largely on account of increase in banking services in rural areas. In June 2013, CRISIL first time published a comprehensive financial inclusion index (viz.,Inclusix). For constructing the index,

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Economic Development

• Universal Access to Financial Services: In order to Government, the Regulators, financial service providers, achieve the objective of providing universal access to Telecom Service Regulators, Skills Training institutes etc. to financial services, it is important to provide digital network make sure that the customers are able to use the services infrastructure to all the financial service outlets. In this in a sustained manner. regard, digital financial infrastructure should be set up by all the banks as well as other non-bank entities such as fertilizer shops, Office of the Local Government bodies / Panchayats, fair price shops, common service centres, ONLINE PLATFORM- educational institutions etc. to promote efficiency and transparency in the services offered to customers. eBkray • Providing Basic Bouquet of Financial Services: Every adult who is willing and eligible needs to be provided with # Banking a basic bouquet of financial services that include a Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account, credit, a micro life and non- life insurance product, a pension product and a suitable

investment product. This can be achieved through IN NEWS designing and developing customized financial products by banks and ensuring efficient delivery of the same through The Finance minister has recently launched common online leveraging of Fin-tech and Business Correspondent (BC) platform named eBkray to auction the assets attached by networks. Public sector Banks. The e-auction platform would be linked to Indian Banks Auctions Mortgaged Properties Information • Access to Livelihood and Skill Development: There has (IBAPI) portal and aims to bring in transparency in the sale of to convergence between financial inclusion and promotion properties attached by public sector Banks. of livelihood and skill development. The new entrants into the financial inclusion must be must aware of the ABOUT INDIAN BANKS AUCTIONS MORTGAGED government initiatives to promote skill building such as PROPERTIES INFORMATION (IBAPI) National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), PM Kaushal • It is an initiative of Indian Banks Association (IBA) under Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) etc. the overarching policy of the Department of Financial • Financial Literacy and Education: There is a need to Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance. It provides a common prepare financial literacy modules with specific target platform to display details of mortgaged properties to be audience orientation (e.g. children, young adults, women, auctioned online by Banks. retired employees etc.). These modules can be in the • Buyers can use IBAPI portal to search and get properties forms of Audio-Video/ booklets and should be made details and participate in the auction process. Presently, 21 available for understanding the product and processes banks are onboard on this portal. involved. ABOUT eBkray • Customer Protection and Grievance Redressal: The • The eBkray platform will give navigational links to all Public Financial sector is facing growing risks such as cloning, Sector Banks (PSBs) e-auction sites, property search hacking, phishing, malware etc. which increase the feature and will also provide single-window access to vulnerability of digital financial users. Hence, in order to information on properties up for e-auction. It has videos improve the trust of the users, there is a need to set up and photographs of the uploaded properties as well. effective grievance redressal mechanism at different levels. Data Protection and Cyber Security also need to be • With the help of this platform, buyers can easily navigate addressed under the customer protection framework. to the bank e-auction site once a notified property is selected. • Effective Co-ordination: There needs to be a focused and continuous coordination between the key stakeholders i.e.

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Economic Development

INDUSTRIAL POLICY AND LPG

identified, and special emphasis is given on these sectors. CHALLENGES BEFORE Other objectives under the Make in India include: • To increase the share of manufacturing sector to 25% from MAKE IN INDIA the present 16% by the end of 2025.

# Manufacturing • To create 100 million additional manufacturing jobs.

• To increase the manufacturing sector's growth rate to 12- 14% per annum. IN NEWS ANALYSIS OF THE "MAKE IN INDIA" CAMPAIGN The Government of India had launched the "Make in India" The success of the "Make in India" campaign can be analyzed initiative to boost manufacturing sector and make India the from three important economic parameters- Investment global manufacturing hub. However, some of the economists rates, Output Growth and employment growth. have highlighted that "Make in India" initiative has failed to • Investment rates: There has been decline in the overall take off. In this regard, let us understand various constraints capital investments in the manufacturing sector in the last before "Make in India". 5 years. The investment rate within the Indian Economy NEED FOR BOOSTING MANUFACTURING SECTOR has reduced from 31.3% in 2013-14 to 28.6% in 2017-18. • As a country develops, it undergoes ‘structural change’. The success of the "Make in India" depends upon the Usually, with development, the share of agriculture increase in the overall investment rates within India and declines and the share of industry becomes dominant. At hence the general decline in the investment rate shows higher levels of development, the service sector that the private sector has not stepped up its investment contributes more to the GDP than the other two sectors. to boost the "Make in India" campaign.

• In the case of India, the structural change is peculiar. The • Output Growth: The output growth of the manufacturing development of agricultural sector after the Green sector can be analyzed by looking at high frequency Revolution during 1970s was not followed by the indicators such as Index of Industrial production. The IIP development of manufacturing sector, rather it was has registered double-digit growth rates only on two followed by the rapid development of service sector. occasions between 2012 to 2019. The IIP has remained 3% or below for majority period in the last 5 years. The IIP • Presently, the agricultural sector contributes around 16% reduced to -4.3% in September 2019 which denotes that of India's GDP while the manufacturing sector and service the contraction in the manufacturing activity within India. sector contributes 16% and 55% of the GDP respectively. Thus, Indian economy has bypassed the development of • Employment Growth: In spite of launching "Make in manufacturing sector to become service sector dominated India", the Indian Economy has failed to create sufficient economy. Thus, in spite of having all the right ingredients number of jobs to cater to the demographic dividend. The such as abundant raw materials, cheap labor force, vast Unemployment within India has increased to 45-year high domestic market, India has failed to capitalize and develop of 6.1% as highlighted by PLFS Report. the manufacturing sector. Thus, accordingly, "Make in India" has failed on all three ABOUT "MAKE IN INDIA" INITIATIVE counts. Make in India is an initiative that was launched in 2014 as a REASONS FOR THE FAILURE OF 'MAKE IN INDIA" campaign to boost the FDI in India and make India a Poor Condition of the Financial Sector: The Financial sector manufacturing hub. Under Make in India, 25 key sectors are within India is in bad shape and hence it is unable to cater to credit requirements of the manufacturing sector. The NPAs of

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Economic Development

the Indian banks and liquidity crunch faced by the NBFCs has and bring them on par with the tax rates prevailing in other led to reduced credit creation within the Indian Economy. countries.

Archaic labour laws: The archaic and outdated labour laws Other important reasons that could be attributed to the have led to higher compliance burden on the firms and failure of "Make in India" are cumbersome land acquisition disincentivized the private sector from investing in the procedure, poor ease of doing business, greater amount of manufacturing sector. policy uncertainty, poor infrastructure etc.

Problem of Missing Middle: The Manufacturing sector is Way Forward: Going forward, we need to replicate our basically dominated by a large number of small enterprises success of IT sector in the manufacturing sector and also and a relatively less number of large scale manufacturing learn lessons from East Asian neighbours such as Singapore enterprises. There is almost near absence of mid-sized firms. and Malaysia. Such an outcome would be feasible through Such a peculiar scenario is referred to as "Problem of Missing the adoption of new Manufacturing Policy. The New Middle". This is basically attributed to the Government Manufacturing policy must address all the problems that are incentive structure and policies. Presently, the government hampering the growth of manufacturing sector and must provides a large number of incentives such as access to create a conducive ecosystem for its healthy development. cheaper credit, guaranteed public procurement etc. to the small scale enterprises so that they can grow into mid-sized enterprises. These incentives are given only to small-sized firms and not for the medium sized firms. Moreover, these END OF CAPTIVE COAL incentives are provided irrespective of the age of small scale enterprises. Such an incentive structure prevents the small - MINING sized firms from growing into mid-sized and large sized firms. The Economic survey 2018-19 has referred to these firms as # Coal Sector Reforms "Dwarf Firms".

The dominance of such dwarf firms within Indian Economy has led to poor job creation. IN NEWS

Skilled Human Resources: As per census 2011, India has The Cabinet has approved to promulgate an ordinance to relax almost 53% of the population in the working-age group. a number of provisions in the Mines and Minerals However, in order to optimally utilize the demographic (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 (MMDR Act) and the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 (CMSP Act) in order to dividend, we need skilled human resources. The lack of revive the investor sentiment in coal mining in India. availability of skilled human resources is considered to be a constraint for the manufacturing sector. PRESENT STATUS OF COAL SECTOR

Logistics cost: The Logistics cost account for almost 12-14% • India has the world's third largest coal reserves. According of India's GDP as compared to 8-9% in other countries. The to the Geological Survey of India, the total estimated coal higher logistic cost acts as a burden and constrains the resources in India is around 315 billion tonnes. India is also development of manufacturing sector. the third largest coal producer in the world. The annual coal production in India is around 730 MT. However, due Impact of FTAs: The FTAs signed by India with the developed to the growing needs of the rapidly expanding economy, economies such as Japan, South Korea etc. have led to import the annual demand for coal has increased to around 900 of cheaper foreign goods and hence adversely impacted the MT. Hence, the shortage of coal in India is met through domestic manufacturing. imports. Thus in spite of having, world's third largest coal High Taxation: The Corporate tax rates within India was reserves, India imports about 25% of its domestic coal considered to be at least 50% higher as compared to other needs. emerging economies. It was only recently that the • Coal accounts for almost 55% of our energy needs. Hence, Government has decided to reduce the corporate tax rates the shortage of coal within our domestic economy is forcing the thermal power plants to operate their

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Economic Development

threshold capacity. This has led to lower profit margins of • In October 2018, the Indian Government eased the end- the thermal power plants and reduced their ability to use restrictions on the captive coal mine operators. It repay back the loans to the banks. Thus, the shortage of allowed them to sell 25% of the extracted coal in the open coal within India has not only led to poor financial position market. of power plants but it has also led to increase in the Non- • In August 2019, 100% FDI was allowed in the coal mining performing assets (NPAs) of the Indian banks. sector. This enabled even the foreign companies to extract INITIATIVES TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT SO FAR and sell coal in the Indian market. The problems of the coal sector can be attributed to the RECENT INITIATIVES virtual monopoly enjoyed by Coal India Limited for the coal The following changes have been made through the mining in India. Apart from that, the Government also used to proposed amendments to the Mines and Minerals allocate the coal blocks to the private sector entities such as (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 (MMDR Act) and power plants, steel plants etc. who could use the extracted the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 (CMSP Act): coal only for their own purposes and were not allowed to sell • Lifting of end-use restrictions: Earlier, the captive coal the coal in the open market. These private sector entities are mine operators were allowed to sell 25% of the extracted referred to captive coal mine operators with end-use coal in the open market. Now, the Union Government has restrictions (i.e. restrictions on selling excess coal in the open proposed to allow these captive coal mine operators to sell market. Hence, the virtual monopoly of the Coal India Limited their entire coal in the open market. Thus, the government and allocation of captive coal mines with end-use restrictions has finally put an end to the captive coal mining regime in has led to inefficiencies in the coal extraction leading to coal India. shortages. • Composite license: The government has proposed VARIOUS REFORM MEASURES TAKEN SO FAR changes to Minerals (Development and Regulation) • In February 2018, the Indian Government allowed the (MMDR) to extend composite mining licence (prospective- Indian private sector entities to mine and sell coal in the cum-mining) to coal sector which is currently available only domestic market. This led to end of the monopoly enjoyed for non-coal minerals. by the Coal India Limited for the extraction and selling of

coal in the market.

GOVERNMENT SCHEMES/ PROGRAMS/INITIATIVES

Aadhaar has been made mandatory for the subscription of PRADHAN MANTRI VAYA Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana. VANDANA YOJANA ABOUT PM VAYA VANDANA YOJANA (PMVVY) Objective: PMVVY aims to provide social security during old #Govt Policies age and to protect elderly persons aged 60 years and above against a future fall in their interest income due to uncertain market conditions. The scheme enables old age income IN NEWS security for senior citizens through provision of assured pension/return linked to the subscription amount. The Recently, the Government issued a notification under the scheme is operated by Life Insurance Corporation. Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. As per this notification,

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Economic Development

ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS Energy Efficiency (EE) initiatives in 36 states and union territories based on 97 significant indicators. • Minimum Entry Age: 60 years (completed) ABOUT THE STATE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX 2019 • Maximum Entry Age: No limit • • Policy Term: 10 years Rationale: The State Energy Efficiency Index 2019 incorporates qualitative, quantitative and outcome-based • The scheme can be purchased by payment of a lump sum indicators to assess energy efficiency initiatives, programs Purchase Price. Minimum purchase price under the and outcomes in five distinct sectors – buildings, industry, scheme is Rs.1,50,000/- for a minimum pension of Rs. municipalities, transport, agriculture, and DISCOMs. New 1,000/- per month and the maximum purchase price is indicators for this year include adoption of Energy Rs.7,50,000/- for a maximum pension of Rs.5,000/- per Conservation Building Code (ECBC) 2017, energy efficiency month. in MSME clusters, etc BENEFITS • Developed by: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in • Pension Payment: On survival of the Pensioner during the association with Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy policy term of 10 years, pension in arrears shall be (AEEE). payable. • Benefits: Help states contribute towards national goals on • Death Benefit: On death of the Pensioner during the energy security and climate action by helping drive EE policy term of 10 years, the Purchase Price shall be policies and program implementation at the state and refunded to the beneficiary. local level, tracking progress in managing the states’ and

• Maturity Benefit: On survival of the pensioner to the end India’s energy footprint and institutionalizing the data of the policy term of 10 years, Purchase price along with capture and monitoring of EE activities by states. final pension instalment shall be payable. • Performance of States: For rational comparison, OTHER BENEFITS States/UTs are grouped into four groups based on aggregated Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) required • Scheme provides an assured return of 8% per annum for to meet the state’s actual energy demand (electricity, coal, 10 years. oil, gas, etc.) across sectors. TPES grouping helps states • Loan up to 75% of Purchase Price is after 3 policy years. compare performance and share best practices within • The scheme also allows for premature exit for the their peer group. treatment of any critical/ terminal illness of self or spouse. Under four categories based on TPES, Haryana, Kerala, On such premature exit, 98% of the Purchase Price shall be Karnataka, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, refunded. Puducherry and Chandigarh have been evaluated as progressive states/UTs in the State Energy Efficiency Index 2019. STATE ENERGY ENERGY EFFICIENCY INITIATIVES IN INDIA Legal and Institutional Framework: The Energy EFFICIENCY INDEX 2019 Conservation Act (EC Act) was enacted in 2001 with the goal of reducing energy intensity of Indian economy. The Bureau #Energy Sector of Energy Efficiency (BEE) was set up as the statutory body in 2002 at the central level to facilitate the implementation of the EC Act. The Act provides regulatory mandate for: IN NEWS standards & labelling of equipment and appliances; energy conservation building codes for commercial buildings; and Recently, the Union Minister for Power released the "State energy consumption norms for energy intensive industries. Energy Efficiency Index 2019", which tracks the progress of

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Economic Development

Further, the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) is a joint development of super-efficient appliances by providing venture of 4 Public sector enterprises. It implements a financial stimulus.

number of energy efficiency schemes in India. Initiatives of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL):

INITIATIVES OF THE BUREAU OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY • UJALA SCHEME: UNNAT JYOTI BY AFFORDABLE LEDS (BEE) FOR ALL: It involves distribution of the energy efficient LED • Standards and Labelling: Provide the consumer an bulbs to the consumers. informed choice about the energy saving and thereby the • Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP): Under the cost saving potential products such as Room Air programme, EESL replaces the conventional streetlights Conditioners, Fluorescent Tube Lights, Frost Free with LEDs at its own costs. Refrigerators etc. • Atal Jyoti Yojana (AJAY): To illuminate dark regions • Energy Conservation Building Codes (ECBC): ECBC sets through establishment of solar streetlights. minimum energy standards for new commercial buildings

having a connected load of 100kW or contract demand of 120 KVA and above. NATURAL GAS BASED • Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA): Rating tool that helps people assesses the ECONOMY performance of their building against certain nationally acceptable benchmarks of accepted energy and #Energy Sector environmental principles. • National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE): Aims to strengthen the market for energy IN NEWS efficiency by creating conducive regulatory and policy regime. It is being jointly implemented by Bureau of The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs headed by the Energy Efficiency and Energy Efficiency Services Limited Prime Minister has recently given its approval for the funding EESL. of North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid.

COMPONENTS OF NMEEE BACKGROUND • Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT): Industries in various India's energy mix is dominated by coal and oil which account sectors have been mandated to reduce their specific for 86% of the electricity generation. The share of cleaner energy consumption (SEC) (energy used per unit of fuel, Natural Gas is quite lower at 6%. In this regard, the production) to a specific target based on their current Government has been promoting Gas Based economy to levels of energy efficiency. The units which are able to increase the share of gas in the energy mix to 15% by achieve SEC level that are lower than their targets can receive energy savings certificates (ESCerts) for their 2025. excess savings. The ESCerts could be traded on the Power Presently, most of the Gas Pipelines are spread across the Exchanges and bought by other units under PAT who can Western and Northern parts of India. This has not only use them to meet their compliance requirements. caused regional imbalances in terms of access to Natural Gas • MARKET TRANSFORMATION FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY Infrastructure but also led to underutilisation of existing (MTEE): Under MTEE, two programmes have been pipelines wherein presently, only 45% of the existing capacity developed i.e. Bachat Lamp Yojana (BLY) and Super- of pipelines is utilised making them economically unviable. Efficient Equipment Programme (SEEP). Under Bachat Hence, setting up of National Gas Grid would lead to Lamp Yojana (BLY), incandescent bulbs are to be replaced balanced distribution of natural gas infrastructure and by CFLs. In the next phase of BLY, BEE will promote use of optimum utilisation of existing pipelines. LED lights. Super-Efficient Equipment Programme (SEEP) is a program designed to bring accelerated

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Economic Development

ABOUT NATURAL GAS GRID MANDATORY At present about 16,788 Km natural gas pipeline is operational and about 14,239 Km gas pipelines are being HALLMARKING OF GOLD developed to increase the availability of natural gas across the country. These pipelines have been authorized by #Government Policies Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) and are at various stages of execution. OBJECTIVES IN NEWS

• To remove regional imbalance within the country with The Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public regards to access of natural gas and provide clean and Distribution has recently announced that Gold Hallmarking to be made mandatory across the nation. green fuel throughout the country. What is Hallmarking? Hallmarking is the accurate • To connect gas sources to major demand centres and determination and official recording of the proportionate ensure availability of gas to consumers in various sectors. content of precious metal in precious metal articles. • Development of City Gas Distribution Networks in various Hallmarks are thus official marks used as a guarantee of cities for supply of CNG and PNG. purity of precious metal articles. The principal objectives of the Hallmarking Scheme are to protect the public against ABOUT NORTH EAST GAS GRID AND ITS adulteration and to obligate manufacturers to maintain legal SIGNIFICANCE standards of purity.

The North East Gas Pipeline Grid would be developed in the Who does Hallmarking in India? The Indian government has identified the as the eight states of the North-Eastern region i.e. Arunachal Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) sole agency to operate the Hallmarking Scheme. BIS Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Hallmarking Scheme operates under the BIS Act, Rules and Sikkim and Tripura. Regulations. The Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL), a joint venture How the Hallmarking is done? The Bureau of Indian company of five CPSEs (IOCL, ONGC, GAIL, OIL and NRL) has Standards has formulated Hall Marking Scheme for been incorporated to develop and operate Natural gas certification of gold/silver jewellery & artefacts. As per this pipeline grid in North-East region. scheme, the jewellery retailer/manufacturer desirous of obtaining a licence has to apply to BIS for use of Standard SIGNIFICANCE Mark (Hallmark). • Lead to development of Industrial Clusters in the North After grant of licence, the jeweller must follow a BIS-approved East along the Gas Pipeline. Scheme for certification. A BIS-certified jeweller has right to approach any of the BIS-recognized Assaying and • Lead to Reduction in the use of Kerosene and wood in the Hallmarking Centres to get his/her jewellery hallmarked. households. COMPONENTS OF HALLMARKING • Enhance the utilization of Cleaner Natural Gas and BIS hallmarking consists of the following components to improve the natural environment. ensure the purity of gold which are as follows: • Help us in achieving Sustainable Goal 7 which deals with • BIS Mark; providing access to affordable, reliable and sustainable • Purity in Karat and fineness; Purity of gold is indicated in energy for all. two ways: Karat (denoted as KT) and fineness number. Fineness number is purity in parts per thousand.

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Economic Development

• The Hallmarked Gold jewellery is available in three grades ABOUT NATIONAL START UP ADVISORY COUNCIL of 14 Carat (14K585),18 Carat (18K750) and 22 Carat This is the first time the Central Government has set an (22K916) overarching body to nurture and promote the Start-up ecosystem in India. The National Start-up Advisory Council is expected to brainstorm on ways to boost the Indian start-up ecosystem and encourage innovation among the Indian citizens, especially students. The council will focus on innovation across all the economic sectors, including semi- urban and rural areas. It will also suggest measures to facilitate public organizations to assimilate innovation with a view to improving public service delivery. COMPOSITION • Chairman: Minister for Commerce and Industry. • Ex-officio Members: Nominees of the concerned Ministries/Departments/Organisations of the rank of Joint • Assaying and Hallmarking Centre's identification Secretary and above. mark/number; • Nominated Members: Founders of successful start-ups, • Jeweller's Identification mark/number veterans who have grown and scaled companies in India, persons capable of representing interests of investors into ABOUT BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS start-ups, persons capable of representing interests of • Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the National Standard incubators (Term of 2 years) Body of India and works under the Ministry of Consumer • Convener of Council: Joint Secretary, Department for Affairs. Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. • BIS operates a Product Certification scheme for ensuring

compliance to Indian Standards. Presence of BIS standard mark (popularly known as ISI mark) on a product indicates conformity to the relevant Indian Standard. PARIS CONVENTION ON • The BIS certification scheme is voluntary in nature. However for a number of products, compliance to Indian INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY Standards made mandatory by the Central Government under various statutes in public interest. #Government Policies

NATIONAL START-UP IN NEWS Recently, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has ADVISORY COUNCIL highlighted that private sector entities in other countries are misusing its trademarks and symbols such as "Charkha". #Government Policies Hence, in order to prevent such misuse, for the first time KVIC has sought International Trademark protection of symbol of ‘Charkha’ under the article 6ter of the Paris Convention. IN NEWS ABOUT THE PARIS CONVENTION ON INDUSTRIAL The Central Government has recently notified the structure of PROPERTY the National Start-up Advisory Council to advise the • The Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Government on measures needed to build a strong ecosystem Property, signed in 1883, was one of the first intellectual for nurturing innovation and start-ups in the country. property treaties. It established a Union for the protection

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Economic Development

of industrial property. It applies to industrial property in MoU, NITI Aayog will be supporting the UT’s administration the widest sense, including patents, trademarks, industrial through its key initiative ‘Development Support Services to designs, utility models (a kind of "small-scale patent" States for Infrastructure Projects. provided for by the laws of some countries), service marks, ABOUT NITI AAYOG'S DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT trade names (designations under which an industrial or SERVICES TO STATES FOR INFRASTRUCTURE commercial activity is carried out), geographical indications PROJECTS etc. It is administered by World Intellectual property NITI Aayog has been implementing initiative known as organisation (WIPO). “Development Support Services for States (DSSS) for • The purpose of is Article 6ter under the Paris Convention Infrastructure Projects”. Its vision is to achieve to protect armorial bearings, flags and other State transformational, sustained delivery of infrastructure projects emblems of the States party to the Paris Convention as with state of art capacity disseminated at all levels of well as official signs and hallmarks indicating control and governance. The key objective behind the objective is creating warranty adopted by them. The signs published with PPP success stories and rebooting infrastructure project World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) under this delivery models so a sustainable infrastructure creation cycle act are prevented from being registered or used as is established. trademarks, across the world, without authorization. The DSSS Infrastructure initiative involves providing project HOW WOULD THE INCLUSION OF CHARKHA UNDER level support from Concept plan till financial closure to State PARIS CONVENTION BENEFIT KVIC? Governments / UTs. The regulations issued in 2013 by the Ministry of MSME, RELATED INFORMATION: OTHER IMPORTANT empowered KVIC to grant ‘Khadi Mark’ registration and take INITIATIVES OF NITI AAYOG royalties from any producer using the Khadi Mark. KVIC is • Sustainable Action for Transforming Human Capital fighting cases in several countries for violation of the Khadi (SATH): SATH is aimed at initiating transformation in two Mark Regulations. KVIC has issued notices against 600 key social sectors—education and health, by hand-holding entities in India, including a renowned garment chain and 3 States towards improving their social sector indicators and entities in the International market for misusing these providing technical support over three years. It was symbols and indulging in unfair trade practices in the recent launched with selection of states through unique challenge past. method. Hence, protection of "Khadi Mark" registration under the • Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat: It was conceptualized to article 6ter of the Paris convention would prevent its misuse make our country united, strong and promote excellence by the private sector entities. in all walks of life by means of long-term inter-state engagements through cultural exchanges and education.

• Aspirational Districts Programme: To realise the vision of ‘SabkaSaath, SabkaVikas’, and ensure that India’s growth DSSS FOR process remains inclusive, the ‘Aspirational District Programme (ADP)’ was launched in 2018. It is a special INFRASTRUCTURE initiative to rapidly transform 115 identified districts that have shown relatively lesser progress in key social areas PROJECTS and have emerged as pockets of under-development, #Government Policies thereby posing a challenge to ensure balanced regional development. The broad contours of the programme are Convergence (of Central & State Schemes), Collaboration (of Central, State level ‘Prabhari’ Officers & District IN NEWS Collectors), and Competition among districts driven by a In an important initiative to promote the development of key mass Movement. With States as the main drivers, this infrastructure sectors in the newly constituted Union Territory program will focus on the strength of each district, identify of Ladakh, NITI Aayog entered into a memorandum of low-hanging fruits for immediate improvement, measure understanding (MoU) with the UT’s administration. Under this progress, and rank districts.

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Economic Development

• NITI Forum for North East: It is the first ever regional death and hence such rules are "arbitrary" and forum constituted by NITI Aayog with representation from "unconstitutional". The petitioner also argued that in case of all the NE States and the concerned Central user's death, all the documents uploaded on Digilocker would Ministries/Departments. This forum was constituted to not be accessible by his or her kin and would automatically get identify various constraints in the way of accelerated, passed on to the Government. The Delhi High Court has now inclusive but sustainable economic growth in the North sought the response of the Central Government on this East Region of our country, and also to recommend petition. suitable interventions for addressing the identified ABOUT DigiLocker constraints. DigiLocker is a platform for issuance and verification of • Island Development Agency (IDA): The IDA was set up in documents & certificates in a digital way, thus eliminating the June 2017 under the Chairmanship of the Home Minister use of physical documents. Indian citizens who sign up for a of India, with the CEO, NITI Aayog as the Convener. It DigiLocker account get a dedicated cloud storage space that undertakes reviews on the progress relating to holistic is linked to their Aadhaar (UIDAI) number. Organizations that development of identified islands. are registered with Digital Locker can issue electronic copies • ‘SAMAVESH’, - a major initiative aimed at networking and of documents and certificates (e.g. driving license, Voter ID, partnership with knowledge and research institutions School certificates) directly into citizens lockers. Citizens can using a hub and spoke model was launched. Thirty-four also upload scanned copies of their legacy documents in their such Institutions have entered into a Memorandum of accounts. These legacy documents can be electronically Understanding with NITI with the aim to share knowledge signed using the eSign facility. and link policy with practice. • Atal Innovation Mission: Atal Innovation Mission is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, setup under the aegis of NITI Aayog, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. The programs in the first phase have established a network of innovation institutions, at the school and higher education levels. • Important Indices: NITI Aayog has developed the ‘Healthy States, Progressive India’ Report also known as the ‘Health Index’ in February 2018. The Composite Water Management Index was also launched in June 2018. The ‘School Education Quality Index (SEQI)’, ‘SDG India Index’ The platform has the following benefits: and the ‘Digital Transformation Index’ (DTI) are other 1. Citizens can access their digital documents anytime, important initiatives of NITI Aayog. anywhere and share it online. This is convenient and time saving. 2. It reduces the administrative overhead of Government DIGITAL INDIA- departments by minimizing the use of paper. 3. Digital Locker makes it easier to validate the authenticity DIGILOCKER of documents as they are issued directly by the registered #Government Policies issuers. 4. Self-uploaded documents can be digitally signed using the eSign facility (which is similar to the process of self- attestation). IN NEWS RELATED INFORMATION: SOME IMPORTANT Recently, a petition was filed before the Delhi High Court INITIATIVES UNDER DIGITAL INDIA against the rules pertaining to the operation of DigiLocker. The The Government has launched Digital India Campaign to petitioner has argued that the rules does not allow a user to transform India into digital empowered society and nominate a successor or heir to operate the facility on his/her

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Economic Development

knowledge economy. Some of the key initiatives under the through provision of universally accessible digital Digital India include: information resources in Indian languages. • e-Hastakshar: e-Sign service facilitates instant signing of • Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance documents online by citizens in a legally acceptable form. (UMANG): UMANG has been developed as a single mobile The services are being leveraged by various applications, platform to deliver major Government services. such as, Digital Locker, Financial Sector, various • Electronic Transaction Aggregation and Analysis Layer Government agencies etc. (eTaal): It acts as an electronic dashboard for providing a • GI Cloud (MeghRaj): MeghRaj initiative is intended to real time aggregated view of e-Services being delivered deliver ICT services over cloud to all the across different States and levels of Government. departments/Ministries at the Centre and States/UTs. The • Jeevan Pramaan: Using Jeevan Pramaan platform, a vision of this initiative is to accelerate delivery of e-Services pensioner can now digitally provide proof of his existence in the country, while optimizing ICT spending of the to the authorities for continuity of pension every year Government. instead of requiring to present himself physically or • National Knowledge Network (NKN): The objective of through a Life Certificate issued by specified authorities. the National Knowledge Network (NKN) is to interconnect • PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance And Timely all institutions of higher learning and research with a high Implementation): It is a multi-purpose and multi-modal speed data communication network to facilitate platform that is aimed at addressing common man’s knowledge sharing and collaborative research. grievances, and simultaneously monitoring and reviewing • Vikaspedia Project: The Ministry of Electronics and IT important programmes and projects of the Government of (MeitY) has implemented Vikaspedia project for providing India as well as projects flagged by State Governments. e-knowledge and using ICT-based applications for • DARPAN (Dashboard for Analytical Review of Projects empowerment of poor (rural and urban). It seeks to across Nation): It is an online tool that can be used to maximise utility of ongoing Government programmes monitor and analyze the implementation of critical and high priority projects of the State.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND INVESTMENT

5 years. In this regard, let us look into the important highlights NATIONAL of the National Infrastructure Pipeline proposed by the INFRASTRUCTURE Government. NEED FOR INFRASTRUCTURE BOOST IN THE INDIAN PIPELINE ECONOMY #Infrastructure • Vision of $ 5 Trillion Economy: It is estimated that India would need to spend $4.5 trillion on infrastructure by 2030 to sustain its growth rate. At the same time, higher investment in infrastructure is quite critical for realising the vision of $ 5trillion economy by 2025. Creating new

and upgrading existing infrastructure will be key to raising IN NEWS India’s competitiveness and achieving this target. It will Recently, the Finance Minister unveiled the National specially be critical for the success of ‘Make in India’ Infrastructure Pipeline which proposes to invest around Rs 102 program as manufacturing competitiveness critically lakh crores in economic and social infrastructure over the next depends on infrastructure. The supply additions through

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Economic Development

infrastructure development boost short-term as well as (2041). The changed demography will need the converged the potential rate of GDP growth. development of a host of infrastructure facilities such as

• Boost Demand and Employment Creation: housing, water sanitation services, digital and Infrastructure creation is labour absorbing, which boosts transportation needs. employment and income generation in the economy and • Climate change and disaster resilience: Building Climate further spurs domestic demand. Resilient infrastructure is critical for people’s well-being,

• Increased Urbanisation: According to World Bank data, in quality of life, and economic prospects. The recent the last decade, urban population in India has increased at disasters indicate that up to 66% of total public sector an annual rate of 2.4%. By 2030, it is estimated that losses in weather and climate related extreme events are around 42% of India’s population would be urbanised from related to infrastructure damage. Thus, there is a clear the current 31%. By 2030, it is estimated that 5 states – need for ensuring that all new and existing infrastructure Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Punjab – systems are climate and disaster resilient. will have >50% urbanisation. Also, the number of NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE PIPELINE metropolitan cities in India is estimated to increase from In the Independence Day speech, PM highlighted that Rs 100 46 as per 2011 census to 68 in 2030. Plugging the lakh crore would be invested on infrastructure over the next deficiency in infrastructure will smoothen the process of 5 years including the social and economic infrastructure urbanisation by promoting ease of living and facilitating projects. economic activity. To achieve this objective, a Task Force was constituted to • Changing Demography in India: India is expected to have draw up the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) for each of the world’s largest working-age population of 1.03 billion the years from FY 2019-20 to FY 2024-25 with the approval of by 2030 compared with 0.97 billion in China and 0.22 the Finance Minister. The Task force has now outlined the billion in the US. By 2030, India will have a median age of expenditure of around Rs 102 lakh crore over the next 5 31 years versus 43 years for China and 40 years for the US. years in order to realise $ 5 trillion economy. The funding of The Economic survey 2018-19 has highlighted that the the National Infrastructure Pipeline will be jointly made by share of working of working-age population would the Centre, states and the private sector in the proportion increase from 50% (2011) to 59% (2041), while the share of of 39:39:22 (39 % each by the centre and states and 22% senior citizens would increase from 8% (2011) to 16% by the private sector).

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Economic Development

VISION OF THE NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE • Renewable energy share consumption to increase to PIPELINE in consumption stands at ~19% ~9% ►ROAD SECTOR

Regular load shedding: Low AT&C losses through Current Status Vision 2025 • • Discoms under huge debt increased PPP in discoms • National Highways (NH) • NH total length - 1.99 lakh burden and resort to • Reformed power sector - total length of 1.32 lakh km; expressways - 10% of unscheduled load- open access in distribution, km; including total NH (20,000 km) in major shedding regular tariff revisions, expressways of 1,600 km; economic corridors, strategic • High AT&C losses of extensive metering • Low private sector areas and major tourist discoms currently at 8- participation in NH - 15%; destinations 41% • Poor connectivity of • Significantly higher share of

remote areas with trunk the private sector in NH routes and metros • Last-mile connectivity – ►RAILWAYS improve access to remote Current Status Vision 2025 areas • Low modal share of • Higher > 40% modal share of • Cash collection - resulting • Increased use of fastag and Indian Railways (IR) in railways in freight traffic in revenue leakages and RFID devices - reduction in freight traffic at 33% • Mumbai-Ahmedabad HSR to investors/ asset leakages and congestion at • High-speed railway be operational; other aggregators congestion toll plazas (HSR) network - NIL identified HSR at advanced at toll plazas • Tolling based on ‘pay as per stage of implementation • Flat rate toll irrespective use’ concept of actual distance • 46% of the existing • 100% of the existing railway travelled railway network has network electrified been electrified as of • Optimum utilisation of existing Limited use of advanced Deeper penetration of March 31, 2018 rail network – lesser delays, technology in safety and advanced technologies such as • High network due to doubling / tripling of security - traffic automated traffic controllers for congestion: 50% sections on high density management, surveillance, improved safety, security and sections on high-density corridors automated fare collection traffic management routes operate at a system capacity utilisation > 120%

►ENERGY SECTOR Limited focus on safety Focus on safer travel, accidents and security aspects to reduce drastically Current Status Vision 2025

• Total capacity: 356 GW • Total capacity: 619 GW • Thermal: 66%, • Thermal: 50%, renewable: ►PORTS Renewable: 22%, Hydro: 39%, hydro: 9%, nuclear: 2% Current Status Vision 2025 13%, Nuclear: 2% • Substantial increase in per- • Low per-capita electricity capita electricity • India has 12 major and • Under Sagarmala, new major consumption at 1,181 consumption to 1,616 kWh 200 minor ports and minor ports will be kWh • Renewable energy’s share in • Overall capacity constructed, besides existing

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Economic Development

utilisation of Indian port modernisation and ports 60% of total capacity expansion RESTRUCTURING OF capacity of 2 billion • Overall capacity utilisation of RAILWAY BOARD tonne Indian ports to be >65% of total capacity of ~2.5 billion #Infrastructure tonne

Higher logistics cost and Improved hinterland IN NEWS turnaround time and low connectivity, port modernisation As part of modernization of Indian Railways, the Union Cabinet output per ship berth due and computerisation to reduce has recently cleared the proposal for the restructuring of the to issues in hinterland logistics cost, reduce turnaround Railway Board. It has also given the approval for the merger all connectivity and lack of use time and increase output per central service cadres of Railways officers into a single service of advanced technologies ship berth to be known as Indian Railways Management Service (IRMS).

Maritime trade contributes Increased share of ports by PRESENT MANAGEMENT OF INDIAN RAILWAYS ~95% of the trade by volume and by value to the • The Indian Railways is a government department which is volume and ~70% by value overall trade in India directly under the Minister of Railways. The Railway Board in India acts as chief administrative and executive body to assist the Minister of Railways. It consists of Chairman and seven members from different departments such as ►SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE traffic, civil, mechanical, electrical etc. • Further, the Indian Railways is governed by a pool of Current Status Vision 2025 officers wherein the engineers are recruited through the India’s GDP spend on India to spend higher amounts Indian Engineering Service Examination and civil servants healthcare has been 1.28% on healthcare at about 2.5% of are recruited through the Civil Services Examination. The civil servants are in the Indian Railway Traffic Service of GDP which reflects on the GDP to revamp the existing (IRTS), Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) and Indian infrastructure, bed density health care system and Railway Personnel Service (IRPS). and service quality of improve hospital bed density in • The engineers are in five technical service cadres: Indian healthcare system line with global benchmark like Railway Services of Engineers (IRSE), Mechanical Engineers 4.9% for China. (IRSME), Electrical Engineers (IRSEE), and Signal Engineers Gross enrolment ratio (GER) Overall GER needs to improve (IRSSE); and the Indian Railway Stores Service (IRSS). in higher education, which is to at least 40% with reduced RECENT CHANGES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INDIAN calculated for 18-23 years interstate disparity. RAILWAYS age group, is 25.8% Restructuring of Railway Board: The Railway board will no longer be organised on departmental lines and replaced with Out of the total 39,931 World-class technical education a leaner structure organised on functional lines. It will have a colleges, only 2.5% offer PhD and Research institutes Chairman, who will act as 'Chief Executive Officer (CEO)' along programme and 34.9% providing state-of-the-art with 4 Members responsible for Infrastructure, Operations & (13,936) offer post graduate technology driven learning in Business Development, Rolling Stock and Finance level programmes line with global peers respectively. The Chairman shall be the cadre controlling officer responsible for Human resources (HR) with assistance

from a DG (HR). The posts of the Railways Board shall be open to all officers regardless of the service to which they

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Economic Development

belonged. The Board will also have some independent different services would infuse greater expertise in the members who will be the highly distinguished professionals management and put the railways on the path of with deep knowledge and experience in various fields such as modernization. finance, economics, management etc. CONCERNS RAISED WITH THE CHANGES Merger of different services: The Union cabinet has decided Lack of Domain Expertise: Presently, the railway officers are to merge all the 8 central service cadres of Railway officers appointed to various departments. These railway officers rise into a single service to be known as Indian Railways through the hierarchy to reach the top-level positions Management Service (IRMS). The creation of the new service enabling them to have adequate domain expertise. Under the will be done in consultation with DoPT and UPSC to facilitate new recruitment procedure, the appointed railway officers recruitment in the next recruitment year. The newly recruited would be working in different departments throughout their officers will come from Engineering and non-Engineering tenure. The newly appointed railway officers would not be disciplines as per need and posted as per their aptitude and serving in a single department for a long time and hence may specialisation to allow them to specialise in one field, develop not be able to develop domain expertise which is extremely an overall perspective, and prepare them to take up general needed for the efficient management of railways. management responsibilities at senior levels. Unscientific Merger: The merger of the various services also RATIONALE FOR THE RECENT CHANGES seems unscientific since the services that are sought to be Inter-departmental Rivalry: The Railways across the world merged are both technical as well as non-technical services. are corporatized which enable them to function in an The nature of technical expertise and aptitude needed for independent and autonomous manner without much these services may differ from each other. Hence, a single political interference. However, in case of India, the Railways examination for the unified service seems illogical and functions as departmental undertaking. It is organized into unscientific. multiple departments such as Traffic, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical etc. which work in a hierarchical manner leading to undue delays. Further, since some of the functions performed by these departments tend to overlap, this leads MODEL BILATERAL to problem of coordination and inter-departmental rivalries. Overall, different departments under the railways tend to pull INVESTMENT TREATY in different directions rather than pulling in single direction #Investment leading to lack of coherent, unified and single-minded focus on efficient management of Railways. The Unification of services will end this 'departmentalism', promote smooth IN NEWS working of Railways, expedite decision making, create a coherent vision for organization and promote rational India and Brazil are set to sign Bilateral Investment Treaty decision making. The unification of services has been (BIT). The signing of such a treaty is considered to be recommended by various committees for reforming Railways significant since it is the first such treaty which is to be signed by India since 2015. It is to be noted that in 2015, India decided including - the Prakash Tandon Committee (1994), Rakesh to scrap all the existing Bilateral Investment Treaties which it Mohan Committee (2001), Committee (2012) had earlier signed with 83 countries and accordingly came up and Bibek Debroy Committee (2015). with a Model Bilateral Investment Treaty. In this regard, let us Modernization of Railways: The Railways has set an discuss about the Bilateral Investment Treaty, reasons for their ambitious programme to modernise and provide the highest termination and basic provisions of the Model BIT. standards of safety, speed and services to the passengers. It WHAT IS BILATERAL INVESTMENT TREATY? has proposed to invest Rs. 50 lakh crores over the next 12 years. Hence, the Indian Railways needs a unified Bilateral investment Treaties (BITs) are agreements between organization which can single-mindedly focus on this task. two countries for the reciprocal promotion and protection of investments in each other's territories by individuals and The restructuring of the railway board and the merger of

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Economic Development

companies situated in either State. BITs encourage foreign challenging a wide array of regulatory measures such as the investors to invest in a State and there by contributing imposition of retrospective taxes (Vodafone case),cancellation towards overall developments and advancements of the of spectrum licences and revocation of telecom licenses. economy. These ISDS cases against India led to a fundamental rethink Some of the important features of the BITs are: and review of BITs in India leading to the adoption of Model • Fair and Equitable Treatment (FET): Mandates States to BIT in 2016. have a stable and predictable legal framework regulating IMPORTANT PROVISIONS OF MODEL BIT investments which meets the reasonable expectations of • Enterprise based definition of investment: The asset- the investors. based definition of the investment under the earlier BITs • Full Protection and Security (FPS): Mandates States to has been replaced by Enterprise based definition under provide full protection and safety to foreign investments. the model BIT. Asset based definition considers every kind • National Treatment: The foreign investors should be of asset – both movable and immovable including the IPRs treated at par with the domestic investors. as investment and gives protection under treaties. Moving away from an asset-based approach to an enterprise- • Most Favourable Nation Treatment (MFN): Concession based approach aims at narrowing the scope of extended to foreign investor of a particular country would investments to be protected and thus seeks to reduce the be extended to foreign investors of other countries. number of BIT claims that can be brought against India. • Expropriation (Taking over property): Bars the state • Exclusion of MFN treatment: In recent years, some from expropriating the foreign investments except under foreign investors have sued India arguing that they have to exceptional circumstances. get the same beneficial treatment given to companies • Repatriation of Investment and Returns: Mandates the from other countries. Accordingly, India has dropped MFN states to provide unrestricted power to the foreign Clause from the Model BIT. investors to repatriate their investments and returns. • Conditions for initiating arbitrations at international • Investor State Dispute Resolution (ISDS): Foreign arbitrations: The Model BIT stipulate that the aggrieved investors can directly initiate arbitration proceeding investor should use all local remedies as well as against a State without approaching its own government. negotiations and consultations before initiating To handle such a dispute, an ad-hoc tribunal may be set up arbitrations against the host State. Investor can use in accordance with the Arbitration rules of the United outside remedies only five years after resorting to all Nations Commission on International Trade Law. domestic arrangements.

REASON FOR TERMINATION OF BITs • Corporate Social Responsibility: The Model BIT The BITs signed by India gave extensive protection to the mandates foreign investors to voluntarily adopt foreign investment with scant regard for state's interests internationally recognized standards of corporate social based on the neoliberal model. For example, a number of responsibility. foreign corporations slapped ISDS notices against India

IMPORTANT REPORTS/INDICES

TIME TO CARE REPORT IN NEWS Recently, Oxfam International has published a report which is #International Report titled as "Time to Care" report. This report basically focusses on the growing income and gender inequality across the world and accordingly gives set of recommendations to solve these problems.

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IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS OF THE REPORT legal, economic and labour market policies are in place to protect the rights of workers, in both formal and informal • The report highlights that the Economic inequality across sectors. This must include ratifying ILO Convention 189 on the world has gone out of control due to the flawed the protection of domestic workers and policy to ensure economic model pursued by the Governments.In 2019, that all care workers are paid a living wage and working number of billionaires across the world is 2,153. These towards the elimination of gender wage gaps. billionaires have more wealth than 4.6 billion people. The 22 richest men have more wealth than all the women in • Ensure that carers have influence on decision-making Africa. Similarly, the world’s richest 1% have more than twice processes: Governments must facilitate the participation as much wealth as 6.9 billion people. of unpaid carers and care workers in policy-making fora and processes at all levels and invest resources into • The report has also highlighted the extent of gender collecting comprehensive data that can better inform inequality across the world. According to the report, men policy making and evaluate the impact of policies on own 50% more wealth than women. On average, globally, carers. 18% of government ministers and 24% of parliamentarians are women. As a result, women are • Challenge harmful norms and sexist beliefs: Harmful often excluded from decision making. Women are norms and sexist beliefs that see care work as the supporting the market economy with cheap and free responsibility of women and girls lead to an unequal labour and they are also supporting the state by providing gendered distribution of care work and perpetuate care that should be provided by the public sector. economic and gender inequality. As part of the national However, their contribution to the economy is hardly care systems, governments need to invest resources to recognised. Oxfam has calculated that women’s unpaid challenge these harmful norms and sexist beliefs, care work alone is adding value to the economy to the including through advertising, public communication and tune of at least $10.8 trillion a year, a figure three times legislation. larger than the tech industry. • Value care in business policies and practices: RECOMMENDATIONS TO ADDRESS THE GROWING Businesses must recognize the value of care work and INEQUALITIES sustain the wellbeing of workers. Further, they should support the redistribution of care through the provision of • Invest in national care systems to address the benefits and services such as crèches and childcare disproportionate responsibility for care work done by vouchers and ensure living wages for care providers women and girls: National care systems must include the provision of universal access to safe water, sanitation and domestic energy systems, and investments to deliver universal childcare, eldercare and care for people with GLOBAL INVESTMENT disabilities.

• End extreme wealth to end extreme poverty: Extreme TREND MONITOR REPORT wealth is a sign of a failing economic system. #International Report Governments must take steps to radically reduce the gap between the rich and the rest of society and prioritize the wellbeing of all citizens. Governments must take bold and decisive steps by taxing wealth and high incomes and IN NEWS cracking down on loopholes and the inadequate global Recently, the United Nations Conference on Trade and tax rules that allow rich corporations and individuals to Development (UNCTAD) has published the "Global Investment escape their tax responsibilities. Trend Monitor" Report. This report focuses on trends in foreign • Legislate to protect the rights of all carers and secure direct investment (FDI) worldwide, at the regional and country living wages for paid care workers: As part of their levels and measures to improve its contribution to national care systems, governments must ensure that development.

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Economic Development

IN NEWS The rate of Inflation, as measured by Consumer Price Index has increased to 5 -year high of 7.35% in December 2019. Such an increase in the CPI has been attributed to the inflation in vegetables, which stands at 60.5%.

HIGHLIGHTS ABOUT THE REPORT

Top Recipients of FDI: The United States remained the largest recipient of FDI, attracting $251 billion in inflows, followed by China with flows of $140 billion and Singapore with $110 billion. India has been placed at 8th Position with total FDI inflows of $ 49 billion.

Trends in FDI: Global FDI flows remained flat in 2019, at an ABOUT CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (CPI) estimated $1.39 trillion. This can be attributed to weaker The CPI measures the level of inflation at the retail level. It is macroeconomic performance and policy uncertainty for published by National Statistical Office, Ministry of Statistics investors, including trade tensions. FDI flows to developed and programme Implementation.

countries remained at a historically low level, decreasing by a Base year: 2012 further 6% to an estimated $643 billion. However, flows to Categories of Commodities: Food and beverages, Pan, developing economies remained unchanged at an estimated Tobacco and Intoxicants, Clothing and Footwear, Housing, $695 billion. Fuel and Light, Miscellaneous- Education, Healthcare, Future Expectations: FDI flows are expected to rise Transportation etc

moderately in 2020, as current projections show the global Highest Weightage: Food and Beverages. economy would improve from its weakest performance since REASONS FOR THE INCREASE IN INFLATION the global financial crisis in 2009. GDP growth, gross fixed capital formation and trade are projected to rise, both at the The CPI gives highest weightage to the Food and Beverages global level and, especially, in several large emerging category. Hence, the increase in the food prices tend to markets. increase the CPI rate of Inflation. The Food inflation in December 2019 has been measured at 14.12%, which is

considered to be highest since November 2013.

Further, the inflation in vegetables has been measured at RATE OF INFLATION RISES 60.5%. On account of these factors, the CPI rate of inflation TO 5 YEAR HIGH has increased to 7.35% which is highest in the last 5 years. LIKELY IMPACT #Economic Indicator Concerns of Stagflation: The Indian Economy has been facing slowdown as evident in the declining GDP growth

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Economic Development

rates. Now, the decline in the GDP growth rates has been now the rate of inflation has breached the RBI's inflation accompanied by higher rate of inflation. Hence, some of the target of 4%. Hence, the RBI would find it difficult to continue economists have raised concerns that the Indian economy with the rate cuts in the future. Hence, without further may be heading towards stagflation. increase in the money supply, it would be difficult for the

Possibility of rate cut reduced: So far, the RBI has been Indian economy to come out of the present slowdown. reducing the policy rates so as to boost the investment and consumption expenditure within the Indian economy. But practice questions

MCQs

Q1. Which among the following is/are the initiatives of 3. UJALA Scheme NITI Aayog? 4. Atal Jyoti Yojana 1. Sustainable Action for Transforming Human Capital Select the correct answer using the code given below: (SATH) (a) 1 and 2 only 2. Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat (b) 2 and 3 only 3. Composite Water Management Index (c) 3 and 4 only 4. Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable (d) 1 and 4 only Transportation (SATAT)

Select the correct answer using the code given below: Q4. With reference to Off-Budget Financing, consider (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 3 only the following statements: (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 1. It refers to the loans borrowed by the PSUs based on the Government's guarantee of repayment. Q2. Which among the following International agencies 2. The Off-budget Financing is undertaken only for capital publishes the Global Investment Trend Monitor expenditure. Report? Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) World Economic Forum (a) 1 only (b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (b) 2 only (UNCTAD) (c) Both 1 and 2 (c) International Monetary Fund (IMF) (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) World Bank

Q5. Which among the following is/are part of Model Q3. Which among the following Energy Efficiency Bilateral Investment Treaty put forth by the Initiatives is/are implemented by Energy Efficiency Government? Services Limited (EESL)? 1. Enterprise based Definition of Investment 1. Energy Conservation Building Codes (ECBC) 2. Exclusion of MFN treatment 2. Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment 3. Freedom to the investors to initiate international (GRIHA) arbitrations without any conditions.

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Economic Development

Select the correct answer using the code given below: (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only

descriptive Questions

Q1. The Government's vision of doubling farmers' income cannot be realized unless there are drastic reforms in the agricultural marketing. In this regard, discuss the various problems that have led to poor agricultural marketing infrastructure. Also, suggest as to how these problems can be addressed.

Q2. Discuss various problems that have arisen due to increase in the Off-budget financing by the Union Government. Also, highlight as to what measures should be undertaken in order to improve the transparency and accountability of the Government.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (b), 2 (b), 3 (c), 4(a), 5(a)

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SOCIETY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

# GS Paper I & GS Paper II (Main)

TRANSIT-ORIENTED HUB NEED OF TOD • India is undergoing rapid urbanization with nearly 377 # Urbanisation million (Census - 2011) people living in urban areas which is expected to grow to more than 600 million by 2030 (UN- Habitat Report 2016)

• However, the high level of urbanization is supported by only 3.1% of the India’s land area leading to a complex IN NEWS situation of urban sprawl. India’s 1st transit-oriented development (TOD) project was kick- • As a response to the challenge of urban sprawl, cities in started in Delhi. The project is called as East Delhi Hub Project India have been implementing a number of transit projects and will be completed in the next three and a half years. including Metro Rapid Transit. WHAT IS TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT? • Some of the sustainable solutions to address the problem • Transit-oriented Development (TOD) is a sustainable of urban sprawl include land pooling, land sharing, land solution to urban sprawl under which land-use planning readjustment, negotiated land purchases and transit- and infrastructure development is integrated with oriented development. transport planning to avoid long distance travel in cities. NATIONAL TOD POLICY • TOD basically refers to development in around transit • In February 2017, the Ministry of Housing and Urban corridors to promote living close to these transit corridors. Affairs launched the National ToD Policy as a guideline • TOD is particularly important to reduce the distance document for states to implement TOD in urban planning. travelled by creating high-density mixed land use • Accordingly, TOD is seen as a viable solution to challenges development in and around the transit stations as shown like sprawl, mobility, rapidly rising private vehicles on in the figure. roads, pollution, housing choices etc. PILLARS OF TOD

• Promote densification along mass transit corridors: This is done through vertical housing construction by enhancing Floor Area Ratio.

• Promote Non-motorised Transport Infrastructure: Including walking and cycling paths. • Accordingly the influential zone of transit stations (red • Last mile connectivity through feeder services nodes) will have residential complexes, shopping malls, • Incentives for implementing TOD under new Metro recreation zones, work places etc. Besides the transit Policy: Currently more than 300km of metro lines are stations will also include pedestrian and Non-Motorised operational and more than 600 Km are under construction Transport friendly infrastructure. in 12 cities across India.

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Society and Social Justice

TOD PROJECTS IN INDIA workers at work place, it extends protection against violence and harassment in the world of work. This • East Delhi Hub Project at Kakardooma is the 1st TOD includes violence and harassment not only events in the project to be completed by 2023. workplace but all those occurring in the course of work, • Other TOD projects that are planned include Ahmedabad, linked with work or arising out of work. Thus it recognises Naya Raipur, Nagpur and Navi Mumbai. harassment during travel, training, rest break etc.

CONVENTION-190 AND INDIA ILO CONVENTION 190 • India is a founding member of International Labour Organisation and has been a permanent member since #Vulnerable Sections #Rights 1922.

• India has also ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against IN NEWS Women (CEDAW) in 1993 which addresses gender-based The International Labour Organisation adopted a significant discrimination. convention, C-190 or Convention 190, related to elimination of • Accordingly, India has enacted Sexual Harassment of violence and harassment in the ‘world of work’. Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and CONVENTION 190 Redressal) Act, 2013 in line with Vishakha Guidelines.

• C-190 is the 1st legally binding international standard for • However barring the Sexual Harassment of Women at workers to deal with violence and harassment in the Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, ‘world of work’. 2013 and related IPC sections India does not have legislations covering wide gamut of harassment and • According to C190 everyone has the right to a ‘world of violence that occurs in the world of work. Thus once India work’ free from violence and harassment, including ratifies the Convention-190, it provides an opportunity for gender-based violence and harassment. India to bring in legal reforms to provide protection • The C-190 convention, adopted in June 2019, is the 1st ever against wide gamut of harassment and violence in the convention adopted after domestic workers convention in world of work and make ‘decent work’ a reality for all. 2011. SOME SUGGESTED LEGISLATIVE REFORMS KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF C-190 ►Gender-neutrality • Defines violence and harassment: While there is no clear • demarcation line between violence and harassment, C-190 The sexual harassment law in India protects only women workers in the workplace, and addresses only issues recognises harassment and violence as a continuum. related to sexual harassment at workplace. It defines violence and harassment as “a range of • While it is true that the majority of victims of violence are unacceptable behaviours and practices” that “aim at, result in, or are likely to result in physical, psychological, women and nature of violence sexual violence, we need to sexual or economic harm”. make laws to protect all workers, women and men, at risk of violence, sexual and otherwise. • Inclusivity: C-190 protects every worker in the world, regardless of age, disability status, race, ethnicity, ►Reforms for New Economy: Recognising third-party indigenous status, sexual orientation, gender identity or violence any social marker. • India’s working population is dominated by informal sector Accordingly, it extends protection to contract workers, with more than 85% of workers in the informal sector who jobseekers, trainees, interns, apprentices, volunteers etc. do not have a defined workplace. • • From ‘Workplace’ to ‘World of Work’: C-190 is significant In addition, the ‘new economy’ scenario has changed the in the sense that it does not only offer protection to employer-employee relationship.

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Society and Social Justice

• Most workers in the platform or gig economy operate in an The agreement will pave the way for reorganization of invisible space. Bodoland Territorial Administrative District into wider

• Although the 2013 Act covers the informal sector such as Bodoland Territorial Region. domestic workers yet does not recognise third-party BACKGROUND violence. • Assam is a hot-bed of regionalism and sub-regionalism as • Third parties may include clients, customers, service result of pluralistic nature of the society comprising of providers, users, patients and members of the public various ethnicities. which widens the probabilities of violence. Thus a radical • Notwithstanding the pluralistic nature of the society, shift is necessary protecting the workers against third- Assam consists of Brahmaputra valley dominated by party violence. Assamese speaking populace and Cachar region ►Recognition of violence during commute dominated by Bengali-speaking people.

• Sexual harassment of women does not always happen in • As a result, ethnicity-based imbalances in a plural but defined office spaces but occurs regularly in variety of fragmented society has led to assertion of sub-regional work-related circumstances particularly while commuting identities hinging on issues like control over land, to and from work. exploitation of resources from outsiders, unemployment • It is found that the female labour force participation has and lack of development etc. fallen from 36% in 2005 to 26% in 2018 mainly due to • Bodoland represents one such ethnicity-based unsafe public spaces and public transport which results in regionalistic undercurrent in Assam society. forced immobility of women. Thus the Sexual Harassment IN BRIEF: BODOLAND ISSUE of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 needs to be reformed in order to align • Bodos are plain-dwelling tribes, with a distinct ethnicity it more closely with work realities in India. and language, inhabiting the Brahmaputra valley in western Assam. ►Linking domestic violence and violence at workplace • In 1962, Assamese was declared the official language of • A number of studies have shown that domestic violence Assam and was made medium of instruction in the has a serious effect on worker’s productivity. universities. Fearing the dominance of Assamese speaking • Given the patriarchal nature of Indian society, domestic populace, Bodos have been asserting their identity for a violence is often seen as a private matter in India. separate state Bodoland since 1970s.

Thus it is critical to bring in towards legal reforms by • The demand was to create Bodoland carving out understanding the economic cost of domestic violence Kokrajhar, Dhubri, Bongaigaon, Barpeta, Nalbari, Kamrup, and the need to address it as a workplace issue. Darang and Sonitpur districts of Assam.

• However, it should be noted that the Bodos are divided from within which has led to violent insurgent movements BODO PEACE ACCORD and consequent communal clashes. 2020 CHRONOLOGY OF VIOLENT MOVEMENTS AND FORMATION OF BODOLAND TERRITORIAL AREA #Regionalism DISTRICT

• This movement got fillip after the Assam Accord was

signed in 1985. Accordingly, the Bodoland movement with IN NEWS the slogan “divide Assam 50-50” was launched in 1987 In a significant step to end violence, a tripartite agreement has under the leadership of All Bodo Students’ Union. been signed by the Bodos led by National Democratic Bodo Front, Central government and the State government.

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Society and Social Justice

• In addition, a violent separatist movement was also • The Bodoland Territorial Region will include Bodo- launched at the time led by Ranjan Daimary of Bodoland dominated villages presently outside the BTAD and will Security Force. exclude the areas dominated by non-Bodo population.

• Responding to the Bodoland Movement, the Assam • Amnesty to NDFB.

government signed Bodo Accord in 1993 leading to the • A sports university and job-oriented higher-education creation Bodoland Autonomous Council. institution • Due to intra-factional differences the issue was not • Besides Bodos living in the hills would be granted resolved and violent movement continued spearheaded by Scheduled Hill Tribe status. National Democratic Bodoland Force under Ranjan Concerns: The main problem with the current Peace Accord Daimary. is that the negotiations included only 4 factions of Bodos. The • Another attempt at inducing peace was made in 2003 non-Bodo stakeholders in Bodoland Territorial Administrative when Bodo Territorial Area District was carved out districts including Adivasis, Koch Rajbongshis etc. have been under the 6th Schedule with 4 districts namely excluded. Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa and Udalguri.

• However this has also not resolved the issue. WHY? SDG INDIA INDEX 2019 • The Bodo Territorial Area District is inhabited by: 1. Bodos # Poverty and Development #Index who constitute 30%; 2. Non-Bodos including Muslims, Assamese and Bengali Hindus, Koch Rajbongshis and

Adivasis who together constitute 70%. IN NEWS • As a result whenever there have been attempts to NITI Aayog has published the Sustainable Development Goals reconcile with Bodos (1993 and 2003), the other groups India Index, ranking the states in terms of their progress in have responded. achieving the SDG 2030 targets. • This has resulted in worst communal clashes between ABOUT SDG INDIA INDEX Bodos and Non-Bodos in 1993, 2008, 2012 (Kokrajhar violence, 4.5 lakh people displaced and 1000s killed) and • SDG India Index is developed by Niti Aayog in 2016 (Kokrajhar) collaboration with the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Global Green Growth Institute and United Nations.

• The primary objective of developing such an index is to monitor the implementation of SDGs across states and UTs and promote competitive federalism among them.

• The 1st edition of SDG India Index was published in 2018.

• The index is developed to rank states and UTs based on their performance across 16 out of 17 SDGs on a scale of 0-100.

• Accordingly the states and UTs are classified as

. Aspirant: 0 – 49

BODO PEACE ACCORD 2020 . Performer: 50 – 64

• The current Peace Accord will reorganize the present . Front Runner: 65 – 99 Bodoland Territorial Area District into a wider Bodoland . Achiever: 100 Territorial Region.

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Society and Social Justice

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF SDGII 2019 • The states in ‘Aspirant’ category in 2018 index Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Assam have improved to the • Kerala topped the ranking followed by Himachal Pradesh, ‘Performer’ category. , Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. • The ‘Performer States’ including Andhra Pradesh, • Bihar is the worst performing state. Telangana, Karnataka, Goa, and Sikkim have improved • The maximum gains been made in Goals 6 (clean water their position to the ‘Front Runner’ category. and sanitation), 9 (industry, innovation, and

infrastructure) and 7 (affordable and clean energy).

• Nutrition and gender equality continue to be problem areas for India PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE # Health

IN NEWS

The pneumococcal vaccine developed by Serum Institute of India, Pune has been pre-qualified by WHO. ABOUT PNEUMONIA

• Pneumonia is an infectious disease that can be caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi.

• Most common infectious agent that causes Pneumonia in RELATIVE PERFORMANCE children is a bacteria known as Streptococcus pneumonia.

• Pneumonia is the largest cause of mortality in children due to infectious disease.

• About 15% of all deaths of under-5 children occur due to Pneumonia.

• Children with weak immune system are more prone to be infected and thus malnutrition is the leading cause for Pneumonia SIGNIFICANCE OF NEW PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE

• According to a report by UNICEF, India ranks second, after Nigeria, in incidence of child pneumonia with 1.27 lakh cases in 2018.

• Pneumococcal vaccine has been introduced as a part of Universal Immunisation Programme since 2017.

• However the vaccine that is currently in use is weakened live vaccine that has low efficacy and is expensive.

• The pneumococcal vaccine developed by Serum Institute is a conjugate vaccine which has high efficacy and will available at low cost.

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Society and Social Justice

• Note: Currently in India pneumococcal vaccine regimen is 7. Fair wage distribution 2 primary doses at 6 and 10 weeks and a booster dose at 8. Working conditions nine months of age. 9. Social Protection ADVANTAGE OF CONJUGATE VACCINE 10. Inclusive Institution • The weakened live vaccines generate a response from the KEY RESULTS immune system in the body. However, they have low efficacy because they cannot be used in cases where the • According to the report, the most socially mobile societies immune system of the person in weak. in the world are European, particularly the Nordic countries. • On the other hand conjugate vaccines are developed out of specific parts of the microbe, say a protein, a sugar • Accordingly, Denmark has topped the list followed by molecule etc. and thus generate a targeted immune Norway, Finland and Sweden. response targeting only this key part of the germ. • In India, those born in a low-income family would take 7 • As a result even people with weak immune systems also generations to approach the mean income in India. can respond to these specific parts of the microbe. WAY FORWARD FOR INDIA

• The report makes a strong case for stakeholder capitalism in which emphasis is laid on a mix of effective GLOBAL SOCIAL MOBILITY social policies and healthy competition. • This requires new financing model for social mobility INDEX including progressive taxation. #Inequality #Index

IN NEWS ASER REPORT 2019: EARLY India is ranked 76 out of 82 countries in the 1st ever Global Social Mobility Index published by World Economic Forum. YEARS What is Social Mobility? Social mobility is “the movement in #Issues related to Education personal circumstances either ‘upwards’ or ‘downwards’ of an individual in relation to those of their parents.” In simple words it means whether a child leads a better life than her / IN NEWS his parents. The Annual Survey of Education Report 2019 released by ABOUT SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX Pratham, an education NGO attributes poor learning outcomes • Social Mobility Index ranks countries based on five key in school to issues in pre-school development of the child. dimensions of social mobility including Health, Education, ABOUT ASER 2019 Technology, Work and Social protection. • The theme of ASER 2019 is ‘Early Years’. • The key parameters include • The report focuses on pre-school learning levels of 1. Health children of age group 4-8 years and the consequent 2. Access to education school readiness of these children.

3. Quality and Equity in Education • The learning level of children was studied under 4 broad 4. Lifelong learning domains including:-

5. Access to technology  Cognitive development: Can children do simple problem- solving tasks? 6. Work opportunities

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Society and Social Justice

 Early language: Do children have early language skills?

 Early numeracy: Do children have a sense of numbers INDIGENOUS MOLECULAR and quantity? DIAGNOSTIC TOOL TB  Social and emotional development: Are children able to # Health identify emotions? • The report has shown that pre-school learning levels depend on a number of factors including IN NEWS  Child’s home background (affluence) WHO has endorsed TrueNat, an indigenous molecular  Mother’s education level diagnostic tool for TB.

 Type of pre-school (Anganwadis or private pre-school) IMPORTANCE OF MOLECULAR TESTS IN TB  Age of child entering Class 1 DIAGNOSIS

KEY HIGHLIGHTS • Early diagnosis is extremely important in fighting TB.

Learning Levels • Widely followed diagnosis methods include Sputum • Language skill smear microscopy which studies phenotype of the

. Only 21% children in class 1 of government schools could pathogen from the sputum sample of the infected patient. read words compared to 46.7% in private schools. However, studying the phenotype makes this method less sensitive as it cannot detect drug-resistant pathogen. . Only 16% of children in class 1 can read text at the prescribed level. • On the other hand molecular studies have enabled

. About 40% cannot even recognise letters. study of genotype of the pathogen resulting in detection of drug-resistant strain. • Cognitive skills: Under the cognitive tasks (serial order identification, pattern recognition and puzzle) only 23.8% • While sputum microscopy has only about 50% sensitivity, children of grade one in government schools could do all Molecular Test like TrueNat has been found to have higher three tasks compared to 43.1% in private schools. sensitivity upto 89%.

• Numerical skills SIGNIFICANCE . Only 41% of these children could recognise two digit • India tops the list TB high burden countries in the world. numbers. • According to WHO’s Global TB Report 2019, out of the 10 . 28% in government schools could do simple addition Million global TB incidences, 2.69 Million (about 27%) compared to 47% in private schools. occurred in India. Key observations: The difference in learning levels between • The number of deaths per lakh population due to TB is 199 private and government schools is attributed to pre-school in India. learning. This is because private schools are starting school- based curriculum in pre-school itself. • India is all set to launch a campaign to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025 as announced in the Budget Way forward: The early childhood programme under the Integrated Child Development Services should streamline 2020-21. Thus TrueNet molecular diagnosis at low cost pre-school curriculum to build cognitive, early literacy and will act as a catalyst to fulfil that dream. numeracy skills.

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Society and Social Justice

7. Ultra-processed food: Unsafe foods and unhealthy diets WHO LISTS MAJOR comprising of high levels of sugar, fats and salt is responsible for almost one-third of the global disease HEALTH PRIORITIES burden.

# Health 8. Lack of investment: Underinvestment in health education and training, and low salaries and difficult work hours for health workers have led to a shortage IN NEWS worldwide. WHO has outlined 13 healthcare challenges that should be the 9. Adolescent Health: Globally, more than a million focus in 2020s. adolescents aged 10-19 die every year. The causes stem from unfavourable birth circumstances; childhood HEALTHCARE CHALLENGES FOR 2020S maltreatment is linked to drug and alcohol abuse, 1. Climate Change crisis: Climate change is closely related interpersonal violence, road accidents and a higher to air pollution, extreme weather events like cyclones and likelihood of getting HIV. tsunamis, acute food shortages and the spread of 10. Vaccine Hesitancy: The anti-vaccine lobby has been a infectious diseases. major disruptor and casts undue suspicion on effective Air pollution is in turn the leading cause for increasing health measures. incidence of cardiovascular disease, stroke, lung cancer 11. Harnessing new technology: Advances in healthcare are and chronic respiratory diseases. progressing at breakneck speed. Emerging cancer 2. Conflict Zones: Political conflicts lead to refugee crisis therapies, gene editing, and holistic healthcare show a lot posing a challenge to social protection particularly of promise but the challenge is to disseminate the emergency healthcare services. technologies in an inequitable manner while fully 3. Inequality: Health indicators are strongly correlated with understanding their limitations and risks. socio-economic status. The prevailing inequality between 12. Protecting the medicines that protect us’: nations and within them poses a serious healthcare risk. Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat that could 4. Access to medicines: One-third of the world lacks access upend decades of progress. As more resistant infectious to essential diagnostic and medical tools. strains appear, the focus needs to shift to a) regularizing the market for antibiotics to quell over-prescription, In developing countries, including India, the burden of and b) making investments in newer forms of healthcare is borne out of pocket by the people, and antibiotics. medicines eat up a large chunk of this. Keeping healthcare clean: WASH (Water, sanitation and 5. Infectious diseases: The WHO has recommended that hygiene) are the cornerstone of a health system. Still, many governments around the world strengthen immunization primary health care facilities, especially in India, lack these drives and also try to fight antibiotic resistance. basic services. Dirty water and poor sanitation make for an 6. Epidemics: This requires investment in surveillance ideal environment for the spread of infectious diseases. systems and strengthening public health infrastructure limit transmission.

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Society and Social Justice practice questions MCQs

Q1. Which of the following organizations publishes the Q3. Consider the following statements with respect to Social Mobility Index? molecular diagnostics in case of Tuberculosis? (a) UN Women 1. Molecular tests study the genes of the pathogen. (b) World Economic Forum 2. It can detect the presence of multi-drug resistant TB (c) United Nations Development Programme strain. (d) World Bank Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Q2. Consider the following statements with respect to (b) 2 only ‘Transit-Oriented Development’:- (c) Both 1 and 2 1. It is a strategy to integrate transport planning with (d) Neither 1 nor 2 land-use planning. 2. It is aimed at reducing travel time in urban areas. Q4. Convention-190 of ILO deals with which of the Which of the statements given above is/are correct? following? (a) 1 only (a) Harassment and Violence in the world of work (b) 2 only (b) Equal Pay for Equal Work. (c) Both 1 and 2 (c) Low female workforce participation (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) Gender discrimination.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (b), 2 (c), 3 (c), 4(a)

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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main)

CORONAVIRUS #Health

IN NEWS

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new

coronavirus, which has resulted in thousands of confirmed WHY CHINA HAS EMERGED AS THE EPICENTRE OF cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan City. The virus GLOBAL OUTBREAKS OF DISEASE? appears to have originated from a Wuhan seafood market where wild animals, including marmots, birds, rabbits, bats • Several deadly new viruses in recent years have emerged and snakes, are traded illegally. in China — Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), bird flu, and now the novel coronavirus (nCOV). ABOUT CORONAVIRUS • The reason could lie in the busy food markets across the • It is a that include the common cold, and family of viruses country — where fruits, vegetables, hairy crabs and viruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome butchered meat are often sold next to bamboo rats, (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). snakes, turtles, and palm civets.

• Coronaviruses are known to jump from animals to • Closely packed stalls in busy marketplaces, the Chinese humans. taste for exotic meats.

• It seems to start with a fever, followed by a dry cough • High population density of cities create the conditions for and then, after a week, leads to shortness of breath. the spread of zoonotic infections. • But in more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, • Wherever there is close mixing of humans and animals, SARS, kidney failure and even death. especially the unregulated handling of blood and other body products, as happens for example in China’s animal • There is not yet a specific anti-viral treatment for the markets, there are greater chances of transmission of a infection. virus from animals to humans. • Most victims have been elderly people, suffering from • Proximity to animals grows from wild food markets and other chronic diseases including Parkinson's and diabetes. captive animal breeding, with deforestation creating a • Number of countries had advised their citizens to avoid all conveyor belt for viruses and vectors to move from wildlife non-essential travel to China and many have announced to captive animals and then to humans. screening measures for passengers from China • The more virulent strains emerge from mutation which occurs when a large human host community offers itself for easy transmission.

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Science & Technology

NATIONAL POLICY FOR TREATMENT OF RARE DISEASES #Health

IN NEWS The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare published a national policy for treatment of rare diseases, listing 450 diseases as rare. The policy also intends to start a registry of rare diseases that Indian Council of Medical Research will maintain. WHAT ARE RARE DISEASES?

• Rare diseases are often serious, chronic and life- threatening conditions that affect a small number of patients.

• In India, Haemophilia, Thalassemia, Sickle cell anaemia and Primary Immuno Deficiency in children, auto- immune diseases, Lysosomal storage disorders such ZOONOTIC INFECTIONS as Pompe disease and Gaucher’s disease are in the rare diseases list. • The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that globally, about a billion cases of illness and millions of • The policy aims to lower the incidence and prevalence deaths occur every year from zoonoses i.e. diseases and of rare diseases through preventive strategies like infections naturally transmitted between people and screening programmes to prevent births of rare disease vertebrate animals. children.

• Some 60% of emerging infectious diseases globally are • It also aims to give affordable healthcare to rare disease zoonoses. Of the over 30 new human pathogens detected patients needing one-time treatment, which applies to over the last three decades, 75% originated in animals. patients falling under the first category of rare diseases.

• The latest policy creates three categories of rare diseases—

o Diseases requiring one-time curative treatment;

o Diseases which need long-term treatment but the cost is low;

o Diseases that require life-long treatment and the cost is high.

• The policy states that the Centre will provide assistance of Rs 15 lakh to patients suffering from rare diseases that require one-time curative treatment under the Rashtriya

Arogya Nidhi scheme.

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Science & Technology

WHAT IS RASHTRIYA AROGYA NIDHI SCHEME? ABOUT KEY MISSIONS

• The Scheme provides for financial assistance to ► Aditya Mission patients, living below poverty line and who is suffering • The Aditya L1 mission will be the country’s first solar from major life threatening diseases, to receive medical mission that will help scientists study the solar corona. treatment at any of the super specialty Government • The 400kg class satellite, will carry six scientific payloads, hospitals / institutes. will be inserted in a halo orbit around the Lagrangian • Types of benefits- Financial assistance towards treatment point 1 (L1), which is 1.5 million km from the Earth. in Government hospitals including super specialty • In addition, particle payloads will study the particle flux Government hospitals / institutes. emanating from the Sun and reaching the L1 orbit. • Under the scheme revolving Funds have been set up in 13 • The magnetometer payload will measure the variation in Central Government Hospitals/Institutions located all over magnetic field strength at the halo orbit around L1. India for providing financial assistance for treatment up to Rs. 2 lakh. • The satellite will also carry Aditya Solar wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX) : To study the variation of solar wind • The scheme has three components, namely- properties as well as its distribution and spectral (i) Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN) – to provide financial characteristics. assistance to patients suffering from life threatening • Thus the enhanced Aditya-L1 project will enable a diseases other than Cancer. comprehensive understanding of the dynamical processes (ii) Health Minister’s Cancer Patients Fund (HMCPF) - to of the sun and address some of the outstanding problems provide financial assistance to patients suffering from in solar physics. Cancer. ►Gaganyaan mission (iii) Scheme for financial assistance for patients suffering from specified rare diseases.

• Under the Scheme of RAN, funds are not released to States/UTs, but to the hospitals where eligible patients receive treatment.

ISRO’s 2020 TARGET #Space Technology

• The mission was announced by the Prime Minister in August 2018.

• It is a crewed orbital spacecraft which is expected to carry IN NEWS three people into the space for seven days.

The Indian Space Research organisation(ISRO) is planning to • The mission is a 10,000-crores Indian human space flight launch around a dozen key satellite missions, high-profile scheduled for 2022. ₹ interplanetary mission Aditya (sun) and first unmanned test- • It is designed to have 3-7 crew members to spend 3-7 days flight of the Gaganyaan mission carrying a humanoid next in space in a 400-km orbit. year. The satellite mission would also include advanced • communication satellites Gisat1 and Gisat-12R and earth Two unmanned Gaganyaan missions will be undertaken observation satellites Risat-2BR2 and Microsat (for prior to sending humans. surveillance).

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Science & Technology

• The first of the two pre-Gaganyaan flights with a humanoid • She can also double up as an artificial buddy to an will be launched this year-end along with some of the six astronaut — providing audio inputs on aspects like the shortlisted micro-gravity experiments. health of the spacecraft during the launch, landing and orbital phases of the manned mission. • GSLV Mk III, the three-stage heavy lift launch vehicle, will be used to launch Gaganyaan as it has the necessary WHY IS ISRO DEVELOPING A HUMANOID? payload capability. • ISRO plans to send a human into space for the first time by • With this, India could potentially become the fourth 2022. country to send a man to space, after the erstwhile USSR, • ISRO aims to develop a crew module and rocket systems the US and China. that will ensure the safe travel and return of the Indian astronaut. • Vyommitra will also report back to Earth on the changes occurring in the crew module during the spaceflight and VYOM MITRA return, such as heat radiation levels, to enable ISRO to # Space Technology understand the safety levels required in the crew module that will eventually fly a human being.

IN NEWS The Indian Space Research Organisation will send 'Vyommitra', a 'lady robot' in the unmanned Gaganyaan spacecraft. INDIAN DATA RELAY WHAT IS VYOMMITRA? SATELLITE SYSTEM • Vyommitra, a combination of two Sanskrit words Vyoma (Space) and Mitra (Friend). #Space Technology

• The prototype of the half-humanoid, been made for the

first unmanned Gaganyaan mission. IN NEWS • The robot can perform life support operations, be a India plans to start in its own era of space-to-space tracking companion and converse with the astronauts, recognise and communication of its space assets this year by putting up them and respond to their queries, etc. a new satellite series called the Indian Data Relay Satellite • The half humanoid will simulate human functions in System. space and also interact with the environment control life support system.

• The humanoid has a human stimulation system.

• Like any robot, a humanoid’s functions are determined by the computer systems to which it is connected.

• The artificial intelligence technologies that power modern systems such as autonomous cars, or voice- operated systems such as Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Cortana and Bixby, are extended in a humanoid to perform simple functions that include walking, moving things, communicating and obeying commands.

• Vyommitra will have lip movement synchronised to mimic speech.

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Science & Technology

WHAT IS THE INDIAN DATA RELAY SATELLITE SYSTEM? SUN’S CORONA

• The IDRSS is planned to track and be constantly in touch #Space Technology with Indian satellites, in particular those in low-earth orbits which have limited coverage of earth. • A constellation of two geo satellites constituting the IN NEWS Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) will establish Solar physicists from Centre for Excellence in Space Sciences the space communication system that will help the (CESSI), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Gaganyaan space crew to talk to the ground station. Kolkata (IISER) Kolkata, have succeeded in predicting the shape • The satellite will be placed at geostationary orbit at 36,000 of Sun’s corona at the time of the annular eclipse in December. km will envelop the entire globe and help in constant relay of communication from astronauts in space to earth.

GSAT-30 #Space Technology

IN NEWS

Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched India’s telecommunication satellite GSAT-30. ABOUT THE SATELLITE WHAT IS SPACE WEATHER? • • GSAT-30 is configured on ISRO’s enhanced I-3K Bus The dynamic events on the Sun can affect Earth’s outer structure to provide communication services from atmosphere and our technologies, leading to disruption in Geostationary orbit in C and Ku bands. communication and navigation networks (GPS). • • The satellite derives its heritage from ISRO’s earlier These are more frequent during solar maxima and pose a INSAT/GSAT satellite series. threat to space reliant technology and astronauts.

• Weighing 3357 kg, GSAT-30 is to serve as replacement to SUN’s STRUCTURE INSAT-4A spacecraft services with enhanced coverage. • The inner layers are the Core, Radiative Zone and • The satellite provides Indian mainland and islands Convection Zone. coverage. • The outer layers are the Photosphere, the Chromosphere, • The designed in-orbit operational life of GSAT-30 is more the Transition Region and the Corona. than 15 years. • Photosphere - The photosphere is the deepest layer of • Ku-band transponders would provide coverage to Indian the Sun and can be observed directly. mainland and islands. • Chromosphere – In this layer, the temperature increases • C-band would allow two-way communication and enable as you go away from sun. television broadcasters to beam their programs over India, • Transition Region - The transition region is a very narrow Gulf countries, a large number of Asian countries and layer between the chromosphere and the corona where Australia. the temperature rises abruptly.

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Science & Technology

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF CORONA? • Generally, carbon nitride materials are prepared by the calcination method. The starting material containing • It is the outermost part of the Sun’s atmosphere. carbon and nitrogen is heated around 600°C for ~ 5 h. • The corona is usually hidden by the bright light of the During this process, the bulk carbon nitride forms by self- Sun's surface. That makes it difficult to see without using condensation. The obtained bulk material is used in the special instruments. However, the corona can be viewed next step of exfoliation. It involves dispersion in aqueous during a total solar eclipse. phase by ultrasound treatment. During the ultrasonication • During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes between process, the bulk carbon nitride materials break down by Earth and the Sun. When this happens, the moon blocks exfoliation to form small nanosheets. out the bright light of the Sun. The glowing white corona • The materials needed for creating the carbon nitride can then be seen surrounding the eclipsed Sun. nanomaterials for clean energy systems are low cost, can • The surface of the Sun is covered in magnetic fields. be prepared in large quantities and can be synthesized

• The corona's temperature causes its particles to move at using chemical or molecular precursors. very high speeds. These speeds are so high that the particles can escape the Sun's gravity.

• The corona reaches extremely high temperatures. However, the corona is very dim. Why? The corona is about VIRTUAL HUMAN’ NEONs 10 million times less dense than the Sun’s surface. This low # Technology density makes the corona much less bright than the surface of the Sun.

• The corona does not have an upper limit. IN NEWS

NEONs are being called the world’s first artificial humans. They look and behave like real humans, and could one day develop CARBON NITRIDE NANO memories and emotions. MATERIALS WHAT ARE NEONs? • These are computationally created virtual humans — #Technology the word derives from NEO (new) + human.

• There are two core technologies behind this virtual humans. IN NEWS 1. First, there is the proprietary CORE R3 technology that The research work of an Indian Professor on nano materials, drives the “reality, real time and responsiveness” behind has led to the development of technologies for conversion of NEONs. The CORE R3 focuses in the domains of carbon dioxide into fuel using sunlight and water and clean Behavioural Neural Networks, Evolutionary Generative tech like sodium ion batteries to power electric vehicles. The Intelligence and Computational Reality”, and is “extensively professor has been awarded a research project to develop trained” on how humans look, behave and interact. carbon nitride nano materials for a clean energy system 2. The next stage will be SPECTRA, which will complement requirement in the defence sector. CORE R3 with the “spectrum of intelligence, learning, WHAT ARE CARBON NITRIDE? emotions and memory.

• Carbon nitride can be used as a metal free photo catalyst • These virtual humans can interface for technologies and for water splitting, metal free system for carbon capture services. and conversion, electrode material for supercapacitors and battery, as an electrode catalyst for fuel cells, electrode for solar cell.

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Science & Technology

• Virtual assistance would be more effective while teaching • NEONs will be limited to what they know and learn. Their languages, as NEONs will be capable of understanding and learning could potentially be limited to the person they are sympathising. catering to but not the entire Internet. They will not be an so as to request a song, rather they will be a HOW ARE NEONs DIFFERENT FROM VIRTUAL interface friend to speak to and share experiences with. ASSISTANTS?

• Virtual Assistants now learn from all the data they are plugged into.

practice questions

MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements about (a) 1 only (b) 2 only Vyommitra: (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 1. It is a prototype of the half-humanoid been made for the first unmanned Gaganyaan mission. Q4. Consider the following statements about Indian 2. The half humanoid will simulate human functions in Data Relay Satellite System: space. 1. The system is planned to track and be constantly in Which of the statements given above is/are correct? touch with Indian satellites. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 2. A constellation of two geo satellites constituting the (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) will establish the space communication system Q2. Consider the following statements related to GSAT- Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 30: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. The satellite aims to provide communication services (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 from Geostationary orbit. 2. The satellite provides Indian mainland only. Q5. Consider the following statements related to Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Aditya Mission: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. The Aditya L1 mission will be the country’s first solar (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 mission that will help scientists study the solar corona. 2. The 400kgclass satellite, which will carry six scientific Q3. Consider the following statements related to payloads, will be inserted in a halo orbit around the NEONs: Lagrangian point 1 (L1). 1. These are computationally created virtual humans. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 2. Recently, India signed a deal with Israel to manufacture (a) 1 only (b) 2 only such virtual humans. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Which of the statements given above is/are correct? An Initiative to Provide Free Materials for UPSC without watermark Join https://t.me/UPSC_PDF

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Science & Technology

descriptive Questions

Q1. The Chinese authorities had confirmed that they had identified a new virus. What are the key concerns that a nation may

face with rising threat of diseases with no significant treatment.

Q2. The Indian Space Research organisation(ISRO) is planning to launch around a dozen key satellite missions in 2020. Discuss

the evolving nature of Indian Space agency and its role in advancing India’s technological strength.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (c), 2 (a), 3 (a), 4(c), 5(c)

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management # GS Paper (Prelims) and GS Paper I & III (Main)

Lead Article

AUSTRALIAN BUSH FIRE # Environment

IN NEWS

Large bushfires have been ravaging Australia affecting more than 10.3 million hectares of land. Although the fire season Fig: Plotting the occurrence of bushfires across Australia began way back in late July, but it has extended for longer in 2019 duration as result of positive Indian Dipole experienced this • If one studies the natural ecosystem of Australian year. continent, it is easy to gauge the impact of bushfires in THE PHENOMENON OF BUSHFIRES overall evolution. • They are basically grassfires (similar to forest fires in India). THE CHARACTERISTICS OF BUSHFIRES

• Since Australian continent is semi-arid, it has large • Speed of Movement: Their speed is higher than that of expanse of grasslands which provide readymade material forest fires. for large fires. • High heat output: Which allows them to smolder for days • Although 2019 bushfire has been exceptional in its and weeks after the fire has crossed a location. This devastation, it is a common phenomenon in Australia since ensures that the impact of fires is felt at a location for a thousands of years. very long time. • They have burnt down one lakh square kilometre land in CAUSES OF BUSHFIRES Australia in 2019. • The basic cause for massive bushfires is presence of hot and dry conditions over a long time scale.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• The main factor which leads to the creation of such condition is Indian Ocean Dipole which create exceptionally dry conditions (Low Rainfall and High aridity), abnormally high Temperatures (positive Temperature anomaly).

• The actual trigger is provided by Arson or lightning strike. RELATED INFORMATION: INDIAN OCEAN DIPOLE

• IOD measures differences in sea surface temperatures between the western and eastern parts of the Indian Ocean. Sustained changes in the difference between sea surface temperatures of the tropical western and eastern Indian Ocean are known as the Indian Ocean Dipole or IOD.

• Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is basically similar to the El This sets up a temperature difference across the tropical Nino weather system that develops in the Pacific Ocean. Indian Ocean with cooler than normal water in the east • Indian Ocean sea surface temperatures impact rainfall and and warmer than normal water in the west. temperature patterns over Australia. Warmer than average During the positive phase of Indian Ocean dipole the sea surface temperatures can provide more moisture for water over western Indian Ocean is warmer than normal frontal systems and lows crossing Australia. leading to formation of troughs (low pressure regions) and • The IOD is one of the key drivers of Australia's climate and thus enhanced rainfall can have a significant impact on agriculture. This is On the other hand cooler waters develop off Indonesia because events generally coincide with the winter crop resulting in less rainfall and high temperatures in growing season. Australia. • The IOD has three phases: neutral, positive and 2019 witnessed the record level of positive phase of Indian negative. Events usually start around May or June, peak Ocean Dipole between August and October and then rapidly decay when the monsoon arrives in the southern hemisphere around It has been found that in 2019 the IOD event peaked in the end of spring. mid-October when the waters around east Africa were about 2 degrees Celsius warmer than those near Australia. Neutral IOD phase: Water from the Pacific flows between the islands of Indonesia, keeping seas to Australia's northwest warm. Air rises above this area and falls over the western half of the Indian Ocean basin, blowing westerly winds along the equator.

Temperatures are close to normal across the tropical Indian Ocean, and hence the neutral IOD results in little change to Australia's climate.

Positive IOD phase: Westerly winds weaken along the equator allowing warm water to shift towards Africa. Changes in the winds also allow cool water to rise up from the deep ocean in the east.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

Negative IOD phase: Westerly winds intensify along the • Ongoing ecological and biodiversity impacts: An equator, allowing warmer waters to concentrate near estimated billion animals, and many more bats and Australia. This sets up a temperature difference across the insects, are likely to die in total over the coming weeks and tropical Indian Ocean, with warmer than normal water in the months as a result of lost habitat and food sources. east and cooler than normal water in the west. This loss is part of a much bigger picture of a world where A negative IOD typically results in above-average winter– biodiversity is in steep decline.

spring rainfall over parts of Australia as the warmer waters • Public health: Smoke and ash content into the air led to off northwest Australia provide more available moisture to worst air quality in major cities across Australia. The weather systems crossing the country. effects of smoke exposure and inhalation range from eye HOW DO BUSHFIRES CREATE THEIR OWN WHETHER and respiratory tract irritation to more serious disorders, SYSTEMS? including reduced lung function, bronchitis, exacerbated asthma and premature death. According to the World Health Organization, older people, people with cardiorespiratory diseases or chronic illnesses, children, and people who work outdoors are particularly vulnerable.

• The impacts of the fires crosses borders: Smoke from wildfires can travel great distances. It is often pushed into the stratosphere by the heat from fires. Smoke from bushfires in Australia has drifted across the Pacific and may have reached the Antarctic, according to the World Meteorological Organization. This has led to hazardous air quality in major cities throughout Australia, and affected New Zealand and cities

in South America after smoke reached both Argentina and Intense fires generate smoke, obviously. But their heat can Chile. also create a localized updraft powerful enough to create its • own changes in the atmosphere above. As the heat and Mental health costs: Fires do not only cause physical smoke rise, the cloud plume can cool off, generating a large, harm; many people experience mental trauma from the puffy cloud full of potential rain. The plume can also scatter experience of emergency evacuation and losing homes, embers and hot ash over a wider area. pets, belongings, livestock or other sources of livelihoods • Eventually, water droplets in the cloud condense, generating Economic costs: The actual economic costs of these a downburst of rain. But the "front" between the calm air bushfires is still being analysed, but it’s clear that outside the fire zone and a pyrocumulonimbus storm cloud is infrastructure has been damaged and that impacts extend so sharp that it also generates lightning and that can start to industries such as farming and tourism. Some new fires. businesses and institutions have been forced to close their doors during periods of excessive levels of air pollution. IMPACTS OF BUSHFIRES • Climate feedback loops (reduction in carbon stock): • Physical, direct impacts: Over 18 million hectares have The bushfires have not only been made more likely and burned in the Australian bushfire season 2019–2020 as of intense by climate change, they also add to it. Until mid-January according to media reports, destroying over the 2019–2020 Australian bushfire season, the forests in 5,900 buildings including over 2,800 homes. In addition to Australia were thought to reabsorb all the carbon released human fatalities, many millions of animals are reported to in bushfires across the country. This would mean the have been killed. forests achieved net zero emissions.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

However, global warming is making bushfires burn more Crude Oil Imports: Nearly 80% of India’s oil requirement intensely and frequently and the 2019–2020 bushfires comes from its crude oil imports. EVs reduce the need for oil have already emitted 400 megatonnes of carbon dioxide import.

into the atmosphere, according to the Copernicus Coal Sector Liberalisation: India has recently liberalized its monitoring programme. coal sector by privatizing mining and allowing FDI in Coal This is as much as Australia's average annual carbon mining. Besides, recently India has ended its captive mining dioxide emissions in just the past three months. These will regime accelerating the commercial mining of coal in India. increase Australia’s annual greenhouse gas emissions, EVs can utilise this expansion in electricity production.

contributing to global warming, and heighten the Safe and Clean Urban Mobility: In the backdrop of 1st likelihood of recurring mega fires that will release yet more Global Mobility Summit, the PM identified the two most emissions. This is a deeply concerning climate feedback important challenges in urban India today are pollution and loop. congestion. Rapid urbanization has increased India’s • Agricultural impacts: The bushfires have scorched transport demand by almost 8 times since 1980. pasture, destroyed livestock and razed vineyards, with Besides according to WHO, there are 14 Indian cities among regrowth and recovery likely to stretch water resources the top 15 most polluted cities in the world. already challenged by drought. Reports indicate that the Comprehensive Action Plan (CAP): The SC appointed EPCA country’s dairy supply will likely be hit hardest. has identified vehicular pollution as the main reason for Meat, wool, and honey output may also be impacted. pollution in Delhi NCR. About 13 per cent of the national sheep flock is in regions One of the steps recommended by EPCA under CAP is that have been significantly impacted and a further 17 per introduction of battery operated vehicles in targeted cent in regions partially impacted, according to Meat & segments of two-wheelers, three- wheelers and buses. Livestock Australia. STEPS TO MAKE THE EV SWITCH ►National E-Mobility Mission Plan E-MOBILITY MISSION • National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 was launched in 2013 as a National Mission to provide the # Alternative Technologies vision and the roadmap for the faster adoption of electric vehicles and their manufacturing in India.

• Under it, the government targeted to get at least six to IN NEWS seven million electric vehicles on the road by 2020.

The Supreme Court has sought response from central • Further in a bid to go green, the government planned to go government on a petition that was filed questioning the all-electric in terms of new car sales in the country by the implementation of National E-Mobility Plan. In this context, let year 2030. However, recently this target was reduced to us understand the need for Electric vehicles, steps taken by the 30%. government to incentivise the manufacturing and sale of • National E-mobility Programme aims to provide an electric vehicles and challenges being faced by the sector. impetus to the entire e-mobility ecosystem that includes NEED TO SWITCH TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES electric vehicle manufacturers, charging infrastructure More Efficiency: Though batteries deliver 340 times less development companies, fleet operators, service energy than gasoline, the battery-run vehicles have an providers, etc. efficiency of nearly 85% compared to 20% of gasoline-run • State-run Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) is engines. This means 85% energy can be used to run the responsible for procuring electric vehicles for the wheels and only 15% is lost as heat. Whereas in a gasoline Government. engine only 20% energy of gasoline makes it to the heels; the remaining 80% is lost as heat.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• In August 2019, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of charging infrastructure is required to achieve expected has set targets for complete switch to electric vehicles in 2- outcome of the plan, which is being addressed presently in wheeler and 3-wheeler segment:- 2-wheeler segment Phase-II of FAME Scheme. under 150cc from April 2025, 3-wheeler segment from • Department of Heavy Industry notified Phase-II of the April 2023. Scheme in March 2019 with an outlay of Rs. 10,000 Crores FASTER ADOPTION AND MANUFACTURING OF for a period of 3 years commencing from 1st April 2019. ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN INDIA FAME - I • The scheme will help in addressing the issue of • Accordingly, under the NEMMP the Department of Heavy environmental pollution and fuel security. Emphasis is on Industry formulated a Scheme called Faster Adoption and electrification of the public transportation that includes Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India shared transport. (FAME India) Scheme in the year 2015 to promote • The scheme proposes for establishment of charging manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology. infrastructure, whereby about 2700 charging stations will • The Phase-I of this Scheme was initially launched for a be established in metros, other million plus cities, smart period of 2 years, commencing from 1st April 2015, which cities and cities of Hilly states across the country so that was subsequently extended from time to time and the last there will be availability of at least one charging station in a extension was allowed up to 31st March 2019. grid of 3 km x 3 km. Establishment of Charging stations are also proposed on major highways connecting major city • The 1st Phase of FAME India Scheme was implemented clusters. through four focus areas namely:- CHALLENGES o Demand Creation, Limitations of Li-ion batteries: The complete fleet of EVs o Technology Platform, currently is run on LiBs which poses a major challenge for o Pilot Project and switch to EVs:- Charging Infrastructure. o • LiBs are expensive. • Market creation through demand incentives was aimed at • They are not suitable for long-distance travel. incentivizing all vehicle segments i.e. 2-Wheelers, 3- • The LiBs used in EVs are about 500 Kgs and makes up for Wheelers Auto, Passenger 4-Wheeler vehicles, Light bulk of the weight of the cars. Commercial Vehicles and Buses. • LiBs use lithium, cobalt, nickel and manganese which are • Under the NEMMP 2020, there is an ambitious target to in short supply in the world restricted to Bolivia, Chile. achieve 6-7 million sales of hybrid and electric vehicles by the year 2020. OTHER CHALLENGES FASTER ADOPTION AND MANUFACTURING OF • Charging infrastructure ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN INDIA – FAME - II • Battery recycling: For this government has proposed • In February, 2019, the Union cabinet had approved the battery swapping stations proposal for implementation of Phase II of FAME Scheme • Possible Job losses: Besides EVs have lesser number of for promotion of Electric Mobility in the country. This moving parts (about 20 compared to 2000 in gasoline scheme is the expanded version of the FAME -I. vehicles) in them as compared to gasoline vehicles. This is • The main objective of the scheme is to encourage Faster because of constant torque generated at all speeds. As a Adoption of Electric and Hybrid Vehicle by way of offering result, the transmission system, gearbox, clutch etc. are upfront incentive on purchase of Electric vehicles and also not needed. This results in loss of jobs in the MSME sector by way of establishing a necessary charging Infrastructure in India which produces many of these auto parts. for electric vehicles. WAY FORWARD

• Based on the experience gained in the Phase-I of FAME • However, India needs auto industry's active participation India Scheme, it has been observed that sufficient number to ease electric mobility transition.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• The auto and battery industries could collaborate to • To meet this objective, the Central Government can restrict enhance customer awareness, promote domestic areas in which any industries, operations or processes, or manufacturing, promote new business models, conduct class of industries functions. Operations or processes shall R&D for EVs and components and must consider new not be carried out or shall be carried out subject to certain business models to promote EVs. safeguards [Section 3 (2)(v)].

• Government should focus on a phased manufacturing plan • Note: EIA Notification first time came into existence on to promote EVs, provide fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for 27th January, 1994 requiring prior environmental phased manufacturing of EVs and batteries. clearance for 29 categories of projects/processes listed there under. It was subsequently made applicable to 32 • Transformation to EVs will create enormous economic, categories. The present EIA Notification was issued on 14th social and environmental benefits for the citizens of India. September, 2006.

OBJECTIVES OF EIA NOTIFICATION, 2006 GREEN NOD FOR OIL, GAS • To formulate a transparent, decentralized and efficient regulatory mechanism to integrate environmental concerns into developmental process with a view to EXPLORATION WAIVED facilitating sustainable development. # Environment Impact Assessment • To ensure incorporation of necessary environmental safeguards at planning stage in the project cycle, so as to ensure minimal impact on different components of environment. IN NEWS • To ensure involvement of stakeholders in public MoEFCC has granted exemption to oil and gas firms from consultation process through public hearing and to seeking environmental clearance as far as drilling for ascertain the views of the public on the proposed project exploration is concerned. In this context, let us understand or activity. Environment Impact Assessment. WHAT IS ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT? SALIENT FEATURES OF EIA NOTIFICATION, 2006 • The EIA Notification, 2006 has categorized the projects into • Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) is a planning tool to two categories namely; Category ‘A’ and Category ‘B’ based integrate the environmental concerns into developmental on their impact potential. process right at the initial stage of planning and suggest necessary mitigation measures. • Category ‘A’ projects will be appraised at the Central level while Category ‘B’ project at the State level. • EIA essentially refers to the assessment of environmental impacts likely to arise from a project. • State level Environment Impact Assessment Authorities and Committees (SEIAAs and SEACs) have been constituted Who is the competent authority for notifying the EIA for the purpose of appraisal of Category ‘B’ projects. notification and under which act the EIA notification is issued along with the provisions of the act? • The stage of scoping for prescribing terms of reference by the Regulatory Agency for the EIA studies has been • The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change incorporated in accordance with the International practice. is the nodal Ministry for notifying the EIA Notification It is expected to improve the quality of EIA thereby under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. improving the quality of decision making and minimizing • Section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act 1986 the delays. (EPA) gives power to the Central Government to take all • The public consultation process has been made more measures that it deems necessary or expedient for the structured. It has two components i.e. comments through purpose of protecting and improving the quality of the correspondence and by public hearing at site. Provision to environment and preventing and controlling abating videograph the proceedings of the public hearing has been environmental pollution. made.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• NOCs from other regulatory agencies such as SPCB etc. are Moreover, since there is no process for punishing the not a pre-requisite for considering application for agencies tabling such dishonest EIA reports, there is no environmental clearance. deterrence for such acts. WHAT ARE THE STAGES OF ENVIRONMENTAL • Poor quality of EIA professionals: The individuals CLEARANCE? involved in the process lack knowledge in the field of environment and ecology. The environmental clearance process comprises of four stages, namely:- • Issues related to Public hearing

1. Screening Stage: Screening refers scrutiny of category ‘B’ o Lack of awareness among local people about the process projects seeking prior environmental clearance made in of EIA.

Form-1 by the concerned State Level Expert Appraisal o Notification issues due to publication of the EIA process Committee for determining whether or not the project in the local newspaper and not in every panchayat. Most of requires further environmental studies for preparation of the times local people are unaware of the Public hearing EIA for its appraisal depending upon the nature and meetings. location specificity of the project. o Unavailability of EIA in local languages affects the capacity 2. Scoping Stage of the majority of the rural people to participate in the What effects could this project have on environment? process.

Which of these effects are likely to be significant and o The issues raised by people in public hearings remains therefore need particular attention in the environmental unanswered and they do not know what happens to the studies? issues, nor do they know if the issues raised are reflected in public hearing reports that is presented to Ministry of Which alternatives and mitigation measures ought to be Environment and forests. considered in developing the proposal for the project? • Lack of larger outlook while conducting EIA 3. Public Consultation stage: To ascertain views of local persons. Outcome of public consultation, which is not a o The EIA remains focused on very small aspect of the decision making process, to be included in EIA and projects and do not assess the overall impact on ecology. addressed. 4. Appraisal stage: Appraisal means the detailed scrutiny by the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert SMOG TOWERS, ANTI- Appraisal Committee of the application and other documents submitted by the applicant for grant of SMOG GUNS environmental clearance. #Pollution ISSUES WITH EIA PROCESS IN INDIA • Conflict of Interest: EIA is funded by the same agency which is implementing the project and hence the primary IN NEWS concern of that agency is to obtain clearance. The Supreme court has recently approved deployment of Smog • Discretion in the hands of state government: The towers and Anti-Smog guns to fight air pollution. In this problem is that categorising the projects is in the hands of context, let us understand Smog and the functioning of these state level committees and these committees are formed instruments. by the state governments. THE CONDITION OF AIR POLLUTION IN INDIA • EIA reports are plagiarised and often spread • According to WHO Global Urban Ambient Air Pollution, misinformation: Many a times EIA reports are plagiarised. Delhi is the most polluted of any major city in the world. It EIA reports of one project is copied and pasted into other defeating the whole purpose. There is also a lack of also affects the districts around Delhi. scientific approach in the way report is prepared. • Air pollution in India is estimated to kill about 2.5 million people every year; it is the fifth largest killer in India.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• India has the world's highest death rate from chronic WHAT ARE THE DEVASTATING EFFECTS OF SMOG? respiratory diseases and asthma, according to the WHO. In • Smog is harmful and it is evident from the components Delhi, poor quality air irreversibly damages the lungs of 2.2 that form it and effects that can happen from it. million or 50 percent of all children. • It is harmful to humans, animals, plants, and nature as a • In this context, Supreme court has allowed the trial of whole. Many people deaths were recorded, notably, those Smog towers and anti-smog guns. relating to bronchial diseases. Heavy smog is responsible WHAT IS SMOG? for decreasing UV radiation greatly. Thus heavy smog

• Smog is basically derived from the merging of two words; results in low production of the crucial natural element smoke and fog. Smog is also used to describe the type of vitamin D leading to cases of rickets among people. fog which has smoke or soot in it. • When a city or town gets covered in smog, the effects are

• Smog is a yellowish or blackish fog formed mainly by a felt immediately. Smog can be responsible for any ailment mixture of pollutants in the atmosphere which consists of from minor pains to deadly pulmonary diseases such as fine particles and ground-level ozone. Smog which occurs lung cancer. Smog is well known for causing irritation in mainly because of air pollution can also be defined as a the eye. It may also result in inflammation in the tissues of mixture of various gases with dust and water vapor. Smog lungs; giving rise to pain in the chest. Other issues or also refers to hazy air that makes breathing difficult. illnesses such as cold and pneumonia are also related to smog. The human body faces great difficulty in defending HOW IS SMOG FORMED? itself against the harmful effects of smog. • The atmospheric pollutants or gases that form smog are • Minor exposure to smog can lead to greater threats of released in the air when fuels are burnt. When sunlight asthma attacks; people suffering from asthma problems and its heat react with these gases and fine particles in the must avoid exposure. Smog also causes premature deaths atmosphere, smog is formed. It is purely caused by air and affects densely populated areas building it up to pollution. Ground level ozone and fine particles are dangerous levels. The highly affected people include old released in the air due to complex photochemical people, kids and those with cardiac and respiratory reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOC), complications as they have an easy tendency to be a sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). disadvantage of asthma. • These VOC, SO2, and NOx are called precursors. The • The ground level ozone present in the smog also inhibits main sources of these precursors are pollutants released plant growth and causes immense damage to crops and directly into the air by gasoline and diesel-run vehicles, forests. Crops, vegetables like soybeans, wheat, tomatoes, industrial plants and activities, and heating due to human peanuts, and cotton are subject to infection when they are activities. exposed to smog. The smog results in mortifying impacts • Smog is often caused by heavy traffic, high temperatures, on the environment by killing innumerable animal species sunshine, and calm winds. These are a few of the factors and green life as these take time to adapt to breathing and behind an increasing level of air pollution in the surviving in such toxic environments. atmosphere. • Smog is a devastating problem especially due to the fast • During the winter months when the wind speeds are low, modernization or industrialization as the hazardous it helps the smoke and fog to become stagnate at a place chemicals involved in smog formation are highly reactive is forming smog and increasing pollution levels near the spread around in the atmosphere. Smoke and sulfur ground closer to where people are respiring. It hampers dioxide pollution in urban areas is at much lower levels visibility and disturbs the environment. than in the past, as a result of the law passed to control • Temperature inversions are situations when warm air does emissions and in favor of cleaner emission technology. not rise instead stays near the ground. During situations of SMOG TOWERS temperature inversions, if the wind is calm, smog may get • A smog tower is a large vertical structure designed as trapped and remain over a place for days. large-scale air purifier to reduce air pollution particles.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• It has been fitted with exhaust fans that will help in sucking Note: Happy Seeder is a machine that can plant the wheat polluted air. seed without getting jammed by the rice straw. • The device will be able to take in air from all 360-degree angles and generate 1,300,000 cubic metres of clean air per hour. (The mammoth purifier will have 48 fans to keep the flow of clean air going)

• The air will be purified by using the highly effective H14 grade particulate arrestance (HEPA) filter which can clean up to 99.99 per cent of the particulate matter present in the air in conjunction with a pre-filter and activated carbon.

• Difference with the Chinese smog tower:

o The purifier will be different from China's Smog Tower in WHY DO WE NEED “HAPPY SEEDER”? the sense that it won't depend on the ionisation • It is believed that much of the pollution in Delhi in winters technique to clean the air. The ionisation of air does not every year originates in the neighboring states of Punjab eradicate the pollutants but works by separating the and Haryana where farmers burn their fields to dispose of pollutants from the oxygen, which could be a part of the crop residue. problem itself. • This in fact is a simple, practical way to eliminate most of ANTI-SMOG GUNS the smog that envelopes Delhi and the entire northwest of • In India water cannons have been used recently in an the country every November. attempt to wash out particles. • At this time of the year, farmers in the states of Punjab, • The anti-smog gun is a cannon shaped device that sprays Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh harvest the rice crop atomised water droplets in the air. The gun is attached to a by combine harvesters. This machine leaves rice straw water tank built on a movable vehicle, which can be taken strewn all over the fields. Because farmers do not value to various parts of the city. the rice straw as animal-feed or for non-feed use, they

dispose of the residue by burning it. The straws clog the seeder machines that plant the next crop, which is wheat, HAPPY SEEDER so farmers need to dispose of the residue before attempting to plant wheat. # Pollution #Agriculture • The Happy Seeder is a tractor-mounted machine that cuts and lifts rice straw, sows wheat into the bare soil, and deposits the straw over the sown area as mulch. CONTEXT BENEFITS OF HAPPY SEEDER Punjab farmers have sown 4.50 lakh hectares (lh) wheat area this time using Happy Seeders. This is nearly 13% of the total • Happy Seeder removes the need to burn rice stubble 35.08 lh planted under the rabi cereal crop in the state. Not before planting wheat, therefore reducing air pollution. bad, it would seem, for a relatively new technology, which • Direct sowing also reduces soil disturbance, enabling it to allows wheat to be directly seeded in combine-harvested retain more nutrients and organic content. paddy fields without any need to burn leftover stubble or loose • Possibility of sowing wheat crop just after rice harvesting straw that is a source of environmental pollution. i.e. option for long duration wheat and rice varieties. This article discusses a simple, practical and cost-effective • Possibility of sowing wheat in the residual moisture i.e. solution (Happy Seeder) to deal with the problem of air saving of one irrigation. pollution in Delhi NCR region.

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• Timely sowing wheat even after long duration basmati rice • It is a variety of Oceanic Dolphin. varieties. • Habitat: Shallow oceans, River and Estuaries • Crop residue as much helps in moisture and temperature • Since they inhabit the shallow regions of the oceans, they conservation. go through maximum confrontation with humans • Improved soil health. • Threats: Fishing nets, Dam construction, Gold mining • Environment friendly technology to check air pollution. leads to toxic effluent discharge into the ocean. BUT THEN WHAT ARE THE ISSUES WITH ITS • IUCN Status: Endangered ADOPTION? • However, despite the benefits of the Happy Seeder, there are some barriers to its adoption, the report says. These REDUCTION IN TIGER barriers include cost, risk aversion and existing subsidies for using herbicides and electricity. DEATHS • To overcome these barriers, subsidies are being offered #Conservation for the purchase of Happy Seeders.

IN NEWS IRRAWADDY DOLPHIN According to data from the Ministry of Forest Environment and Climate Change (MoEFCC), there were 84 cases of tiger deaths #Aquatic Species in the country and 11 cases of seizures (in which a tiger is presumed dead on the basis of body parts seized by authorities). Both put together, the number of tiger deaths in IN NEWS 2019 was 95. In this context, let us understand the tiger Odisha Forest Department officials, wildlife experts and conservation framework in the country. researchers sighted many endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in MORE FROM THE NEWS: CONTINUOUS DECLINE IN Chilika Lake, which boasts of the highest single lagoon THE NUMBER OF DEATHS population of the aquatic mammal in the world. In this context, let us understand various characteristics of Irrawaddy YEAR DEATHS Dolphin from the perspective of prelims examination. 2016 122 IRRAWADDY DOLPHIN 2017 115

2018 100

2019 95

CAUSES OF SUCH DECLINE IN THE NUMBER OF DEATHS

• Better surveillance

• Good management of Tiger Reserves

• A lot of awareness and education programmes on tiger conservation

• Above map showing distribution of Irrawaddy Dolphin

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Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management

• Mandated use of M-STriPES (Monitoring System for Tigers- to tiger sightings, deaths, wild life crime and ecological Intensive Protection & Ecological Status) patrolling app in observations while patrolling.

every Tiger Reserve, • The software system maps the patrol routes of forest PROJECT TIGER guards, and the resulting data are then analyzed in a geographic information system. • Project Tiger is an ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate • This is intended to enhance the effectiveness and spatial Change providing central assistance to the tiger States for coverage of patrols tiger conservation in designated tiger reserves. • Government of India launched “Project Tiger” for conserving its national animal, the tiger, in 1973. ANALYSIS OF 2019 • There are 50 Tiger reserves under Project Tiger spread out in 18 of tiger range states. This amounts to around 2.21% WEATHER of the geographical area of our country. # Climate • The Project Tiger aims to foster an exclusive tiger agenda in the core areas of tiger reserves, with an inclusive people oriented agenda in the buffer. IN NEWS NATIONAL TIGER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY IMD has come up with the analysis.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a INDIA’S 2 MONSOONS statutory body of the Ministry, with an overarching The northeast monsoon, or winter monsoon, blows from supervisory / coordination role, performing functions as land to sea, whereas south-west monsoon, or summer provided in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. monsoon, blows from sea to land after crossing the Indian TIGER RESERVES Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal. The southwest monsoon brings most of the rainfall in the country - • The tiger reserves are constituted on a core/buffer approximately 75 per cent of India’s annual rainfall. strategy. KEY OBSERVATIONS OF THE REPORT • The core areas have the legal status of a national park or a sanctuary, whereas the buffer or peripheral areas are a • Temperature: 2019 was recorded as the seventh warmest mix of forest and non-forest land, managed as a multiple year since 1901, but the heating was substantially lower use area. than the highest warming observed in 2016. M-STriPES • Rainfall: The year’s Northeast monsoon ended on a high, with the season’s total rainfall recorded remaining 30 per • Assisting States to refine protection oriented monitoring cent surplus. through monitoring system for tiger’s intensive protection • Other weather events: Country also experienced other and ecological status (M-STrIPES) high impact weather events like extremely heavy rainfall, • The system's objective is to strengthen patrolling and heat and cold waves, snowfall, thunderstorm, dust storm, surveillance of the Tiger. lightning and floods. • Forest guards in tiger reserves are equipped with personal digital assistants and GPS devices to capture data relating

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practice questions

MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding 3. They will lead to safe and clean urban mobility. “Australian Bushfires”: Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1. Indian Ocean Dipole has played a key role in the Bushfire (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only outbreak in 2019 (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Australian Bushfires in 2019 were limited to only South Eastern coast of the Australia Q4. Consider the following statements regarding Select the correct answer using the code given below: “Environment Impact Assessment”: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. It is conducted under Section 3 of the Environment (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None of the above (Protection) Act 1986 (EPA) 2. The present EIA Notification was issued in 2006. Q2. Which of the following best explains the term “Happy Select the correct answer using the code given below: Seeder” used in agriculture? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) It is used to peel off the seeds when they are dried. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None of the above (b) It is used to plant the wheat seed without getting jammed by the rice straw. Q5. Consider the following statements regarding (c) It is used to remove weed from the field just before the “National Tiger Conservation Authority”: sowing. 1. It is an executive body. (d) It is used to extract pulp from the seeds. 2. It was created for better management of Tiger reserves.

Select the correct answer using the code given below: Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the (a) 1 only (b) 2 only need for Electric Vehicles: (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None of the above 1. They are more efficient than combustion engine vehicles. 2. They will lead to decrease in crude oil imports.

descriptive Questions

Q1. Examine the causes of Australian Bushfire event of 2019. Discuss its negative impacts on Australian continent and on the world. Q2. The Environment Impact Assessment regime of the country is fraught with many challenges. Critically examine.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (a), 2 (b), 3 (d), 4(c), 5(b)

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History, HERITAGE & Culture # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper I (Main)

• The Elephanta caves is a conglomeration of seven caves, ELEPHANTA CAVES out of which the most important is the Mahesa-murti #Art and Culture #Ancient India cave. • The main body of the cave, excluding the porticos on the three open sides and the back isle, is 27 metres square

and is supported by rows of six columns each. IN NEWS • The gigantic figures of 'dvarapalas' or doorkeepers are An hour-long ferry ride from the Gateway of India to the very impressive. Elephanta Island in the Mumbai Harbour, will open you up to a • There are sculptured compartments in this cave with hidden world of rock-cut caves robust in their carvings and remarkable images of Ardhanarisvara, Kalyana-sundara boasting a legion of Shaivite sculptures. But these caves have Shiva, Ravana lifting Kailasa, Andhakari-Murti (slaying been exposed to a great deal of pollution and degradation of Andhaka demon) and Nataraja Shiva. over the years, which has become a cause of concern. • There are also ancient Buddhist stupa mounds on the In this respect, let us understand about the significance of this same island. ancient caves and the threats posed to them. • The cave complex has been given the status of world ABOUT ELEPHANTA CAVES heritage by UNESCO in 1987. • The logo of the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation shows a 20 ft high monolith of the three- headed Trimurti Sadashiva representing the three aspects of Shiva. This awe-inspiring piece of carving, hewn out of rocks similar to Ellora in the same State, is the focal point of the Elephanta Caves. CAUSES OF CONCERN OVER THE ELEPHANTA CAVES • Over the years the Island has been exposed to a great deal of stress as it is located in the midst of the Mumbai • Elephanta was anciently known as Gharapuri. This island harbour. was the capital of Konkan Mauryas. • Pollution caused by port activities, the risk of explosion • It is celebrated for its colossal image of Mahesamurti from nearby chemical storage facilities and oil silos as well with three heads each representing a different form. as underwater blasting are among the environmental threats to the island. • The island was renamed by Portuguese invaders after a giant stone sculpture of an elephant, which was removed • Legislation to shield the island monuments has existed from the island and now stands outside the Dr. Bhau Daji since the 1950s but only in name. Lad Museum. • Transport facilities such as the tourist boats use old, • The cave temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was excavated polluting diesel engines. Scraps of plastic bags cling to the sometime in the 8th century by the Rashtrakuta kings, mangrove roots, and debris lies scattered around the who ruled the area between A.D. 757-973. shore during low tide.

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History, Heritage & Culture

• The sludge comes from ships, refineries, underground • Bojjannakonda is located in Sankaram, Andhra pipelines. There is a large amount of industrial pollution, Pradesh. pollution caused by port-related activities, and the • The name Sankaram is derived from the term, discharge of untreated sewage. ‘Sangharama’. It is famous for the whole lot of votive • In 1997, ASI appointed INTACH Mumbai to prepare a stupas, rock-cut caves, brick-built structural edifices, management plan for the Elephanta Caves however, early historic pottery and Satavahana coins that date very little work was undertaken at Elephanta Island. back to the 1st century AD. • Concerns are also raised over the construction of the • It is here that “Bojjannakonda along with Lingalametta new airport near these caves and its impact on the island are situated. They are twin Buddhist monasteries dating too. back to the 3rd century BC. • The imposing rock carvings are also defaced and • These sites have seen three forms of Buddhism – the vandalised by tourists. Theravada period when Lord Buddha was considered a teacher, the Mahayana, where Buddhism was more devotional, and Vajrayana, where Buddhist tradition BOJJANNAKONDA was more practised as Tantra and esoteric form. #Art and Culture #Ancient India • The main stupa was carved out of rock and then covered with bricks, where one can see a number of images of the Buddha sculpted on the rock face all over the hill.

• At Lingalametta, one can see hundreds of rock-cut IN NEWS monolithic stupas in rows.

The ancient stone-pelting ritual has been stopped at • Tourists visit the Buddhist sites in large numbers to see Bojjannakonda, which is a famous Buddhist site. The stone the relic casket, the three Chaitya Halls, the votive pelting was destroying the site but the practice has now almost platforms, the stupas and the Vajrayana sculpture. been done away with. In this respect, let us understand the • STONE PELTING AND ITS PREVENTION significance of this site and the interventions taken to protect • The villagers, as a part of the ancient ritual, used to pelt it. stones at a belly-shaped object, believing it to be a ABOUT BOJJANNAKONDA part of a demon.

• This ritual is practiced on the Kanuma day during Sankranti which has been done away with following the intervention of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)

• After a sustained campaign, heritage lovers and officials have been successful in almost stopping the stone-pelting ritual at Bojjannakonda. RELATED INFORMATION: SECTS OF BUDDHISM

►Theravada School

• Theravada is also known as Shravakayana or Hinayana.

• They saw Buddha as a great soul but not God.

• They were orthodox in nature.

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History, Heritage & Culture

• Their followers believed in helping themselves over ABOUT KALARIPAYATTU others in order to attain salvation.

• They did not believe in Bhakti and idol worship.

• Their scriptures are written in Sanskrit.

• It was later divided into 2 sects i.e. Vaibhashika and Sautrantika.

►Mahayana School

• It was started by Nagarjuna with its prime center in Andhra Pradesh.

• Its scriptures are written in Pali.

• They see Buddha as incarnation of God and started his • It is one of the oldest existing martial arts in the world idol worship. which dates back to the 3rd century. • The disciples start learning at • Mahayana attaches importance to the role of the art of payattu (fight) the age of seven in kalaries i.e. the gymnasium for Bodhisattvas who delay their own salvation in order to martial exercises. Years of discipline and hard work are help others to its path. required to train the body, the mind and oneself. • They believed in the concept of transmigration of soul • The heroic ballads of Kerala are legendary sagas of the and rebirth. heroes of the payattu. • It was later divided into 2 sects i.e. Shunyavaad and • Kalaripayattu reached its pinnacle of glory during wars Vigyanvaad. between the Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas in the early part ►Vajrayana School of the first millennium. The warring states refined the fighting skills and techniques prevalent in the area into a • In the 8th century A.D Vajrayana School developed as martial art form. an offshoot of Mahayana school. • The inherent beauty of this art form lies in the harmonious • Vajrayana form also known as Tantric Buddhism synergy of art, science and medicine. developed in India and neighbouring countries, notably Tibet. • It is an art of the stage, drama, music and action eulogizing the manhood and the spirit of victory. Kalaripayattu has • Vajrayana, in the history of Buddhism, marks the strongly influenced the evolution of several of Kerala's transition from Mahayana speculative thought to the theatre and dance forms, most prominently Kathakali and enactment of Buddhist ideas in individual life. Theyyam. Kathakali practitioners are required to train • It is grounded on esoteric elements and very complex under Kalari masters to develop various attributes such as set of rituals compared with the rest of the Buddhist fitness, stamina, and martial movements enacted in their schools. performances.

KALARIPAYATTU BIHU #Art and Culture # Art and Culture

IN NEWS Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest martial art forms that originated in Kerala. In this respect, let us delve into the Assam’s Goods and Services Tax authority has asked the Bihu important aspects pertaining to this art from. committees across Assam to make all transactions, including

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History, Heritage & Culture

payments to artistes, through cheques during Rongali Bihu. If complied with, the artistes would have to pay 18% GST which REGIONAL HARVEST has become a cause of concern for them particularly the folk artists. In this respect, let us understand the key information FESTIVALS pertaining to Rongali Bihu and the impact of this move. # Art and Culture ABOUT RONGALI BIHU

IN NEWS

The beginning of the year is the time of harvest and thus many regional harvest festivals are celebrated in India. In this respect, this article will be focussing on two harvest festivals i.e. Magh Bihu and Pongal, along with some traditional regional games that are played during Pongal. ABOUT BHOGALI OR MAGH BIHU

• Bhogali bihu or magh bihu in January, is a harvest festival

celebrated in Assam. • Assam celebrates Bihu thrice in a year but Rongali • This festival marks the beginning of the planning for the Bihu is the biggest and most popular. coming ploughing season, saving and exchanging • It is considered as the Assamese new year. seeds. • Rongali or the Bohag (spring) Bihu starts on the last day • On this day the locals, show gratitude to the field and the of the Assamese calendar month of Chot, which sky for the good year that went by and for the year to normally falls on April 13 or 14 annually. come. • On the occasion, youngsters visit their elders and seek • The rest of the day goes in visiting friends and family, or blessings. ‘Bihuwan’ (the traditional Assamese towel taking part in the village games. known as Gamocha) is exchanged as a mark of respect. ABOUT PONGAL • Rongali Bihu is a major source of income for singers, musicians, comedians, actors and everyone else • It is a harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu in associated with the entertainment industry in Assam. January. • IMPACT OF GST IMPOSITION The heroes of the big day are farm animals; cows and bulls, especially as they play a key role in agriculture and • Bihutolis, temporary stages, are set up for cultural toil in the fields all through the year. programmes that start mid-April and end with Bogahi • On Pongal day, they are paid with obeisance. Bidai (Farewell Spring) more than a month later. • The locals worship the sun and offer him the dish made • Bihu is the only festival that ensures a decent income for from the first harvest of the season. artistes, who have to sustain 20-25 families of musicians, technicians and helpers. GAMES PLAYED DURING PONGAL

• It will be quite taxing for them if a big amount is deducted Playing games is an integral part of harvest season as GST after the cheques are deposited in the banks. celebrations and certain traditional games are played only

• The Bihu committees insisted that functions organised during the festival:- during the springtime festival should be GST-exempt.  Vazhukku Maram (slippery pole)

 Mallar Kambam (a combination of gymnastics and yoga which involves climbing up a pole, but this is not a slippery one)

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History, Heritage & Culture

 Kazhumaram (involves climbing of coconut trees) • Kolaputhagam that came in 1899 mentions about the panchavarnam, aka five main colors used in kolam:  Uri adithal (involves players breaking a pot that is suspended at a certain height, blindfolded) white, black, red, yellow and green. •  Elavatta Kal (demands physical strength and expertise Most kolams today play the role of welcome mats, albeit in equal measure) with intricate art and centuries of patterns to back them up.

• Kolams have also been used in mathematical research, KOLAMS with their hexagons, dotted grids, hidden motifs and loops. #Art and Culture

MOHINIYATTAM IN NEWS #Art and Culture Kolams as an art form have been in the picture for a long time, whether it is for mathematical research or beautifying homes. In this respect, let us trace the significance of this art form and IN NEWS its relevance in contemporary times. A mega event of Mohiniyattam was recently organized. The ABOUT KOLAMS event involved around 6000 artists and it was based on the poem ‘Kundalinipattu’ by Sreenarayana Guru. It was titled ‘Ekatmakam’ and joined with an aim to enter the Guinness book of world records.

In this respect, let us understand the key information pertaining to this event and this classical form of dance. ABOUT MOHINIYATTAM

• Kolam is a form of drawing that is drawn by using rice flour, chalk, chalk powder or rock powder, often using naturally or synthetically colored powders.

• It is practiced in the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and some parts of Goa, Maharashtra and a few other Asian countries.

• A Kolam is a geometrical line drawing composed of curved loops, drawn around a grid pattern of dots.

• Kolams are regionally known by different names in India, Raangolee in Maharashtra, Aripan in Mithila, Hase and Raongoli in Karnataka, Muggulu in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. • It is a classical solo dance form.

• In Sangam literature, a large body of work, extending • Mohini here refers to the celestial enchantress of Hindu over about six centuries, kolams have remained the mythology. bastion of women. • It traces its origin to the temples of Kerala and was performed only by women.

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History, Heritage & Culture

• References of Mohiniyattam can be found in the • It was commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1660 in texts Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by the memory of his wife Dilras Banu Begum.

Mazhamagalam Narayanan Namputiri and • The structure is also known as the ‘Taj of the Deccan’ in Ghoshayatra, written later by great poet Kunjan because of its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Nambiar. • Its domes and minarets are built in marble. • This dance form was structured into its present-day CONSERVATION WORKS classical format by the Travancore Kings, Maharaja Tirunal and Maharaja Swati Tirunal (18th – 19th • The domes and other parts of the mausoleum which are century). made of marble will undergo scientific conservation under Archaeological Survey of India. • The early specimens of this dance include Nangiars (women of Nambiar community) and Dasiyattam. • The work, which will go on for six months, will involve cleaning and carrying out a chemical treatment to give it a • Mahakavi Vallatol a poet laureate of Kerala succeeded new glow. in giving this art form a distinct classical solo style. He established Kerela Kalamandalam (1930), a pioneer • The paintings inside the entrance of the mausoleum, too, institute for training in art forms. will undergo cleaning.

• Movement technique includes feminine movements, hand gestures and soft footwork. SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER BIBI KA MAQBARA #Medieval India

#Art and Culture IN NEWS

The wood and silver casket containing relics of Goa’s patron IN NEWS saint Francis Xavier will undergo restoration in 2020 at the

The domes and minarets of the Bibi Ka Maqbara, which are hands the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). built-in marble, as well as the marble screens inside are set to In this respect, let us understand the significance of this undergo scientific conservation. In this respect, let us personality. understand the key information associated with this ABOUT THE CASKET monument. • St. Francis Xavier died on December 3, 1552, on the ABOUT BIBI KA MAQBARA Chinese island of Shangchuan, at the age of 46.

• In 1622, the Catholic Church canonised Francis, and his body was placed in a silver casket and kept in the Chapel of St. Francis of Borgia at Bom Jesus Church in 1624.

• A new casket was made in 1637 by Goan silversmiths. ABOUT SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER

• Francis was born in Spain in 1506.

• He was a co-founder of the Society of Jesus.

• With respect to India, Francis reached Goa, the centre of Portuguese activity in the East, on May 6, 1542. • Bibi Ka Maqbara is the famous 17th century Mughal-era monument in the city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

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History, Heritage & Culture

• With the help of interpreters, he travelled tirelessly from rule, the then rulers’ families would be allowed to village to village instructing and confirming people in retain certain private property, and given a grant in catholic faith. heredity or government allowance, measured on the

• In the fall of 1545, news of opportunities for Christianity basis of the extent, revenue and potential of the attracted him to the Malay Archipelago. merging state. This grant was called the privy purse. • • In 1548 he returned to India, where more Jesuits had At the time of accession, there was little criticism of since arrived to join him. these privileges since integration and consolidation was the primary aim. • In Goa, the College of Holy Faith, founded several years • previously, was turned over to the Jesuits, and Francis Yet, hereditary privileges were not consonant with the began to develop it into a centre for the education of principles of equality and social and economic justice laid native priests and catechists. down in the Constitution of India. • Nehru had expressed his dissatisfaction over the matter time and again.

• Following the 1967 elections, Indira Gandhi supported PRIVY PURSE the demand that the government should abolish privy #Modern and Post-Modern India purses. • Morarji Desai, however, called the move morally wrong and amounting to a ‘breach of faith with the princes.

• The government tried to bring a Constitutional IN NEWS amendment in 1970, but it was not passed in Rajya Sabha. The Privy purse was abolished 50 years ago, ending the special • It then issued an ordinance which was struck down by the privileges granted to Indian princes. In this respect, let us Supreme Court. understand the important aspects associated with Privy purse • and its abolition. Indira Gandhi made this into a major election issue in 1971 and got a lot of public support. ABOUT PRIVY PURSE • Following its massive victory in the 1971 election, the • The integration of the Princely States was preceded by Constitution was amended to remove legal obstacles an assurance that after the dissolution of princely for abolition of ‘privy purse’.

practice questions

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Q1. Consider the following statements: 1. Kalaripayattu is the martial art of Karnataka. Q2. The famous Bibi ka Maqbara, located in 2. Payattu refers to the gymnasium used for training. Maharashtra was constructed by Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) Akbar (b) Sher Shah Suri (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Aurangzeb (d) Shah Jahan (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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History, Heritage & Culture

Q3. Which sect of Buddhism has complex set of rituals and is esoteric in nature? Q5. With respect to Privy Purse, which of the following (a) Mahayana (b) Theravada statements is/are correct? (c) Sautrantika (d) Vajrayana 1. They were the special allowances given to princely states after their dissolution. Q4. Consider the following statements: 2. They were abolished under the government of Jawahar 1. Rongali Bihu is celebrated in January. Lal Nehru. 2. Bhogali bihu is celebrated in April. Select the correct answer using the code given below: Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

descriptive Questions

Q1. The art at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Elephanta caves is central to the study of Hindu iconography. Comment.

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (d), 2 (c), 3 (d), 4(d), 5(a)

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SECURITY # GS Paper III (Main)

2. Cyber Bullying: A form of harassment or bullying INDIAN CYBER CRIME inflicted through the use of electronic or communication devices such as computer, mobile phone, laptop, etc.

COORDINATION CENTRE 3. Cyber Stalking: Is the use of electronic communication by a person to follow a person, or attempts to contact a (I4C) person to foster personal interaction repeatedly despite # Cyber Security a clear indication of disinterest by such person; or monitors the internet, email or any other form of electronic communication commits the offence of stalking. IN NEWS 4. Cyber Grooming: Is when a person builds an online Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) inaugurated the relationship with a young person and tricks or pressures Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and also him/ her into doing sexual act. dedicated the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to the 5. Online Job Fraud: Is an attempt to defraud people who Nation, where people across the country can lodge their are in need of employment by giving them a false hope/ cybercrime complaints online. promise of better employment with higher wages. Cybercrime: It may be defined as “Any unlawful act where 6. Online Sextortion: Occurs when someone threatens to computer or communication device or computer network is distribute private and sensitive material using an used to commit or facilitate the commission of crime”. electronic medium if he/ she doesn’t provide images of a sexual nature, sexual favours, or money.

7. Vishing: Is an attempt where fraudsters try to seek personal information like Customer ID, Net Banking password, ATM PIN, OTP, Card expiry date, CVV etc. through a phone call.

8. Sexting: Is an act of sending sexually explicit digital images, videos, text messages, or emails, usually by cell

phone. Below is a list for some of the cybercrimes along with their 9. Smishing: Is a type of fraud that uses mobile phone text indicative explanation. This is to facilitate better reporting of messages to lure victims into calling back on a complaints. fraudulent phone number, visiting fraudulent websites or downloading malicious content via phone or web. 1. Child sexually abusive material (CSAM): It refers to material containing sexual image in any form, of a child 10. SIM Swap Scam: Occurs when fraudsters manage to get who is abused or sexually exploited. Section 67 (B) of IT a new SIM card issued against a registered mobile Act states that “it is punishable for publishing or number fraudulently through the mobile service transmitting of material depicting children in sexually provider. With the help of this new SIM card, they get explicit act, etc. in electronic form. One Time Password (OTP) and alerts, required for making financial transactions through victim's bank

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Security

account. Getting a new SIM card against a registered permission of the owner or any other person who is in- mobile number fraudulently is known as SIM Swap. charge of a computer, computer system or computer network. 11. Credit card (or debit card) fraud: Involves an unauthorized use of another's credit or debit card 20. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack: is an information for the purpose of purchases or attempt to make an online service unavailable by withdrawing funds from it. overwhelming it with traffic from multiple sources.

12. Impersonation and identity theft: Is an act of 21. Website Defacement: Is an attack intended to change fraudulently or dishonestly making use of the electronic visual appearance of a website and/ or make it signature, password or any other unique identification dysfunctional. The attacker may post indecent, hostile feature of any other person. and obscene images, messages, videos, etc.

13. Phishing: Is a type of fraud that involves stealing 22. Cyber-Squatting: Is an act of registering, trafficking in, personal information such as Customer ID, IPIN, or using a domain name with an intent to profit from the Credit/Debit Card number, Card expiry date, CVV goodwill of a trademark belonging to someone else. number, etc. through emails that appear to be from a 23. Pharming: Is cyber-attack aiming to redirect a website's legitimate source. traffic to another, bogus website. 14. Spamming: Occurs when someone receives an 24. Cryptojacking: Is the unauthorized use of computing unsolicited commercial messages sent via email, SMS, resources to mine cryptocurrencies. MMS and any other similar electronic messaging media. 25. Online Drug Trafficking: Is a crime of selling, They may try to persuade recipient to buy a product or transporting, or illegally importing unlawful controlled service, or visit a website where he can make purchases; substances, such as heroin, cocaine, marijuana, or other or they may attempt to trick him/ her into divulging bank illegal drugs using electronic means. account or credit card details. 26. Espionage: Is the act or practice of obtaining data and 15. Ransomware: Is a type of computer malware that information without the permission and knowledge of encrypts the files, storage media on communication the owner. devices like desktops, Laptops, Mobile phones etc., holding data/information as a hostage. The victim is INDIAN CYBER CRIME COORDINATION CENTRE asked to pay the demanded ransom to get the device (I4C) decrypted. Computer Virus is a program written to enter The I4C is a seven-pronged system, which includes a to your computer and damage/alter your files/data and cybercrime reporting portal, analysis of threats, capacity replicate themselves. building, research and innovation, creating an ecosystem 16. Worms: Are malicious programs that make copies of for cybercrime management and a joint cybercrime themselves again and again on the local drive, network investigation platform for law enforcement agencies. shares, etc. OVERVIEW ABOUT THE I4C SCHEME 17. Trojan horse: It is not a virus. It is a destructive program • To act as a nodal point in the fight against cybercrime. that looks as a genuine application. Unlike viruses, Trojan horses do not replicate themselves but they can • Identify the research problems/needs of Law be just as destructive. Trojans open a backdoor entry to Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and take up R&D activities your computer which gives malicious users/programs in developing new technologies and forensic tools in access to your system, allowing confidential and collaboration with academia / research institutes within personal information to be theft. India and abroad. • 18. Data breach: Is an incident in which information is To prevent misuse of cyber space for furthering the accessed without authorization. cause of extremist and terrorist groups

19. Denial of Services (DoS) attack: Is an attack intended for denying access to computer resource without

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Security

• Suggest amendments, if required, in cyber laws to keep police stations in dealing with cybercrimes in a pace with fast changing technologies and International coordinated and effective manner. cooperation. 5. The portal also provides an option of reporting an • To coordinate all activities related to implementation of anonymous complaint for reporting online Child Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLAT) with other Pornography (CP) or sexually explicit content such as countries related to cybercrimes in consultation with the Rape/Gang Rape (RGR) content. concerned nodal authority in MHA. WAY FORWARD

COMPONENTS OF INDIAN CYBER CRIME Internet has become one of the integral part of our daily COORDINATION CENTRE (I4C) life. It has transformed the way we communicate, make • National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (TAU) friends, share updates, play games, and shop. They are impacting most aspects of our day-to-day life. • National Cybercrime Reporting Cyberspace connects us virtually with crores of online users • Platform for Joint Cybercrime Investigation Team across the globe. With increasing use of cyberspace, • National Cybercrime Forensic Laboratory (NCFL) cybercrimes especially against women and children such as Ecosystem cyber stalking, cyber bullying, cyber harassment, child • National Cybercrime Training Centre (NCTC) pornography, rape content, etc. are also increasing rapidly.

• Cybercrime Ecosystem Management Unit To stay safe in the online world, it is important for the government to take necessary measures and also for the • National Cyber Research and Innovation Centre fellow citizens to follow some cyber safe practices which NATIONAL CYBER CRIME REPORTING PORTAL may help in making our online experience and productive. • This portal is an initiative of Government of India to facilitate victims/complainants to report cybercrime complaints online. This portal caters to complaints pertaining to cybercrimes only with special focus on NATIONAL WAR cybercrimes against women and children. Complaints reported on this portal are dealt by law enforcement MEMORIAL agencies/ police based on the information available in the complaints. # Monument

• The portal can be accessed by all states and UT law enforcement agencies so they may go through the IN NEWS complaints and take action. In a first, the Prime Minister paid homage to fallen soldiers at SIGNIFICANCE the newly-built National War Memorial on the Republic Day 1. The portal can boost the capacity of the law instead of Amar Jawan Jyoti beneath the India Gate arch. It is enforcement agencies to investigate cases and will a monument built near India Gate, New Delhi, to honour the improve the success rate of prosecutions. Indian Armed Forces, and it was inaugurated last year on 2. This portal caters to complaints pertaining to February 25, 2019. cybercrimes only with special focus on cybercrimes NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL against women and children. • The layout of the National War Memorial comprises four 3. It also focuses on specific crimes — especially those concentric circles, namely, the ‘Amar Chakra’ or Circle of related to finance and social media. Immortality, the ‘Veerta Chakra’ or Circle of Bravery, the 4. The portal will improve coordination among law ‘Tyag Chakra’ or Circle of Sacrifice, and the ‘Rakshak enforcement agencies of different states, districts and Chakra’ or Circle of Protection.

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Security

• The National War Memorial complex includes a central • National War Memorial represents the culmination of the obelisk, an eternal flame, and six bronze murals depicting collective aspiration of a grateful nation to pay a fitting famous battles fought by Indian Army, Air Force and tribute to the martyrs.

Navy. India Gate: The 42 m-high India Gate was built during the • The memorial is dedicated to soldiers killed during the British Raj as the All India War Memorial Arch to honour the Indo-China War in 1962, Indo-Pak Wars in 1947, 1965 and soldiers who died in the First World War (1914-1918) and 1971, Indian Peace Keeping Force Operations in Sri Lanka the Third Anglo-Afghan War (1919). The landmark has the and in the Kargil Conflict in 1999, and also those in the names of soldiers inscribed on its surface.

UN peacekeeping missions. Amar Jawan Jyoti: It is symbolised by an inverted bayonet • Busts of the 21 awardees of Param Veer Chakra have and soldier's helmet over it with an eternal flame burning been installed at Param Yoddha Sthal which includes beside it. It was built in 1972 underneath the India Gate arch three living awardees Sub Maj (Hony Capt) Bana Singh to commemorate soldiers martyred in the Indo-Pak War of (Retd), Sub Major Yogendra Singh Yadav and Sub Sanjay 1971. Kumar.

practice questions

MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the 2. The portal can be accessed by all states and union Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): territories. 1. It is an initiative of Ministry of Science & Technology. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 2. It acts as a nodal point in the fight against cybercrime. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Q3. Consider the following statements: 1. India Gate was built to honour the soldiers who died Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the in the Second World War National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: 2. Amar Jawan Jyoti was built to commemorate soldiers 1. The portal caters to complaints pertaining to martyred in the Indo-Pak War of 1965. cybercrimes only with special focus on cybercrimes Which of the statements given above is/are correct? against women and children. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answers to above MCQs: 1 (b), 2 (c), 3(d)

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Miscellaneous

WINNERS: AUSTRALIAN OPEN, 2020 #Grand Slam #Tennis

IN NEWS

Australia, which faced unprecedented heatwaves and wild

forest fires, was able to conduct the Australian Open. Again the Big Three in the men’s category played like champions but In the women’s category, a new champion has emerged. there was fine display by the young guns like Dominic Thiem She is 21 years old, Sofia Kenin of US. She defeated Garbiñe and Alexander Zverev. Muguruza of Spain. She is youngest American to win a Grand Slam women's singles title since Serena Williams in 2002. The final results of the Gram Slam are given below:-

QUIZ TIME # General Knowledge

In the men’s category, eyes were set for Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem final. Thiem on course to final defeated Rafeal Nadal, who was in top form.

The final gave a hope, that year 2020 will start with a new slam winner beyond Big Three of tennis. And, yes…. it was a

tough five sets final, but in the end the experience of Novak Djokovic prevailed. Q1. The idea of 'concurrent list' in the Indian constitution is taken from the Constitution of ______. This was Novak’s 17th Gram Slam and is pursuing Nadal (19) and Federer (20). Q2. The country from which Indian Constitution borrowed ‘suspension of fundamental rights’ is _____. He again opened the debate on the Greatest of all Time (GOAT). Q3. The country from which India borrowed ‘written constitution’ is______.

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Miscellaneous

Q4. The country from which India borrowed ‘Union-State List’ is______.

Q5. The country from which India borrowed ‘Preamble’ is______.

Q6. Called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, this city was an important spice trading centre on the west coast of India.

Q7. The oldest reference of this city’s name is found on a copper plate dating back to the Rashtrakuta Dynasty. The name means ‘city of virtue’ and it is referred to as ‘Oxford of the East’ due to the presence of several educational institutions.

Q8. This city has been a seat of power and influence since 6th century BCE. It has the only natural harbour on the east coast of India.

Q9. This is one of the major cities of this state and is known as ‘The Marble City’. Its name comes from the Arabic word for ‘rock’ and the Sanskrit word for ‘city’.

Q10. On May 5, 1925, this became the youngest official language in the world. Though based on Dutch it has been influenced by Malay, Portuguese, French and the Bantu languages and belongs to the West Germanic language group.

Answers: 1. Australia; 2. Germany; 3. U.S.A.; 4. Canada; 5. U.S.A.; 6. Cochin; 7. Pune; 8. Visakhapatnam; 9. Jabalpur; 10. Afrikaans.

To be fair, the author adds, a major reason for the malaise is

WHAT AILS THE IAS? unstable and all-too-brief tenure. Subjected to frequent # Books to read transfers, officers find it difficult to deliver on important outcomes. The author points out the multiple constraints, not least the lack of adequate staff to deliver public goods and In short: Over the decades, with the expansion of state services. The total number of government staff in India is only functions, growth of opportunistic politics, and blurring of the 1.2% of the population, which is less than half the average for separation between executive and legislature, issues of Asia. power and patronage have inevitably taken centrestage. What will it take to strengthen the capacity of the IAS to Today, IAS officers deal with urgent rather than important deliver results? Stability of tenure; the author even matters. They look for quick solutions or band-aids, rather recommends a ‘stability index’. Coupled with this, lateral than ways to strengthen systems in the long term. As for the movement into and out of the civil service, with mid-career poor, the author says, “Programmes for the poor are poorly officers doing stints in non-governmental organisations, run.” research institutes and academic institutions to develop perspectives beyond the government system.

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Part TWO

Ethics, Integrity

& Aptitude

Coverage from varied sources

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

INDIAN REPUBLIC@70 AND LESSONS FROM Dr. B.R. AMBEDKAR’s CONTRIBUTIONS #Personality #Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

Our great country has produced personalities, who were the epitome of Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude. One of the greats was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and his life is a lesson on strengthening human values and democratic ideals. Born as Bhimrao Ambavadekar, he grew up to become one of the most educated men in India. On this note, let us take a leaf or two from this great personality on basic Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude.

Q. Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B R Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate. (UPSC 2015)

Q. Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and society are generally shaped unconsciously by the family and social surroundings in which we grow up. Some of these unconsciously acquired attitudes and values are often undesirable in the citizens of a modern democratic and egalitarian society. Discuss such undesirable values present in today’s educated Indians. (UPSC 2016)

On 29th August, 1947, the Constituent Assembly appointed a DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR AND ‘Drafting Committee” with the seven members including Dr. Ambedkar for preparing a draft of the Constitution of the DRAFTING OF THE independent India. The seven members, including the Chairman of the ‘Drafting Committee’ were as follows: CONSTITUTION: 1) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chairman 2) N. Gopalaswami THOUGHT PROCESS 3) Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar 4) K.M. Munshi 5) Mohammad Saadulla

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

6) B.L. Mitter and Centre was made strong: In the Draft Constitution, Dr. 7) D.P. Khaitan Ambedkar offered more powers to the Centre and made it strong. Justifying the provisions for a strong Central authority Dr. Ambedkar had a charismatic personality. He was Dr. Ambedkar said that he made the centre strong not only to pragmatic par excellence, who never allowed himself to be ‘save minorities from the misrule of majority’ but also “for it is swayed by abstract ideas and ideals. He strongly believed only the centre which can work for a common end and for that political independence cannot assure either social the general interests of the country as a whole.” solidarity or national integration in the absence of social justice. Being a democratic socialist, he propagated that Equality of opportunity: In the Draft Constitution the fundamental rights have little meaning to people in the “Fundamental Rights”, prescribed were justifiable in the Court absence of social democracy. of Law. Of all the rights, Dr. Ambedkar observed “Equality of Opportunity” as the most important one. Regarding the Dr. Ambedkar was one of the very few Indian Statesmen- constitutional remedies, he characterize Article 32 as the politicians who actively participated in the discussions on very soul of the Constitution and the very heart of it. Constitutional matters from the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919) to the Cabinet Mission (1946) proposals. To him, fundamental rights would mean establishment of equality and liberty in order to reform our social system,

which is so full of inequalities discriminations, and other Dr. Ambedkar at the Round Table Conference which conflict with our fundamental rights. The Round Table Conference was a landmark in the history of

the Indian Constitution. Being invited to discuss on constitutional matters Dr. Ambedkar demanded Directive Principles Of State Policy independence and hoped that the people of India would be The Directive Principles of State Policy contained the positive able to redress their grievances by political power and this obligations of the state towards its citizens. The Directives political power will come to them under the ‘Swaraj’ were meant to ensure social and economic democracy constitution. which was secured by the provisions of fundamental rights in a written Constitution. At the first session of the Round Table Conference, he gave a clear warning to the British Government, saying: “I am afraid it Dr. Ambedkar said: “What are called Directive Principles is not sufficiently realised that in the present temper of the is simply another name for Instruments of instructions to country, no Constitution will be workable which is not-acceptable the legislature and the executive…as to how they should to the majority of the people. Let the consent of the people and exercise their power.” not the accident of logic be the touchstone of your new Constitution, if you desire that it should be worked…” Constitution: A Dynamic Document He advocated for a government which was a responsible The Constitution is a dynamic document it should grow with government formed by the representatives of the people. Dr. the growth of the nation and should suit the changing needs Ambedkar did not want to impose a Constitution on the and circumstance. So Dr. Ambedkar urged the necessity of Indians, but he submitted that the opinion of the people amendment. about the manner in which they desired to be governed must be accepted. “The Draft Constitution has eliminated the elaborate and difficult procedures such as a decision by a convention or a “The best government rests on the people, and not on referendum. The power of amendment lies with the the few persons and not on property, on the free legislatures, Central and Provincial …” development of public opinion and not on authority”.

Concept of Federalism: His concept of federalism meant that the State was a federation in normalcy, but unitary in National Integration emergency. In the Draft Constitution Dr. Ambedkar prescribed single citizenship, a single judiciary and uniformity in fundamental

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

Laws to integrate Indian society which was not only divided word, he gave democratic and anti-caste aim. He spent his into caste and class, but also into regions, religions, whole life for the betterment of the poor, exploited, languages, traditions and cultures. Therefore, a strong Centre untouchables and troubled classes. Thus, Dr. Ambedkar’s was indispensable to maintain territorial integrity and contribution to the Indian Constitution is undoubtedly of the administrative discipline. highest order. Indeed he deserved to be called the “Father or

A pragmatist to the core, Ambedkar believed that in the the Chief Architect” of the Indian Constitution. absence of economic and social justice political independence would not bring about their social solidarity or, national integration. He advocated the abolition of privileges Now, discover the various facets of Dr. B.R. on the basis of caste or status and vigorously fought for the AMBEDKER presented in the beautifully curated liberty and dignity of the individual. It the same time, he was articles given below. equally force-full in his advocacy of the unity of the nation. Ambedkar sought to achieve the objectives through the constitution of India by incorporating in it the following DON YOUR THINKING HAT: principles. Read and analyse the perspectives given below. (1) Making the Indian constitution workable, flexible enough and strong enough to hold the country together both in peace and war time. (2) Providing special safeguards to the minorities and certain PERSPECTIVE 1: classes who are socially and educationally backward. (3) Incorporating the principle of one man, one value, and THE PRESCIENCE OF one man, one vote. Thus, the constitution of India accepted one individual and net on village as a unit. BABASAHEB (4) Incorporating exceptions and qualifications to the FRs (Courtesy: The Hindu) while advocating preventive detention and emerging way of ------powers of the President of India. B.R. Ambedkar prophetically wrote that the governing (5) Abolishing untouchability and forced labour to achieve the class always raises the cry of ‘nationalism’ whenever the ideal of “one man, one value, and one man, one vote’, and exploited classes demand equal treatment. For him, true placing all people equal before the law; securing equal nationalism was compassionate and emancipatory. protection of laws for every citizens as also freedom of profession and equality of opportunity. The current scenario is an apt occasion to assess and reassess his thoughts and ideology and their relevance in (6) Incorporating the right to constitutional remedies for India and on the world today. Ambedkar was a philosopher making the rights real. who not only interpreted the society and the world during his The contribution of Dr. Ambedkar in Indian Democracy is not time but also struggled to change them, fighting as a foot to be forgotten. As a chairman of the Constitutional soldier. Having a universal vision, he shaped and steered Committee he gave a shape to our country of a complete struggles in which was forged his belief in secularism, social Sovereign, Democratic and Republic based on adult justice and socialism. He believed that the annihilation of franchise. Dr. Ambedkar’s name will be written in golden caste and negation of capitalism are imperatives for letters in the history of India as a creator of social justice. This change and taking India and the world forward. fact is doubtless. He was not only the man of age and builder Ambedkar also analysed nationalism in the context of the of the Constitution but also the creator of social justice and demand of the Indian commercial community/class that betterment of the downtrodden. If Mahatma Gandhi gave sought to replace Europeans in the field of trade and direction and lesson of morality then Baba Saheb gave shape commerce. They wanted to do so using the trope of to social aspect without exploitation. In true sense of the

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

nationalism. They also wanted lower exchange rates and contemporary India. Under the present dispensation at the higher profits in foreign trade by taking recourse to Centre and several States, ‘Make in India’ is witnessing nationalism. Ambedkar critically observed such profit-seeking concentration of wealth in a few hands, growing inequality, orientation of the commercial class and disapproved of their galloping unemployment, farmers’ suicides and widespread predatory economic pursuits under the garb of nationalism. disenchantment of the youth and all sections of the toiling The very same class compromised with the British colonial people.

Raj and served its interest. Right-wing forces did the same. In It is well known that during the freedom struggle 21st century India where the architecture of the economy is untouchables demanded separate electorates. Such a dominated by corporate and finance capital in alliance with demand was described as anti-national in spirit. Ambedkar the political formations championing the cause of so-called rejected the description by stating that separate electorates nationalism, it is extremely critical to recall the analysis of for Muslims, Sikhs and Christians did not make them anti- Ambedkar indicting the sole profit-making pursuits at the nationals. Then he insightfully commented, “Obviously, cost of people’s interests. nationalism and anti-nationalism have nothing to do with the electoral system. They are the results of the extra-electoral

Nationalism as a fig leaf forces.” In 21st century India, it is the extra-electoral forces represented by extremist forces that have ‘dedicated experts’ In the present context, nationalism is being invoked in a on history, culture and sociology trying to define nation and coercive manner spreading fear and terror among people. nationhood. Ambedkar, the principal architect of our Constitution, in his numerous writings reflected on nationalism and gave valuable insights. He argued very passionately for adequate The importance of social justice

representation of the untouchables in the legislature, In his ‘Annihilation of Caste’ lecture, Ambedkar described executive and public service. Nationalism was used as a cover caste as anti-national and wanted to address the scourge of to negate such demands. In fact, he categorically wrote that caste discrimination and exclusion through the nationalism became the core plank to take a stand against instrumentality of law, which he poetically described as “the the struggling humanity within the country and thereby greatest disinfectant against inequality”. In his speech in the creating fertile conditions for the upsurge of rank Constituent Assembly, while stating that India is an integral communalism. Indeed, what he wrote before Independence whole, he cautioned, “The sooner we realise that we are not has become a grim reality today. The communal fascist forces yet a nation in the social and psychological sense of the word, have not only secured state power at the Centre but also the better for us. For then only we shall realise the necessity control and command the state apparatus and their of becoming a nation and seriously think of ways and means functions at the national level to serve their sinister design. of realising the goal.” Therefore, he stressed on justice, not It is instructive to note that Ambedkar very persuasively, only political and economic but also social justice. According prophetically and incisively wrote that the governing class in to him, the key components of social justice are liberty, India always raised the cry of ‘nationalism/Bharat mata is in equality and fraternity. Ambedkar said, “The system of rank danger’ whenever the exploited classes demanded justice and gradation is simply another way of enunciating the and fair and equal treatment and affirmative action for principle of inequality, so it may be truly said that Hinduism representation in the legislature, executive and public doesn’t recognise equality.” Ambedkar, being a service. He also pointed out that the governing class was compassionate rebel, found Buddhism closer to his aware that class ideology, class interests, class issues and understanding of social justice. An economist too, the quest class conflicts would spell disaster for its rule and therefore for social justice led him to become a social democrat and always side-tracked the issues and interests of the exploited study Karl Marx’s ideology. He compared the Buddha and masses by playing upon the sentiment of nationalism and Marx and said, “The ideology of Buddha and Karl Marx and a national unity. He described it as a misuse of nationalism. It is comparison between them just forces itself on me.”

tragic that what Ambedkar wrote much before our Such notions of all-embracing nationalism included in its Independence is now becoming a grim reality in scope gender equality and women’s empowerment which he

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

wanted to achieve in full measure through his epoch-making alienating economy as a right. This is the true meaning of Hindu Code Bill. Democracy for Ambedkar was a way of Ambedkar’s nationalism, which is creative, compassionate living. He wrote, “Democracy is not merely a form of and emancipatory in the universalistic sense.. government. It is primarily a mode of associated living of KEY THINGS TO PONDER FOR CONTEMPORARY WORLD conjoined communicated experience. It is essentially an attitude of respect and reverence towards fellow men.”  “Democracy is not merely a form of government. It is He strongly felt that a society based on liberty, equality and primarily a mode of associated living of conjoined fraternity should be the only alternative to a caste society, communicated experience. It is essentially an attitude of and that is why he attached greater importance to the respect and reverence towards fellow men.” principle of “one man, one vote; one man, one value”. He  Caste as anti-national was very particular that the democracy that he upheld went

beyond the formal expressions of it and moved into the social and economic realm where substantial democracy prevailed. This form of democracy, he imagined, would PERSPECTIVE 2: ensure dignity for all. How do we remember Nationalism that is inclusive B.R. Ambedkar? He may Some of the leaders are now invoking nationalism in a coercive and recurrent manner. They underline the point that not have been a hero of nationalism is in danger and it is important to inculcate the spirit of nationalism among citizens, particularly students, to the war of Indian safeguard our unity and integrity. The slogan ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ is being used by them as the only symbol of nationalism independence, but he is and it is asserted by the leaders that recitation of this slogan by Indians affirms their credibility as nationalists. They the hero who built an describe everything else as anti-national.

Ambedkar rightly observed, “Nationality is a social feeling. It is independent India a feeling of a corporate sentiment of oneness which makes (Courtesy: The Hindu) those who are charged with it feel that they are kith and kin. ------This national feeling is a double-edged feeling. It is at once a feeling of fellowship of one’s own kith and kin and an anti- Our country still finds itself unable to induct Dr. B.R. fellowship feeling for those who are not one’s own kith and Ambedkar into the pantheon of greats unquestioningly. His kin. It is a feeling of ‘consciousness of kind’ which on the one statue, with its ubiquitous electric blue suit, may be a hand binds together those who have it so strongly that it common sight at bus stands, bastis and universities, but it overrides all difference arising out of economic conflicts or hardly brings out the fact that his life is one that was social gradations and, on the other, severs them from those overshadowed by iconography and idolatry. We forget that who are not of their kind. It is a longing not to belong to any Ambedkar was one of modern India’s first great economic other group. This is the essence of what is called a nationality thinkers, its constitutional draftsman and its first law minister and national feeling.” who ensured the codification of Hindu law.

This elevated notion of nationality cannot be generated and Assimilating Dr. Ambedkar into the national pantheon of the achieved by mere sloganeering based on a violent masculinist freedom struggle is difficult because his life was one of approach. It requires a concerted democratic effort and high steady accretion of ideas, of making a stand on rights and of level of statesmanship and vision to empower people and standing up to social wrongs. His biggest fights were with reclaim their dignity through the spread of education and fellow Indians and not with foreign rulers. He led no provision of livelihood emanating from an inclusive and non- satyagraha against the British, he led no march on Delhi, he

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

broke no repressive law to court arrest for it. In fact, his or a superman. ...We must shape our course ourselves and father and ancestors had willingly served in the British Army by ourselves.”

even in the days of the East India Company. He himself A fight for rights served as a member of the Viceroy’s Executive Council. His The question of whether the depressed classes were to be often stated view was that British rule had come as a counted among Hindus or separately, continued to be liberator for the depressed classes. Despite all this, he was in relevant especially when the country was going to be agreement with the nationalists, that India must be ruled by partitioned on religious lines. There were some Dalit leaders Indians. An Initiative to Provide Free like B. Shyam Sunder, who vociferously said: “We are not Materials for UPSC without watermark Hindus, we have nothing to do with the Hindu caste system, In a corner Join https://t.me/UPSC_PDF yet we have been included among them by them and for His status in the national pantheon, where he occupies a them.” With the support of the Nizam of Hyderabad and corner all by himself, and slightly apart from the nationalist Master Tara Singh of the Akalis, Shyam Sunder launched the heroes of independence, is somewhat like his status in Dalit-Muslim unity movement and urged his people to join school. He once wrote: “I knew that I was an untouchable, hands with Muslims. and that untouchables were subjected to certain indignities The imminent arrival of Independence saw a constituent and discriminations. For instance, I knew that in the school I assembly being elected to draw up a constitution for the new could not sit in the midst of my classmates according to my nation. Dr. Ambedkar was first elected to the assembly from rank [in class performance], but that I was to sit in a corner by an undivided Bengal. Because he lacked the requisite support myself.” in his home province of Bombay, he was forced to seek

“ B.R. Ambedkar walked a tightrope, between securing a election from Bengal, a province he was unfamiliar with. modern society for all Indians and ensuring that a modern Throughout the 1940s, Ambedkar and the Congress clashed state stabilised around a constitutional architecture of social over issues of the rights and the representation of the change. ” depressed classes. Ambedkar was a critic of the party’s positions on many an issue, which he believed were inimical This separateness was to lead him to assert in more than one to Dalit interests. Therefore, Sardar Patel personally directed instance, that the depressed classes he represented, were the Bombay Congress to select strong Dalit candidates who not to be counted among the Hindus. He famously chose to could defeat Dr. Ambedkar’s nominees. Despite the politics, separately represent the depressed classes at the Round once in the Constituent Assembly, Ambedkar worked closely Table Conference in the 1930s, where Gandhiji was sent as with his Congress colleagues in formulating and drafting the the sole representative of the Congress. Having secured a Constitution. separate electorate for the depressed classes, he had to give it up in the face of a fasting Mahatma, whose death he did Consequent to the announcement of Partition, fresh not want ascribed to those outside the pale of varnashrama elections had to be held for only the seats from West Bengal. dharma. After this, the Poona Pact of 1932 ensured a greater Dr. Ambedkar would not have possibly been elected again. At number of seats for the depressed classes, but it was within a this stage he was co-opted by the Congress, into the seat common Hindu electorate. Ambedkar never was sure that he vacated by M.R. Jayakar from Bombay. Dr. Rajendra Prasad had secured a fair bargain. wrote to B.G. Kher, then Prime Minister of Bombay and said: “Apart from any other consideration we have found Dr. He never fully forgave Gandhiji for the pressure exerted on Ambedkar’s work both in Constituent Assembly and the him. He told his followers, “There have been many mahatmas various committees to which he was appointed to be of such in India whose sole object was to remove untouchability and an order as to require that we should not be deprived of his to elevate and absorb the depressed classes, but everyone services. As you know, he was elected from Bengal and after has failed in their mission. Mahatmas have come, mahatmas the division of the province he was ceased to be a member of have gone but the untouchables have remained as the Constituent Assembly commencing from the 14th July untouchables.” Ambedkar told Dalits: “You must abolish your 1947 and it is therefore necessary that he should be elected slavery yourselves. Do not depend for its abolition upon god immediately.” Even Sardar Patel stepped in to persuade both

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

Kher and G.P. Mavalankar, who was otherwise slated to fill in Ambedkar’s constitution was barely finished and adopted, the vacancy caused by Jayakar. when he plunged into piloting the Hindu Code Bill. There was

It is against these adverse circumstances, that we must opposition from the President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, evaluate Ambedkar’s achievements in the Constituent as well as a host of Congressmen like Pattabhi Sitaramayya, Assembly. He walked a tightrope, between securing a modern but Ambedkar kept pushing for the passage of the Act, by the society for all Indians and ensuring that a modern state Constituent Assembly, which functioned as an interim stabilised around a constitutional architecture of social parliament. Nehru was advised by Rajagopala Ayyangar and change. Granville Austin has rightly described the Indian others that it was better to wait till after the general election Constitution drafted by Ambedkar as “first and foremost a of 1952. When it became apparent that the bill was going to social document. ... The majority of India’s constitutional be deferred, Ambedkar resigned in protest from the cabinet provisions are either directly arrived at furthering the in September 1951. The Hindu Code Bill finally came about in aim of social revolution or attempt to foster this 1956. revolution by establishing conditions necessary for its In 1952, in independent India’s first general election, he was achievement.” defeated from the Bombay North Constituency by a Dalit from the Congress. Though he was elected to the Rajya Sabha immediately thereafter, he made a second attempt in 1954 to Making a mark enter the Lok Sabha through a by-election for the Bhandara The Constituent Assembly was the hallowed ground from seat. He failed again. which Ambedkar made his most lasting contribution to all His political battles and his voracious capacity for intellectual people of independent India, Dalit, savarna and non-Hindu work began affecting his health. His spirit to fight on and his alike. As chairman of the drafting committee, it was his spiritual quest though continued undaunted. In the 1930s, his interventions in the debates of the assembly that were soon first wife, Ramabai, who was dying, had asked him to take her to become definitive expositions on the intent of the framers. to Pandharpur on a pilgrimage. The entry of untouchables He also joined Nehru’s cabinet as the first Law Minister of was barred there. He then promised to build a new independent India. Pandharpur outside Hinduism. He explained to the Assembly, “On the 26th January 1950, After her passing, he declared at Yeola in 1935: “I was born a we are going to enter into a life of contradictions. In Hindu, I had no choice. But I will not die a Hindu because I do politics we will have equality and in social and economic have a choice.” In the twilight of his life, on October 14, 1956, life we will have inequality. In politics we will be two months before his death, he left Hinduism to become a recognising the principle of one-man-one-vote and one- Buddhist. His Brahmin-born second wife and nearly six lakh vote-one-value. In our social and economic life, we shall of his followers followed suit. by reason of our social and economic structure, continue to deny the principle of one-man-one-value. How long As he lay down for the night on December 5, 1956, Dr. shall we continue to live this life of contradictions? How Ambedkar had by his side, the preface to his latest book, The long shall we continue to deny equality in our social and Buddha and his Dhamma. He wanted to work on it but it was economic life? If we continue to deny it for long, we will not to be. The book was published posthumously as do so only by putting our political democracy in peril….” Babasaheb, never woke up and moved into history on December 6, 1956. Despite his insistence on individual liberties being enshrined as fundamental rights, Ambedkar was a realist as to their How do we remember Ambedkar? worth as guarantees. He said: “The prevalent view is that He gave the nation a constitution that has endured, he once the rights are enacted in law then they are safeguarded. forced it to look shamefaced at its own social inequities, This again is an unwarranted assumption. As experience and he gave the most oppressed Indians, the hope of a proves, rights are protected not by law but by social and better nation to come. He may not have been a hero of moral conscience of the society.” the war of Indian independence, but he is the hero who Political battles

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

built an independent India. It is time that we cease to promoting rituals, beliefs and ensuring the hegemony of keep him ‘slightly apart’. Brahmins assisted by Kshatriyas and Vaishyas. According to Ambedkar, the worship of cow and vegetarianism stemmed

out of a strategy to demonise Buddhists, who were ultimately branded “untouchables”. Ambedkar called Buddhism a PERSPECTIVE 3: revolution which turned the wheel of progress for all, not just the privileged minority of upper castes.

Ambedkar For Our Times The arrival of foreigners and their missionaries radically (Courtesy: The Indian Express) changed the socio-economic, political and religious scenario. The impoverished and oppression-ridden Indian society was ------conducive to conversions. Besides, the political ambitions of His egalitarian narrative can help save the country from warrior-kings made them seek the help of foreign invaders to fanatics of all hues. settle scores with their domestic rivals. Meanwhile, the The only leader from the pre-Independence era who Brahmin orthodoxy continued to monopolise learning and continues to inspire millions, has become an icon of social controlling the minds of the masses. They interpreted revolt and is being discovered by more and more Indians hostilities in terms of the binaries of Hindu versus Muslim, across castes and religions is Babasaheb Ambedkar. Hindu versus Christian etc. despite the fact that Hindu kings were assisted by Muslim warriors and advisers and vice Many Indians believe in a single narrative fed to them by versa. conservatives about India’s past and juxtapose it with the advent of foreign culture and hostile events. It was Ambedkar After Independence, the nation builders, who were faced with who wrote in Revolution and Counter-Revolution in Ancient the challenge of integrating not just hostile princely states, India that long before the arrival of Islamic invaders and but binding people of different castes, religions and Christian explorers and missionaries, two parallel schools of languages, turned to the Buddhist philosophy. The thought existed in India. Constitution incorporated justice, liberty, equality and fraternity at its core. Its chief architect, Ambedkar, went a The dominant one was the Vedic school, which believed in step further and converted to Buddhism in 1956. “divide and rule” by stratifying society into four tiers. The largest population was of the Shudras (modern day Other Among the constitutional values, fraternity is yet to Backward Classes), divinely ordained to serve the upper three manifest, as a majority of Indians fail to transcend ranks. There were broken men living outside villages as narrow mental barriers, often becoming hostile in order “untouchables”, tribals living in hills and nomadic tribes. Half to preserve privileges of caste, gender, religion, language of the population — of females — was deprived of individual etc. Most of them still equate Indian history only with the liberty. Vedic narrative. The egalitarian narrative can save the country from the fanatics of different religions who make a The other school of thought that intermittently ran hue and cry over “hurt sentiments” at the drop of a hat. parallel to the Vedic tradition — like the Charvaka school and the worldview of the Buddha — was egalitarian. This The question is: ideology negated the Vedas and its structure. It peaked when How long are we going to stoop to the hyper-sensitivity emperor Ashoka implemented the Buddhist philosophy of ill-informed people, misguided by the shroud political which emphasised not just on a welfare state for humans, but and religious interests? for animals and the ecology as well. This did not last long, as the Brahminical school, armed with powerful emotional instruments, managed to keep its flock together by

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude CASE STUDIES for Practice MAINS GS PAPER IV

Here, we are sharing case studies for self- practice. These case studies are drawn from various aspects of professional and personal experiences, and are helpful for General Studies- Paper IV. Do practice them!

1. Red-tapeism: Feeling of being prosecuted even on CASE-1: Honesty and uprightness are the hallmarks of a civil bonafide error makes civil servant more cautious and servant. Civil servants possessing these qualities are reluctant to take actions. This may further aggravate red- considered as the backbone of any strong organization. In tapeism due to fear of departmental action. line of duty, they take various decisions, at times some become bonafide mistakes. As long as such decisions are not 2. Reinforcing Status quoist attitude: It makes them risk taken intentionally and do not benefit personally, the officer aversive reducing their innovative decision making. It may cannot be said to be guilty. Though such decisions may, at further lead to lack of commitment and responsibility, times, lead to unforeseen adverse consequences in the long- which in turn hampers the efficiency of a civil servant. term. 3. Bureaucratic Delay: It creates unnecessary delay in decision making by civil servants further eroding trust of In the recent past, a few instances have surfaced wherein civil citizen and aggravating poor service delivery. servants have been implicated for bonafide mistakes. They have often been prosecuted and even imprisoned. These 4. Poor Governance: Fear of prosecution may restrict instances have greatly rattled the moral fibre of the civil honest officers to take progressive, bold and courageous servants. decisions across sectors. Delay in taking key decisions will lead to poor governance and also hamper economic Q. How does this trend affect the functioning of the civil growth. services? What measures can be taken to ensure that honest 5. Tool for harassment: Baseless complaints and civil servants are not implicated for bonafide mistakes on investigations may be used by corrupt politicians and their part? Justify your answer. (250 words) bureaucrats to harass honest officers.

Sample Answer: 6. Affects morale of honest officers: Prosecution of honest Stakeholders: officers leads to erode their morality leading to mental agony and fear of being defamed in the society. • Civil servants in general 7. Increased political partisan: For lucrative post and • Judiciary transfers. • Government Measures: • Society at large • Legislative Reforms: Issues involved: o Recent amendment to the Prevention of Corruption Act • Professionalism Vs Self Interest (1988) by way of deleting section 13 (1) (d) is a welcome • Conduct Rules Vs Civil services values step. It will protect honest civil servants from malicious prosecution and harassment. (Hota Committee • Bonafide error Vs Malafide error Recommendation) There is no doubt that the considerations which were behind • Administrative Reforms: the formation of All India Services hold good even now. But there have been some trends (mentioned in the case study) o Prevalent institutional arrangements have to be reviewed affecting the functioning of civil services in following way: and changes made where those vested with power are made accountable, their functioning made more

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

transparent and subjected to social audit with a view to and appreciation of upright bureaucrats has declined. There minimize discretionary decisions. is an increasing tendency among the political executive to get

o The focus should be on e-governance and systemic involved in routine administrative matters such as transfers, change. This will minimize arbitrariness in decision posting etc. Under this scenario, there is a definitive trend making. towards ‘politicization of bureaucracy’. The rising materialism and acquisitiveness in social life has also adversely impacted o In matter of transfers detailed guidelines should be upon the ethical values of both the permanent executive and formulated and publicised by each department as part of the political executive. a comprehensive transfer policy, so that arbitrariness in transfers is eliminated altogether. (Fifth Pay Commission Q. What are the consequences of this ‘politicization of Recommendation) bureaucracy? Discuss. (250 words)

o There should be profiling of officers. The capabilities, Sample Answer: professional competence, integrity and reputation of A civil servant is required to implement the orders of every government servant must be charted out and government without bias, with honesty and without fear or brought on record. Before proceeding against any favour. It is precisely in this area that a degree of a difference government servant, reference should be made to the of opinion begins to emerge between the political executive profile of the government servant concerned. (2nd ARC) and the civil servants. This often results in ‘politicization of A permanent Civil Service is the sine qua none of a bureaucracy’ with varying consequences: parliamentary democracy. Therefore, the questions of 1. Political mediation: Policies will not be rational rather personnel policy including placements, promotions, transfers ruling party agendas will be implemented in lieu of and fast-tract advancements on the basis of forward-looking rational developmental policies. It affects long-term policy career management policies and techniques should be and quality of policy and governance. managed by autonomous Personnel Boards for assisting the high-level political authorities in making key decisions. Such 2. Institutionalisation of corruption: It increases nexus Civil Service Boards should be constituted under statutory between politicians- bureaucrats- businessmen-criminals provisions. They should be expected to function like the UPSC thereby leading to criminalization of politics and (National Commission to Review the Working of the politicization of criminals as suggested by Vohra Constitution). Committee report. It will further lead to corny capitalism and corruption. Also, both the highest judiciary and the sovereign legislature must appreciate the complex task of the civil service and 3. Affects impartiality: Impartiality suffers due to treat the civil servants with courtesy and consideration and prejudiced attitude by civil servants leading to not subject them to humiliation and harassment. discrimination on the basis of caste, gender. In ‘quid pro quo’ system between bureaucracy and politicians the

common people suffer. CASE-2: In a modern democratic polity, there is a concept of 4. Affects neutrality: Aggravates exogenous agenda that the political executive and permanent executive, elected prompts certain social groups to cow others down to people’s representatives forms the political executive and humiliating vulnerability. bureaucracy form the permanent executive. Ministers frame 5. Growing Monocracy: It makes the constitutionally policy decisions and bureaucrats execute these. In the initial committed bureaucracy irrelevant. decades after independence, the relationship between the permanent executives and the political executives were 6. Self-Interest: For personal gains, there can be a misuse of characterized by mutual understanding, respect, and lateral entry mechanism into bureaucracy. With growing cooperation, without encroaching upon each other’s domain. consumerism, materialism takes more prominence over self-respect. However, in subsequent decades, the situation has changed. There are instances of the political executive insisting upon 7. Affect Truth & Integrity: It affects investigation process the permanent executives to follow its agenda. Respect for and leading to impartial investigation, institutional conflict

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Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

(CBI dispute). This further erodes the trust of people in a democratic/administrative system.

It is necessary to spell out the relationship between the political executive and the bureaucracy in a comprehensive manner because:

1. The preservation of integrity, fearlessness and independence of the civil servant is an essential condition of a sound parliamentary system of Government.

2. There must be trust and mutual respect between the Minister and the Civil Servant as without them unity of action in the higher echelons of government will be difficult to achieve.

3. Finally, it is imperative for both the Minister and the Civil Servant to perform their roles in accordance with the Constitution and the laws as even a minor transgression thereof can ultimately be subversive of good governance and rule of law.

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Part Three

Essays of

the month

Selected essays from Rau’s GSI students

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WISDOM FINDS TRUTH

# Ethics SUBMITTED BY: MUSKAAN ARYA (RAU’S DELHI STUDENT)

Disclaimer: The viewpoints in the topic are strictly personal of Looking into the education sector often reveals some glaring the writer above. The role of Rau’s IAS Study Circle is to present structural problems which impact the quality of knowledge the write-up in its original form, hence the study circle neither that our students carry. Starting from poor quality of teachers endorses nor rejects any viewpoint in the submission. The and obsolete teaching methods to make education a mere purpose is only to showcase the manner of writing. rat race with hyper competition. Enforceement of discipline in strict terms kills the curiosity of a child and the pass – fail Therefore, it is the sole responsibility of the reader to use system focuses more on marks rather than knowledge. These his/her intellect to check the veracity of viewpoints. issues extend from the basic elementary level right up to A 13-year-old young environmental has awakened the world college where critical and independent thinking has never to the hollow promises on environment protection by World emerged. Moreover, our graduates project ‘herd behavior’. leaders. Greta Thunberg, has reflected exemplary courage In order to escape this brain trap and inculcate our young and has also fulfilled the responsibility of the young generation with knowledge ultimately leading to wisdom, it is generation to make our leaders accountable for their actions. important to make learning joyful and wholesome. Involving She has highlighted very basic yet fundamental flaws in policy students in the decision making process and being sensitive making. A voice that everyone resonates with, specially the to their needs holds key. Furthermore, India has achieved young generation. It is indeed commendable that 95%+ enrolment at elementary level, the focus must shift environmental degradation has become centre of our talks. from quantity to quality. Sports, Art and culture, field work, Wisdom is a quality of human personality defined as having fields trips will help our students get and retain the experience, knowledge and good judgement to take correct information in a more meaningful way. actions. More often it is said that wisdom can be acquired Sports teaches a person leadership skills which gives a through experience but experience by itself does not responsibility to promote a coordinating and participating automatically confer wisdom. It would be appropriate to approach leading to instillation of democratic values. quote Greta here. Many such examples exist in our past as Furthermore, wining and losing is part of the game and well like young people Swami Vivekanana, reformist Raja Ram thereby teaches us to accept things and constantly improve Mohan Roy and Subhash Chandra Bose. All of them had to make things better. It also leads to mutual respect for some things in common they were well-read, educated, either side. Another aspect of involving students through art, curious enough to seek answers and bold enough to oppose culture and creating work will break the monotony of mere anything wrong. fact mugging requirement leading to recognition and exercise Wisdom is vital because it pierces through the veils of of freedom of expression. Giving students an opportunity to ignorance, confusion and illusion leading to radiant light of express themselves will bring out original and independent truth. Therefore, it is all the more important to make our thinking. It will not only act as a stress-buster but will also citizens informed enough so that they can take right decision. help students to adopt soft skills as measures. These can be The pre-requirement of all this stems down to providing really effective in countering the suicidal tendencies that quality education which is holistic in nature. After all students often suffer from. Rabindranath Tagore has said, “The really educated person is Further, the students should be given a tint of practical that who is free from all biases and possess the ability to aspect of what they are learning. The value and urge of distinguish between ethical and unethical conduct”. learning will increase more if they realize how it can be

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Essays OF THE MONTH

successfully applied. Field visits and involvement in campaign youth and juvenile crime, alcoholism and drug abuse. Society as part of Summer projects can provide a way out. All these will be a safer place for minorities, women and children. All will help students find a balance which is of utmost this will ultimately help in nation building by improving importance as it will help fight uncertainties. If our students national productivity and opening ways for alternative are nurtured this way, our colleges would automatically livelihood. India would be able to realize its dream of become hubs of critical thinking leading to innovative ideas becoming a major would power by reaping demographic and solutions. dividend as the society would be confident in risk – taking and realizing returns. Bringing these changes will require more than just political will as structural changes in the education system have to be Furthermore, not only internally but we can contribute brought alongwith major infrastructural requirements. But towards a better world by building better relations with the benefits to society and the nation will outweight the countries. Trick II diplomacy would take a centre stage rather investment requirements. It will not only nurture a healthy than currency wars and battles. It would be better to start but a cohesive society. It will bring about a just and equitable with our neighbours as it is rightly said good fences make attitude among all and thereby helping in empowerment of good neighbours. weaker sections. Thereby making it clearly visible that knowledge leads to Citizens will be logical enough to move away from hate opening up the door of wisdom will help the people realize crimes such as lynching, honour killings, terrorism etc. ‘the actual’that is truth. The outcomes will be self-sustaining thereby nurturing a healthy society. It will help it controlling and deeper.

I MEASURE THE PROGRESS OF A COMMUNITY BY THE DEGREE OF PROGRESS WHICH WOMEN HAVE ACHIEVED

# Social Issues SUBMITTED BY: LOKESH SHARMA (RAU’S BENGALURU STUDENT)

Disclaimer: The viewpoints in the topic are strictly personal of the American and European societies are the writer above. The role of Rau’s IAS Study Circle is to present developed economically, technologically, the write-up in its original form, hence the study circle neither socially and politically is the freedom and endorses nor rejects any viewpoint in the submission. The liberty enjoyed by the women of their purpose is only to showcase the manner of writing. societies. Therefore, it is the sole responsibility of the reader to use Renaissance <13th century> and enlightened <15th century> his/her intellect to check the veracity of viewpoints. were major events which changed the course of history.

American Revolution for the first time displayed to the whole Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar used the degree of progress achieved world the strength of democracy. The French Revolution gave by women as a yardstick to measure the overall progress room for novel ideas such as liberty, equality and fraternity. made by the society. One of the most prominent reasons why

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All these liberal ideas, brought with them a new age for that, with the onset of British Raj, some social reforms took women. An age where women were independent to take place to alleviate the position of women. However, these their decisions, an age where the role of women was not just reforms were not successful in altogether overthrowing confined within the four walls of the house; an age where patriarchy and establish a society which provided an equal they enjoyed greater political freedom; an age where they states to men and women. Hence, in post-independent India, worked shoulder to shoulder with men to take their countries the fathers of our constitution safeguarded Right to Equality to newer heights of success and glory. as the fundamental right. Thus was to ensure that women progress and come on an equal footing to that of men. However, the case with India has been diagonally opposite. In the Rig Vedic Age <3rd century BC>, women did enjoy equal This ideal message of the Constitution has time and again rights with that of the men. Archaeological evidence and being reinforced by the Parliament by enforcement of several scriptures depict that women did participate in the Sabhas legislations which ought to improve the status of women. and Samitis of those times. Howsoever, Initiatives such as “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” emphasized on with the onset of the later Vedic Age, the position of women eradicating female infanticide as a social evil and educating got degraded in the society. Slowly, but steadily they started girl child to help her achieve her targets; Pradhan Mantri losing their rights and freedom. Religious scriptures and Matra Vandana Yojana is a noble initiative to aid and help the manuscripts written in those times further propounded the pregnant and lactating mothers; POSHAN Abhiyan aims at providing proper nutrition; held by the men of the society. Her role in the society was Vishakha Guideline, 1997 and Prevention of Women at just to maintain the household chores and reproduce so that workplace Act have ensured that women are safe at places of the generation continues. For instance, Manusmriti projected work; POCSO women as a source of misery. Thus, it was one of the reasons Act makes sure that children are not sexually harassed. why Dr. Ambedkar, publicly burnt the book. All the measures taken by the government have indeed Patriarchy was thus manifested in the order of Indian society. proved to be noble initiatives in ensuring equality and social, Further, till the British invasion of India, the people of India economic and political justice for women. However, were not exposed to the liberal ideas of equality and patriarchy, even today seems to be dominant character of the freedom. Hence, Indian society was backward, orthodox and Indian society. Further, new focus of crimes against women male dominated. But, with the British Raj also came the have started raising their heads. According to the National western education and the idea of equality and freedom. Crimes Record Bureau , there has been a surge in the Many Indian intellectuals were thoroughly influenced by amount of rapes in the country. The Nirbhaya Rape Case, these ideas and the degree to which the European society 2013, Unnao Rape Case, 2019 and the Hyderabad Rape Case, had progressed. Orthodoxy and belief in superstitious ideas 2019 are some examples of the most heinous crimes against were attributed to as the main reasons for the poor state of women. Further, it is estimated that a women gets raped in Indian society. Patriarchy was at its helm as was evident from India in every two hours. Such cases and estimates raise the evil practices of Sati and Child marriage. Raja Ram Mohan some serious questions on our security apparatus and the Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidya Sagar rose to the occasion to mindset of the country. fight off these evils. Further, education was something from which the women of the Indian society were kept aloof. The Marital rapes, is another crime against women which often basic perception, which was manifested by scriptures was goes unnoticed and unquestioned. Acid attacks and hate that a girl is someone else’s wealth; and therefore they were crimes are other examples which demonstrate that even in married off early. Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule were the 21st century, we have not been able to provide a safe and two pioneers who worked for the cause of women education secure environment to women as envisaged by our and tried to bring about a social change in the society. Constitution. Moreover, female infanticide, dowry and child Furthermore, movements such as the Prarthana Sabha were marriage continue to be practiced in some rural pockets stated to provide support to widows. Therefore, it can be said Rajasthan, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. On the economic front,

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there have been various factors which have resisted women In the light of the above problems faced by women today, from achieving newer heights. The Glass-Ceiling effect there is a need to bring about social change which shall help experienced by women often does not let her realize her own in addressing the problems and elevating the status of potential. On the political front, poor representation of women. Women Education must be insured, as teaching a women in parliament and State Legislative assemblies has women makes the entire generation educated. Further, been an issue which must be dealt with security. Health according to the Comprehensive Report on Nutritional indicators for women have been poor. Women have been Security, it was found out that education of women and suffering through malnourishment and anaemia. Such a state nourishment of children were directly linked. Educating a during pregnancies also impacts the child. A malnourished women can also help in effectively addressing the issue of women gives birth to a child which is not only physically weak malnourishment. Further, laws for protecting women against but also does not possess the required learning capabilities. heinous crimes must be made more stringent. Also, there is a Thus, it leads to poor human capital formation for the need to speeden up the justice to women. Pro-active policing country. Further, there has also been an increasing trend is the need of the hour to upgrade women security in the towards “feminization of poverty”. With an increase in the country. Further, there is a need to bring about a behavioural rate of rural-urban migration, women are left alone to feed change in the society. This change can be brought about by the family. Also, there has been an increase in the trend of shunning commodification of women. All this will ensure that feminization of agriculture. However, as the land is not a social change is brought in, which makes the society safe registered in the name of the women, she is unable to reap and just for women. Such a safe and just society will be the benefits of any financial services. In the urban areas, progressive as envisaged by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. Hence, what majority of the women are employed in the informal sector. is required today is not a new bill, but political will and This deprives them of any financial security such as pensions administrative skill and then unitedly go for the kill of the or provident fund. social evils.

DIGITAL ECONOMY – A LEVELLER OR A SOURCE OF ECONOMIC INEQUALITY

# Economy #Technology SUBMITTED BY: DIVYANSHA CHOUDHARY (RAU’S DELHI STUDENT)

Disclaimer: The viewpoints in the topic are strictly personal of can actually plan your vacation in Mauritius. the writer above. The role of Rau’s IAS Study Circle is to present Thereby, going digital is no longer an option, it the write-up in its original form, hence the study circle neither is the default.

endorses nor rejects any viewpoint in the submission. The Technology has evolved so much in today’s purpose is only to showcase the manner of writing. time that everyone has become tech savvy. A student with Therefore, it is the sole responsibility of the reader to use access to internet can learn more than a child with no his/her intellect to check the veracity of viewpoints. internet connectivity. A trader can buy his work and sell it online on higher prices. A farmer can stay updated with real Click on the Zomato app and you will have your pizza time advisory. delivered at your doorstep, one click on the Uber will make you reach the airport in time and with just a single click, you Not just this, a young man or woman with internet skills is more likely to be hired at a departmental store. One swipe of

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the ATM card resolves the issue of carrying cash and the list in Ease of Doing Business Report published by World Bank goes on. It’s this digital world which has made every from 77 in 2018 to 63 in 2019. impossible thing possible. The Govt. of India’s ‘Digital India’ program has been Digital economy is a term coined in the mid 1990s which is instrumental in bringing change towards paperless considered as the by-product of internet revolution. The transactions. Most of the e-commerce companies monitor digital economy is the worldwide network of economic consumer behaviour and provide desired shopping material activities, commercial transactions and professional at their fingertips, reducing travel time and increasing interactions that are enabled by information and affordability for customers that today customers prefer communication technologies. Naming one thing where online shopping than traditional shopping methods. technology is not present is difficult. Artificial Intelligence has started to make its way in the field of Digital economy has evolved tremendously. Apart from the health care and medicine. India faces shortage of qualified basic applications, many new features and new areas have doctors i.e. 0.76 doctors/1000 population, non-uniform emerged such as Internet of things, 5G, data analytics accessibility and affordability issues. Artificial intelligence in robotics, 3D printing, automatic vehicles, cloud computing, combination with internet of medical things (IOMT) will serve artificial intelligence, etc. It finds application in education, as new nervous system for healthcare. Machine learning in entertainment, banking, science, healthcare, financial assisting pathologists will guide in quality and precise services, space, medicine, agriculture and so on. diagnosis of diseases like cancer.

Digital technologies provide a level playing field, easy Today’s farmer also will be engaged in ‘climate smart accessibility, affordability and services to all. It’s a saying that agriculture’ where with the help of digital technology she will in 21st century one cannot completely switch off! be aided in real-time advisory regarding weather forecast, monitoring soil health, condition of micro nutrients, Digital Economy as a leveller predictability of monsoons etc. Certain technologies involve Was not man apprehensive when computers had first the use of AI in monitoring soil health such as the Plantix App arrived? Was not joblessness provoked as a fear at that time? by the Berlin – based Germany which examines images of soil Similarly, with the fast pacing and globalised world, man is and uses whether there is any kind of pest or disease and again doubtful about the possibility of these technologies offers remedial step for action. There is also an AI sowing app replacing men or brushing gender equality. which predicts apt sowing time for beautiful harvest.

Starting from our own households, digitization has shaped USA and China account for 75% of all patents in digital our lives such as smart electricity, LED TVs, smartphones, technologies and 50% of global spending or Internet of things ipads, automatic cars and what not. The problem of cash (IOT). 4th industrial Revolution is known to transform existing transactions during availing banking services, health care technologies towards a brighter and improved quality of life. services, payment of fees, shopping etc. has been eradicated Govt. in planning to establish 100 smart cities under the through digital payment modes like net banking, credit/debit ‘Smart India’ mission which will incorporate the use of smart cards, Paytm, Phone Pe etc. and advanced technology towards the creation of smart Technology finds numerous applications outside of the parks. Smart homes, crowd management, AI driven service households such as in the production sector where delivery etc. digitization has seen spur in innovation which is engine of Change of such a kind requires change of people’s attitudes growth. Many e-commerce companies, cloud computing, because it’s very hard to transform the culture and workforce ITES, smart grid etc. have availed these technological to the digital world if all of the processes are stuck in the advancement opportunities for producers and sellers. traditional world. If people do no adapt themselves to the B2B e-commerce between industries and many retail giants fast changing world, then they will log behind most others like Amazon, Flipkart etc. have increased production and will not be able to compete. efficiency and high output. Thereby, improving India’s ranking

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Technology is sometimes also treated as a driver of economic include stringent provisions in ease of violation of laws and inequality due to globalization, organizational and situational rules. factors. Many inequalities are observed such as in terms of Fourth, would include development of skills i.e. making the income difference which eventually breeds inequalities workforce eligible for high-skilled or expertise requiring tasks among people. through reskilling and upskilling. This can take place through Large firms are in concentrated markets where executives vocational training by providing incentives such tax holidays, are paid exorbitantly compared to the rest of the areas. But, tax breaks/grants to employer. Recognition of training these are exceptions and is not so always. There are some provided by informal training institutes such as in various difference among the gender usage of technology such as per diploma courses or distance education courses. One such the Digital Economy Report of 2019, in around 2/3rd of initiative is of Ministry of Tribal Affairs to import training to countries women using internet are less than men. tribal girls (5000) by mentoring them on weekly basis in collaboration with Facebook. Some disparities remain but to eradicate them UNCTAD recommends enhancing e-commerce radius in which firms Empowering women in the digital economy is a pre-requisite and people create value through digital economy. for upward mobility of women and making them financially empowered. Wireless women for entrepreneurship and First step would be formulation of appropriate strategy empowerment is a program in India which is women driven through establishment of a leading ministry to enhance focus ICT based micro social enterprises. on digital technology, awareness generation towards importance of digital empowerment, engagement into public- Haiti, has also started a program called Radikal to empower private partnership dialogues. Just as PPP model has been women with tools such as internet, social media, mobile proved to be effective in the construction of highways, technology etc. to tackle poverty and handle micro- bridges etc. similar model can be applied in the digital enterprises. technology as well. At the end, fostering digital entrepreneurship and innovation Second, creations of ICT infrastructure such as fast, through large scale ‘talk-shop’ conferences such as i4 Policy affordable, reliable internet services and last mile connectivity initiative in Africa incorporates hub managers for policy especially connecting the rural population those in dialogues. inaccessible hinterlands. PPP model can serve as national Many such initiatives like these will help in making digital backbone infrastructure for access to internet bandwidth. economy as a leveller and not as a source of economic Third step would involve creation of legal and regulatory inequality. framework to regulate the e-commerce firms and digital Times are changing and are bound to change, it depends on economy and laws aimed at consumer protection, data us how we adjust ourselves to the changing times. protection, Intellectual property right etc. This would also

ROLE OF OPPOSITION IN DEMOCRACY

# Democracy

Indian Parliamentary democracy is getting a of important time on baseless discussions and the decisions bad name due to repeated suspension of work demanding immediate attention are lost in the noise, chaos in Parliament. Despite important Bills pending and clamour. The role of the opposition is not to oppose in the Parliament, ruling party and opposition anything presented for discussion but to look at the issues are at loggerheads on trivial issues. These results in wastage which can be discussed for the betterment of the things

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proposed. Opposition for the sake of opposition is diverging Or an opposition may engage in armed struggle as in El from the roles and responsibility of a constructive opposition. Salvador. Undue repression of the opposition often results in bloodshed and even change of government through violent Some forms of ruling systems cannot tolerate opposition, and means. root it out wherever it arises. Other forms not only tolerate it, but make room for it within the institutions of government. In democratic systems, the opposition is officially permitted This feature of 'internalised opposition' has sometimes been and recognised. Even the leader of opposition is given an taken as a mark of limited, as opposed to absolute, honourable place in the system. In Britain, the position of the government, and also as the mark of politics, as opposed to leader of Her Majesty's opposition is formalised in statute coercion. It is hard to imagine the feature without extremely and he or she has certain rights, such as the right of reply to complex institutions and constitutional devices: it is one of prime ministerial broadcasts. In India, too, the opposition the principal problems of political thought to discover what leader has been given certain rights and privileges on par makes such opposition possible. with a cabinet minister if he/she commands the support of the required number of Parliament members. Considering the above, what is the role of opposition in a democracy? The use of the term 'opposition', to denote The concept of opposition in the modern democratic state is forces within political institutions that resist the ruling officers closely connected with the idea of the political party. A or party, is comparatively recent. J. Cam Hobhouse, speaking political party is a more or less organised group of citizens in the House of Commons in 1826, remarked that it was said who act together as a political unit, have distinctive aims and to be very hard on His Majesty's ministers to raise objections opinions on the leading political issues and problems in the to some proposition. For his own part, he thought it was state, and who, by acting together as a political unit, seek to more hard on His Majesty's opposition to compel them to obtain control of the government. The party that is out of the take this course. Hansard records laughter at the phrase "His government at a given point of time is called the opposition Majesty's opposition". party. The number of the opposition party/parties may be one or more depending on whether there is a dual-party or Although the term 'opposition' was used as far back as the multiparty system. eighteenth century to refer to a party or a caucus within an assembly, the suggestion of an established opposition is The most prominent question that may strike one's mind is: relatively new. It is now, however, quite normal to refer to a Why does democracy demand the existence of / 'loyal opposition', and to imply that the interests of the State opposition? An opposition party always looks for an are as well served by the opposition as by the government opportunity to replace the party-in-government, and itself. implement its own policies and programmes. As a result, it serves two purposes. One, the government of the day The 'opposition' in the modern UK Parliament consists not eschews being arbitrary in its actions and negligent of the merely of opposition parties or factions, but principally of a interests of the people in general; and Second, the people of 'shadow formation'. The offices of government are imitated a democratic country are offered an alternative in within the opposition, which thereby forms itself into a body governance of the country in their interests. prepared to substitute for all the occupants of those offices at any time. The opposition has its leader, its base The opposition parties also enable men and women who organisation and committees, and usually responds to every think alike on public questions to unite in support of a move of the government with counterproposals, common body of principles and policies and to work together representing, in theory, what it would do if it were in office. to see that those principles and policies are adopted and implemented by the government. Without organisation, the Even in states with high levels of repression it is rare to find people can neither formulate principles easily nor agree on no trace of opposition. In single-party systems, the opposition policy. The opposition makes articulate the inarticulate may exist as an underground movement as in the former desires of sections of the masses and gives expression to Union of Soviet Socialist Republics where no formal their pent-up feelings. This goes a long way in checking opposition to the Communist Party of the Soviet Union was permitted but dissidents like Boris Yeltsin continued to exist.

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violence and political crimes which are, in reality, fatal for the In a democracy, the modus operandi of the opposition healthy survival of democracy. involve going to the people and criticising the government, giving press-statements, debating and discussing issues in Out of the innumerable problems which call for solution in a Parliament, arousing public opinion, both national and state, the opposition is expected to select those which are international, and placing no-confidence motions against the comparatively urgent, study them, think out solutions and government. In India, submitting a memorandum to the present them to the people and to the government. And, President is also a common practice. All these are thus, it acts as a "broker of ideas". It preserves a sense of commensurate with the democratic norms and contribute to continuity in public policy, organises and educates the the consolidation and stabilisation of democracy in the social electorate, and helps to carry on and necessitate regular and political system. elections. It also dramatises politics and keeps the nation politically alive. It keeps the government on its toes. To sum up, the opposition fulfils certain necessary functions—so necessary, indeed, that many competent The opposition, like the judiciary, is an agent for thinkers consider it essential to the working of representative safeguarding the Constitution in case the government government. Of course, the opposition sometimes delays the wittingly or unwittingly does something to violate it. The proceedings and the implementation of vital legislation. But opposition also necessitates periodic interpretation, the balance tilts towards its beneficial impact rather than the reinterpretation and amendment of the Constitution to suit baneful. If democracy has come to stay, it is not because it is changes in times, circumstances and priorities. In most the perfect form of self-government. Unlike dictatorship or democracies, the opposition's views have to be taken into totalitarian systems, it does not believe in self-evident consideration in legislating on socially-sensitive matters. principles. No plan or policy can benefit the people if we look The opposition has the capacity to instil in the government only at its 'pros' and deny the 'cons'. Only the opposition can the confidence and ability to deal with national crises. Here, provide those 'cons'. Above all, it is the opposition that puts a the opposition's support means that the entire country is rein on the power of the government and checks it from behind the government in the hour of crisis. Not many would becoming absolute. have forgotten the thundering speech and support given by Atal Behari Vajpayee in the Parliament (1971) when the Government of India led by Indira Gandhi had to withstand An Initiative to Provide Free the Pakistani aggression. In the absence of the opposition, Materials for UPSC without watermark the government cannot be sure of the entire population's Join https://t.me/UPSC_PDF support. Moreover, the opposition also gives credence and authenticity to any measures of the government taken in the interests of the people and the state. The parties outside power extend support to certain measures as they cannot afford to be regarded as anti-people or anti-nation as they, too, have ultimately to face the praise or wrath of the public. Thus, the opposition does not always have to oppose the government.

Sometimes the parties in opposition oppose the government measures merely for the sake of opposition. This delays even the progressive steps of the government and results in waste of time, money and material. It also misleads the masses. Not infrequently, the leaders in opposition resort to demagogy which is harmful for the nation's health. Howsoever politically ignorant the people may be, they cannot forgive such irresponsible and delinquent behaviour on the part of an opposition party.

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