TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) celebrated its 75th anniversary on April 4, 2024, reflecting on its historical significance, current challenges, and future prospects.

EXPLANATION:

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO):

• NATO is a Western security alliance founded on April 4, 1949.
• NATO’s main headquarters are located in Brussels, Belgium, while NATO’s military headquarters are in Mons, Belgium.
• Its 12 founding members are Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• They signed the Washington Treaty, which gets its power from Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, “which reaffirms the inherent right of independent states to individual or collective defence.”
• At the very heart of the alliance is the concept of “collective security” – an attack on any of the members is seen as an attack on all of them and demands collective action.
• This was deemed necessary in 1949 amid the Cold War rivalry between the then USSR and the US, over ideological and economic superiority.
• Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, on collective security, was added “to counter the risk that the Soviet Union would seek to extend its control of Eastern Europe to other parts of the continent.”
• The USSR also aimed to shore up allies and in 1955, the Warsaw Pact was constituted as an alliance of socialist countries.
• However, it doesn’t necessitate direct military intervention constituting all members.
• The scale of action is dependent on each member country “as it deems necessary”.
• The only time the article has been invoked so far was following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the US. NATO forces were sent to Afghanistan and deployed for nearly 20 years.

Membership

• Over the years, NATO has expanded its membership significantly.
• Originally the founding members were 12.
• NATO Member countries are:
  • Albania, Belgium, Bulgaria, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, United Kingdom, United States.

                    

Challenges Facing NATO

• NATO faces a multitude of challenges in the contemporary geopolitical landscape.
• One of the most pressing issues is the tensions with Russia, highlighted by Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which many attribute at least partially to NATO’s expansion.
• This expansion has prompted direct confrontation, as acknowledged by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
• Additionally, internal disagreements among member states pose challenges. Disparities in defense spending, as emphasized by former U.S. President Donald Trump, create strains within the alliance.
• Former U.S. President’s insistence on member countries meeting the 2% GDP spending target exacerbated tensions, leading to concerns about the future of the alliance.
• Furthermore, there are strategic divergences between European allies and the United States, as pointed out by French President, indicating a lack of strategic coordination within the alliance.
• These tensions are further exacerbated by issues such as human rights concerns, as evidenced by Turkey’s objections to the entry of Sweden and Finland into NATO.

Future Prospects

• Looking ahead, NATO faces a pivotal moment in its history.
• The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia underscores the need for a cohesive and unified response from NATO member states.
• Efforts to enhance defense spending and strengthen collective security measures are imperative for the alliance’s continued relevance and effectiveness.
• Secretary-General has proposed plan to ensure that all NATO members meet the 2% spending target by the end of 2024 demonstrates a commitment to addressing internal disparities.
• Moreover, initiatives such as the proposed $107 billion fund for Ukraine signify NATO’s willingness to confront external threats and support partner nations in the face of aggression.
• However, uncertainties loom, particularly regarding the future trajectory of U.S. foreign policy under new administrations.
• The possibility of a return to isolationist tendencies, as articulated by former President, raises concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO and collective defense obligations.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/nato-at-75-purpose-members-challenges-9253642/

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: On April 5, an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 4.8 struck near New York City, surprising residents in a region unaccustomed to major seismic activity.

EXPLANATION:

• Unlike areas on the West Coast, such as California, where earthquakes are more common due to their proximity to tectonic plate boundaries, the East Coast, including New York, experiences fewer earthquakes.
• This event raises questions about the causes of earthquakes in the region and why they are rare occurrences.

Causes of the New York Earthquake

• The exact fault line responsible for the earthquake is unclear.
• Fault lines are fractures in the Earth’s crust that allow tectonic plates to move, resulting in earthquakes.
• The Ramapo Fault in New Jersey, stemming from the Appalachian Mountains, is a major fault line in the area.
• Additionally, there are at least five smaller fault lines under Manhattan.
• However, pinpointing the specific fault line of an earthquake on the East Coast is challenging due to the absence of nearby plate boundaries for study.

Rareness of Earthquakes in New York

• Geographic Location:
  • Unlike the West Coast, which is near tectonic plate boundaries, the East Coast is not located near these boundaries.
  • Historically, the land that is now New York experienced significant seismic activity due to continental collisions millions of years ago.
  • However, the fault lines in the region have become less active over time.
• Stress Release:
  • Earthquakes on the East Coast, including New York, are often attributed to the release of stress accumulated from previous geological events.
  • The settling down of stresses from past seismic activity contributes to occasional earthquakes in the region.
  • These earthquakes are a result of the gradual settling of stresses over time.
• Long-term Effects:
  • The seismic activity experienced on the East Coast, while infrequent, is a remnant of geological processes from millions of years ago.
  • The gradual release of stress from these processes continues to manifest in occasional earthquakes, albeit on a smaller scale compared to regions near active plate boundaries.

Earthquake:

• Earthquakes are the result of sudden movement along faults within the Earth. The movement releases stored-up ‘elastic strain’ energy in the form of seismic waves, which propagate through the Earth and cause the ground surface to shake.
• Such movement on the faults is generally a response to long-term deformation and the buildup of stress.
• Seismic waves from large earthquakes pass throughout the Earth. These waves contain vital information about the internal structure of the Earth.
• As seismic waves pass through the Earth, they are refracted, or bent, like rays of light bend when they pass through a glass prism.
• The Earth’s outermost layer is fragmented into about 15 major slabs called tectonic plates. These slabs form the lithosphere, which is comprised of the crust (continental and oceanic) and the upper part of the mantle.
• Tectonic plates move very slowly relative to each other, typically a few centimeters per year, but this still causes a huge amount of deformation at the plate boundaries, which in turn results in earthquakes.

What drives the movement of tectonic plates?

• Below the tectonic plates lies the Earth’s asthenosphere. The asthenosphere behaves like a fluid over very long-time scale. There are a number of competing theories that attempt to explain what drives the movement of tectonic plates.
• Mantle convection currents: warm mantle currents drive and carry plates of lithosphere along a like a conveyor belt.
• Ridge push (buoyant upwelling mantle at mid-ocean ridges): newly formed plates at oceanic ridges are warm, so they have a higher elevation at the oceanic ridge than the colder, more dense plate material further away; gravity causes the higher plate at the ridge to push away the lithosphere that lies further from the ridge.
• Slab pull: older, colder plates sink at subduction zones because, as they cool, they become denser than the underlying mantle and the cooler, sinking plate pulls the rest of the warmer plate along behind it.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/why-earthquakes-are-rare-in-new-york-9253858/

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced its intention to review the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) framework to enhance liquidity risk management by banks.

EXPLANATION:

• This move comes in response to recent incidents in various jurisdictions highlighting the increased ability of depositors to swiftly withdraw funds during times of stress using digital banking channels.
• RBI Governor emphasized the need to reevaluate certain assumptions under the LCR framework in light of emerging risks posed by digital banking channels.
• The ability of depositors to quickly withdraw or transfer funds during periods of stress underscores the importance of ensuring that banks maintain adequate liquidity to meet their obligations.

Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) Framework

• The liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) refers to the proportion of highly liquid assets held by financial institutions, to ensure their ongoing ability to meet short-term obligations.
• This ratio is essentially a generic stress test that aims to anticipate market-wide shocks and make sure that financial institutions possess suitable capital preservation, to ride out any short-term liquidity disruptions that may plague the market.
• The LCR was introduced as part of the Basel III reforms following the 2008 global financial crisis and was finalised by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision in January 2013
• LCR = High-Quality Liquid Asset Amount (HQLA) / Total Net Cash Flow Amount
• Under the LCR framework, banks are mandated to maintain a stock of high-quality liquid assets (HQLA) to cover their net cash outflows over a 30-day period under stressed conditions.
• These liquid assets include cash, short-term bonds, and other cash equivalents.
• The LCR requirement encompasses excess SLR and Marginal Standing Facility (MSF), which serves as an emergency liquidity window provided by the RBI to banks for obtaining overnight liquidity.
• Banks have been required to maintain an LCR of 100% since January 1, 2019.
• Additionally, all assets eligible under the SLR are permitted to be counted as HQLAs for meeting the LCR requirement.

Need for Redefining LCR

• Recent incidents involving US-based banks experiencing significant fund withdrawals within hours via digital channels have highlighted the need to reassess the LCR framework.
• While the 100% LCR limit is not expected to be adjusted, there may be revisions in the treatment of various asset classes under the LCR framework.
• The necessity for periodic reviews of LCR stipulations to ensure their effectiveness in addressing evolving risks and market dynamics has been emphasized.

Expected Outcomes of the Review

• The RBI’s review of the LCR framework may lead to adjustments in the treatment of different asset classes, either through relaxation or tightening measures.
• The objective is to ensure that banks maintain sufficient liquidity buffers to withstand potential stress scenarios effectively.

SOURCE: https://www.livemint.com/industry/banking/rbi-to-review-framework-on-liquidity-coverage-ratio/amp-11712316713768.html

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The Southern Ocean is known for having the cleanest air on Earth, and recent research has shed light on the factors contributing to this phenomenon.

EXPLANATION:

• Beyond the absence of human industrial activity, natural processes such as clouds, rain, and specific cloud patterns play crucial roles in maintaining low aerosol levels, thereby ensuring pristine air quality.

Role of Aerosols, Clean Air, Clouds and Rain

• Aerosols, comprising fine solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air, are a key determinant of air quality.
• In the atmosphere, these particles are mainly situated in the low layers of the atmosphere (< 1.5 km) since aerosol sources are located on the terrestrial surface.
• However, certain aerosols can still be found in the stratosphere, especially volcanic aerosols ejected into the high-altitude layers.
• Source of aerosols
  • Natural sources – sea salt generated from breaking waves, mineral dust blown from the surface by wind, and volcanoes.
  • Anthropogenic aerosols – sulphate, nitrate, and carbonaceous aerosols, and are mainly from fossil fuel combustion sources.
• Clean air is characterized by low levels of aerosols, irrespective of their source—whether natural or industrial.
• Clouds and rain play significant roles in regulating aerosol levels over the Southern Ocean by influencing the formation, growth, and removal of aerosol particles.
• Aerosol particles can serve as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), which are necessary for cloud droplet formation.
• The number, size, and composition of aerosol particles are crucial for determining the number of droplets in clouds, which in turn affects cloud albedo, precipitation, and radiative forcing.
• Cloud formation and rainfall effectively “scrub” aerosol particles from the atmosphere, contributing to the region’s clean air.

Challenges in Research

• One of the primary challenges in understanding the relationship between clouds, rain, and aerosols has been the lack of high-quality observations in the Southern Ocean.
• However, advancements in satellite technology have enabled researchers to study cloud patterns with unprecedented detail, leading to new insights into atmospheric processes.

Identification of Honeycomb Cloud Patterns

• Researchers developed a computer program to identify distinct cloud patterns over the Southern Ocean, particularly focusing on honeycomb-shaped cloud formations.
• These patterns, characterized by open and closed cells, play a crucial role in regulating climate by reflecting or allowing sunlight, respectively.
• Open honeycomb cells, indicative of less cloudy weather, are associated with more intense rain showers that effectively wash aerosol particles from the air.
• Surprisingly, these cells produce more rain than closed cells, contributing significantly to the cleanliness of the air.

Seasonal Variations and Weather Systems

• The prevalence of open honeycomb clouds, and thus effective rain showers, is higher during the winter months when the air over the Southern Ocean is at its cleanest.
• Large-scale weather systems, such as storms, influence the formation of these cloud patterns.

Implications and Future Research

• Understanding the role of clouds, rain, and specific cloud patterns in maintaining clean air over the Southern Ocean has implications beyond atmospheric science.
• It contributes to improving climate models and enhancing predictions related to aerosol distribution and air quality.

Sothern Ocean:

• The Southern Ocean (also known as the Antarctic Ocean) is one of the five great ocean basins on Earth.
• It was formed around 34 million years ago when Antarctica and South America drifted apart, creating the Drake Passage.
• The passage is located between the Antarctica Peninsula’s tip and South America.
• It is made up of the portions of the world ocean south of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans and their tributary seas surrounding Antarctica below 60° S.
• It is known for its strong winds, intense storms, dramatic seasonal changes and cold temperatures.
• It is dominated by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC): the longest, strongest, deepest-reaching current on earth.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/the-southern-ocean-has-the-earths-cleanest-air-scientists-finally-know-why/article68031586.ece

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: India’s abstention at the recent UN Human Rights Council (HRC) vote regarding Gaza ceasefire and arms embargo against Israel has drawn attention due to its diplomatic implications and geopolitical significance.

EXPLANATION:

• This decision reflects India’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, its approach towards human rights issues, and its broader diplomatic priorities.
• India abstained from voting on the resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and urging states to implement an arms embargo against Israel.
• This abstention aligns with India’s past voting behavior on resolutions critical of Israel that lack balance or fail to address broader concerns related to the conflict.

Reasons for Abstention

• India’s abstention appears consistent with its previous votes on similar resolutions at the HRC.
• The decision reflects India’s adherence to a diplomatic approach that prioritizes balanced resolutions addressing accountability on all sides.
• The resolution failed to condemn Hamas, which has been a consistent concern for India.
• This omission likely influenced India’s decision to abstain, as it seeks resolutions that hold all parties accountable for their actions.
• India’s abstention may also reflect concerns about the resolution’s one-sided condemnation of Israeli actions without addressing broader issues such as Hamas activities, which could perpetuate the cycle of violence in the region.

Analysis of Resolutions

• India voted in favor of three resolutions critical of Israel, addressing human rights violations against Palestinians, Israel’s occupation of Syrian Golan, and the Palestinian right to self-determination.
• This demonstrates India’s commitment to addressing human rights concerns in the region while maintaining a balanced approach.
• The adopted resolution demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and called for an arms embargo against Israel.
• It condemned Israeli actions, including the blockade of Gaza and alleged ethnic cleansing, while calling for punitive measures against Israel.

Geopolitical Implications

• India’s decision aligns with its strategic partners and allies, including the United States and Israel, while maintaining diplomatic relations with countries critical of Israel’s actions.
• India’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict influences its relations with countries in the Middle East and its broader role in regional diplomacy.
• Abstention allows India to navigate complex regional dynamics without alienating key stakeholders.

United Nations Human Rights Council:

• It is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations responsible for promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.
• It was established in 2006 by the United Nations General Assembly, replacing the former United Nations Commission on Human Rights.
• The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) serves as the Secretariat and is based in Geneva, Switzerland.
• It consists of 47 United Nations Member States elected by the UN General Assembly.
• India was elected to the Council for a period of three years beginning 1st January 2019.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-abstains-at-human-rights-council-on-vote-calling-ceasefire-in-gaza-and-for-arms-embargo-against-israel/article68033720.ece

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Food inflation keeps RBI worried READ MORE

2. India abstains at U.N. Human Rights Council on vote calling for Gaza ceasefire, arms embargo against Israel READ MORE

3. RBI to enable UPI for cash deposit facility, to allow foreign investors in IFSC to invest in Sovereign Green Bonds READ MORE

4. Bankers laud RBI’s focus on disinflation READ MORE

5. Why green hydrogen presents both major opportunities, significant challenges READ MORE

6. NATO at 75: Why the alliance was formed, where it stands today READ MORE

7. 4.8 magnitude earthquake hits New York City: why it is a rare event in the region READ MORE

8. Before SC’s 9-judge bench, question of whether states can levy excise duty on industrial alcohol READ MORE

9. Groundwater quality can be improved even when mixed with nitrate-laden surface water: Study READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Impact and dualities of Social Media READ MORE

2. Water levels in reservoirs at 35% of capacity; southern India’s at just 20% READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Parliaments past, a mirror to changing dynamics READ MORE

2. Euthanasia Debate | The right to live and die with dignity READ MORE

3. Work out measures to streamline the grant of bail READ MORE

4.  Striking a balance between state power and citizen rights holds the key to a democracy’s success READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. How not to improve the quality of higher education READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Escalation ladder: On Israel’s offensive, and the danger ahead READ MORE

2. Soft power as comparative advantage for India READ MORE

3. Time for India to claim its seat at UN’s top table: Why and how READ MORE

4. Global conflicts in the new age: The role of ICJ READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Why RBI has been wary of declaring an early victory over inflation READ MORE

2. Credit policy focuses on stability READ MORE

3. Both dovish and hawkish READ MORE

4. Interim Budget 2024-25: Are we on track to achieve healthcare for all? READ MORE

5. Dilemma of the unemployed youth READ MORE

6. Towards growth READ MORE

7. Employment Gains? READ MORE

8. RBI must rectify and strengthen itself before turning 100 READ MORE

9. Measuring Trends in Multidimensional Poverty READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Human–Wildlife Conflict: Insights from Pilibhit Tiger Reserve READ MORE

2. By financing environmentally damaging projects, can Indian funders be held liable? READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. ‘We are seeing a sign that dark energy is not a cosmological constant’ READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Tough stand on terror: National security remains paramount for India READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Mitigating risks in infrastructure development READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Is faith a limitation or blessing of intelligence? READ MORE

2. Psychopathy among bureaucrats is a bigger threat than corruption READ MORE

3. Overcoming doubts READ MORE

4. Beyond belief READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. As terrorism continues to pose a global threat, collaborative efforts among nations are essential. In this endeavour, the US and India can play pivotal roles, leveraging their resources and expertise in the fight against terrorism. Comment.

2. A citizenship regime should be designed to accommodate the nuances of individual situations, fostering an environment where no one is left in the shadows of statelessness. Comment on the statement in the light of recent enacted Citizen Act.

3. The digital revolution opens new avenues for women’s economic participation, however, to ensure true inclusion, this revolution must be steered by gender-sensitive policies. Comment.

4. The US-India Great Power Partnership enjoys strong tailwinds, but its success is not inevitable. The relationship requires a considered understanding of the cultural, demographic, and political drivers at work in the two complex democracies. Critically analyse.

5. Investing in a green resilient and knowledge-based economy is crucial for sustainable economic development of the State. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• There is no logical way to the discovery of elemental laws.
• The conduct of business in both Houses so far only points to the need for a revitalisation of legislative engagement and more constructive debate.
• Changing parliamentary dynamics only point to the need to revitalise legislative engagement, where every opportunity should be seized to ensure accountability, foster constructive debate, and enact policies that prioritise the welfare of the nation and its citizens.
• RBI has maintained its stance on policy rate citing food inflation. But tying policy to food prices may force economy to sacrifice growth.
• Euthanasia applies to animals, not human beings. We need to learn to use other terms — but first, talking about death itself must no longer be a taboo.
• The issue of unemployed youth has become a focal point in political discourse. The interpretation of unemployment rates and its politicisation are exacerbating the situation.
• Soft power stands as a compelling force, often wielded through economic or cultural influence to shape global perceptions and agendas.
• India being an emerging economy, will take time to stand tall against other developed nations in terms of hard power. But recognizing its strengths in soft power in varied forms, it should work towards further enriching its assets and using it for international trade, thus creating a niche for itself.
• By allowing the mass production of customised realities, generative AI makes electoral systems vulnerable. Democracies can learn from Taiwan and EU in addressing the threat.
• The highest constitutional court of the land must ensure that justice is done in every respect. If there seems to be an absence of sufficient evidence, prima facie, proving the guilt of the accused, the same must be recorded.
• India has made significant strides in modernising its ports, enhancing maritime infrastructure, and expanding its maritime capabilities. Initiatives like Sagarmala and Bharatmala have been instrumental in boosting coastal and inland connectivity, facilitating trade, and driving economic development.
• The Chanakya Niti of non-aggressive settlements; Gandhi’s non-violence movement; the Panchsheel pact of peaceful advancement and a good friendly policy towards its neighbours all exemplify India’s comparative advantage in soft power.
• India finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the dual challenge of sustaining growth momentum while addressing underlying structural constraints.
• The glaring absence of psychological assessments in civil service recruitment processes renders the system perilously open to infiltration by unsuitable individuals.
• The Global South is where the numbers rest, and so do much of the global problems, including massive cultural differences with the homogenised Western ways, but which is what has been pushed down their throats over the past decades—through the UN system and outside.
• All democracies, irrespective of the government in power, must keep a balance between the powers of the state as against the remedies available to citizens.
• While international law may lack enforceability in a traditional sense and exhibit flaws and frustrations, its influence remains significant in shaping the opinions and policies of nations.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Mutual tolerance is a necessity for all time and for all races.

50-WORD TALK

• NSA Ajit Doval has called out the elephant in the room by telling China-led SCO to shed double standards and hold accountable those who sponsor, finance and facilitate terrorism. China cannot talk about need to counter terrorism jointly when it works against UNSC designation of wanted terrorists staying in Pakistan.
• A fresh political battlefront over the role of the judiciary is bizarre. It shows that instead of protecting the judiciary, there is an attempt to intimidate one of the pillars of democracy. The nation’s faith endures in a judiciary that remains committed to the Constitution, far away from political whims.

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.

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The Union Home Ministry has canceled the registration of five non-governmental organizations (NGOs) under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) for alleged violations.

EXPLANATION:

• These NGOs include the Voluntary Health Association of India, CNI Synodical Board of Social Services, Indo-Global Social Service Society, Church’s Auxiliary for Social Action, and Evangelical Fellowship of India.

Reasons for Cancellation

• According to sources, the cancellation of FCRA registration implies that these NGOs will no longer be eligible to receive foreign contributions or utilize existing available funds.
• The cancellation was purportedly due to alleged violations of various FCRA provisions, including utilization of funds for activities not within their mandate.

Profile of Affected NGOs

• The canceled NGOs include prominent organizations such as the Voluntary Health Association of India, the Synodical Board of Social Services (CNI), the Indo-Global Social Service Society, the Church’s Auxiliary for Social Action, and the Evangelical Fellowship of India.
• These organizations have been involved in various social, health, and community development activities across the country.

Statistics on FCRA Registrations

• Data from the Home Ministry reveals a significant number of FCRA registrations being canceled since 2012, with a total of 20,721 cancellations.
• Tamil Nadu leads the list with 2,580 cancellations, followed by Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
• Conversely, 4,905 FCRA registrations were issued or renewed during the same period, with Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Delhi, and Gujarat witnessing the highest number of registrations/renewals.

Foreign Contributions and NGO Operations

• Foreign contributions received by FCRA-registered associations or NGOs amounted to Rs 55,741.51 crore between the financial years 2019-2020 and 2021-2022.
• This underscores the significant financial inflow into NGOs for various social, developmental, and humanitarian causes.

Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA):

• The FCRA was brought during the Emergency in 1976 in a bid to create surveillance regime for the NGOs and put it under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• For all such entities receiving foreign funds through foundations, corporate grants and so on, the FCRA license administered by the MHA became obligatory.
• It has not only continued thereafter but has also become a permanent feature for the scrutiny of foreign funds for such entities. The FCRA has been amended four times since then.
• FCRA Act, 2010 prohibits acceptance of foreign contribution by certain persons such as election candidate, editor or publisher of a newspaper, judge, government servant, MPs and MLAs, judges and political parties among others.
• FCRA (Amendment) Bill 2020 adds public servants ( as defined by IPC) to this list. He is any person who is in service or pay of the government, remunerated by the government for the performance of public duty.
• A person cannot transfer foreign contribution to any other person unless such persons is also registered to accept under FCRA act 2010.
• FCRA (Amendment) Bill 2020 prohibits to transfer of foreign contribution to any other person I.e. individual, association or registered company.
• Under FCRA Act, 2010 , a person may accept foreign contribution if they have:
  • Obtained a certificate of registration from central government or
  • Not registered, but obtained prior permission from the government to accept foreign contribution.
• Under FCRA (Amendment) Bill 2020, now, any person seeking prior permission, registration or renewal of registration must provide the Aadhaar number of all its office bearers, directors or key functionaries, as an identification document. In case of a foreigner, they must provide a copy of the passport or the Overseas Citizen of India card for identification.
• In 2010, the government tightened the FCRA in the wake of anti-nuclear protests driven by some human rights bodies in Tamil Nadu’s Kudankulam that were receiving foreign funds.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/home-ministry-cancels-registration-of-five-ngos-for-violation-of-fcra-9250053/

TAG: GS 3: DISASTER MANAGEMENT

THE CONTEXT: Tamil Nadu has filed a suit at the Supreme Court, alleging that the Centre is withholding national disaster relief funds following the devastation caused by Cyclone Michaung and subsequent floods in December 2023.

EXPLANATION:

• This issue mirrors a similar plea filed by the Karnataka government regarding drought relief funds.

Disaster Relief Funds Allocation

• Funds for disaster relief are available to states from two sources: the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF).
• The Disaster Management Act, 2005 (DMA) governs the allocation of these funds, which were established after the 2004 tsunami.
• The NDRF covers severe calamities such as cyclones, droughts, and floods.
• States facing calamities beyond their coping capacity can request additional funds from the NDRF.
• The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) or the Ministry of Agriculture assesses the need for additional assistance based on reports submitted by Inter Ministerial Central Teams (IMCTs) and the National Executive Committee.

Tamil Nadu and Karnataka’s Appeals

• Both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have approached the Supreme Court, alleging that the Centre’s delay in releasing NDRF funds violates the DMA and associated guidelines.
• Tamil Nadu seeks Rs 37,902 crores for Cyclone Michaung damage and Rs 2,000 crore as interim relief.
• Karnataka seeks Rs 18,171 crores for drought relief. Both states claim that despite completing necessary steps and receiving recommendations, the Centre has not released funds.

Legal Arguments

• Tamil Nadu alleges unfair treatment compared to other states and claims violation of citizens’ rights to equality and life with dignity (Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution).
• Karnataka argues that the Centre’s delay violates the right to life with dignity and cites the ‘Manual for Drought Management,’ which mandates a decision on NDRF assistance within a month of IMCT reports.

Other States’ Legal Challenges

• This is not the only instance of opposition-ruled states challenging the Centre.
• Kerala has approached the Supreme Court regarding bills withheld by the President and budgetary issues, alleging infringement of state rights and financial autonomy.
• Opposition-ruled states like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Punjab have also challenged Governors’ actions regarding bill assent.

The Key Features of the NDMA 2005:

• As per the Disaster Management Act, 2005, “disaster” means a catastrophe, mishap, calamity or grave occurrence in any area, arising from natural or man-made causes, or by accident or negligence which results in substantial loss of life or human suffering or damage to, and destruction of, property, or damage to, or degradation of, environment, and is of such a nature or magnitude as to be beyond the coping capacity of the community of the affected area.
• A natural disaster includes earthquake, flood, landslide, cyclone, tsunami, urban flood, heatwave; a man-made disaster can be nuclear, biological and chemical.
• The law lays down following key mechanisms to make India a disaster resilient country and match to the global standards in disaster management. The key features are:
  1. It envisages for an institutional mechanism from top to bottom for decision making, planning, relief and rescue
  2. It envisages for laying down a disaster management policy and plan at national and state level
  3. It deals with disaster management holistically consisting of pre-disaster, during disaster and post disaster cycle
  4. It envisages for two separate funds knows as DMMF/DMRF for centre and SDMMF/SDMRF for states
  5. It lays down for a dedicates disaster management force known as NDRF capable of tackling all types of disaster through land, air and sea
  6. It also has also provisions for promoting research and studies through IIDM, New Delhi.
• At the apex, it is the national disaster management authority headed by the Prime Minister which is responsible for taking important decisions related to disaster management in India followed by several committees, ministries and departments.

The funding of the NDRF:

• The NDRF is funded through a National Calamity Contingent Duty levied on pan masala, chewing tobacco and cigarettes, and with budgetary provisions as and when needed.
• A provision exists to encourage any person or institution to make a contribution to the NDRF.
• The 14th Finance Commission recommended changes to this structure once the cess was discontinued or subsumed within the Goods and Services Tax.
• However, the government, instead, decided to continue with the National Calamity Contingent Duty even in the GST regime.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/tamil-nadu-karnataka-disaster-relief-funds-centre-9251548/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: In India, symbols play a crucial role in the voting process, especially in a country with a significant illiterate population.

EXPLANATION:

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) allocates symbols to political parties and contesting candidates based on the provisions of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.

Recognition Criteria for Political Parties

• Parties can be recognized as ‘national’ or ‘state’ parties based on certain criteria outlined in the Symbols Order.
• For state-level recognition, parties must meet specific conditions such as winning a certain percentage of seats in the Lok Sabha or Legislative Assembly or securing a certain percentage of votes in a general election.

Allocation of Symbols

• Recognized political parties are allotted reserved symbols that are exclusive to them in any constituency.
• For registered but unrecognized political parties, a common symbol is allotted during elections if the party contests in a certain number of Lok Sabha constituencies or state assembly seats.
• Rule 10B of the Symbols Order allows registered unrecognised parties to avail themselves of a common symbol for two general elections.
• They become eligible for a common symbol in subsequent elections if they secured at least 1% of votes polled in the state in the previous election.
• Symbols are allotted on a ‘first-come-first-served’ basis.

NTK and VCK Case

• The Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) secured more than 1% of votes in the last two elections but applied for a common symbol only in February 2024, losing out to Bharatiya Praja Aikyata Party (BPAP) due to the ‘first-come-first-served’ rule.
• The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) was denied a common symbol as it failed to secure 1% of votes polled in the 2021 State Legislative Assembly elections, despite having elected representatives.

Way Forward

• While the ECI’s decisions are in accordance with existing rules, there are concerns about fairness and representation.
• Suggestions include considering past electoral performance or having elected representatives as criteria for allotting common symbols to unrecognised parties.
• This would ensure a fairer democratic process and acknowledge the contributions of smaller parties.

Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968:

• This order deals with various aspects of symbol allotment to political parties for elections.
• Under Paragraph 15 of the Order, EC can decide disputes among rival groups or sections of a recognised political party staking claim to its name and symbol.
• The EC is the only authority to decide issues on a dispute or a merger under the order. The Supreme Court (SC) upheld its validity in Sadiq Ali and another vs. ECI in 1971.
• It applies to disputes in recognised national and state parties.
• For splits in registered but unrecognised parties, the EC usually advises the warring factions to resolve their differences internally or to approach the court.
• In almost all disputes decided by the EC so far, a clear majority of party delegates/office bearers, MPs and MLAs have supported one of the factions.
• Before 1968, the EC issued notifications and executive orders under the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.
• The splinter group of the party – other than the group that got the party symbol – had to register itself as a separate party.

Election Commission of India

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering Union and State election processes in India.
• It was established in accordance with the Constitution on 25th January 1950 (celebrated as national voters’ day). The secretariat of the commission is in New Delhi.
• The body administers elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Assemblies in India, and the offices of the President and Vice President in the country.
• It is not concerned with the elections to panchayats and municipalities in the states. For this, the Constitution of India provides for a separate State Election Commission.

Constitutional Provisions:

• Part XV (Article 324-329) of the Indian Constitution: It deals with elections and establishes a commission for these matters.
• Article 324: Superintendence, direction and control of elections to be vested in an Election Commission.
• Article 325: No person to be ineligible for inclusion in, or to claim to be included in a special, electoral roll-on grounds of religion, race, caste or sex.
• Article 326: Elections to the House of the People and to the Legislative Assemblies of States to be based on adult suffrage.
• Article 327: Power of Parliament to make provision with respect to elections to Legislatures.
• Article 328: Power of Legislature of a State to make provision with respect to elections to such Legislature.
• Article 329: Bar to interference by courts in electoral matters.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/how-are-symbols-allotted-to-political-parties-explained/article68029670.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The recent agreement between Israel and the United States to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza marks a significant development amidst mounting pressure from humanitarian agencies and the Biden administration.

EXPLANATION:

• This agreement comes in the wake of concerns over the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including warnings of an impending famine.
• The following analysis delves into the details of this agreement, the factors leading to it, and its implications.

Background:

• Gaza has been facing severe humanitarian challenges exacerbated by ongoing conflict and restrictions on aid.
• Humanitarian agencies and the United Nations have repeatedly raised alarms about the looming famine and urgent need for increased aid delivery.
• The Biden administration has voiced growing concerns over civilian casualties and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Key Developments:

• Israel’s Agreement to Open Erez Crossing:
  • Israel has agreed to open the Erez crossing to allow aid into northern Gaza, following pressure from the United States.
  • The Erez crossing, previously closed since an attack by Hamas on October 7, will now permit temporary aid delivery.
  • Additionally, Israel will utilize the port of Ashdod to direct aid into Gaza and increase aid deliveries from Jordan.
• Biden Administration’s Involvement:
  • S. President intervened directly, expressing frustration during a tense phone call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
  • Biden threatened to condition future support for Israel based on its response to humanitarian concerns and civilian casualties.
• Escalating Criticism and Pressures:
  • Israel faced mounting criticism from the U.S. and humanitarian agencies, particularly after the killing of seven aid workers by Israeli forces.
  • The Biden administration signaled a shift by leveraging American aid to influence Israel’s conduct in the conflict with Hamas.

Implications:

• Humanitarian Relief: The agreement holds promise for increased aid delivery, particularly to the critically affected northern Gaza.
• Political Dynamics: Biden’s approach signifies a departure from traditional U.S. support for Israel, indicating a willingness to exert pressure on key allies for humanitarian reasons.
• Israel-U.S. Relations: The agreement underscores the complex relationship between Israel and the U.S., with Biden’s administration taking a more assertive stance on issues of humanitarian concern.

Challenges Ahead:

• Implementation: The effectiveness of the agreement hinges on the timely and complete implementation of promised measures by Israel.
• Long-term Solutions: Addressing the root causes of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza will require sustained efforts beyond short-term aid delivery.

Erez Crossing:

• Location: Northern end of the Gaza Strip, between the Israeli kibbutz of Erez and the Palestinian town of Beit Hanoun
• Function: Sole pedestrian crossing point between the Gaza Strip and Israel, used primarily in exceptional humanitarian cases
• Other Name: Beit Hanoun Crossing
• Managed by: Israel Defense Forces
• Capacity: Modern terminal with an area of 35,000 m² and a capacity of handling 45,000 people per day, completed in 2007
• Historical Context: Part of a complex that included the Erez Industrial Park; previously facilitated by a railway line connecting Israel and Gaza
• Connects: Israel’s Highway 4 with Gaza’s Salah al-Din Road

              Erez Crossing

SOURCE: https://www.deccanherald.com/world/israel-agrees-to-open-erez-crossing-for-gaza-aid-after-biden-pressure-us-says-2966140

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Sanofi India Limited’s recent discontinuation of ShanIPV, its inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), in India has prompted concerns regarding vaccine availability.

EXPLANATION:

• However, the company assures that there will be no shortage, as it has obtained approval for an alternative IPV, IMOVAX-Polio.
• IMOVAX-Polio, the alternative IPV, has the same composition and formulation as ShanIPV.
• This similarity ensures continuity in the immunization program without compromising on vaccine efficacy.
• Polio remains a significant global health concern despite major strides towards eradication.
• India achieved polio-free certification in 2014, marking a significant milestone in global eradication efforts.
• Inactivated polio vaccines (IPVs) play a crucial role in maintaining immunity and preventing polio outbreaks.

Regulatory Approval

• Sanofi India initiated the closure of ShanIPV in 2023 and applied for regulatory approval for IMOVAX-Polio.
• The decision was influenced by the evolving healthcare sector, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to increased supply capacities and emergence of new pharmaceutical manufacturers.
• Despite discontinuing ShanIPV, Sanofi India reaffirmed its dedication to supporting India’s public health program for polio eradication.
• The company has been a longstanding contributor to India’s journey towards becoming polio-free and aims to align its efforts with the authorities.

Maintaining Polio-Free Status in India

• India achieved polio-free certification in 2014, but maintaining this status requires sustained efforts.
• High routine immunization coverage (>90%) and robust surveillance are essential to prevent polio resurgence. ShanIPV, launched in 2015, played a crucial role in India’s Universal Immunization Programme.

Future Considerations:

• Continued emphasis on routine immunization coverage, especially within the Universal Immunization Programme, is essential to prevent polio resurgence.
• Robust surveillance systems and rapid response plans are imperative to detect and contain any polio outbreaks promptly.

ShanIPV:

• ShanIPV is an inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) produced by Sanofi Pasteur Ltd.
• It is a trivalent inactivated injectable vaccine indicated for the prevention of poliomyelitis in infants, children, and adults for primary vaccination and as a booster.
• The vaccine contains inactivated poliovirus Type 1 (Mahoney strain 40 DU) and is administered in a series of three successive doses at intervals of one or two months, followed by a first booster 6 to 12 months after the last dose.
• Further boosters in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood should be administered according to national recommendations.
• ShanIPV is stored in a refrigerator between 2°C – 8°C and should be protected from light and not frozen.
• Once opened, the vaccine can be used for up to 28 days if stored correctly. It is essential to follow official recommendations for the proper use of ShanIPV to ensure its effectiveness in preventing polio.

IMOVAX-Polio:

• IMOVAX Polio is an inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) produced by Sanofi Pasteur Ltd.
• It is indicated for the prevention of poliomyelitis in infants, children, and adults, for primary and booster vaccination.
• IMOVAX POLIO must be used according to effective official recommendations.
• The vaccine contains inactivated poliovirus Type 1 (Mahoney strain), Type 2 (MEF-1 strain), and Type 3 (Saukett strain).
• It is administered in a series of three successive doses at intervals of one or two months, followed by a first booster 6 to 12 months after the last dose.
• Further boosters in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood should be administered according to national recommendations.
• IMOVAX POLIO is stored in a refrigerator between 2°C – 8°C and should be protected from light and not frozen.
• Once opened, the vaccine can be used for up to 28 days if stored correctly.
• It is essential to follow official recommendations for the proper use of IMOVAX POLIO to ensure its effectiveness in preventing polio.
• The vaccine may contain traces of neomycin, streptomycin, and polymyxin B, which should be taken into account when administering it to individuals with allergies to these substances.
• Polio:
• Polio is a crippling and potentially deadly viral infectious disease that affects the nervous system.
• There are three individual and immunologically distinct wild poliovirus strains:
  • Wild Poliovirus type 1 (WPV1)
  • Wild Poliovirus type 2 (WPV2)
  • Wild Poliovirus type 3 (WPV3)
• Symptomatically, all three strains are identical, in that they cause irreversible paralysis or even death. However, there are genetic and virological differences, which make these three strains separate viruses which must each be eradicated individually.
• The virus is transmitted by person-to-person mainly through the faecal-oral route or, less frequently, by a common vehicle (for example, through contaminated water or food).
• It largely affects children under 5 years of age. The virus multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis.
• There is no cure, but it can be prevented through Immunisation.

India’s polio vaccination strategy:

• Pulse Polio Programme:
  • It was started with an objective of achieving 100% coverage under Oral Polio Vaccine.
• Intensified Mission Indradhanush 2.0:
  • It was a nationwide immunisation drive to mark the 25 years of Pulse polio programme (2019-20).
• Universal Immunization Programme (UIP):
  • It was launched in 1985 with the modification to ‘Expanded Programme of Immunization (EPI). The objectives of the Programme include:
    • Rapidly increasing immunization coverage
    • Improving the quality of services
    • Establishing a reliable cold chain system to the health facility level
    • Introducing a district-wise system for monitoring of performance
    • Achieving self-sufficiency in vaccine production.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/sanofi-gets-approval-for-alternative-inactivated-polio-vaccine/article68029472.ece

THE CONTEXT: The Indian healthcare sector is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements, government initiatives, and increasing demand for healthcare services. Despite the potential for expansion, the industry faces underfunding, regulatory hurdles, and infrastructure gaps. Investments and reforms are crucial to harness the opportunities and address the constraints within the healthcare industry.

ISSUES:

• Underfunding Healthcare: Despite the government’s commitment to spend 2.5% of GDP on health by 2025, the current budget allocation is significantly lower than required, covering only 28% of the projected need. There’s a call for a fundamental change in mindset towards healthcare, advocating for it to be seen as a strategic investment rather than a burden. This includes leveraging both public and private sectors to improve health services.
• Strategic Partnerships and Private Sector Involvement: The importance of forging strategic partnerships and incentivizing the private sector, which caters to nearly 70% of healthcare needs, to ensure quality health services and bridge existing gaps.
• Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY): The scheme is highlighted as a transformative step towards improving healthcare access by providing hospitalization cover to over 60 crore people. However, issues such as low reimbursement rates for hospitals and delays in reimbursements are identified as barriers to more involvement by private hospitals.
• Infrastructure Gaps: There’s a significant deficit in hospital bed density, with India having only 1.3 beds per 1,000 population, far below the recommended 3 beds per 1,000 population. The slowdown in fresh investments, especially in tier 2 and 3 cities, is concerning.
• Policy and Financial Incentives: The health sector is to be accorded national priority status, making it eligible for priority sector lending and other financial incentives, such as short-term interest-free loans, tax incentives, and production-linked incentives for indigenous manufacturing.
• Strengthening Primary Healthcare: There is a need to enhance primary healthcare through health and wellness centers and cover OPD care under health insurance to ensure better health outcomes and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure—the rising prevalence of NCDs and the importance of primary healthcare interventions to prevent and control these diseases.
• Healthcare Workforce Development: Addressing the significant number of vacancies in the public health system and the potential of the health sector to add 4 crore jobs, contributing to GDP growth, and addressing unemployment.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Investment in Medical Infrastructure: India requires significant investments to add millions of beds and medical infrastructure. Shifting the point of care and introducing technology-enabled solutions can reduce stress on hospital infrastructure and costs. Encouraging private equity, venture capitalists, and foreign players to invest in the Indian health sector, as seen by the increase in transaction values from $125 million in 2011 to $1.7 billion in 2016.
• Regulatory Reforms: Improving the policy and regulatory environment to make it less cumbersome for professional profit-motivated players and developing regulations for complementary medicines and medical devices to reduce import dependence and encourage foreign investment.
• Quality Assurance and Improvement: Focusing on quality consciousness and assurance mechanisms, promoting the adoption of existing accreditation ecosystems and quality frameworks, and implementing quality promotion interventions like Indian Public Health and National Quality Assurance Standards.
• Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases: Investing in preventative and primary healthcare to address the significant burden of non-communicable diseases, which account for a large portion of the disease burden and deaths.
• Policy Support and Incentives: Utilizing policy support and incentives such as 100% FDI in healthcare projects, correcting unfavorable duty structures, and introducing a single window clearance e-portal to improve ease of doing business.
• Insurance Coverage Expansion: Expanding insurance coverage, which is expected to increase as incomes rise and urbanization continues, provides more individuals with access to healthcare services.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors, including using financial and non-financial incentives to encourage private sector participation in healthcare delivery.

THE CONCLUSION:

To achieve sustainable growth and improve healthcare outcomes, India must focus on increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, encouraging private equity and foreign investments, and implementing regulatory reforms. Embracing digital healthcare innovations and enhancing public-private partnerships will be vital in overcoming the existing challenges and ensuring the health sector’s contribution to India’s economic development and well-being.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:

Q.1 The public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest? 2015

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Discuss the critical challenges faced by India’s healthcare system and the strategic investments required to transform it into a robust mechanism for national well-being and economic growth.

SOURCE:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/kate-middleton-diagnosis-how-to-talk-to-your-child-about-a-life-threatening-illness-9252094/

THE CONTEXT: Bengaluru, known for its lush landscapes and booming IT sector, faces a severe water crisis exacerbated by drought 2023. This crisis, reflecting broader issues of water mismanagement and unplanned urbanization, is not unique to Bengaluru but affects many urban and rural areas across southern India.

ISSUES:

• Unplanned Urbanisation: Bengaluru has undergone significant unplanned urbanization, which has led to a drastic reduction in green cover and interconnected water bodies, contributing to the water crisis.
• Mismanagement of Water Resources: There is widespread mismanagement across the country, with a heavy reliance on groundwater and insufficient measures to recharge these sources. Insufficient attention is paid to the ecosystems along river basins, which are crucial for the sustainability of urban centers.
• Deforestation and Environmental Degradation: The loss of forest cover in the Cauvery watershed, which supplies water to Bengaluru, has been significant. This has affected the river’s flow and contributed to water scarcity.
• Inadequate Governance and Institutions: The current governance model for water management is insufficient, with multiple agencies operating in silos and a lack of coordination among them. The infrastructure in cities like Bengaluru is poorly planned, with concrete and improper road construction impeding natural hydrological flows and contributing to flooding.
• Lack of Expertise and Accountability: There is a lack of subject experts in key positions within state agencies, and accountability is often missing, leading to corruption and inefficient use of funds.
• Overpopulation and Carrying Capacity: Bengaluru has exceeded its carrying capacity due to rapid population growth and urban sprawl, which has put additional strain on the city’s water resources.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Paradigm Shift in Water Governance: Transition from water supply boards to water management boards considering all forms of water as an ecological resource. Integrating rainwater, groundwater, surface water, lakes, tanks, river streams, and wastewater into a comprehensive management strategy. Place subject experts in key positions within state agencies to ensure competent water management. Introduce accountability in the system and tackle corruption to ensure effective planning and use of funds.
• Integrated River Basin Management: Establish institutions to oversee the landscape, including deforestation, sand mining, pollution, and agricultural practices, ensuring the river basins are not irretrievably altered. Encourage rooftop rainwater harvesting in houses to capture and utilize rainwater. Reestablishing the interconnectivity of lakes can rejuvenate them and retain rainwater, mitigating flooding.
• Urban Planning and Infrastructure: Implement urban planning that allows groundwater recharge, such as maintaining porous cityscapes and preventing excessive concretization. Redesign roads to facilitate hydrological flows rather than acting as barriers, which can help prevent flooding.
• Cluster-based Development: Promote cluster-based development to encourage reverse migration and reduce the pressure on Bengaluru. This involves shifting industries to taluk headquarters to foster regional development.
• Long-term Planning: Plan for future growth by building infrastructure that can accommodate an increasing population while managing resources sustainably. Develop long-term and sustainable solutions to urban challenges rather than resorting to knee-jerk reactions during crises.
• Singapore’s Water Management: Singapore’s integrated water management approach, which includes NEWater (recycled water), desalination, and rainwater capture, could serve as a model for Bengaluru.
• Curitiba’s Urban Planning: The Brazilian city of Curitiba is known for its innovative urban planning that includes green spaces and an efficient public transport system, reducing resource pressure.

THE CONCLUSION:

To address the water crisis in Bengaluru and other urban areas, there is a need for a paradigm shift in water governance, moving from water supply boards to water management boards that consider all forms of water as an ecological resource. This should be coupled with integrated river basin management, sustainable urban planning, rainwater harvesting, decentralized development, environmental protection, and institutional competence and accountability. Long-term planning and anticipation of future growth are crucial to ensure the sustainability of cities and their water resources.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 What are the environmental implications of recreating water bodies into urban land use? Explain with examples. 2021

Q.2 Effectively managing land and water resources will drastically reduce human miseries. Explain 2016

Q.3 The ideal solution to depleting groundwater resources in India is a water harvesting system.” How can it be made effective in urban areas? 2018

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Bengaluru, once known for its pleasant weather and green spaces, is now facing a severe water crisis. Analyze the factors contributing to this crisis and suggest measures to ensure sustainable water management in the city.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/is-the-urban-water-system-breaking/article68027545.ece

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THE CONTEXT: According to a study in The Lancet, India is undergoing a rapid demographic transition, with the total fertility rate projected to decline to 1.29 by 2051. This estimate is lower than projections by the government and the UN, suggesting India’s population may stabilize below 1.7 billion before 2065. The demographic transition has been driven by economic development, lower infant and child mortality, and rising women’s education and work participation.

ISSUES:

• Demographic Transition in India: India is undergoing a demographic transition, moving from high fertility and mortality rates to lower rates. This transition significantly affects the country’s population growth, age structure, and economic development.
• Population Growth and Projections: India’s population is projected to peak at around 1.65 billion by 2061 and then start declining. However, recent estimates from The Lancet suggest India’s total fertility rate (TFR) could drop to 1.29 by 2051, lower than previous government and UN projections. This faster decline in fertility could mean India’s population may stabilize below 1.7 billion much earlier than 2065.
• Uneven Transition Across States: The demographic transition is uneven across Indian states. States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are further along, while states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand lag. Even within states, there are significant variations in fertility rates at the district level.
• Implications of Demographic Transition: Declining fertility and population growth will lead to a falling dependency ratio with a larger working-age population. This can boost economic growth through increased productivity and resources for education. However, it will also result in an aging population and increased demand for healthcare, which India will need to prepare for.
• Policy Considerations: To capitalize on the demographic dividend, India needs to focus on skill development, especially for women and underprivileged groups. Investments in higher education and technical/professional training will be crucial as the number of children enrolling in schools declines. Policies to increase female labor force participation and address regional imbalances in the workforce will also be necessary.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Skill Development for Women and Underprivileged Groups: Implement comprehensive skill development programs targeting women and marginalized communities to enhance their employability in the evolving economic landscape. This includes vocational training, digital literacy programs, and entrepreneurship development initiatives.
• Educational Reforms: Focus on improving the quality of education at the middle and higher levels to reduce dropout rates. Invest in technical and professional education to prepare the youth for the demands of the modern economy. This could involve updating curricula, training teachers, and improving infrastructure.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: Strengthen the healthcare system to address the needs of an aging population and the associated increase in demand for healthcare services. This includes expanding healthcare facilities, training healthcare professionals, and promoting preventive healthcare measures.
• Encouraging Female Workforce Participation: Implement policies that support women’s participation in the workforce, such as flexible working hours, maternity leave benefits, and childcare facilities. This will help tap into female workers’ underutilized potential.
• Sectoral and Spatial Redistribution of Workforce: To balance the sectoral distribution of the workforce and promote the movement of labor from agriculture to industries and services. Encourage skill development in sectors projected to experience growth and facilitate the north-south movement of labor to create spatial balance in the labor market.
• Improving Working Conditions for Migrant Workers: Establish institutional safeguards to improve working conditions, eliminate wage discrimination, and address security concerns for migrant workers. This could include legal protections, access to social services, and mechanisms for grievance redressal.
• Preventive Healthcare: Promote preventive healthcare measures to reduce the burden of disease and improve the overall health of the population. This includes vaccination programs, health education, and lifestyle interventions.
• Healthcare for the Elderly: Develop specialized healthcare services for the elderly, including senior care, chronic disease management, and palliative care services. This will help in addressing the healthcare needs of an aging population.

THE CONCLUSION:

The demographic transition presents both opportunities and challenges for India. It can boost economic growth through increased labor productivity and resources for education and skill development. However, it will also lead to an aging population and increased healthcare needs. To capitalize on the demographic dividend, India must focus on skill development, increasing women’s workforce participation, and managing spatial and sectoral redistribution of labor.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. 2021

Q.2 Critically examine whether the growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the leading cause of population increase in India. 2015

Q.3 Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled, and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? 2016

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 India’s demographic dividend presents both opportunities and challenges.” Discuss this statement in the context of the country’s changing age structure and its impact on various sectors.

SOURCE:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/indias-fall-in-fertility-rate-may-be-a-boon-in-disguise-heres-why-9249832/

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court of India issued a contempt notice against Patanjali Ayurved for publishing misleading advertisements in violation of the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, despite the company’s assurance to the Court in November 2023 that it would refrain from such practices. The Court threatened Patanjali’s co-founder Baba Ramdev with perjury proceedings. It blamed the government for turning a blind eye to the company’s claims, including promoting Coronil as a “cure” for COVID-19 during the pandemic.

ISSUES:

• Contempt of Court by Patanjali Ayurved: The Supreme Court of India issued a contempt notice to Patanjali Ayurved for publishing misleading advertisements that claimed their products could cure various diseases, which violated the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954. This was despite the company’s previous assurance to the Court that it would not engage in such practices.
• Government Inaction: The government did not take sufficient action to inform the public that Patanjali’s product, Coronil, was not a cure for COVID-19 but merely a supporting measure. The presence of Union Ministers at a Patanjali press conference in 2021 lent credibility to the company’s claims about Coronil.
• False Advertising During the Pandemic: Patanjali was accused of promoting its products as a panacea during the COVID-19 pandemic, a blatant violation of the Act.
• Defiance of Court Orders: Despite a warning from the Court on November 21, 2023, not to advertise permanent cures and the threat of a penalty, Patanjali continued to defend and promote its products, including holding a press conference the day after the Court’s warning and issuing newspaper advertisements in December and January.
• Potential Government Support: Patanjali’s continued defiance and misleading advertising could be due to tacit support from the government, mainly as the company is based in Uttarakhand, where the government may have interests.
• Public Health Risks: The danger of allowing commercial interests to take precedence over public health and safety, emphasizing that government favoritism in health and medicine can have severe and harmful consequences.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Strict Adherence to Court Orders: The Supreme Court has already taken a significant step by issuing a contempt notice to Patanjali Ayurved and its associates for violating previous court orders. A solution is to enforce these orders strictly, with penalties for non-compliance, as was done in the case of Patanjali.
• Ministry Oversight: The Ministry of Ayush and other relevant government bodies must proactively monitor and regulate advertisements to prevent misleading claims. This includes taking urgent action and self-monitoring as urged by the Supreme Court.
• Consumer Awareness Campaigns: Government and non-governmental organizations can run campaigns to educate the public about the importance of evidence-based medicine and the risks associated with believing in unverified health claims.
• Transparency in Research: Companies like Patanjali should be encouraged or mandated to publish peer-reviewed research to support their claims, as the Supreme Court asked Patanjali to produce research evidence.
• Regulatory Action: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States has a history of acting against companies making unsubstantiated health claims. For instance, in 2016, the FTC reached settlements with four companies marketing weight-loss products with unsupported claims.
• Legal Action: In 2009, the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned a L’Oréal makeup advertisement for being misleading, demonstrating the role of legal bodies in regulating false advertising.
• Partnerships for Self-Regulation: Industry stakeholders can form self-regulatory bodies, such as the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), which can set ethical advertising standards and adjudicate complaints against misleading advertisements.

THE CONCLUSION:

The solutions to the issues raised by the misleading advertisements of Patanjali Ayurved involve a combination of strict legal enforcement, proactive regulatory actions, public awareness campaigns, transparency in research, and collaboration between various stakeholders. By implementing these solutions, it is possible to protect consumers from false health claims and uphold the integrity of the healthcare industry.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 What is the primary (principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? 2022

Q.2 The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are readily available to overcome the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid pandemic management. 2020

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Discuss the Supreme Court’s recent actions against Patanjali Ayurved for publishing misleading advertisements and analyze the government’s role and responsibility in addressing such violations of the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.

SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/dangerous-game-on-patanjali-ayurveds-claims/article68024468.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Project Tiger, a cornerstone initiative in wildlife conservation, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023. While initially hailed as a success, recent observations suggest a need for a deeper understanding of its strategies and outcomes.

EXPLANATION:

• A critical assessment is essential to address discrepancies between public perception and on-ground realities.

Methodological Concerns in Population Monitoring:

• Model-Based Inference:
  • India’s tiger population monitoring relies on model-based inference, shifting from the pugmark census method post-2004.
  • However, concerns regarding the robustness of the model have been raised by specialists, casting doubt on reported population growth.
• Analogy with Speedometer Reading:
  • Like a speedometer reading in heavy traffic, reported tiger numbers should be scrutinized, considering methodological discrepancies and ecological principles.

Ecological Considerations in Tiger Conservation:

• Occupancy-Abundance Relationship:
  • The focus on increasing tiger numbers within confined reserves without corresponding habitat expansion is questioned.
  • Neglecting the occupancy-abundance relationship may lead to unnatural habitat modifications and increased human-wildlife conflicts.
• Human Impact Perspective:
  • The identity of threats to tiger conservation (e.g., local communities, poachers) is less relevant than the extent of harm caused.
  • A unified approach involving all stakeholders, regardless of background, is advocated for effective conservation strategies.

Need for Scientific Rigor and Stakeholder Involvement:

• Shallow Understanding of Tiger Ecology:
  • Despite significant funding, our understanding of tiger ecology remains limited. Paradoxical trends and inbreeding within populations highlight the need for a critical, science-based approach.
• Lack of Vibrant Scientific Debate:
  • The absence of robust scientific discourse within the Indian conservation community is concerning.
  • Encouraging questioning and re-evaluation is essential for progress in tiger conservation.
• Role of International NGOs:
  • Large international NGOs involved in tiger conservation should actively contribute to scientific discourse, even if it challenges existing narratives.
  • Their involvement can foster a culture of critical inquiry and enhance conservation efforts.

Future Directions for Project Tiger:

• Incorporating Advanced Methodologies:
  • Project Tiger must evolve to incorporate advanced scientific methodologies to ensure conservation strategies are responsive to ecological realities.
• Fostering Critical Inquiry:
  • A culture of critical inquiry should be fostered within the conservation community to ensure sound scientific foundations for tiger conservation.
• Global Best Practices:
  • Drawing lessons from rigorous scientific programs like space research, Project Tiger can enhance its effectiveness and ensure sustainable tiger conservation for the next 50 years.

Project Tiger:

• Project Tiger was launched in 1973.
• It aimed at conserving India’s tiger population by establishing Tiger Reserves.
• Over time, these reserves have expanded significantly, growing from nine reserves covering 9,115 sq. km to 54 reserves across 18 states.
• It encompasses 78,135.956 sq. km.
• Using camera-trap methods, the tiger population is estimated to be between 3,167-3,925.
• It showcased a growth rate of 6.1% annually and positioning India as a global tiger stronghold, housing approximately 75% of the world’s tigers.
• The Wildlife (Protection) Act (WLPA) of 1972 laid the groundwork for protected areas, such as National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• The subsequent introduction of Project Tiger led to the statutory establishment of Tiger Reserves in 2006.
• This period also saw the creation of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the identification of Critical Tiger Habitats (CTH) within the reserves.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/lack-of-scientific-debate-and-involvement-of-all-stakeholders-will-not-help-project-tiger-succeed-95368

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The United States and the United Kingdom have entered into an agreement aimed at collaboratively addressing the challenges posed by the rapid proliferation of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

EXPLANATION:

• The agreement focuses on developing tests and frameworks to evaluate the safety and security of AI models, with the goal of mitigating potential risks associated with their deployment.

The Significance of the Agreement:

• The agreement stems from commitments made at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit, signaling a proactive approach by both nations to address the complexities of AI governance.
• By sharing vital information and technical research on AI safety, the US and the UK aim to enhance their collective understanding and capabilities in managing AI-related risks.

Key Components of the Agreement:

• Collaborative Test Development:
  • Both countries will work together to develop robust evaluation suites for AI models, systems, and agents.
  • These evaluations will serve as standardized tests to assess the capabilities and risks associated with advanced AI technologies.
• Alignment of Scientific Approaches:
  • The US and the UK will align their scientific approaches towards AI safety testing, fostering synergy and coherence in their efforts.
  • This alignment is crucial for ensuring consistency and effectiveness in evaluating AI systems.
• Exchange of Expertise:
  • The agreement facilitates personnel exchanges between AI Safety Institutes in both countries, allowing them to tap into a collective pool of expertise.
  • This exchange of knowledge enhances the capacity of both nations to address AI-related challenges comprehensively.

Partnership Expansion and Global Outreach:

• In addition to strengthening their bilateral partnership, the US and the UK are committed to extending similar collaborations to other countries.
• This initiative aims to promote global cooperation in AI safety and security, recognizing the importance of collective action in addressing transnational AI risks.

US Initiatives on AI Safety:

• The US has initiated consultations on the risks, benefits, and policies related to dual-use foundation models, indicating a proactive approach to AI governance.
• The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) seeks inputs on various aspects, including the openness of AI models and associated benefits and risks.

Industry Perspectives and Recommendations:

• Leading AI companies such as Meta and OpenAI have offered insights into the importance of open-source AI models and responsible AI deployment.
• While open-source models are hailed as drivers of innovation, concerns regarding safety, security, and trustworthiness underscore the need for balanced approaches to AI development and dissemination.

Global Regulatory Landscape:

• Governments worldwide are grappling with AI regulation to address its potential downsides while fostering innovation.
• Recent initiatives, such as the EU’s AI Act and the US Executive Order on AI, demonstrate efforts to establish legislative frameworks and safeguards.
• These regulatory measures aim to balance innovation with ethical and societal considerations.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/us-uk-agreement-ai-safety-testing-9248773/

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: The recent massive earthquake in Taiwan highlights the vulnerability of regions along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” to seismic activity.

EXPLANATION:

• This geological phenomenon, characterized by a string of volcanoes and earthquake-prone sites, plays a significant role in shaping the Earth’s landscape and poses risks to human populations in affected areas.

Defining the Ring of Fire:

• The Ring of Fire is essentially a string of hundreds of volcanoes and earthquake-sites which runs along the Pacific Ocean.
• It is a semicircle or horse shoe in shape and stretches nearly 40,250 kilometres.
• The Ring of Fire traces the meeting points of numerous tectonic plates, including the Eurasian, North American, Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Caribbean, Nazca, Antarctic, Indian, Australian, Philippine, and other smaller plates, which all encircle the large Pacific Plate, according to a report by National Geographic.
• It runs through 15 more countries including the USA, Indonesia, Mexico, Japan, Canada, Guatemala, Russia, Chile, Peru, and the Philippines.

Geological Significance:

• The Ring of Fire serves as a hotspot for tectonic plate interactions, making it one of the most seismically active regions on Earth.
• The convergence, divergence, and subduction of tectonic plates generate immense geological pressure, leading to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
• This constant movement and interaction of plates create a dynamic and volatile environment along the Ring of Fire.

Causes of Earthquakes in the Ring of Fire:

• The high frequency of earthquakes along the Ring of Fire is primarily attributed to the movement of tectonic plates.
• As these plates slide past, collide with, or move beneath one another, they create friction and stress along their boundaries.
• When the accumulated stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, it results in sudden movements known as earthquakes.
• The rugged edges of tectonic plates often become locked together, releasing energy in the form of seismic waves when they eventually slip or rupture.

Impact on Taiwan:

• Taiwan, situated along the western edge of the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate.
• The collision and subduction of these plates contribute to the formation of earthquakes, posing significant risks to the island’s population and infrastructure.
• The recent earthquake in Taiwan underscores the ongoing threat posed by geological hazards in the region.

Role of Volcanoes in the Ring of Fire:

• The presence of numerous volcanoes along the Ring of Fire is closely linked to the process of subduction, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another.
• Subduction zones, prevalent in the Ring of Fire, create conditions conducive to volcanic activity by melting crustal rocks and generating magma.
• The magma, rising to the surface, forms volcanic eruptions, contributing to the formation of new landforms and geological features.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/earthquake-taiwan-ring-of-fire-9249383/

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: In response to the growing threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), the Uttarakhand government has initiated efforts to assess the risk posed by potentially hazardous glacial lakes in the region.

EXPLANATION:

• This proactive measure aims to minimize the possibility of GLOF incidents and enhance preparedness for relief and evacuation efforts.
• Rising global temperatures, attributed to climate change, have exacerbated the risk of GLOFs.
• Studies indicate that glacial lakes are expanding and becoming more unstable, posing a significant threat to communities in the Himalayan region.
• Uttarakhand, with its vulnerable geography, has witnessed several GLOF events in recent years, including the catastrophic incidents in the Kedarnath valley in 2013 and Chamoli district in 2021.

National and Regional Concerns:

• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has identified numerous glacial lakes in the Himalayan states, including Uttarakhand, as potential sources of GLOFs.
• Uttarakhand, in particular, harbors thirteen such lakes, raising concerns about the safety of downstream areas and critical infrastructure.

Assessment and Risk Categorization:

• To address these concerns, the Uttarakhand government has constituted expert teams tasked with evaluating the risk levels of five high-risk glacial lakes in the region.
• These lakes, categorized as ‘A’ level risks, include Vasudhara Tal in Chamoli district and four lakes in Pithoragarh district.
• The assessment aims to classify the lakes based on their potential for GLOF incidents, providing valuable insights for risk mitigation strategies.
• The threat of GLOFs in Uttarakhand is further compounded by projections of increasing surface temperatures in the region.
• Studies indicate a potential rise in the state’s average maximum temperature, exacerbating the risk of glacial melt and GLOF events.
• This underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address climate-induced hazards and safeguard vulnerable communities.

Global Context and Research Findings:

• GLOFs are not unique to Uttarakhand but pose a significant global challenge, particularly in regions with vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
• Research studies highlight the scale of the risk, with millions of people in India and Pakistan facing potential GLOF threats.
• The severity of the situation underscores the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation efforts at both national and regional levels.

What is a Glacial Lake and How is it formed?

• It is believed that about 10000 years ago, when the glaciers began retreating, they left behind large deposits of ice in the hollows between drumlins.
• Drumlin is an oval or elongated hill formed by the streamlined movement of glacial ice sheets across rock debris, or till.
• Glacial lakes are formed when a glacier erodes the land (through abrasion and glacial plucking) and creates depression and grooves which are then filled by the meltwater from retreating glaciers.
• However, natural dams, formed out of ice and terminal moraines, can also form glacial lakes.
• Moraine refers to the accumulation of rocks and sediments which have been transported or deposited by ice/glacier.
• Lateral moraines are formed along the sides of a glacier.
• Terminal moraine marks the maximum limit of an icesheet or glacier through formation of a linear ridge of glacial material. When such terminal moraines dam the meltwater from glacial retreat, they result into formation of a moraine-dammed glacial lake.
• The terminal moraine exhibits a characteristic ‘kettle and hummock’ topography. Lakes and marshes are likely to occupy the depressions(kettles). Large angular boulders are found in terminal moraines.
• The south Lhonak glacial lake is a classic example of moraine-dammed glacial lake.

What is Glacial Lake Outburst Flood?

• Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) is a type of flood that occurs when water dammed by a glacier, or a moraine is released.
• When glaciers melt, the water in these glacial lakes accumulate behind loose, naturally formed ‘glacial/moraine dams’ made of ice, sand, pebbles and ice residue.
• A catastrophic failure of the dam can release the water over periods of minutes to days causing extreme downstream flooding.
• Peak flows as high as 15,000 cubic meters per second have been recorded in such events.

• The Himalayan states of India sitting at the foothills of the Hindukush-Himalayan ranges are highly susceptible to disasters like Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
• There exist over 54,000 glaciers in the Third pole which are retreating at alarming rates due to temperature surges in the wake of Climate Change.
• The average temperature in the region has increased by 0.28°C per decade between 1951 and 2020 which has hastened the glacial lake formation as well as the glacial retreat.
• Scientific assessments and studies indicate the higher vulnerability of the Eastern Himalayas to GFOFs as compared to the Western Himalayan region, with the former facing twice the risks than the latter.
• This is attributed to the relatively warmer Eastern Himalayas. Further, it is contended that the threats would triple by 2050 with more hotspots emerging farther west.

OURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/risk-from-glacial-lake-floods-9249967/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The financial relationship between the Union and State governments in India has long been a subject of intense debate. Recently, the Government of Kerala has raised concerns about the limitations imposed by the Centre on the borrowing powers of the State governments.

EXPLANATION:

• This issue underscores the broader discussion about the allocation of financial resources and responsibilities between the Union and the States.
• In India, the authority to levy taxes is primarily vested with the Union government, while a significant portion of government spending occurs at the State level.
• This arrangement results in a situation where States bear the responsibility for crucial sectors such as health and education, which directly impact the lives of citizens.

Categorization of Expenditures by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI):

• The RBI categorizes budgetary expenditures of both Union and State governments into ‘developmental’ and ‘non-developmental’ expenditures.
• Developmental expenditures encompass investments in social services and economic sectors, while non-developmental expenditures include interest payments, pensions, and subsidies.

Sources of State Government Funds:

• State governments derive their funds from three primary sources:
  • Own Revenues: These include tax and non-tax revenues generated within the State.
  • Transfers from the Union Government: These transfers consist of shares of taxes and grants allocated by the Union government to the States.
  • Market Borrowings: State governments also raise funds through borrowing from financial markets.

Challenges Faced by Kerala and Other States:

• Kerala’s recent appeal to the Supreme Court highlights the challenge faced by States in balancing their expenditures with limited borrowing capacity.
• The Centre’s imposition of a borrowing limit of 3% of the State’s income or Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has raised concerns about federalism and the autonomy of State governments.

• Kerala’s historical commitment to social sector spending has been commendable, with a significant portion of its budget allocated to education, health, and other social services.
• However, the stagnation in social sector spending in Kerala since the mid-2000s raises questions about the sustainability of its development model.

Implications of Borrowing Constraints:

• The declining transfers from the Union government coupled with Kerala’s own revenue limitations have necessitated increased reliance on market borrowings.
• However, crossing the borrowing limit set by the Centre poses challenges for meeting essential expenditure requirements, especially in times of economic crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Need for Increased Government Spending:

• Advocates argue for increased government spending, particularly in areas such as higher education and research, to foster economic growth and innovation.
• However, achieving this objective requires greater flexibility in borrowing norms and a collaborative approach between the Centre and the States.

State Borrowings: The Constitutional Provisions

• Chapter II of Part XII of the Constitution of India deals with borrowing by the Central Government and State Governments.
• It comprises two provisions:
  • Article 292 covers borrowing by the Central Government, and Article 293, covers borrowing by State Governments.
  • Article 293 (3) requires State Governments that are indebted to the Central Government to seek the consent of the Central Government before raising further borrowings.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/should-state-governments-borrow-more-explained/article68025726.ece/amp/