1. CENTRAL INFORMATION COMMISSION

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Recently, Chief Information Commissioner & two new Information Commissioners have been appointed in Central Information Commission.

EXPLANATION:

• Mr Heeralal Samariya has been appointed as the Chief Information Commissioner in the Central Information Commission.
• A swearing-in ceremony was organized in the Central Information Commission to officially administer the oath of office to the new Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners.
• This ceremony marks the formal assumption of their duties.

ISSUES:

• The appointment of the Chief Information Commissioner has become a contentious issue, with allegations of lack of transparency, pre-determined decisions, and a disregard for democratic norms.
• The current situation deepens the trust deficit between the Opposition and the Centre, which can impact the functioning of democratic institutions and the transparency and accountability of the government.

>Lack of Consultation:

• Opposition member in the selection committee is not being consulted or informed about the selection of the CIC, as required by the Right to Information Act, 2005.
• This has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic norms and traditions.
• The MP stressed the importance of involving the Opposition in the selection process to maintain democratic traditions and norms.
• He urged the President to take measures to ensure that the Opposition’s role is not diluted in such crucial appointments.
• The names of the selected candidates were announced and sworn into office shortly after the meeting. This raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the selection process.

>Vacancies:

• The Supreme Court has expressed its dissatisfaction with the failure of states and the Union government to fill the vacancies in Information Commissions across the country.
  • Maharashtra SIC is without a Chief and functioning with only 4 commissioners even though more than 1,15,000 appeals/complaints are pending.
  • Jharkhand SIC has been completely defuncted since May 2020 and no appeals/complaints are being registered or disposed for the last three years.
  • Tripura SIC has been defuncted for more than 2 years since July 2021.
  • Telangana SIC has been defuncted since February 2023 even though more than 10,000 appeals/complaints are pending.
  • There are many examples like this that has been presented regarding the vacancies.

JUDGEMENT BY THE SUPREME COURT:

• The Supreme Court emphasized that the failure to fill these positions defeats the purpose of the RTI Act.
• This Act is a crucial tool for citizens to access government information, and vacancies in the Information Commissions can lead to delays and hinder the right to information.
• The Supreme Court directed the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to prepare a chart detailing the number of vacancies and pending appeals/complaints in all the commissions.
• It also ordered the central and state governments to take immediate action to fill these vacancies.
• It also highlighted issues such as commissions operating without a Chief, significant backlogs of appeals and complaints, and some commissions being entirely defunct for extended periods.
• The matter is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court after three weeks, indicating that the Court is taking the issue seriously and expects prompt action.
• The Supreme Court’s directive addressed the critical role of Information Commissions in upholding the right to information and the need for timely appointments to ensure their effective functioning.

CENTRAL INFORMATION COMMISSION (CIC):

• The CIC was established by the Central Government in 2005, under the provisions of the Right to Information Act (2005).
• It is not a constitutional body.
• It consists of a Chief Information Commissioner and not more than ten Information Commissioners.
• They are appointed by the President on the recommendation of a committee consisting of the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister.
• The jurisdiction of the Commission extends over all Central Public Authorities.
• The Chief Information Commissioner and an Information Commissioner shall hold office for such term as prescribed by the Central Government or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
• They are not eligible for reappointment.

POWER AND FUNCTIONS OF CIC:

• To receive and inquire into a complaint from any person regarding information requested under RTI, 2005.
• It can order an inquiry into any matter if there are reasonable grounds (suo-moto power).
• While inquiring, the Commission has the powers of a civil court in respect of summoning, requiring documents etc.

SOURCE: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1975142#:~:text=Shri%20Heeralal%20Samariya%20has%20been,office%20to%20Information%20Commissioners%20SmtV

2. CNEMASPIS RASHIDI

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the researchers have discovered a previously undocumented species of gecko, making it the 94th known species of gecko.

EXPLANATION:

• The discovery was made by a team of researchers led by senior scientist of the Wildlife Protection and Research Society, Maharashtra.
• It was a collaborative effort involving scientists from various organizations, including the Bombay Natural History Society, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Help Earth, and InSearch Environmental Solutions.
• The research paper on this new species was published in the Asian Journal of Conservation Biology.

CNEMASPIS RASHIDI:

• The newly documented gecko species has been named Cnemaspis rashidi in honour of Prof. Rashid Sayyed, Amit Sayyed’s father.
• This particular gecko is referred to as Rashid’s dwarf gecko due to its small size, measuring approximately two inches from snout to vent.
• The new gecko species was discovered in the Western Ghats near Rajapalayam, at an altitude of 1,245 meters at Kottamalai estate.
  • The Western Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity.
• This new gecko species is distinctive due to its beautiful colour pattern of yellow, white, and black on its back.
• It also features deep brown eyes, giving it an almost ethereal quality.
• These characteristics set it apart from other gecko species.
• Conservation Significance:
  • The gecko is described as being endemic to the Western Ghats, which means it is found exclusively in this region.
  • Researchers pointed out that the discovery of this new gecko species adds another reason to conserve the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
  • It emphasized the need for preserving the unique and often vulnerable species found in this region.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/new-species-of-gecko-found-in-western-ghats-near-rajapalayam/article67500822.ece

3. LAMPREY SPECIES

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, Chinese palaeontologists have discovered two new lamprey species from fossils that date back approximately 160 million years.

EXPLANATION:

• The fossils of these lamprey species were found in a fossil bed in North China.
• The larger species is named Yanliaomyzon occisor, with “occisor” meaning “killer” in Latin, while the smaller species is named Yanliaomyzon ingensdentes, which refers to “large teeth” in Latin.
• The fossils were well-preserved, enabling scientists to study their biting structures and oral discs.

LAMPREY SPECIES

• Lampreys are jawless fish known for their parasitic feeding behaviour, but these newly discovered species exhibited a different, more aggressive feeding behaviour by scooping out flesh from their prey.
• Lampreys are eel-like jawless fish that are typically associated with being parasitic, using their unique mouths and sharp teeth to attach to other organisms and feed on their blood.
• What makes these new lamprey species remarkable is their behaviour.
• Instead of solely feeding on blood, these ancient lampreys were flesh eaters.
• They were capable of scooping out flesh from their prey and had a powerful bite that could even break their prey’s skeletons.
• This discovery challenges the conventional view of lampreys as “water vampires.”

EVOLUTIONARY SIGNIFICANCE:

• These recently discovered lamprey species lived during the Jurassic period alongside dinosaurs.
• They are considered a missing link between the earliest lampreys and the 31 surviving lamprey species known today.
• The earliest lamprey fossils date back to around 360 million years ago, during the Paleozoic era.
• These ancient lampreys were considerably smaller and had underdeveloped feeding structures, suggesting that they did not feed on blood or flesh.
• Additionally, they did not undergo metamorphosis, which is a notable contrast with modern lampreys.

SOURCE: https://www.wionews.com/science/flesh-eater-lamprey-species-discovered-in-china-from-160-million-year-old-fossil-655355

4. BREACHING OF THE DATA

TAG: GS 3: INTERNAL SECURITY

THE CONTEXT: An American cybersecurity company, Resecurity, reported that the Personally Identifiable Information (PII) of 815 million Indian citizens, including sensitive information like Aadhaar numbers and passport details, was being offered for sale on the dark web.

DATA BREACH AND DARK WEB SALE:

• • An American cybersecurity company, Resecurity, revealed that the personal data of 815 million Indian citizens was available for sale on the dark web.
  • This data included sensitive details such as Aadhaar numbers and passport information.
  • Threat actors were offering this data for $80,000, indicating a significant demand for the personal information of Indian citizens.

• Nature of Personally Identifiable Information (PII):
  • Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is data that can be used to identify an individual.
  • It can be either directly or in conjunction with other data.
  • In this case, the breached data contained Aadhaar numbers, a 12-digit identification number issued by UIDAI, and passport details.

• Sources of the Breach:
  • The threat actors did not disclose how they obtained the data.
  • One of them claimed the data originated from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
  • While another mentioned access to an unnamed “India internal law enforcement agency.”
  • However, the legitimacy of these claims remains uncertain.

• Government Response:
  • The government of India is taking steps to investigate the data breach.
  • The Computer Emergency Response Team is involved in this effort.
  • The government is also working on enhancing its data management systems.
  • The extent of the alleged breach has not been specified yet.

• Security of PII Data:
  • The security of PII data, particularly Aadhaar information, has been a point of concern.
  • The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) claims that all Aadhaar data is safe and secure in its Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR) and has never been breached.
  • However, there have been past reports of data breaches, raising doubts about the security of such information.

• Cyber Threats and Identity Theft:
  • Various threats have been arising from the leaked information.
  • It notes that India has witnessed a rise in disruptive cyberattacks, making PII data particularly attractive to threat actors.
  • The exposure of personal data significantly increases the risk of digital identity theft.
  • It can be exploited for various cybercrimes, including online banking theft and tax fraud.

• User Safeguards:
• • Try to ascertain if their data was part of the breach.
  • Be cautious of emails from unknown sources, as this information can be used in phishing campaigns.
  • Change user IDs and passwords to prevent the misuse of stolen data.
  • Implement two-factor authentication to enhance the security of online accounts.
  • Report any suspicious online account activities to relevant authorities.

CONCLUSION:

• This data breach highlights the critical importance of securing sensitive personal information in the digital age.
• It also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by governments and organizations in safeguarding PII data.
• There is an urgent need for individuals to be proactive in protecting their data and online identities.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/how-the-personal-data-of-815-million-indians-got-breached-explained/article67505760.ece

5. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF THE SUPREME COURT JUDGES

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court collegium has recommended the names of three High Court chief justices for appointment as judges of the Supreme Court of India.

EXPLANATION:

• The names recommended are:
  • Delhi High Court Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma
  • Rajasthan High Court Chief Justice Augustine George Masih
  • Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Sandeep Mehta
• The Supreme Court currently has a sanctioned strength of 34 judges but is functioning with only 31 judges, indicating three existing vacancies.
• The Supreme Court is grappling with a substantial backlog of cases. The workload of judges has increased significantly due to this backlog.
• The collegium has recommended by emphasizing the mounting pendency of cases in the Supreme Court and the increased workload of judges.
• This situation necessitates having a full working judge-strength with no vacancies.
• The collegium’s decision-making process involves deliberation and discussion on the names of chief justices and senior puisne judges of the high courts who are eligible for elevation to the Supreme Court.
• The judgments authored by those being considered for elevation were circulated among the collegium members in advance for a thorough discussion and assessment of their judicial acumen.

COLLEGIUM SYSTEM:

• The Collegium system is a system for the appointment and transfer of judges in the Supreme Court and High Court.
• It is not rooted in the Constitution. Instead, it has evolved through judgments of the Supreme Court.
• Under the system, the Chief Justice of India (CJI), along with four senior-most Supreme Court judges, recommends the appointment and transfer of judges.
• A High Court Collegium, meanwhile, is led by the incumbent Chief Justice and the two seniormost judges of that court.
• The government can also raise objections and seek clarifications regarding the Collegium’s choices, but if the Collegium reiterates the same names, the government is bound to appoint them to the post.

CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS FOR JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS:

• Article 124: Supreme Court judges should be appointed by the President after consultation with such judges of the High Courts and the Supreme Court as the President may deem necessary. The CJI is to be consulted in all appointments except his or her own.
• Article 217: High Court judges should be appointed by the President after consultation with the CJI and the Governor of the state. The Chief Justice of the High Court concerned too should be consulted.

SOURCE: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/collegium-clears-three-new-judges-for-supreme-court-justices-satish-chandra-sharma-augustine-masih-sandeep-mehta/amp-11699281487130.html

1. A public servant or his master’s voice? READ MORE
2. Simplicity: the essence of life READ MORE

1. Bad Kharif, Worse Monsoon: Inside India’s Food Security Doubts READ MORE
2. Apex Body Flags Deep Concern Over Land Allotment in new Industrial Policy READ MORE

1. Big Tech will always be bad for mental health READ MORE
2. Giving the urban Indian a better life READ MORE

1. States in Court against their Governors READ MORE
2. It’s time to end the anonymous funding of all Indian elections READ MORE
3. A telco double dip attempt that threatens Net neutrality READ MORE
4. Can net neutrality survive market forces? READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Supreme Court Collegium recommends names of three new judges for the apex court READ MORE
2. Governors should do a ‘little bit of soul-searching’, SC says on them holding back crucial Bills READ MORE
3. Chief Information Commissioner & two new Information Commissioners assume office READ MORE
4. GRAP Stage 4 implemented in Delhi-NCR amid severe air pollution: What does it mean? READ MORE
5. The double-whammy from India’s falling farm exports READ MORE
6. Pursuing Fusion Power READ MORE
7. Ultra-processed foods lead to $7 trillion in hidden health, environment costs globally: Report READ MORE
8. Soil degradation in India could spell disaster for food security and livelihoods READ MORE
9. Giraffes could go extinct — the 5 biggest threats they face READ MORE  
10. PM 2.5, Sulphur Dioxide, and more: Where the pollutants in our air come from, and how they impact health READ MORE

Main

1. Big Tech will always be bad for mental health READ MORE
2. Giving the urban Indian a better life READ MORE
3. Bad Kharif, Worse Monsoon: Inside India’s Food Security Doubts READ MORE
4. Apex Body Flags Deep Concern Over Land Allotment in new Industrial Policy READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. States in Court against their Governors READ MORE
2. It’s time to end the anonymous funding of all Indian elections READ MORE
3. A telco double dip attempt that threatens Net neutrality READ MORE
4. Can net neutrality survive market forces? READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Caution over caste census READ MORE
2. Meritorious students deserve subsidies READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India-Canada impasse: Ottawa must ensure fair probe in Nijjar case READ MORE
2. Multipolarity in the new world order READ MORE
3. China charms Bhutan with an eye on India: Xi is hell-bent on a Bhutan-China bilateral, bypassing India’s role as Thimphu’s ‘diplomatic navigator’. READ MORE
4. Muizzu as the Eighth President of the Maldives: Implications for India-Maldives Relations READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Extension of PMGKAY: Reinforcement of revdis, not welfare READ MORE
2. India works, look at the numbers: IMF executive director argues employment, in quantity & quality, has kept pace with growth READ MORE
3. Auditing the Blue Economy: An oceanic responsibility READ MORE
4. India’s job growth — rising numbers, falling wages READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Tiding over: On north India and its annual air quality inflection point in November READ MORE
2. Air Pollution: Why Delhi is country’s burning sensation READ MORE
3. The duplicity of developed nations READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Misuse of technology: An unrelenting threat READ MORE
2. Antimicrobial puzzle: Action and awareness is the key READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. The cult of operational superiority, from Israel to India READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. In the Sikkim flood’s wake, a trail of hazards lie in wait READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. A public servant or his master’s voice? READ MORE
2. Simplicity: the essence of life READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. A well-informed social dialogue on the caste census can help challenge stereotypes, prejudices, and biases associated with caste. Critically examine.
2. In the current geopolitical and geostrategic competition in the Indo-Pacific, Maldives’ unbalanced relations with India will make the region more vulnerable to power competition. Discuss.
3. In light of the recent developments, discuss the emerging challenges in enforcing and regulating net neutrality.
4. Discuss the concept of a Blue Economy. How is Blue Economy emerging as a captivating notion in an environmentally concerned world?

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• A well-informed social dialogue on the caste census can help challenge stereotypes, prejudices, and biases associated with caste.
• The renewed focus on the caste census is a pivotal step that advocates for proportionate representation and a shift toward social justice and progress.
• The need for socio-economic caste surveys has been established and reinforced time and again by political parties and civil society. A substantial body of data and analysis suggests that affirmative action may require refinement in light of the progress made in recent decades.
• At its core, simplicity isn’t just about minimalism or reducing material possessions; it’s a comprehensive approach to life that encompasses various aspects, including thoughts, actions, and lifestyle choices.
• In a world where environmental concerns and sustainability have taken centre stage, the concept of the Blue Economy emerges as a captivating notion.
• Enforcing and regulating net neutrality is not a straightforward task. Varying capacities to understand and adapt to technological changes make net neutrality a complex ecosystem to enforce.
• The introduction of OTT platforms has fundamentally transformed the way people experience Internet usage, further shaping the ongoing conversation around net neutrality and revenue sharing.
• A stronger and more competitive market might have obviated the necessity for specific net neutrality regulation.
• Unpaid female workers in rural areas are not only shouldering the responsibility of all the household work but are increasingly showing up as unpaid helpers in the PLFS, thereby boosting India’s workforce participation growth.
• Donations received by political parties through electoral bonds would have serious repercussions on the transparency aspect of political funding of political parties.
• The fluctuations seen in oil prices make it an interesting example of an economic variable—even if we understand it, we would be completely unable to predict.
• President Mohamed Muizzu will continue security and defence cooperation with India and unlikely to cancel ongoing infrastructure projects.
• In the current geopolitical and geostrategic competition in the Indo-Pacific, Maldives’ unbalanced relations with the competing stakeholders will make it vulnerable to emerge as a potential theatre of power competition.
• If the Age of Enlightenment marked the inception of philosophical insights, our current era of artificial intelligence is seemingly proceeding in an inverse direction.
• A profound transformation of the global order necessitates a significant global upheaval, and even then, the outcome remains uncertain.
• Extending free food for another 5 years rings the final death knell of farm laws and rules out entry of private sector.
• Sovereign Bhutan must remember that being located in a fragile ecological zone of the Himalayas, it cannot afford to open the floodgates to foreigners.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Many worlds: Multipolarity in the new world order

50-WORD TALK

• In a transforming India, where education and technology act as levelling forces, caste-based affirmative action, refined through caste numbers, can drive more extensive dialogues on aspiration, ambition, freedom, opportunity, and the necessity for a system where citizens are not unfairly privileged or confined by their identities. If a robust methodology were to be used, this effort would be vital in identifying and addressing fault lines to promote gender justice.
• Extending free food for another 5 years is an acknowledgement that the poor continue to need ample support for years ahead. The move also rings the final death knell of farm laws. If government grain procurement is going to be so high, then that rules out entry of private sector.
• Indian envoy in Ottawa describing Canadian police probe into Nijjar killing as tainted and wiretapping of diplomats as illegal shows Delhi is doubling down. But Canada is being duplicitous in citing Vienna Convention on parity even as it illegally tapped diplomats. G7 and Five Eyes can’t play by different rules.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Bhutanese Foreign Minister paid a visit to China to hold talks with the Chinese Foreign Minister to establish diplomatic relations and to conclude the boundary negotiations. This is seen as unprecedented on various levels as this visit is the first ever by a Bhutanese Foreign minister to China. This article analyses the various facets of China, Bhutan and India relations from the UPSC PERSPECTIVE.

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RECENT MEETING

• China and Bhutan held their 25th round of boundary talks in Beijing and signed a Cooperation Agreement on the “Responsibilities and Functions of the Joint Technical Team (JTT) on the Delimitation and Demarcation of the Bhutan-China Boundary.”
• This advances their 3-Step Roadmap initiated in 2021 for border resolution, building on the positive momentum since their last talks in 2016.

What is the 3-Step Roadmap?

• The 3-Step roadmap MoU was signed by the Bhutanese Foreign Minister and Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister in 2021.
• Here, Joint Technical Team (JTT) aims to implement the roadmap by the Expert Group to draw a line clearly delineating Bhutanese and Chinese territory for the first time. The three steps are:

1. Agreeing to the border “on the table”

2. Visiting the sites on the ground

3. Formally demarcating the boundary

BHUTAN-CHINA RELATIONS

HESITANT DIPLOMATIC TIES

• Bhutan’s relationship with China is determined by its long-standing reservations about opening up to the world. Also, with China’s annexation of Tibet in the 1950s and the subsequent seizure of eight Bhutanese enclaves, Bhutan remains hesitant to establish ties with China.
• Till now, there has been very less number of meetings between both the countries. Bhutan’s bilateral relations with India and China can hardly be independent of broader China-India relations. Bhutan has thus maintained a special relationship with India and a largely neutral relationship with China without any diplomatic ties.
• Its foreign policy is determined by three factors: assuring territorial integrity and sovereignty, maintaining a balance of threat, and abiding by its self-interest.
• However, over the past two decades, Bhutan has been witnessing internal and external changes that are forcing it to settle its longstanding territorial disputes with China, diversify its foreign relations, and accelerate economic growth.

IMPROVING RELATIONS

• For China, diplomatic relations and dispute resolution with tiny-landlocked Bhutan is crucial for its status as an Asian power, and for improving its offensive position vis-a-vis India.
• Hence, bilateral talks began in 1984 where China explicitly narrowed the disputed region to two sectors: In the north, the Pasamlung and Jakarlung valleys; and in the west, Dramana and Shakhatoe, Sinchulungpa and Langmar Po valley, Yak chu and Charithang valleys, and the Doklam plateau.
• Later, Bhutan and China signed an MoU in 1988, finalised an agreement in 1998, and held 24 rounds of negotiations and 11 rounds of Expert Group Meetings (EGM) until 2016.

BORDER DISPUTES

• Starting in 1984, Bhutan and China started bilateral negotiations on their territorial disputes. In 1998, Bhutan suggested an expert technical group that will draw the boundaries by studying maps.
• By 2015, China and Bhutan had finished surveying the technical field survey reports of the Central and Western disputed sectors.
• Despite these engagements and efforts, Chinese intrusions in Bhutanese territories occurred on regular occasions.
• China had encouraged its citizens to settle in the disputed areas and built roads, infrastructure, and permanent settlements within Bhutanese territories.
• A similar intrusion in the Doklam trijunction in 2017 triggered a standoff between India and China. In July 2020, China made new claims in Bhutan’s east—in the Sakteng wildlife sanctuary.
• Between 2020-2021, several satellite images indicated that China is building new villages in Bhutan.

ECONOMIC ANGLE

• The domestic economy has provided an additional incentive for Bhutan to expedite the negotiations with China.  Bhutan now sees China as an inevitable and inalienable part of the new world order for its path to recovery and reforms.
• As a result, China’s exports to Bhutan have increased from ~2 billion in 2020 to ~15 billion in 2022.
• The youth exodus triggered by structural issues and the lack of opportunities has further necessitated the need for reforms.
• Bhutan’s imports are intense with capital and machine goods, durable items, and everyday appliances, indicating that as Bhutan grows, so will its reliance on China. Therefore, Bhutan has been hinting at ending the dispute and opening diplomatic relations with Beijing in recent years.

 INDIA’S PERSPECTIVE ON THE MEETING

• With respect to these developments, India has maintained a strategic silence, indicating that it understands Bhutan’s situation and does not anticipate these developments to harm its interest. This demonstrates its trust in this special relationship while understanding Bhutan’s security and economic challenges.
• India is respecting sovereignty of both the countries, and it has always held that an agreement between Bhutan and China is the sovereign decision of the two countries. India understands the situation and affirms that this is not a coalition against India’s interests, as even if the position does not remain identical to India Bhutan will remain mindful of Indian concerns.
• Also, solving the border issue between Bhutan and China is favourable to India as well for its security and sovereignty reasons.

INDIA-BHUTAN RELATIONS

HISTORICAL RELATIONS

• India and Bhutan have shared a cordial friendship for years. India and Bhutan enjoy a multifaceted relationship which are characterised by understanding and unique ties of friendship and cooperation.
• There is close consultation and co-ordination between the two sides with mutual interest. This “special relationship” is governed by the Indo-Bhutan Friendship Treaty of 1949, which was later updated in 2007.

BUFFER STATE

• Bhutan is not just a neighbour, but a very important and strategic one. Its border with India is over 600 km long, and it plays the role of a buffer between China and India.
• India views Bhutan as a “buffer” state against China’s aggression and military adventures.
• Its adjacent location to the Siliguri Corridor or “chicken’s neck” which connects India to the rest of the North East Region (NER) has reinforced and strengthened these anxieties over a Chinese invasion and a potential isolation of the NER from the rest of the mainland.

INDIA AS EQUAL PARTNER

• Article 2 of the treaty, which earlier stated that Bhutan would be guided by India “in regard to its external relations”, was revised in 2007. It now says that the two sides will cooperate “closely with each other on issues relating to their national interests”.
• India does aim to have Bhutan as an equal partner, as also mentioned in the Friendship Treaty of 2007. It lays emphasis on “perpetual peace and friendship, free trade and commerce, and equal justice to each other’s citizens” between India and the Himalayan kingdom.

ECONOMIC RELATIONS

• India is Bhutan’s biggest development partner. India is the largest source of imports for Bhutan. India imports nearly 70% of Bhutan’s total exports, and their trade has increased from ~94 billion in 2020 to ~134 billion in 2022.
• India’s assistance with hydropower projects and Bhutan’s hydropower exports form a significant component of this economic relationship.
• Similarly, India has offered assistance of nearly 4,500 crores for Bhutan’s current five-year plan.

SECURITY RELATIONS

• Bhutan is also the only South Asian country that has consistently respected India’s security concerns and has resisted joining either projects linking China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in the region or other forms of assistance such as grants and loans.
• Therefore, India’s policy has also tried to accommodate Bhutan’s interests in order to sustain their economic integration and pursuit of common security goals. Both countries also enjoy close security cooperation.
• The Indian Military Training Team continues to train Bhutanese soldiers, and the 2007 agreement legally obliges both countries to respect each other’s interest.

CULTURAL RELATIONS

• Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy and one of the last remaining sovereign Himalayan kingdoms, whereas India is a democracy.
• Despite their differences, both countries share an enduring relationship which is deeply rooted in history, spirituality and common values of Buddhist philosophies.

INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY

• India and Bhutan relations are also guided by India’s foreign policy, and it aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy.
• India’s neighbourhood policy focuses on peaceful relations and collaborative synergetic with its South Asian neighbours.

 INDIA-CHINA RELATIONS

COMPLEX RELATIONS

• India and China share a complex relationship with lots of ups and downs. Though, both countries have established various dialogue mechanisms at different levels to discuss political, economic, consular, and regional issues. India was the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in 1950. Both countries have jointly advocated the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.
• Despite these, both countries does not have peaceful relations, and there is a constant struggle on various fronts.

TRADE

• Bilateral trade has grown significantly, reaching US$100 billion by 2022, with India becoming a large market for project exports from China.
• Also, the economic relations between India and China have undergone significant changes in the past two years.
• India has emphasized that it cannot be business as usual while tensions persist along the border. As a result, tighter restrictions have led to a decline in Chinese investment in India.

IMPORT DEPENDENCE

• India’s significant reliance on Chinese imports has resulted in a substantial trade deficit of $100 billion between the two countries. Annual two-way trade exceeded $100 billion in 2021, with India’s imports accounting for the majority.
• China accounted for over 5% of India’s total exports and more than 14% of imports.
• According to sources, a staggering 70% of electronic components, 45% of consumer durables, 70% of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), and 40% of leather goods come from China.
• Products such as fertilizers are 76% cheaper, electronic circuits 23%, and data processing units around 10% cheaper if made in China.

UNSC ISSUE

• China has repeatedly blocked India’s permanent membership of UNSC. It has also supported and blocked at the United Nations Security Council to designate Lashkar-e-Taiba and other Pakistan-based operatives as international terrorists.
• China believes that granting India a permanent seat at the UNSC will lead to Indian interests being of paramount importance in the geopolitics of the subcontinent,

SIMILAR CULTURE

• Both India and China same similar culture as being part of Asian civilisation. Also, both countries got the independence at the almost same time and share the colonial impact.
• China and India share common thoughts on the future and destiny of mankind.
• The Chinese people have cherished the vision of “a world of fairness and justice for the common good” since ancient times. Ancient Indian literature also records the motto of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.

BORDER ISSUES

• Two countries share a long border that isn’t fully demarcated, and have overlapping territorial claims. India says it is 3,488km long; China puts it at around 2,000km.
• India-China relations have gone through cycles of conflict and cooperation over nearly 75 years.  There have been several instances of conflict and tensions over the last few decades, including the 1962 Sino-Indian War and border clashes that occurred as recently as 2021 and continue to this day. For example, there is constant issue of Border in Arunachal Pradesh and Doklam.
• Two sides should seize historical opportunities, complete the important process as soon as possible, and designate and develop the friendly relations between the two countries in legal form,

USE OF CHINA’S CURRENCY

• Recent tussle over payment to Russia for oil in Chinese currency yuan amid Russia-Ukraine war has raised another concern in India-China relations.
• India is seeking immediate alternative to reduce its dependence on China to continue trade relations with Russia.

THE CHALLENGES FOR INDIA

With Bhutan’s normalisation of diplomatic relations with China, India will face a new set of challenges.  Some of which are mentioned below:

SECURITY CHALLENGES

• Considering growing relation between China and Bhutan and both moving towards border demarcation can have security challenges for India because of the strategic location of Bhutan.
• One of the important area involves of Doklam which overlook India’s “Siliguri corridor”, if Bhutan and China consider a “swap” between territories in the valleys of the north and on the Doklam plateau in the west.
• It will have huge security implications for India as the Doklam trijunction cuts very close to India’s Siliguri corridor a narrow area that connects the North Eastern States to the rest of India.

DIPLOMATIC CHALLENGES

• By establishing diplomatic relations with China, Bhutan will be the latest and the last South Asian country to enter the competitive India-China dynamic.
• And China has already hinted at new areas of economic, cultural, and people-to-people cooperation following the establishment of diplomatic relations with Bhutan.
• This shows that an emerging new phase of relations will also call for fresh redlines between India and Bhutan. If Bhutan establishes formal diplomatic relations with China, it could affect its traditional pro-India foreign policy and challenge India’s influence in the region.

ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS

• Bhutan and India have a strong economic partnership, mainly based on hydropower cooperation. India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner and the biggest source of foreign direct investment, aid and loans.
• India also imports most of Bhutan’s surplus electricity, which accounts for about 40% of Bhutan’s revenue. If Bhutan diversifies its economic ties with China, it could reduce its dependence on India and affect India’s economic interest.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND CONNECTIVITY

• Bhutan’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative might have implications for regional infrastructure development and connectivity.
• India has concerns over the BRI’s strategic and security implications as it can hurt India’s security and sovereign interest.

INFLUENCE IN REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Bhutan’s alignment with China could impact India’s influence in regional organizations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

 THE WAY FORWARD

• India’s stand: India should strive to understand Bhutan’s reasoning and motivations in its dealings with China. India should respect Bhutan’s sovereignty in dealing with any other countries until it is not harming India’s interests. India must also not allow hyper-nationalism and its antagonism with China to pressure Bhutan. India’s time-tested ties with Bhutan have always anticipated each other’s interests before taking any step that could affect their long-cherished partnership.
• Diplomacy and dialogue: India should continue diplomatic engagement with Bhutan with an open and transparent communication to maintain trust that has been built over the years. This collaborative approach will strengthen the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
• India’s foreign policy: The new phase of cordial diplomatic relations between Bhutan and China calls for the establishment of fresh relations between India and Bhutan.
• Resolving border disputes: India should work closely with Bhutan and China on border negotiations. There should be a mutually acceptable border deal that addresses all three countries interests for a win-win situation.
• Use of multilateral forums: India and China are both members of BRICS, SCO, WTO etc, which reflect common agenda for growth and development.  There is a need to use these forums to resolve each other’s differences with efficient dialogue.
• People to People: There is a need to build people-to-people relationships with Bhutan as the younger Bhutanese are conscious of the importance of the Indian relationship. Bhutan-India relationship has survived mainly because it was built on mutual trust, which means Bhutan has equally driven the relationship. This needs to be continued by reaching out to younger generations.

THE CONCLUSION: The recent visit of Bhutan minister to China underscores increasing signs of normalisation of relations between the two countries. India must approach the boundary negotiations with a greater understanding of Bhutan’s reasoning, and with confidence that India’s long-trusted neighbour will take both India’s interests and its own into consideration before any final agreement.

MAINS QUESTIONS

Q.1 In the context of emerging normalisation of relation between Bhutan and China, India-Bhutan-China relation is set to face another challenge in the new world order. Comment.

Q.2 What are the potential implications of Bhutan-China relationship on the India-Bhutan relations? What steps India should take to balance the relation while prioritizing security, economic diversification, and regional diplomacy?

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1. WOLBACHIA BACTERIUM

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Scientists from the World Mosquito Program conducted research in which they introduced Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes into an Indonesian city.

EXPLANATION:

• This intervention resulted in a 77% reduction in dengue cases and an 86% reduction in hospitalizations among residents in areas with these infected mosquitoes.
• It is a promising development in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue, by using a bacterium called Wolbachia.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RESEARCH:

• Efficiency of Mosquitoes as Disease Transmitters:
  • Mosquitoes are highly efficient disease transmitters, responsible for causing over one million deaths annually due to diseases like dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever.

• Role of Wolbachia:
  • Wolbachia is a type of bacteria that, when introduced into mosquito populations, has shown to significantly reduce the transmission of various viruses.
  • It prevents these viruses from replicating in the mosquito’s body, thereby reducing their ability to transmit the diseases to humans.

• Method of Wolbachia Transfer:
  • The researchers worked on developing a method to introduce Wolbachia into the mosquito population that transmits these diseases.
  • Once introduced, the infected mosquitoes bred with wild mosquitoes, passing on Wolbachia naturally and maintaining its presence.

• Impact on Disease Transmission:
  • The introduction of Wolbachia into mosquito populations seems to be highly effective in reducing the transmission of diseases, with the potential for even greater impact than the measured reductions.

• Community Engagement:
• • The success of this intervention also involved engaging with and addressing the concerns of the local community.
  • Communities were generally supportive of the initiative due to the fear of dengue and its impact on public health.

LIMITATIONS AND COMPLEMENTARY APPROACHES:

• While Wolbachia shows promise, it may not be the sole solution to completely eliminate diseases like dengue.
• Combining multiple tools and concerted efforts will likely be necessary to make significant progress in reducing the burden of these diseases.
• Mosquito-borne diseases affect millions of people each year.
• The need for the scaling up of initiatives like the one using Wolbachia to benefit more communities. This will likely take many years due to the scope of the problem.

WOLBACHIA BACTERIUM:

• Wolbachia is a genus of intracellular bacteria that infects mainly arthropod species, including a high proportion of insects, and also some nematodes.
• It is one of the most common parasitic microbes and is possibly the most common reproductive parasite in the biosphere.

Wolbachia has a variety of effects on its hosts, including:

• Cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI):
  • This is the most common effect of Wolbachia infection.
  • CI is a reproductive incompatibility that occurs when an infected male mates with an uninfected female, or when two males infected with different strains of Wolbachia mate with the same female.
  • CI can lead to embryonic death, female sterility, or male sterility.

• Feminization:
  • Wolbachia can feminize its hosts, meaning that it can cause males to develop into females. This has been observed in a number of insect species, including mosquitoes and butterflies.

• Increased resistance to pathogens:
• • Wolbachia can increase its hosts’ resistance to a variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. This has been observed in a number of insect species, including mosquitoes and fruit flies.

SOURCE: https://epaper.thehindu.com/reader?utm_source=Hindu&utm_medium=Menu&utm_campaign=Header

2. PRADHAN MANTRI GARIB KALYAN ANNA YOJANA (PMGKAY)

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister has announced the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for an additional five years.

EXPLANATION:

• The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana was introduced in 2020 as a pandemic relief measure.
• It provided 5 kg of free food grains per beneficiary per month in addition to the 5 kg of subsidised food grain they were entitled to under the National Food Security Act, 2013.
• In December 2022, as PMGKAY came to an end after multiple extensions, the Union Cabinet decided to make NFSA rations free for one year.
• It will now be extended further for five years.

PRADHAN MANTRI GARIB KALYAN ANNA YOJANA (PM-GKAY):

• This scheme is part of Atmanirbhar Bharat to supply free food grains to migrants and poor.
• The program is operated by the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. But the nodal ministry is Ministry of Finance
• Phase-I and Phase-II of this scheme was operational from April to June, 2020 and July to November, 2020 respectively.
• Phase-III of the scheme was operational from May to June, 2021.
• Phase-IV of the scheme during July-November, 2021 and Phase V from December 2021 till March, 2022.
• The PMGKAY scheme for Phase VI was during April-September, 2022 with an estimated additional food subsidy of Rs. Rs. 80,000 Crore.

BENEFITS:

• More than 81.35 crore people will be provided 5 kg free wheat/rice per person / month along with 1 kg free whole chana to each family per month.
• Wheat has been allocated to 6 States/UTs, – Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, Delhi and Gujarat and rice has been provided to the remaining States/UTs.
• This is over and above the regular monthly entitlements under National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA).
• The primary aim of PMGKAY is to provide essential food grains to economically disadvantaged individuals.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/elections/chhattisgarh-assembly/pm-modi-attacks-chhattisgarh-cm-cong-over-betting-app-row-says-they-didnt-even-spare-name-of-mahadev/article67497413.ece/amp/

3. HELICOBACTER PYLORI

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Researchers from the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (ICMR-NICED) in Kolkata have developed a two-step PCR-based assay that allows for the rapid detection of H. pylori infection and the identification of clarithromycin-resistant and drug-sensitive strains.

EXPLANATION:

• It is a significant development in the field of diagnosing and addressing drug-resistant Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections.
• This method significantly reduces the time required for diagnosis and drug-sensitivity testing.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RESEARCH:

• H. pylori:
  • pylori is a bacterium that can cause asymptomatic infections but is also linked to peptic ulcer disorders and stomach cancer.
  • In India, a significant portion of the population is affected by H. pylori infections, making effective diagnosis and treatment crucial.

• Drug Resistance Issue:
  • One of the challenges in treating H. pylori infections is the increasing trend of clarithromycin-resistant bacteria.
  • The use of clarithromycin for treatment is common, but resistance to this antibiotic is a major cause of treatment failure.

• Genomic Study:
  • The research team turned to genome sequencing to identify the root cause of clarithromycin resistance.
  • It was found to be a specific point mutation in the 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene of the bacteria.

• Molecular-Based Technique:
  • The researchers developed a molecular-based assay that amplifies and detects the presence of the point mutation associated with drug resistance.
  • This technique is capable of distinguishing between resistant and sensitive strains.

• Binding Affinity:
  • Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the drug-resistant strains had weaker binding affinity to clarithromycin compared to drug-sensitive strains.
  • This weaker binding results in the drug being less effective in killing the bacteria, confirming the role of the point mutation in resistance.

• PCR-Based Assay:
  • The developed assay involves a two-step PCR process, with the initial step amplifying the 617 base-pair segments containing the point mutation.
  • In the second step, allele-specific primer sets are used to differentiate between resistant and sensitive strains based on the presence of the point mutation.

• Validation and Sensitivity:
• • The two-step PCR method was validated against conventional drug sensitivity testing and sequencing analysis, demonstrating 100% sensitivity and specificity.

HELICOBACTER PYLORI:

• It is a common type of bacteria that grows in the digestive tract and tends to attack the stomach lining.
• It is adapted to live in the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach.
• This infection usually happens during childhood.
• Its infections are usually harmless, but they’re responsible for most ulcers in the stomach and small intestine.
• This bacterium can change the environment around it and reduce the acidity, so it can survive more easily.
• The spiral shape of H. pylori allows it to penetrate the stomach lining, where it’s protected by mucus and the body’s immune cells can’t reach it.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/niced-quick-detection-of-drug-resistant-h-pylori-now-possible/article67493768.ece/amp/

4. ZIKA GENOME

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: In this article we will have a deep insight into the Zika genome, mutations, its evolution, genetic epidemiology, and molecular underpinnings of transmission.

EXPLANATION:

• The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that has been associated with outbreaks and health concerns.
• It’s known for its role in the 2015-2018 outbreak in the America, which saw an increase in microcephaly cases in newborns.
• The outbreak was characterised by an alarming increase in the number of microcephaly cases in newborns, prompting the World Health Organisation to declare it a public health emergency of international concern in early 2016.
• From Africa, the Zika virus has spread to Asia, Pacific islands, to the America, and beyond.
• The disease has of late been in the headlines with multiple outbreaks in the last few years in multiple Indian states, including, more recently, Kerala and Karnataka.
• The dengue virus and the Zika virus, together infect up to around 400 million people every year.

GENOMIC INSIGHTS:

• The Zika virus has an RNA genome with a high potential for mutations.
• Genomic studies have revealed that it has two lineages, African and Asian.
• Researchers have used genetic surveillance and sequencing to track the virus’s evolution and genetic epidemiology, which can aid in understanding and responding to outbreaks.
• Diagnosis and antibody cross-reactivity:
• Diagnosis of Zika virus infection relies on genetic testing.
  • Because antibody-based tests can be complicated due to cross-reactivity with antibodies from other related viruses like dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile.

ZIKA AND MICROCEPHALY:

• One of the major concerns related to Zika virus infection is the association with microcephaly in newborns.
• Researchers have been investigating the genetic factors responsible for this complication, including a mutation in one of the precursor membrane proteins (prM) of the virus.
• However, the relationship between Zika and microcephaly is complex.
• Factors like viral load and preexisting antibodies against dengue also play a role.
• Microcephaly:
  • Microcephaly is a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than expected.
  • During pregnancy, a baby’s head grows because the baby’s brain grows. Microcephaly can occur because a baby’s brain has not developed properly during pregnancy or has stopped growing after birth, which results in a smaller head size.

ZIKA-DENGUE INTERACTIONS:

• Research has shown that Zika virus infection can increase the risk of severe dengue, and the presence of antibodies from prior Zika or dengue infections can enhance the severity of dengue.
• This finding has public health significance, especially since both Zika and dengue viruses are circulating globally.
• A study indicated that Zika and dengue infections can influence the growth of specific microbes on the skin, which produce volatile molecules attracting mosquitoes.
• This interplay between viruses, microbes, and mosquitoes can have implications for transmission and control.

CLIMATE CHANGE AND GENOMIC TECHNOLOGIES:

• As climate change contributes to the spread of vector-borne diseases and environmental conditions that favour them, genomic technologies and molecular pathogenesis insights become critical for understanding and combating these viruses in an evolving world.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/2023-11-06/th_chennai/articleGBUBVP99J-4780805.ece

5. AI REGULATION

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE, GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Vice President Kamala Harris outlined the US plan for AI regulation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the public from potential harm and ensuring responsible AI development.

EXPLANATION:

• The US aims to establish itself as a global leader in AI, leveraging its dominance in AI innovation.
• The United States is taking a prominent role in shaping AI policy by emphasizing the importance of AI safety and responsible development.
• US Executive Order on AI:
  • The US government issued an executive order on AI, proposing new guardrails on advanced AI technologies.
  • The order focuses on AI safety and oversight, requiring AI companies to conduct safety tests, known as “red teaming,” before introducing new AI capabilities to consumers.
  • This approach aims to ensure that AI products do not pose threats to users.

• US AI Safety Institute:
  • The United States plans to launch an AI safety institute to evaluate risks associated with AI models.
  • This initiative could align with the UK’s efforts to establish a United Kingdom Safety Institute, suggesting potential collaboration between the two countries.

• EU AI Legislation:
  • The European Union has proposed the AI Act, which categorizes AI based on use cases and risk levels.
  • This regulatory approach emphasizes different requirements for AI systems, depending on their invasiveness and potential risks.
  • However, the EU has not yet reached an agreement on several aspects of the AI legislation.

• UK Light-Touch Approach:
  • The UK is adopting a “light-touch” approach to AI regulation, with a focus on fostering innovation in the field.
  • This approach aims to balance regulation with the promotion of AI development and adoption.

• Diverse AI Regulatory Responses:
• • Different jurisdictions are taking diverse approaches to AI regulation, reflecting their priorities and objectives.
  • While the EU seeks to create comprehensive AI legislation, the US is emphasizing safety and oversight, and the UK is aiming for a flexible and innovation-friendly approach.

CONCERNS DRIVING AI REGULATION:

• The concerns driving AI regulation include privacy issues, system bias, and violations of intellectual property rights.
• Policymakers are responding to these concerns by crafting regulations tailored to their regions’ needs and priorities.
• Global Impact of AI Regulation:
  • It underscores the importance of global action in regulating AI, as AI developed in one country can impact people worldwide.
  • This emphasizes the need for international cooperation and shared regulatory frameworks.

• Industry Engagement:
  • The US government has engaged extensively with leading AI companies to develop responsible AI practices.
  • This collaboration aims to establish a minimum baseline for responsible AI use and development.

• AI’s Existential Threat:
• • Many circumstances highlight the existential threats posed by AI, such as algorithmic discrimination, data privacy violations, deep fakes, and the potential harm caused by AI systems.
  • These challenges underscore the need for robust AI regulation.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/on-ai-regulation-the-us-steals-a-march-over-europe-amid-the-uks-showpiece-summit-9015032/

THE CONTEXT:   The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) is putting in place a comprehensive National Security Strategy in consultation with several Central ministries and departments.

MORE ON THE NEWS:

• This is the first time that India will come out with a national security strategy.
• Several ministries have provided inputs for a document on the challenges and threats facing India.
• The document will include the entire range of newer challenges and threats, including non-traditional ones such as:
  • Financial and economic security
  • Food and energy security
  • Information warfare,
  • Vulnerabilities in India’s critical information infrastructure as well as those associated with supply chains and environment.
• The document is aimed at putting together India’s national security objectives and the ways to be adopted to achieve or realise them.
• The comprehensive document will consolidate and put together the challenges and threats unique to India and develop strategies to address them in the immediate and near future.

ABOUT NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL:

It is the apex body of the three-tiered structure of the national security management system in India, which exercises its power through National Security Council Secretariat having four verticals namely Strategic Planning, Internal Affairs, Intelligence and Technology and a Military vertical.

WHAT IS A NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY?

• A National Security Strategy document outlines the country’s security objectives, and the ways to be adopted to achieve these.
• It defines traditional, non-traditional threats and opportunities while introducing accountability of agencies tasked with the implementation of such responsibilities.
• A national security strategy would guide the military as well as critical defence and security reforms with strategic implications, providing a holistic view of the overall national security, the threats and the roadmap to address them.

COUNTRIES HAVING A NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY:

• The US, the UK and Russia have published national security strategies.
• Most developed countries with an advanced military and security infrastructure have a National Security Strategy in place, updated from time to time.
• China also has such a strategy in place, called the Comprehensive National Security, which is closely tied to its governance structure.
• Pakistan has brought out a National Security Policy 2022-2026, underlining its national security objectives and priority areas.

INDIA’S NEED FOR A NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY:

• The complex nature of the various Traditional (threats from external state and non-state actors, terrorism, insurgency etc.) and non-traditional (Climate change, Hunger, pandemics, energy crisis etc.) threats especially when rising geopolitical tensions have given way to uncertainties, urgency was felt to draft a national security strategy.
• As per security experts:
  • The only political direction to the Armed Forces in existence is Raksha Mantri’s operational Directive of 2009.
  • It is now outdated and hence needs to be revised.
• Some experts have also highlighted that major military reforms should ideally flow from a national security strategy.
  • Without such a well-defined strategy, military reforms would be like putting the cart before the horse.

WHY INDIA NEVER HAD A NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY?

• In the past, three attempts were made to come out with a national security strategy but there was hesitation at the political level.
• As per the security experts, it could have been because of the accountability it would bring in defence management for the government.
• The issues vary from a lack of a cohesive, whole-of-government effort to the government deliberately not making public its national security objectives.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• In a democracy, a national security strategy should be citizen-centric and must reflect the values and beliefs of the people; at the same time, it must seek to raise public awareness of and shape public perceptions about national security issues.
• The proposed national security strategy must take the Constitution of India as its guide and its objective should be the safeguarding and consolidation of India’s democracy.
• Previous exercises undertaken to promote national security could serve as useful reference material for the national security strategy. These include the Kargil Review Committee report (2000), the Report of the Naresh Chandra Task Force on Security (2012), and the document entitled ‘Building Comprehensive National Power.

THE CONCLUSION:

India’s journey towards formulating its National Security Strategy marks a significant milestone in its quest for a comprehensive and integrated approach to security. As India forges ahead, this inaugural strategy will provide a roadmap for navigating complex security challenges, protecting national interests, and building a more secure future in a rapidly changing world.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q) Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism. (2022)

Q) Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats. (2021)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q) Analyse the need for a national security strategy for India.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/india-to-bring-in-a-national-security-strategy-what-is-it-why-is-it-important-9014489/

THE CONTEXT: States have approached the Supreme Court against the conduct of their governors over the pendency of the Bills. They also allege that the Governors are using their authority to delay the implementation of decisions by elected regimes.

MORE ON THE NEWS:

• States have stated that the Governor’s inactions over the pendency of the Bills have caused an impasse between the constitutional head of the State and the elected Government of the State.
• States have urged the Supreme Court to declare the ‘inaction, omission, delay and failure to comply with the constitutional mandate by the Governor’ as illegal and arbitrary.
• States have quoted the Supreme Court’s observations, that the phrase “as soon as possible” in Article 200 of the Constitution contains significant “constitutional content” would have driven into them a sense of immediacy in considering Bills.
• Here, the Court meant that it would be constitutionally impermissible for Governors to indefinitely hold on to Bills without conveying a decision.

Constitutional Provisions related to the Governor

• Article 154: The executive power of the State shall be vested in the Governor and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with this Constitution.
• Article 163 (1): There shall be a council of ministers with the chief minister as the head to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions, except in so far as he is required to exercise his functions at his discretion.
• Article 163 (2): If any question arises whether a matter falls within the Governor’s discretion or not, the decision of the Governor is final and the validity of anything done by him cannot be called in question on the ground that he ought or ought not to have acted in his discretion.

Power of Governor vis-a-vis legislature under Article 200

The Constitution under Article 200 provides certain options for the Governor to exercise when a Bill reaches him from the Assembly. Article 200 of the Constitution casts a  duty on the Governor of a State by requiring that he “shall declare either that he assents to the Bill or that he withholds assent or that he reserves the Bill for the consideration of the President.

There are four possible scenarios:

• Assent: He may give assent.
• Reconsider: He can send it back to the Assembly requesting it to reconsider some provisions of the Bill, or the Bill itself. In this case, if the Assembly passes the Bill without making any change and sends it back to the Governor, he will have to give assent to it.
• Reserve: The third option is to reserve the Bill for the consideration of the President.
• Withhold: The fourth option, of course, is to withhold the assent.

Governor’s Constitutional and Situational Discretion

Constitutional Discretion

• Reservation of a Bill for the consideration of the President (Articles 200 and 201).
• Recommendation for the imposition of the President’s Rule in the State (Article 356).
• While exercising his functions as the administrator of an adjoining Union territory (in case of an additional charge).
• Special responsibility for 5th and 6th schedule areas.
• Seeking information from the chief minister with regard to the administrative and legislative matters of the State.

Situational discretion

• Appointment of the chief minister when no party has a clear-cut majority in the state legislative assembly or when the chief minister in office dies suddenly and there is no obvious successor.
• Dismissal of the Council of Ministers when it cannot prove the confidence of the state legislative assembly.
• Dissolution of the state legislative assembly if the council of ministers has lost its majority.

ISSUES RAISED BY THE STATES

• Unconstitutional: The unreasonable mala fide exercise of power by the Governor to not consider Bills passed and forwarded to him by the State Legislature for his assent is regarded as unconstitutional.
• Delay in the Bills: Delay in approval of the Bills by the Governor is seen as the delay in legislation. Tamil Nadu petition also refers to Article 200 apart from 163, to say that the Governor has limited scope for action once a Bill is passed by an Assembly, and that “any delay or refusal” effectively disrupts parliamentary democracy.
• No fixed timeline: Since the Constitution does not fix any timeline for the Governor to decide the question of assent, Governor can wait for any length of time without doing anything. This is illogical and militates against the constitutional scheme in respect of law-making by the legislatures.
• Misuse of discretionary powers:States allege that discretionary provision has often been misused by the Governor who acts on the behest of the union government which is opposed to the basic scheme of the Indian Constitution.
• Affects the rights of the people: The failure of the Governor to act, thus, affects the rights of the people of the State. The conduct of the Governor in keeping Bills pending for long and indefinite periods of time is also manifestly arbitrary and violates Article 14 of the Constitution. Additionally, it also defeats the rights of the people of the State under Article 21 of the Constitution by denying them the benefits of welfare legislation enacted by the State Assembly.
• Autonomy in universities: There are issues arising of governors’ hostility to amendment to university laws. Governors are under the misconception that they have a right to be chancellors.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Constitutional amendments: There is a need for constitutional amendments to curtail the discretionary powers of the Governor and setting a timeline for assent to Bills in important matters.
• Autonomy to universities: It is time to have a prohibition on Governors being burdened with the role of chancellor of any university, as recommended by the Justice M.M. Punchhi Commission on Centre-State relations.
• Timely implementation of the Bill: Timely implementation of the Bills is important for timely implementation of policies and programmes envisaged by the Government. It ensures the welfare of the people.
• Non-partisan manner of Governor: The Governor should act independently, free from any political influence, while exercising his/her powers. For this, changes can be done in the Governor appointment process, such as, a collegium involving the CM, opposition, and the judiciary in the selection procedure of the Governor.

THE CONCLUSION:  

Governors should leave no scope for criticism that they challenge elected regimes. The Governors should act in non-partisan manner befitting the high constitutional office they hold.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected Government of Delhi? Examine. (2018)

Q.2 Discuss the essential conditions for the exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (2022)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.1 Instances of delay in granting assent to Bills passed by the legislature by the Governors have come under the judicial scrutiny.  Should the courts lay down a specific time period for the Governors to decide on the Bills? Argue.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/action-and-authority-on-governors-and-implementation-of-decisions-by-elected-regimes/article67494047.ece

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