RELEVANCE TO UPSC SYLLABUS: GS 3: ENVIRONMENT: ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION AND DEGRADATION; ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

THE CONTEXT: Air pollution is a big menace for the city of Delhi which faces this issue annually. The problems with poor air quality usually attract attention during late autumn when stubble burning is at its peak in the states neighbouring the NCR. However, data shows that good or even moderately satisfactory air evades the capital’s residents for most parts of the year, especially in winter.

 REASONS:

• Crop Burning:Farmers of the states around Delhi carry out stubble burning which leads to generation of pollution and these pollutants are carried towards Delhi.
• Vehicular Emissions: Vehicle emissions contribute to the dangerous impacts of smog and air pollution. Due to the sheer volume of automobiles on the road, this is a significant source of pollution.
• Construction Dust: Increase in construction and other infrastructure work in the region has led to generation of construction dust, which acts as a pollutant.
• Industrial Pollution: Delhi-NCR’s industries have not embraced environmentally friendly fuels and methods. They emit harmful gases which cause pollution.
• Stagnant Winds: During winter months, the upward movement of air from the layers below is stopped which causes polluted air to be stagnant over the region. Due to stagnant winds, the pollutants generated in the area get trapped over the region which increases the chances of pollution to a great extent.
• Geographical Reason: As Delhi is land-locked from all sides, the north-westerly winds coming from Pakistan and Afghanistan bring in large amounts of dust particles to the region. Due to the presence of Himalayas, which block the escape route of the air, the dust and pollutants settle in the region.
• Lack in programme implementation: There is lack of effectiveness in programme implementation to tackle air pollution. For example, CAQM has not developed a synergy between the different bodies whose work is crucial to ensure clean air pollution. In 2019, the government launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to reduce pollution by 20-30% by 2024 compared to 2017. In 2022, the programme’s goalposts were shifted 40% reduction in pollution by 2026. Most independent studies show that progress under NCAP has been slow.
• Unutilised funds: Recently, Centre told Parliament that cities in Delhi-NCR have utilised less than 40 per cent of the funds allocated to curb air pollution.

RECENT STEPS TAKEN:

• Commission for Air Quality Management is monitoring agency set up in 2021 and it has imposed restrictions under phase III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
• GRAP is a set of incremental anti-pollution measures that are triggered to prevent further worsening of air quality once it reaches a certain threshold in the Delhi-NCR region.
• The implementation of Stage-III GRAP mandates immediate action on multiple fronts. The Sub-Committee decides to invoke 8 point action plan as per Stage-III of revised GRAP in the entire NCR with immediate effect.
• The anti-pollution steps under the 8-point action plan by the central commission are:

1. Intensify the frequency of mechanised and vacuum-based sweeping of roads.
2. Ensure daily water sprinkling, along with dust suppressants, before peak traffic hours on roads and pollution hotspots.
3. Intensify public transport services and introduce differential rates to encourage off-peak travel.
4. Enforce a strict ban on construction and demolition activities in the entire NCR, except essential projects.
5. Close down operations of stone crushers.
6. Close down all mining and associated activities in NCR.
7. Impose strict restrictions on the operation of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel LMVs.
8. Make a decision on discontinuing physical classes in schools for children up to class 4 and conduct classes in an online mode.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Address Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) burning: A study found that Delhi burns 190 to 246 tons of MSW every day, which severely pollutes the air. Therefore, any form of garbage burning must be stopped and authorities need to develop infrastructure for effective collection and disposal of MSW.
• Promote the use of electric and BS-VI vehicles: On an average vehicle can contribute up to 25% to PM 2.5 levels and at some locations, it can spike to 35%. Using Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) can significantly reduce emissions from diesel vehicles. The introduction of more electric, hybrid and BS-VI vehicles can also help reduce the pollution. Improvement of public transport is also necessary to address the problem.
• Limit biomass burning: Burning of crop residue in Haryana and Punjab needs to stop on urgent basis. Instead of burning, the residue can be used for energy production, biogas generation and feeding cattle.
• Tackle fly ash: During summers, fly ash is one of the biggest contributors to PM 10 in Delhi. To deal with the pollutants, water spraying, installation of windbreakers and plantations should be done.
• Need of long-term plan: There are several measures that are being taken from spraying water to implementing GRAP to odd even solution. However, these measures provide temporary relief, therefore, the persistent problem of air pollution needs a long-term solution like drafting out an all-year action plan to improve air quality.
• Enhanced powers to the authorities: Though CAQM has taken various steps, but the agency has functioned more like a regulator whose primary responsibility is to implement the Graded Action Response Plan. There is a need for more independent power to authorities to take pre-emptive actions and allow denser monitoring.

THE CONCLUSION: Despite several steps taken for combating air pollution in Delhi, it continues to be a much more serious problem. To significantly improve air quality in Delhi, a host of preventive steps need to be taken to provide a long-term solution to this problem.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve revised standards? (2021)
2. What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India? (2020)

 MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Delhi registered severe air pollution on the Air Quality Index (AQI) recently. In this context, analyse the major factors contributing to Delhi’s pollution and suggest measures that need to be taken to address the persistent problem of air pollution in Delhi.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/delhi-air-quality-aqi-aqi-register-caqm-pollution-monitoring-agency-9110840/#:~:text=The%20persistent%20problem%20frames%20the,So%20far%2C%20mechanisms%20are%20failing&text=Delhi’s%20problems%20with%20poor%20air,the%20states%20neighbouring%20the%20NCR.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. What the World Malaria Report says about India READ MORE
2. COP28: What is Global Stocktake — and why is it important? READ MORE
3. RBI monetary policy: Why is the Monetary Policy Committee likely to leave repo rate unchanged? READ MORE
4. BCG revaccination study in high-risk adults to begin in 23 States READ MORE
5.  ‘India will be the largest cotton producer’ READ MORE
6. COP28 climate meet | India not among 118 nations that pledged to triple green energy READ MORE
7. Lithium supply strategy: India’s initiative with Argentina’s CAMYEN gains traction READ MORE
8. Natural superhero fungi boosts crop yields by 40% READ MORE
9. After COVID break, Centre approves fourth phase roll-out of GIAN scheme READ MORE
10. India agreed to withdraw soldiers from country, says Maldives President Muizzu READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Re-criminalising adultery as a gender-neutral offence READ MORE
2. Weather Report: East India braces for wet days ahead as Cyclone Michaung builds up; North India to remain dry READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The legal net to trap peddlers of deepfakes READ MORE
2. Private job quota for locals ends with order READ MORE
3. Role of Governors in focus again READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. India, disability inclusion and the power of ‘by’ READ MORE  

 INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Kissinger: Cold warrior of realpolitik READ MORE  
2. Time for a reset in India-US ties READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Growth surprise points to status quo on repo rate READ MORE
2. Economy well on track but growth not yet broad-based READ MORE
3. Why government is not worried about missing disinvestment target READ MORE
4. How Indian economy has silenced ‘perennial pessimists’ READ MORE
5. India’s geo-digital age is here – tech partnerships, data protection, semiconductors READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Why India will continue to rely on coal for foreseeable future READ MORE  
2. India reduced emissions intensity 33% in 2005-2019, shows new submission to UN READ MORE
3. COP28 must put global climate action back on track READ MORE
4. Will COP28 UAE shape climate justice amid clash between urgency and economic realities in global climate action? READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. The transformative benefits of population-level genome sequencing | Explained READ MORE   
2. Artificial Intelligence: Benefits outweigh the detriments READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Combating cybercrimes READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. The Uttarakhand tunnel workers have been rescued. It’s time to ask hard questions about the project READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Panacea for grief: Realise the eternity within READ MORE
2. Your anger, your energy READ MORE
3. Serve Param Purush READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. A bottom-up approach to disability inclusion is needed to ensure that persons with disabilities are recognised as active members of society and the economy. In the light of the statement critically examine the schemes established as part of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016).
2. The goal of social justice cannot be achieved without the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all spheres of development, starting with rural areas and rural resilience. Comment.
3. The historic marginalisation of persons with disabilities and the backsliding of the progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, a fundamental shift in commitment, solidarity, financing and action is critical. Discuss how the voices and needs of persons with disabilities be prioritised at the centre of the global development agenda.
4. ‘Strategic Autonomy’ deployed by India in recent times owes itself to the foundational principle of realpolitik, as it allows the practitioner to not get closeted within the linear grouping. Critically examine the statement.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.
• There needs to be more inclusive opportunities and employment in the rural areas as a majority of persons with disabilities live here.
• The first step is awareness to ensure last-mile connectivity of the benefits enumerated for people with disabilities by the government, which begins with the capacity-building of community leaders who can advocate for this at the grass-roots level.
• A bottom-up approach to disability inclusion is crucial to build productive pathways out of poverty and ensure that persons with disabilities are recognised as active members of society and the economy.
• The goal of social justice cannot be achieved without the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all spheres of development, starting with rural areas and rural resilience.
• A bi-directional link to poverty, nutrition, and hunger, and as a consequence, there needs to be more inclusive opportunities and employment in rural areas.
• The historic marginalisation of persons with disabilities and the backsliding of the progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, a fundamental shift in commitment, solidarity, financing and action is critical.
• It is about time that the voices and needs of persons with disabilities be prioritised at the centre of the global development agenda.
• Though the domestic economy is on a stronger footing, inflation needs to sustain at 4 per cent for interest rates to be cut.
• Though the domestic economy is on a stronger footing and global headwinds are not too threatening as to upset inflation-growth dynamics, the lingering El Nino impact on the farm sector could be a cause of concern.
• ‘Strategic Autonomy’ deployed by India in recent times owes itself to the foundational principle of realpolitik, as it allows the practitioner to not get closeted within the linear grouping and associated puritanism of ‘allies’ to which a sovereign subscribed.
• As India meanders and navigates its rise in global relevance and animus simultaneously, it would do well to mull over and keep pace with the evolving nature of diplomacy.
• The extent of moral compromises, leniencies and even suppressions done by Superpowers in their quest to assert their geopolitical agendas and interests, is even more pronounced.
• It is imperative to foster a constructive working relationship to resolve the disharmony between the Centre and the states.
• Instead of engaging in public arguments, Chief Ministers and Governors should create a more conducive environment for the federal structure to operate seamlessly. Establishing a positive and productive relationship is crucial for the efficient functioning of the state.
• The core commitment of COP28 is to conceptualise a sustainable socio-economic model that will substantively decouple itself from conventional reliance on the fossil-related energy model.
• The alignment of AI use cases with the vision of the organisation is the most important aspect of the adoption of AI.
• The development of AI should not be an ad-hoc process but a part of a well-thought-out strategy which has the support of the top management and confidence of all stakeholders as a tool for reducing their burden rather than replacing them or their work.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Strategy is not the consequence of planning, but the opposite: its starting point.

50-WORD TALK

• Tamil Nadu police have a new target. It’s called ED. Scenes of police raiding ED office upend the playbook of what has become so routine and partisan that nobody even ponders anymore. It shows how broken the federal compact is. The primary responsibility of repairing centre-state balance lies with centre.
• China has become the first nation to accept the Taliban’s ambassador, starting the normalisation of the outfit in the global order. This is the destiny of Afghanistan that everyone will have to accept, even as efforts continue to sustain international pressure on the Taliban for women’s rights and curbing terrorism.

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.

RELEVANCE TO UPSC SYLLABUS: GS 3: ECONOMIC GROWTH; EMPLOYMENT; LABOUR AND PRODUCTIVITY

THE CONTEXT: Infosys chairman N.R. Narayana Murthy sparked a debate by urging young Indians to work 70 hours per week to develop the country. He cited Japan and Germany as examples of countries that grew because their citizens worked for longer hours to rebuild their nations in the aftermath of the Second World War.

ISSUES

• Against law of economics: According to Keynesian law of economics, the output is determined by aggregate demand of goods, and the demand for labour is entirely dependent upon this demand. Firms that employ more labour while aggregate demand has not increased will find themselves with unsold goods. So, an offer by workers to work longer hours will not ensure that they will find employment so long as firms are unwilling to hire them.
• Not aligned to Indian conditions: The high working hours that contributed to

other countries are unlikely to serve the purpose in Indian conditions. In the economic rise of the mentioned countries, it was post-war reconstruction that provided the demand for greater output.

• Informal nature of economy: In India, major segment of economy is informal in nature which is another hurdle in reaping the benefits of increasing worker productivity.
• Asymmetric demography: There is asymmetric growth of the working-age ratio in India as major working population is likely to be concentrated in some of India’s poorest states. The full economic growth can fully realized only if India is able to create gainful employment opportunities for this working-age population.
• Lack of skills: Most of the new jobs that will be created in the future will be highly skilled and lack of skill in Indian workforce is a major challenge. India may not be able to take advantage of the opportunities, due to a low human capital base and lack of skills.
• Lack of capital: Indian workers do not actually lag behind other countries when it comes to clocking in long hours at work. But there is a lack of sufficient capital that can help boost their productivity. Among the top 10 biggest economies, India has the highest weekly working hours and the lowest per capita GDP.

CONDITIONS IN OTHER COUNTRIES

• Germany and Japan had experienced a decline in their workforces due to greater mortality, both from combat and the bombing after second world war. So, when it came to rebuilding these economies, the demand for labour was abnormally high. In the case of west Germany, there was the Marshall Plan by which the United States had assisted the country’s revival.
• South Korea too was recovering from a war, though a different one, and its resurgence was supported by considerable foreign aid received from the U.S.
• Prior to the resumption of production, these cities would have had to be cleared of rubble, a task requiring massive deployment of labour given the scale of the devastation.
• However, a political aspect beyond finance, common to all these three countries, is a strong nationalistic element that is likely to have accompanied their post-war reconstruction.
• There is insufficient recognition of the fact that the manufacturing success of the east is underpinned by prior success in agriculture.

THE WAY FORWARD

• Employment generation: The nation needs to create enormous job to absorb the addition of young people into the workforce. Promoting business interests and entrepreneurship would help in job creation to provide employment to the large labour force.
• Enhance human development parameters: India ranks 130 out of 189 countries in UNDP’s Human Development Index, which is alarming. Therefore, health and education parameters need to be improved substantially to make the Indian workforce efficient and skilled.
• Use of global market to grow domestic economy: There is a need to use the global market demand to grow the domestic economy for which India’s goods would have to be globally competitive. Here, the experience of South Korea is relevant. As most of the produced inputs into production are available to all countries via trade, a country’s competitiveness is determined by the productivity of its workforce. The strength of a workforce is related to its health and skill. Here, India’s workers are at a disadvantage compared to the most successful economies of Asia. Thus, there is need to enhance skills for maximum utilization of global economy.
• Expand the domestic market: There is a need to expand the domestic market which can increase the aggregate demand. For example, there is need to cut cost of food production to increase the real income of the Indian households. This would lead them to spend on non-agricultural goods and services. This would generate the demand needed to spur production in the rest of the economy.

THE CONCLUSION: India represents a unique case and any arbitrary comparison with other countries would only lead to irrational policy prescriptions. There is a need to enhance social investments potential for increased labour productivity to achieve more sustainable and desirable outcome.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard. (2023)
2. Is inclusive growth possible under market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India. (2022)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

According to the International Labour Organization, despite long working hours, Indian economic growth is not substantial. How can India translate its worker productivity to economic growth? Explain

Refer to mains focus article for more:

https://blog.lukmaanias.com/2023/10/13/labour-force-participation-is-up-unemployment-is-down-what-about-the-quality-of-work/

https://blog.lukmaanias.com/2023/11/09/the-problem-with-the-70-hours-a-week-line/

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/making-sense-of-the-employment-challenge/article67555366.ece

RELEVANCE TO UPSC SYLLABUS:GS3: ENVIRONMENT: CONSERVATION, ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION, AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE AND ISSUES

THE CONTEXT:  Stubble burning by farmers in Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh (UP) creates seasonal pollution in northern India. This situation is very serious in northwest India and critical in the National Capital Territory Region.

WHAT IS STUBBLE BURNING?

Stubble (parali) burning is a method of removing paddy crop residues from the field to sow wheat from the last week of September to November.

• It is a process of setting on fire the straw stubble, left after the harvesting of grains, like paddy, wheat, etc.
• It is usually required in areas that use the combined harvesting method which leaves crop residue behind.
• The process of burning farm residue is one of the major causes of air pollution in parts of north India, deteriorating the air quality.
• The rice stubble burning is highest in the state of Punjab followed by Haryana, whereas Uttar Pradesh ranks higher in wheat stubble burning.

HISTORY:

Dry fodder: Till a few decades ago, crop residue, including stubble, was used as dry fodder for livestock or as fuel for the kitchen or incorporated in-situ in soil. It wasn’t burnt, at least not on a large scale.

During the 1990’s: Things started changing in the 1990s. Two factors contributed:

• Free or highly subsidised power supply for groundwater extraction.
• Power supply to the farm sector in Punjab has been free since 1997, while in Haryana, it is subsidised.
• With access to assured irrigation, paddy acreages in Punjab grew from 50 per cent of the net sown area in the mid-1990s to 75 per cent in recent years.
• In Haryana, this jumped from 30 per cent to 40 per cent.

• In the absence of cheap labour, machines like the Combined Harvester appeared:
  • Paddy harvesting and threshing are labour-intensive and this pushed up the demand for labour.
  • This machine only picked the plant’s top part (panicle) and left the remaining stalk of about 2-3 feet (stubble) standing in the field.
  • Clearing this stalk required a separate round of harvesting, collection and disposal and the easy solution was to set it on fire.
  • Manual harvesting: In Manual harvesting, stalks are harvested close to the ground. They were later collected at one place and grain was recovered through manual beating.
  • The remaining stalk was piled in a corner of the field where it decomposed slowly.
  • This occupied a small area and farmers did not mind sparing that for storage of paddy straw.

IMPACT:

• There have been incidences of stubble burning wherever a combined harvester has been used.
• Such incidents are being reported from paddy fields in central and eastern Indian states as well.

Pollution: Stubble burning emits toxic pollutants in the atmosphere containing harmful gases like:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOC).
• These pollutants disperse in the surroundings and eventually affect air quality and people’s health by forming a thick blanket of smog.

Soil fertility: Soil becomes less fertile and its nutrients are destroyed when the husk is burned on the ground.

Heat penetration: Stubble burning generates heat that penetrates into the soil, causing an increase in erosion, loss of useful microbes and moisture.

Silica content in paddy straw: Paddy straw has high silica content and is not preferred as animal feed. If ploughed back into the field, it interferes with subsequent crop operations. Only some farmers use farm machines like happy seeder and straw management machines to incorporate the stubble back into the soil instead of setting it on fire.

INITIATIVES:

• Applying a decomposer to encourage in-situ management of stubble.
• Using the direct seeding of rice (DSR) technique.

Baling machines (balers) for paddy straw:  These machines are already in use in Punjab and Haryana, which has made it feasible to put paddy and other crop straws in the value chain.

• The total cost of procuring the entire stubble burnt in the field in Punjab comes to Rs 2,000 crore and, in Haryana, about Rs 1,000 crore.

Production of biofuel: A small market for paddy straw sold in compact bales has already emerged in both the states (Haryana and Punjab) for production of biofuel such as Bio CNG and ethanol and as direct fuel in brick kilns, furnaces, and thermal plants. Some enterprising farmers have sold parali(stubble) at Rs 180 per quintal this season.

MEASURES TO REDUCE POLLUTION DUE TO STUBBLE BURNING:

The Commission on Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has developed a framework and action plan:

In-situ Crop Residue Management: CRM machines procurement, setting up of Custom Hiring Centers, high yield and short duration paddy varieties, staggering of harvesting schedule, extensive use of bio-decomposer by IARI.

Ex-situ Crop Residue Management: Biomass Power Projects, Co-firing in Thermal Power Plants, Feed stock for 2G Ethanol plants, Feed stock in Compressed Biogas plant, fuel in industrial boilers, WTE plants, packaging materials etc.

• Prohibition of stubble /crop residue burning.
• Effective monitoring /enforcement.
• Schemes to reduce the generation of paddy straw.
• IEC activities for the plan of action.
• Standard protocol for recording and monitoring of fire counts.

THE WAY FORWARD:

Finding an alternative to paddy: An alternative crop like maize will also produce large amounts of stubble like paddy, and only a small part of that will have demand as dry fodder.

Reducing the duration of the rice crop: It is believed that early harvest would leave a longer period for the next crop. It would address the farm-fire problem. It will mitigate the environmental problem to a small extent.

Rethinking the policy: Rethinking the policy of providing free power. This is also needed to avert the over-exploitation of groundwater.

Direct Cash/benefit transfer (DBT): A simple shift to a metered supply of power will not be acceptable without compensating farmers’ income for the cost of power. One possibility is to give a direct cash/benefit transfer (DBT) instead of a power subsidy. By indexing the DBT amount to inflation in power tariffs, this amount can grow annually and remain relevant for farmers. This will make diversification away from paddy feasible.

Creating a market: Create a market for paddy straw/stubble. Unless stubble is made valuable for farmers, they will continue to burn it. We need to create an effective market for stubble that at least compensates them for the extra effort and cost involved in its harvest, collection and disposal.

Subsidised supply of machinery: Further modifications and subsidised supply of machinery for in-situ use of paddy stubble will also be very helpful in preventing farm fires in some areas.

Happy seeder: Mounted on a tractor, this machine is used to cut and lift straw, sow wheat and rice in soil and deposit straw over the sown area, instead of burning the stubble.

Law against the burning: A law against the burning of any crop straw should be strictly enforced.

THE CONCLUSION: With market avenues for crop residue, legal backing against polluting practices and administrative support, the proposed system can work to prevent stubble burning while saving the health of millions of lives and contributing to the economy.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS:

1. Q) What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping system? How crop diversification is helpful to stabilize the yield of the crop in the system? (2017)
2. Q) How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers? (2017)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

1. Q) Comment upon the various measures taken by the Union and the state governments to address the problem of stubble burning. What more needs to be done according to you to find a permanent solution to this problem? Explain

SOURCE: How to solve the problem of stubble burning | The Indian Express

TOPIC 1: RHODODENDRON

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT  

THE CONTEXT: The rhododendron flower in Uttarakhand, is portrayed as an integral part of the region’s culture, rituals, mythology, and even culinary practices.

RHODODENDRON AS A CULTURAL SYMBOL:

• Cultural and Ritual Importance:
  • The rhododendron is deeply embedded in Uttarakhand’s culture, being an essential part of local rituals and mythology.
  • Its presence in rituals and temples signifies purity and endurance, demonstrating the reverence people hold for this flower.
• Pilgrimage Significance:
  • The flower is central to the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, a significant pilgrimage in Uttarakhand that occurs every 12 years.
  • This underscores the strong bond between the local people and their natural environment.

UTILIZATION BEYOND AESTHETICS:

• Culinary and Medicinal Use:
  • Beyond its visual appeal, the rhododendron finds usage in regional cuisine, with its blossoms being used to create sweets, drinks, jams, and juice.
  • Its distinct flavour and purported cooling properties make it popular among locals and visitors alike.
• Environmental Concerns:
  • Climate change-induced alterations in temperature and precipitation patterns are impacting the rhododendron’s growth and flowering cycles.
  • Consequently, conservation efforts are gaining importance, with initiatives in place to safeguard these Himalayan flowers, including the establishment of conservation zones and promoting eco-friendly travel practices.

ECONOMIC AND TOURISTIC VALUE:

• Cultural Tourism:
  • The rich cultural connection with the rhododendron offers a unique opportunity for cultural tourism.
  • Visitors are drawn not only to the natural beauty but also to the rituals and traditions associated with the flower.
• Local Economy:
  • The utilization of rhododendron in cuisine and traditional practices also contributes to the local economy, providing opportunities for culinary ventures and indigenous products.

IMPLICATIONS:

• Cultural Heritage Preservation:
  • The importance of preserving not just the flower itself but also the associated cultural heritage and traditions has been emphasized.
  • The emphasis on conservation and sustainable practices reflects a holistic approach to safeguarding this floral emblem and the surrounding ecosystem while acknowledging its cultural significance.
• Sustainable Development:
  • Balancing conservation with tourism and economic activities is crucial to ensure sustainable development, where efforts to protect the rhododendron align with the promotion of eco-friendly practices.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/open-page/the-power-of-the-rhododendron/article67529485.ece

TOPIC 2: ONATTUKARA SESAME

TAG: GS 3: AGRICULTURE

THE CONTEXT: Efforts are being made to expand the cultivation of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Onattukara sesame in the Kerala region.

INITIATIVE TO EXPAND SESAME CULTIVATION:

• Increase in Cultivation Area:
  • The Onattukara Vikasana Agency (OVA) plans to significantly increase the area under sesame cultivation.
  • It aimed to expand it to 2,000 hectares from the current 600 hectares in the region encompassing three districts of Kerala: Alappuzha, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta.
• Incentive Scheme:
  • To encourage farmers, a financial assistance program has been announced, offering ₹40 for a cent of land for cultivating sesame within the Thekkekara Krishi Bhavan limits.
  • This incentive is expected to attract individuals, farming collectives, Kudumbashree groups, self-help groups, and joint liability groups towards sesame cultivation.
• Collaborative Efforts:
  • The initiative is a joint venture involving local Krishi Bhavan, Onattukara Vikasana Agency (OVA), Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station (ORARS), Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kayamkulam, and Mavelikara Thekkekara Panchayat.
  • Collaboration between these entities indicates a concerted effort to promote sesame cultivation.
• Support Mechanisms:
  • Farmers and groups engaging in sesame cultivation are offered additional support.
  • It also includes access to workforce from Thekkekara Karshika Karma Sena and tractor rental at a nominal charge of ₹750 per hour.

SIGNIFICANCE OF ONATTUKARA SESAME:

• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag:
  • The Onattukara sesame holds a GI tag, signifying its unique characteristics and origin from a specific geographical location, adding value to its identity and quality.
• Medicinal and Nutritional Value:
  • Studies by the Kerala Agricultural University reveal the medicinal value of Onattukara sesame.
  • It contains high levels of Vitamin E, antioxidants, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitoleic acid, promoting good health.
• Varieties Cultivated:
  • Apart from the traditional Ayali variety, farmers in the region are cultivating varieties like Kayamkulam-1, Thilak, Thilathara, and Thilarani, developed by the Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station (ORARS).

POTENTIAL BENEFITS:

• Economic Development:
  • Expanding sesame cultivation holds the potential to boost local economies, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to the agricultural sector’s growth in the region.
• Health and Nutritional Benefits:
  • Highlighting the nutritional and medicinal values of Onattukara sesame could create consumer awareness, potentially increasing demand for this particular variety.
• Collaborative Approach:
  • The joint efforts involving various agricultural institutions, local governance bodies, and farmers’ groups indicate a coordinated strategy towards agricultural development and sustainability.
• GI Tag and Quality Assurance:
  • The GI tag signifies quality, authenticity, and unique characteristics associated with the geographical region, contributing to the promotion and branding of Onattukara sesame.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/measures-on-to-expand-cultivation-of-gi-tagged-onattukara-sesame/article67551308.ece/amp/

TOPIC 3: INDIA-UK FREE TRADE AGREEMENT (FTA)

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: External Affairs Minister of India discussed the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Britain’s Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary recently.

EXPLANATION:

• The agreement is under negotiation and has not been signed yet.
• When signed, the India-UK FTA will serve as a template for an agreement with the European Union (EU).

INDIA-UK FREE TRADE AGREEMENT:

• Strategic Importance as a Template for EU Agreement:
  • The FTA between India and the UK is seen as a model for a similar pact with the European Union, India’s second-largest trade partner.
  • It signifies a shift in India’s trade strategy towards Western nations and African countries rather than solely focusing on the East, as previously done under the UPA government.
• China Factor and Supply Chain Disruptions:
  • The disruption in supply chains during the pandemic has prompted Western companies to reconsider their over-dependence on China, leading to a ‘China-plus one’ strategy.
  • This shift has motivated countries like Australia and the UK to seek stronger economic ties with India.
• Brexit-Induced Insecurities for the UK:
  • Brexit has created uncertainties for the UK, making an FTA with India crucial to compensate for the loss of access to the European Single Market.
  • However, concerns exist regarding offering work permits to Indian service sector workers due to political reasons.
• Potential Gains and Challenges for India:
  • For India, the FTA presents an opportunity to revive declining sectors like apparel and gems/jewellery by reducing tariffs in the UK.
  • However, concerns have been raised about the impact on Least Developed Countries (LDCs) like Bangladesh if India gains zero-duty access for its textiles.
• Beneficial Aspects for the UK:
  • The UK aims to gain deeper access to the Indian market, especially for goods like cars, Scotch whisky, and wines, which currently face significant tariffs.
  • Elimination or reduction of tariffs on these goods could enhance British exports to India.
• Tariff Disparity and Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs):
  • There exists a substantial tariff disparity between goods imported from India into the UK and vice versa.
  • The FTA negotiations might focus on reducing these tariff barriers.
  • Additionally, addressing non-tariff barriers such as regulations and standards could be crucial for Indian exporters, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.
• Carbon Tax and Border Adjustment Mechanism:
  • The UK’s plan to impose a carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) similar to the EU’s strategy might affect India’s exports, especially in sectors like cement, chemicals, steel, and others.
  • This imposition aims to reduce dependence on high carbon-emitting imports and could potentially impact Indian exports to the UK.

IMPACTS AND CHALLENGES:

• Strategic Shift: India’s reorientation towards Western nations and away from over-dependence on China is evident. However, concerns persist regarding the impact on LDCs, especially in terms of textiles.
• Potential Imbalance: While India aims to boost declining sectors, the disparity in tariffs and non-tariff barriers presents a challenge. Addressing these barriers will be critical for ensuring mutual benefits.
• Carbon Tax Implications: The UK’s plan for a carbon tax and CBAM could pose challenges for India’s exports, especially in energy-intensive sectors.
• Negotiation Dynamics: The negotiations hold importance for both countries, but balancing mutual benefits while addressing concerns of sectors vulnerable to tariff changes and non-tariff barriers is crucial.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/proposed-india-uk-fta-its-politics-and-why-the-uk-may-benefit-more-9031599/

TOPIC 4: 30th ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION (APEC) ECONOMIC LEADERS’ MEETING

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting concluded in San Francisco recently with the adoption of the Golden Gate Declaration. The declaration underscores the commitment to creating a resilient and sustainable future for all member economies.

EXPLANATION:

• For the first time since 2011, USA hosted annual APEC
• Theme of the meeting was creating a “Resilient and Sustainable Future for All”.

GOLDEN GATE DECLARATION:

• The declaration aims to harness the technological and economic progress to continue to unleash the enormous potential and tremendous dynamism across regions, spur economic growth.
• The declaration was adopted after the two-day meeting, during which the leaders focused on the subjects of sustainability, climate, just energy transition, interconnectedness and building inclusive and resilient economies.
• The importance of the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization at its core, which continues to catalyze APEC region’s extraordinary growth has been reaffirmed.
• APEC economies vow to accelerate the transition towards low and zero emissions vehicles; sustainable aviation fuels; and low and zero emission maritime shipping and port decarbonization, reads the document.

APEC:

• It was formed in 1989 with 12 members.
• Now, it has 21 members.
• Grouping of economies around Pacific Ocean aiming to promote trade, investment, and economic development in region.
• Accounts for nearly 62% of global GDP, half of global trade and covers 38% of global population.
• Operates on basis of non-binding commitments with decisions reached by consensus. India is an observer since 2011.

SOURCE: https://www.wionews.com/world/apec-summit-live-updates-biden-meets-mexican-president-lopez-obrador-659895

TOPIC 5: GOVERNOR’S ROLE IN LEGISLATION

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi has withheld assent for certain Bills passed by the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. In this article, we will analyse the governor’s role in legislation.

EXPLANATION:

• The role of a Governor in the legislative process within a state is a crucial aspect of India’s federal structure.
• The Governor, as the constitutional head of a state, plays a significant role in the enactment of laws.

GOVERNOR’S ROLE IN LEGISLATION:

• Options When Receiving a Bill for Assent:
  • Article 200 of the Indian Constitution provides a structured approach for the Governor’s actions concerning bills, emphasizing the Governor’s role as a link between the State Legislature and the Union.
  • It also outlines four alternatives available to a Governor upon receiving a bill from a State Legislature:
    • Give Assent: The Governor approves the bill, making it law.
    • Withhold Assent: The Governor refuses to approve the bill, effectively rejecting it.
    • Return for Reconsideration: If it’s not a Money Bill, the Governor can send the bill back to the State Legislature for reconsideration.
    • Reserve for President’s Consideration: Certain bills need to be reserved for the President’s consideration, such as those that reduce High Court powers or conflict with Union laws.
  • Exercise of Discretionary Powers:
    • According to judicial precedents like the Shamsher Singh case, the Governor typically acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers while withholding assent or returning a bill.
    • Discretionary powers might be exercised in rare cases where the Governor believes a bill contravenes the Constitution and should be reserved for the President’s consideration.
  • Recommendations and Unimplemented Suggestions:
    • Reports like the Sarkaria Commission and the Punchhi Commission have suggested limiting the Governor’s discretionary powers, emphasizing adherence to ministerial advice.
    • Recommendations also proposed time limits for decision-making on bills but have not been implemented.
  • Resolution of Impasses:
    • The politicization of the Governor’s role has been a persistent issue.
    • Suggestions include consulting Chief Ministers before a Governor’s appointment, and the possibility of impeachment by the State Legislature to remove an uncooperative Governor.
    • Amendments are proposed to ensure responsible cooperation between the Centre and States in matters related to Governors’ appointments and functioning.

CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS RELATED TO THE GOVERNOR

• Article 153 says that there shall be a Governor for each State. One person can be appointed as Governor for two or more States.
• A Governor is appointed by the President and is a nominee of the Central Government.
• It is stated that the Governor has a dual role.
• He is the constitutional head of the state, bound by the advice of his Council of Ministers (CoM).
• He functions as a vital link between the Union Government and the State Government.
• Articles 157 and 158 specify eligibility requirements for the post of governor. A governor must:
• Be a citizen of India.
• Be at least 35 years of age.
• Not be a member of the either house of the parliament or house of the state legislature.
• Not hold any office of profit.
• Governor has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, etc. (Article 161).
• There is a CoM with the CM at the head to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions, except some conditions for discretion. (Article 163).
• The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other Ministers (Article 164).
• Governor assents, withholds assent, or reserves the bill for the consideration of the President passed by the Legislative Assembly (Article 200).
• Governors may promulgate the Ordinances under certain circumstances (Article 213).
• Governor’s role:
• The Governor holds a constitutional position and is expected to perform specific functions, including granting assent to bills passed by the state legislature and ensuring the proper functioning of state administration.
• The Governor’s actions are perceived as a hindrance to these responsibilities.
• FOR FURTHER RINFORMATION PLEASE REFER TO THE DNA ARTICLE OF 1^ST OCTOBER 2023.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/the-role-of-the-governor-in-legislature-explained/article67552112.ece/amp/

RELEVANCE TO UPSC SYLLABUS: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE: LOCAL RESERVATION IN JOBS, ARTICLE 14,16,19.

THE CONTEXT: The Punjab & Haryana High Court has struck down the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020 stating that it is violative of the Part-III of the constitution.

LOCAL RESERVATIONS ATTEMPT IN STATES:

• Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020 requires firms with 10 or more employees to reserve 75% of all jobsoffering a salary of less than Rs. 30,000 a month for eligible candidates of State domicile.
• Job reservation Bills or laws for domiciles have also been announced in other States including Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand.
• The job quota Bill passed in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 2019, also reservingthree-fourths of private jobs for locals.

WHY  THE COURT HAS DECLARED THE LAW AS “UNCONSTITUTIONAL”?

• The term fraternity connoting a sense of common brotherhood is to embrace all Indians. In this respect, a blind eye could not be turned to other citizens of the country irrespective of the State they belong to.
• The court stated that the legislation is violative of right to equality under Article 14. The Court referred to Navtej Singh Johar and others vs. Union of India, where it states ‘miniscule minority have a right to participate as a citizen and an equal right of enjoyment of living regardless of what majority may believe’.
• The Court said that freedom given under Article 19 of the Constitution could not be taken away. The Court particularly referred to the freedoms guaranteed by Article 19(1)(d) and 19(1)(g).

1. The Act is imposing unreasonable restrictions regarding the right to move freely throughout the territory of India or to reside and settle in any part or the territory of India.
2. As per Article 19(6), the right of the State is to impose restrictions regarding professional or technical qualifications and not domicile requirements. It can, thus, be said that the Act as such cannot be said to be reasonable in any manner and it was directing the employers to violate the constitution provisions, the Court concluded.

• Article 35 of the Constitution bars state from legislating on requirement of domicile in employment under Article 16(3). The same further provides that there has to be equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
• The power under Article 16(3) gives power only to the Parliament for making any law prescribing in regard to the class or classes of employment or appointment to an office under the Government or any local or other authority.
• The bench said that the concept of constitutional morality has been openly violated by introducing a secondary status to a set of citizens not belonging to the State of Haryana and curtailing their fundamental rights to earn their livelihood.

ISSUES WITH LOCAL RESERVATION:

Violation of fundamental rights of Constitution: The Act was a violative of fundamental rights as Article 14, Article 16 and Article 19.

Treated as secondary citizen: 75% reservation for the locals was discriminatory as it discriminates against the individuals on account of the fact that they do not belong to a certain State. It has a negative discrimination against other citizens of the country as treating them as secondary citizens.

Fuels Sons-of-the-Soil Theory: The ‘Son of the soil’ theory puts forward the idea of reservation based on regionalism. Reservation law based on domicile law will fuel such theories across States and in the long run destabilise the foundations of Indian democracy i.e., ‘Unity in diversity’.

Affects industrialisation: Raising the son of the soil issue and preventing free movement of manpower resources in the State from other regions can have an adverse effect on the existing industries in the State.  It could trigger an exodus of large domestic and multinational investors across sectors such as auto, IT that rely on highly skilled manpower.

THE WAY FORWARD

Implementation of reservation: The reservation policy could be implemented in a way that does not hamper the free movement of manpower resources in the Country. The reservation policy could be revisited periodically to assess its impact on the economy and industries in the state.

Protect fundamental rights: It is important to ensure that any policy decision taken is in compliance with the Constitution of India and does not violate the fundamental rights of citizens.

Skill impartation: To ensure job creation state governments should provide youths with skill training and proper education as key focus areas, enabling the masses to compete in the free market.

Engagement with industries: Government should involve industry’s engagement in the State because reservation affects productivity and industry competitiveness. The State governments can come up with certain incentives to companies which are investing a certain amount of money for training the local youths.

THE CONLCUSION: Enactment of local reservation in state is a violation of fundamental right of the citizens. Thus, High Court concluded that Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020 is ” unconstitutional and violative of Part III of the Constitution of India. In this respect, state governments should enable the reservation system in such a way that it serves its original purpose of making India a more just society.
PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Whether the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine. (2018)
2. “The reservation of seats for women in the institution of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian political process”. Comment. (2019)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. What are the challenges associated with the reservations for locals in the private sector? Suggest measures to generate enough job opportunities in the Indian economy.
2. Local reservation in private sector fuels the concept of sons of soils theory”. Critically examine the statement and give your views.

SOURCE: https://www.livelaw.in/high-court/punjab-and-haryana-high-court/punjab-haryana-high-court-struck-down-75-reservation-for-haryana-domicile-in-private-sector-unconstitutional-242457#:~:text=The%20Court%20said%20that%20freedom,Constitution%20could%20not%20be%20curtailed

TAG: GS 3: ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: As per the State of the Cryosphere 2023 report, nearly all tropical glaciers, most mid-latitude glaciers and polar regions will disappear even if the world manages to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius, above the preindustrial era.

EXPLANATION:

• The State of the Cryosphere 2023 Report was released by the International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI), an organization that brings together scientists from around the world to study the cryosphere and its impacts on climate change.
• The report delves into the profound impact of rising global temperatures on the Earth’s cryosphere.
• It emphasizes the critical need to limit global warming to 1.5°C to safeguard this essential frozen component of the planet.

STATE OF THE CRYOSPHERE:

• Impact of Temperature Rise:
  • The report underscores that even with a 2°C temperature increase above preindustrial levels; the cryosphere faces dire consequences.
  • Most tropical and mid-latitude glaciers, along with polar regions, will vanish, causing severe ice loss.
• Regional Effects:
  • The Himalayas are predicted to lose half of their current ice under a 2°C scenario.
  • Various regions like the northern Andes, East Africa, and Indonesia are already witnessing rapid glacier disappearance due to the current 1.2°C temperature rise.

IMPORTANCE OF LIMITING WARMING TO 1.5°C:

• Criticality of 1.5°C Limit:
  • The report highlights that 1.5°C is not just a preferable target but the only viable option to mitigate catastrophic consequences for the cryosphere.
  • It urges leaders to discard the 2°C threshold, emphasizing the urgency of adopting the 1.5°C target.
• Cryosphere as Ground Zero:
  • The cryosphere, encompassing frozen water in various forms, is depicted as ground zero for climate change.
  • Its vulnerability to temperature changes serves as a barometer for the severity of global warming’s impact.

OBSERVATIONS AND CLIMATE INCIDENTS:

• Climate Disasters:
  • The year 2023 witnessed various climate-related disasters, such as the Sikkim flash flood triggered by a glacial lake outburst and significant losses in Swiss glaciers.
• Alarming Indicators:
  • The report highlights alarming indicators, including record-low sea ice around Antarctica, unusually high-water temperatures in the Arctic and North Atlantic, and atmospheric CO2 levels surpassing those of the past three million years.

CONSEQUENCES OF TEMPERATURE RISE:

• Sea-Level Rise and Ice Loss:
  • A temperature increases of 2°C, it spells catastrophic sea-level rise from ice sheet melting in Greenland and parts of Antarctica, potentially leading to extensive and rapid irreversible effects.
• Permafrost Thawing:
  • Both 2°C and 1.5°C scenarios signify significant permafrost thawing, releasing substantial CO2 and methane emissions that could amplify global warming.

CALL TO ACTION AND COP28:

• Urgent Course Correction:
  • The report urges a significant shift in climate action, highlighting COP28 as a pivotal moment for global leaders to prioritize the 1.5°C target and avert long-term environmental catastrophes.
• Potential Consequences:
  • Failure to act decisively risks displacing millions due to rising sea levels, disrupting freshwater resources, harming polar ecosystems, and committing future generations to offset irreversible permafrost emissions.

CONCLUSION:

• The report’s comprehensive analysis emphasizes the urgency of addressing global warming to protect the cryosphere.
• It stresses the significance of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C, outlining the profound repercussions of exceeding this threshold on glaciers, polar regions, and permafrost.
• The report serves as a critical call to action for global leaders to prioritize ambitious climate policies at COP28 and beyond to prevent catastrophic consequences for humanity and the environment.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/world-needs-to-limit-global-warming-to-1-5-c-to-protect-cryosphere-2-c-too-high-report-92845

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: According to a recent report from the Central Water Commission (CWC), water levels in southern states’ reservoirs are low compared to last year and compared to other regions of the country in 2023.

CURRENT WATER RESERVE STATUS:

• Reservoir Levels:
  • A concerning decline in water reserves across southern states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu has been highlighted.
  • The collective storage capacity of 53.334 Billion Cubic Metres (BCM) has seen a sharp drop in recent months.
• Decrease in Reservoir Stocks:
  • Over the past two months, water reserves have declined from 48% to 44% of the total storage capacity.
  • This is notably lower compared to last year when the reserves were at 87% of the total storage capacity.

REASONS FOR LOW WATER STOCKS:

• Erratic Monsoon Patterns:
  • The 2023 southwest monsoon exhibited significant irregularities in rainfall patterns.
  • The south peninsular region experienced severe rainfall deficits during June, July, August, and September, cumulatively resulting in an 8% deficit compared to the normal average.
• Drier October:
  • October remained exceptionally dry in southern India, recording the sixth driest month in 123 years.
  • This month (November) typically witnesses significant rainfall due to the retreating southwest monsoon and the onset of the northeast monsoon.
  • Cyclone Hamoon’s development in the Bay of Bengal disrupted rainfall patterns, contributing to a 60% cumulative rainfall deficit.

IMMEDIATE IMPACT AND FUTURE CONCERNS:

• Agricultural Impact:
  • The low water reserves pose an immediate threat to irrigated farming, especially water-intensive crops like paddy.
  • States like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu heavily rely on water for agriculture, and the shortage could significantly impact crop yield.
• Drinking Water Scarcity:
  • The declining reserves may lead to a scarcity of drinking water in the coming months, affecting both rural and urban populations.
• Potential Drought Declaration:
  • Karnataka has started identifying drought-hit areas, hinting at the possibility that other states might soon follow suit.
  • The situation might exacerbate the agricultural crisis, especially with new governments in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana facing the challenge of managing water shortages.

AREAS REQUIRING IMMEDIATE ATTENTION:

• Irrigated Farming:
  • Urgent attention is needed to address the impending crisis in irrigated farming, primarily focusing on water-intensive crops like paddy.
• Drinking Water Supply:
  • Ensuring adequate drinking water availability is crucial, necessitating proactive measures to manage water resources efficiently.
• Government Response:
  • Newly formed state governments face a challenge in managing the agricultural crisis caused by water shortages and will require effective strategies to mitigate the impact.

CONCLUSION:

• The depletion of water reserves in southern India poses severe challenges to agriculture, drinking water supply, and the overall economy of the region.
• Immediate action, including water conservation measures, efficient agricultural practices, and governmental intervention, is essential to mitigate the impact of the water shortage and prevent further crises in the region.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/water-reserves-south-india-depleting-2023-9030349/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Punjab and Haryana High Court quashed a law passed by the Haryana government in 2020 that provided 75 per cent reservation in private jobs to residents of the state.

EXPLANATION:

• The Punjab and Haryana High Court’s ruling quashing the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020 has far-reaching implications and raises several significant points.

LEGAL IMPLICATIONS:

• Unconstitutionality and Violation of Fundamental Rights:
• The court ruled the Act as unconstitutional and violative of Part III of the Indian Constitution, which encompasses fundamental rights.
• This Act was seen as discriminatory against individuals who are not residents of a specific state and impinged upon their rights.
• State Intervention in Private Sector:
• The judgment highlighted the overreach of the state government into the private sector by attempting to mandate the hiring of local candidates.
• It was perceived as an intrusion into the freedom of private employers to recruit based on their requirements.
• Freedom to Conduct Business:
  • The court emphasized Article 19 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to carry out business and trade.
  • The Act was seen as an impediment to this freedom for private employers, impacting their ability to hire based on merit and suitability for the job.

ETHICAL AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS:

• Equality and Common Citizenship:
  • The Act was criticized for creating divisions among people based on their state of origin, which contradicts the idea of common citizenship enshrined in the Constitution.
  • It was argued that such laws create disparities among citizens and go against the principle of equality.
• Skill Diversity and Employment Needs:
  • The court illustrated how skill diversity exists across regions, and mandating local hiring could hinder businesses from accessing a diverse skill set essential for their operations.
  • It emphasized that a skilled workforce might be sourced from different parts of the country, and restricting hiring based on domicile is counterproductive.
• Challenges of Unemployment:
  • While the Haryana government argued that the Act aimed to address local youth unemployment, the court observed that such measures cannot infringe upon the rights of others.
  • It questioned the feasibility of such discriminatory practices in addressing unemployment concerns.

GOVERNMENT RESPONSE AND FUTURE STEPS:

• Legal Recourse:
  • The government expressed intentions to approach the Supreme Court for an appeal (Special Leave Petition – SLP) against the High Court’s decision.
  • This signifies a potential continuation of the legal battle over the policy’s validity.
• Reviewing Options:
  • The government spokesperson mentioned assessing the detailed court order before deciding on the next course of action.
  • This indicates a need to reconsider strategies regarding employment policies in light of the court’s decision.

CONCLUSION:

• The High Court’s decision to quash the Haryana law reflects a significant ruling on constitutional and fundamental rights issues.
• It underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between addressing local unemployment concerns and ensuring equality and freedom in employment opportunities.
• This ruling may influence future state policies concerning employment quotas and rights of private businesses in recruitment practices across India.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/hc-quashes-haryana-govts-75-percent-quota-in-private-sector-jobs-9031094/

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the government has decided to cut the windfall profit tax on crude oil produced in the country and on exports of diesel in line with softening international oil prices.

EXPLANATION:

• The windfall profit tax, in the form of Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED), on domestically produced crude oil has been decreased to ₹6,300 per tonne from ₹9,800 per tonne.
• SAED on the export of diesel has been reduced to ₹1 per litre from ₹2 per litre.
• However, the tax on the export of jet fuel (ATF) and petrol remains at zero.
• The government regularly revises these taxes based on international crude oil price fluctuations. The recent reduction follows a drop in global oil prices.

Impact of International Oil Prices:

• The adjustment in taxes is directly influenced by changes in international oil prices.
• A decline in global crude oil rates from previous months prompted the government to revise the taxes downward.
• The tax rates have been subject to multiple revisions since their introduction in July of the previous year.
• These changes respond to shifts in international oil prices and product margins.

Windfall Tax Criteria:

• The windfall tax is triggered when the global benchmark surpasses $75 per barrel for crude oil and when product cracks or margins exceed $20 per barrel for diesel, ATF, and petrol.

Product Cracks/Margins Explanation:

• Product cracks/margins denote the difference between the cost of crude oil (raw material) and the value of the finished petroleum products.

Tax Exemptions and Restorations:

• There have been instances where taxes were temporarily suspended due to price fluctuations but were later reinstated when market conditions changed.

Dynamic Tax Adjustments:

• The government’s approach to these windfall profit taxes demonstrates a dynamic response to volatile global oil markets.
• Tax revisions are frequent and directly tied to the benchmark oil prices and product margins, showcasing a measure to balance domestic interests against global market fluctuations.

Industry and Economic Impact:

• Reductions in windfall taxes on crude oil and diesel exports aim to alleviate the financial burden on domestic producers and exporters in the petroleum industry.
• By reducing taxes during periods of lower international oil prices, the government aims to support the industry’s competitiveness and maintain economic stability.

Policy Flexibility:

• The government’s fortnightly reviews and adjustments showcase an agile policy framework that responds promptly to changing market conditions.
• This flexibility allows for quick adaptations to protect domestic interests and maintain revenue streams.

Market Sensitivity:

• The taxation system’s sensitivity to global oil price benchmarks indicates the government’s intent to strike a balance between maximizing revenue and preventing undue pressure on consumers and industries reliant on petroleum products.

Key Players:

• Major players like Reliance Industries Ltd and Nayara Energy offers insight into the significance of these companies in India’s fuel export market and their potential influence on the nation’s economy.

Potential Challenges:

• Despite these adjustments, continued fluctuations in global oil prices could pose ongoing challenges for policymakers, requiring them to continuously monitor and adjust tax rates to maintain equilibrium.

Conclusion:

• The government’s decision to reduce windfall profit taxes on crude oil and diesel exports reflects a proactive approach to manage the impact of international oil price fluctuations on the domestic economy.
• This agile tax policy seeks to strike a balance between supporting the industry and safeguarding consumer interests while ensuring a competitive environment for key players in the petroleum sector.
• The detailed fortnightly reviews and adjustments illustrate the government’s responsiveness to the dynamic nature of global oil markets.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/windfall-profit-tax-on-crude-oil-diesel-exports-cut/article67539574.ece

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT:  An under-construction tunnel on the Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district collapsed.

CAUSES:

• The failure (the section that has collapsed) is located around 200-300 metres from the mouth of the tunnel.
• It could have happened due to a loose patch (of rock), which wasn’t visible during the construction.
• The patch might have consisted of fractured or fragile rock.
• Another reason could be the seepage of water through a loose patch.
• Water erodes loose rock particles over time, creating a void on the top of the tunnel, which can’t be seen.

WHAT ARE THE WAYS IN WHICH TUNNELS ARE EXCAVATED IN ROCK?

• There are essentially two ways:
  • The drill and blast method (DBM)
  • Using tunnel-boring machines (TBMs)
• DBM involves drilling holes into the rock and loading them with explosives. When the explosives are detonated, the rock breaks apart.
• TBMs bore the rock from the front (using a rotating head) while supporting the excavating tunnel behind the machine by installing precast concrete segments.
• Building a tunnel with a TBM is more expensive than DBM, but much safer.
• Imported TBMs are used in India.

DOES THE METHOD OF EXCAVATION DEPEND ON THE TYPE OF TERRAIN?

• TBMs are ideal when the rock cover is up to 400 metres tall.
• A TBM can’t be used to drill through very tall mountains. Creating a void through a 1,000-2,000-metre-high mountain by using a TBM leads to rock burst.
• Underground tunnels for the Delhi Metro were dug using a TBM at shallow depth.
• DBM is usually used in places like Himalayas, including Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand.

IS THE HIMALAYAN REGION TOO FRAGILE TO TUNNEL THROUGH?

• Geological context: The Himalayas are still young (they were formed between 40 million and 50 million years ago) and they are still growing due to the collision between the Indian tectonic plate and the Eurasian tectonic plate.
• There are some patches where the rock is indeed too fragile for a tunnel. But at other places, the rock is very good.

KEY ASPECTS OF BUILDING A TUNNEL

• Investigation: The first and foremost thing is to thoroughly investigate the rock through which a tunnel is proposed to be made.
• It is done by sending seismic refraction waves through the rock to check which patches are fragile or solid.
• In India, engineers dig a borehole into the rock to extract a core sample and send it for petrographic analysis.
  • Petrographic analysis: Microscopic examination to determine the mineral content, grain size, texture and other features that have a bearing on the mechanical behaviour of the sample.
• Investigations help determine if the rock can take the load of the overburden when a tunnel is created.
• If the rock layer and its strength are good, it takes the entire load of the overburden by redistribution of the stresses, and it remains stable.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO CONSTRUCT A STABLE TUNNEL?

• After excavation and providing support for the tunnel, we need to monitor the spot. It’s essential to check how the rock is behaving at various places.
• Monitoring is done by instruments such as stress meters and deformations meters.
• Then, the supports provided to the tunnel need to be tested for adequacy.
• Supports can be of various types:
  • Including shotcrete (sprayed concrete that works as a membrane to prevent parts of the rock from falling).
  • Rock bolt (a long anchor bolt for stabilising rock excavations).
  • Steel ribs or beams.
  • Tunnel pipe umbrella, built by using steel tubes that can hold really fragile rocks.
• It is also important that an independent specialist geologist visits the tunnel for examination and to check for probable failures.

SOURCE: What led to the Uttarakhand tunnel collapse (indianexpress.com)

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Scientists used the James Webb Space Telescope to discover the second and fourth-most distant galaxies in a part of space known as Pandora’s cluster.

EXPLANATION:

• According to researchers, galaxies at this distance appear in images as red dots, these new galaxies appear larger and look like a “peanut and a fluffy ball”.
• The researchers estimate that the light detected by Webb telescope was emitted by the galaxies about 13.4 billion light-years
• The galaxies are currently 33 billion light-years away from us because of the expansion of the universe over time.
• The researchers also used computational models to reveal the properties of these early galaxies.

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE:

• The James Webb Space Telescope is the largest, most powerful space telescope ever built.
• The telescope will be able to capture images of some of the first galaxies ever formed.
• It will also be able to observe objects in our solar system from Mars outward, look inside dust clouds to see where new stars and planets are forming and examine the atmospheres of planets orbiting other stars.
• The Webb telescope’s cameras are sensitive to heat from the Sun. Webb has a sunshield to protect its instruments and mirrors.
• The James Webb Space Telescope sees the universe in light that is invisible to human eyes. This light is called infrared radiation. The James Webb Space Telescope will use its infrared cameras to see through dust in the universe.
• It took deep field images of Pandora’s cluster in 2022.

SOURCE: James Webb Space Telescope help find 2 of the most distant galaxies (indianexpress.com)

GS 3: BIODIVERSITY

THE CONTEXT: The latest zoological finds include nine new emperor moth species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

 EXPLANATION:

• It includes the Mishmi moon moth (Actias smetaceki) from Arunachal Pradesh and the Shan moon moth (Actias loeffleri) from northern Myanmar. Their name has been derived from a moon on each of its wings.
• The largest of the 11 moths recorded with a wingspan of 13.6 cm is Loepa himalayana found in Arunachal Pradesh and Tibet.
• Out of more than 1,300 known species of moths belonging to the Saturniidae family, including the emperor moths, some 100 are from India.
• A new frog recorded from Namdapha in Arunachal Pradesh is Alcalus fontinalis thus named because of small streams or brooks where it was found in May 2022.
• According to the researchers, frogs of the Alcalus genus found in the Philippines and Thailand were hitherto unknown in India.
• Arunachal Pradesh also yielded the Alycaeus himalayae, a snail found in a small limestone cave in the East Siang district.
• The researchers said it is the only Aycaeus species inhabiting the Himalayas.
• Another new species of snail, Cycloryx pemaledai, was reported from Sikkim.

Source: New species of small life forms recorded from northeast – The Hindu

RELEVANCE TO UPSC SYLLABUS: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE: ELECTORAL BONDS; POLITICAL FUNDING; PROBITY IN GOVERNANCE; ELECTORAL REFORMS

THE CONTEXT

The Constitution Bench headed by the Chief Justice of India, recently reserved its judgment on petitions challenging the validity of the electoral bonds scheme. The proceedings focused on arguments pertaining to the voters’ right to information vis-a-vis the right to confidentiality of donors. Transparency in election funding has become the central issue here.

POSITIVES OF STATE FUNDING OF ELECTIONS

Transparency: Public funding of elections can certainly bring transparency in the poll process with proper mechanism laid out. It would certainly be better than the existing system where candidates and political parties spend from their own pocket, and a lot of black money goes into election campaigning.

Level playing field: State funding of elections ensures that some influential people or groups don’t have undue influence over electoral processes. It enables a level playing field for the promotion of healthy competition by ensuring equality between large, well-known political parties and small parties and independent candidates.

Citizen centric decision: State funding of election will abstain political parties from the influence of crony capitalism and It can break up the corporate-political connection. If political parties are not financially influenced by the huge corporate sector, citizen-centric decisions will be encouraged.

Viable to economy: State funding of elections can cut down the huge expenditure spent on elections as only funds accounted by state funding will be used. Indrajit Gupta Committee Report, which is most often quoted in support of public funding of elections, it says state funding should be done only in kind and not in cash. However, it says State funding is viable only if parties are internally democratic in their functioning, transparent in their financial affairs.

ISSUES IN STATE FUNDING OF ELECTIONS

Unclear mechanism: There is no clear mechanism of how state funding of elections can work to maximize its potential. Also, for it being success there is need to bring in other electoral reforms in place.

Functioning of political parties:  Political parties nowadays mostly function as corporates. Their business is to win elections and make money to be able to win the next elections. So, this functioning of political parties as corporate entities or as family-run corporate entities is the fundamental problem which needs to be addressed.

Diversion of expenditure: The state expenditure on many essential public goods such as primary health care and public health engineering is already very small. Given this situation, the public resources have to be channeled towards and not diverted from such essential services, and that too to finance something that already gets abundantly financed.

Not prevent from additional financing: The state funding of elections will not prevent parties from lobbying and getting undisclosed supplementary private funding, with associated implications. Also, public funding may influence many people to enter politics solely to receive state subsidies rather than run for office and engage in development work.

RECOMMENDATIONS ON STATE FUNDING FOR ELECTIONS

The Indrajit Gupta Committee on State Election Funding (1998)

• To create a level playing field for parties with limited resources, the Indrajit Gupta Committee recommended state funding of elections in 1998.
• The Committee advised placing two restrictions on state funding.
• Firstly, only national and state parties with a symbol should receive state funding. Independent candidates should not.
• Secondly, only recognized political parties and their candidates should get short-term state funding in kind in the form of specific infrastructure.
• The Committee noted that at the time of the report, the nation’s economic climate was only conducive to partial, not complete, public funding of elections.

Law Commission Report on Electoral Law Reform (1999)

• According to the Law Commission of India’s 1999 report, state funding of elections is “desirable” as long as political parties are not allowed to accept money from other sources.
• Additionally, it strongly recommended that the appropriate regulatory framework should be put in place.
• The Commission agreed with the Indrajit Gupta Committee that, given the economic situation of the nation at the time, only partial public assistance was practicable.

The National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution, 2002

• It did not endorse state funding of elections.
• But it agreed with the 1999 Law Commission report that there is a need for an appropriate framework for the regulation of political parties.
• It needs to be implemented before the state funding is taken into consideration.

Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008)

• The Second Administrative Reforms Commission’s “Ethics in Governance” report from 2008 advocated partial state funding of elections to cut down on “illegitimate and excessive funding” of election costs.

GLOBAL COMPARISON

• There are some 34 countries where state funding of elections is available in some form or the other. But there are different models. In some countries only parties get the fund, candidates do not. There are countries where it’s the other way round.
• The highest proportion of state funding of elections is in Norway, which is about 74% of the total expenses on the election.
• In most countries where there is public funding of elections, there are also strict transparency requirements. In the U.S., there is a rule that if the presidential candidate raises X amount of money, they are eligible to receive an equal amount of money from the government.
• But this is subject to certain conditions. In the last two or three presidential elections, no candidate has accepted government money. They have said that they do not want to accept these conditions and that they are able to raise enough money on our own.

THE WAY FORWARD

Evolving an efficient mechanism: For effective implementation of state funding of election an efficient mechanism needs to be devised. It can be done by proper stakeholder consultation of all the parties concerned. For example,  Part-public funding of election campaigns is a practice in some countries. e.g. United States and Britain. There is a need to evolve our own version.

Realistic campaign spending: In India, the main reason for the prevalence of black money in election spending is the unrealistically low limits set by the Election Commission of India on campaign spending by political parties and candidates. More realistic campaign spending limits should be set where Election Commission could determine the actual expenditure and ask the parties to show the source of income.

Strict monitoring: The strict monitoring of expenditure by political parties and their functionaries at every level, starting with the panchayat, polling booth area and municipal ward should be done. For example, every party should disclose its expenditure every month at every level.  This should be open to challenge by rival parties, media, etc.

Involvement of political parties: Political parties need to be part of the decision-making process. Political parties have to be made accountable to the public. They have to be democratic institutions if they are to deserve public money.

THE CONCLUSION

There is an ongoing debate on transparency in political funding, as there is unnecessary expenditure by political parties in elections. In this regard, the idea of state funding of elections is a concept long debated to reduce corruption by funding elections with government money as opposed to individual campaign contributions. It has potential to bring new and growing parties in par with the established parties, thus ensuring fair elections.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. (2016)
2. To enhance the quality of democracy in India, the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (2017)

 MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. State funding of elections can be the best way to achieve transparency in political funding. Comment.

 Refer to the main focus article for more:

https://blog.lukmaanias.com/2023/11/10/regulating-political-funding-rules-around-the-world-indias-challenges/

 SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/should-elections-be-state-funded/article67540233.ece

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. India sees 6.2% rise in goods exports in October READ MORE
2. PM launches Rs 24,000-cr scheme for vulnerable tribal groups’ welfare READ MORE
3. NASA, ISRO gearing up to launch joint space mission to map globe every 12 days READ MORE
4. Gold pushed trade deficit to new high of $31.46 billion in October READ MORE
5. Greenhouse gases hit record high in 2022: UN READ MORE
6. FATF team in India to hold on-site review meetings READ MORE
7. Tribal body declares ‘self-rule’ in a few districts of Manipur READ MORE
8. India to host 2nd Voice of Global South Summit on November 17 READ MORE
9. WHO roadmap to end TB in children focuses for 1st time on pregnant, post-partum women affected by disease READ MORE
10. CBD’s Geneva meetings: Benefit sharing on traditional knowledge & digital sequence information on agenda READ MORE  
11. Why adultery was struck off IPC, and why a House panel wants to make it a crime again READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Let society evolve; resist return of regressive laws READ MORE
2. Challenges to curbing community-based prostitution READ MORE  
3. Does It Work To Pay People Not To Cut the Forest? READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The growing wave of decentralisation: Comparative evidence from developing countries READ MORE
2. The price of persistent federal frictions READ MORE
3. Life over death: On death penalty abolition and parliamentary panel report READ MORE
4. Regulating OTT: Draft Broadcasting Regulation Bill may be an attempt to control digital infrastructure READ MORE
5. A grave error in the law READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Improve teacher quality to raise school standards READ MORE
2. Extend political discourse on poverty to redistributive justice READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India Once Was a Strong Ally of Palestine. What Changed? READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Food flux: On food costs and the October tidings READ MORE
2. IPEF supply chain pact is unfair READ MORE
3. Is there more room for competitive populism? READ MORE
4. Electrification of last-mile mobility and logistics READ MORE
5. RBI, Narendra Modi and the Subtle Art of Ignoring Concerns READ MORE
6. How a gendered digital divide, low quality of jobs keeps Indian women out of the workforce READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Climate pledges lacking: 87% of remaining global carbon budget to limit warming may be depleted by 2030, finds UN READ MORE
2. Global emissions: UN report exposes inadequacy of efforts READ MORE
3. Climate concerns or trade barriers? READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. AI can play the sleuth to expose scientific fraud READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. MHA extends UAPA ban against eight Meitei extremist organisations READ MORE
2. Realism, not machismo, to counter terror READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Another warning in the Himalayas READ MORE
2. Tunnel tragedy is another eco-warning we need to heed READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. In the age of Kalyug, it is time to leverage the power of the collective READ MORE
2. Does Philosophical Reflection Still Hold Value? READ MORE
3. Tolerance is the key to achieving peace READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. AI is one of the most significant technical advancements in recent times, but it is posing a great danger to humanity by unleashing misinformation and deepfakes. Justify with recent examples.
2. The cause of poverty in the country is not only economic but the issue of caste plays a substantial role. Argue and justify.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• We are on a highway to climate hell with our foot still on the accelerator.
• Improving teacher quality and pedagogical innovation to enhance the overall rigour of education in the country, must be an immediate and urgent priority.
• Higher than expected tax revenues provide a cushion for the government. However, concerns remain about the medium-term fiscal deficit
• For an economy whose resilience relies on its domestic demand buffer against global shocks, reluctant or budget-cramped consumers are the biggest headwind for policymakers to strive to address.
• Any interest rate hike over and above the 2.5 percentage points already administered in this rate hike cycle would have hurt growth significantly.
• The agreement on Supply Chain Resilience will enhance the resilience of the US, while deepening the vulnerability of India and other developing countries.
• AI is one of the biggest technical advancements in recent times but it can pose a great danger to humanity by unleashing misinformation and deepfakes.
• Ensuring AI safety would require the convergence of multiple branches of activity, including skills, talent, and physical infrastructure.
• Transitioning to low-carbon cities can significantly reduce CO2 levels.
• The future will either be green or not at all.
• Energy justice and social equity issues can have severe implications for the economic well-being of people, livelihoods, and economic development.
• A beginning can be made by providing gig workers with EVs. The Govt must support them and acknowledge their contribution to the economy.
• As the demand for reservation reaches a crescendo, the original justification for this departure from formal equality has become more difficult.
• The cause of poverty in the country is not only economic. A substantial number of the poor belong to the Scheduled and Backward Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• If background inequalities force certain people to live below the poverty line, this should be seen as a serious infringement of the right to equality granted by our Constitution.
• The idea of caste is the greatest dividing factor… all caste either on the principle of birth or of merit is bondage.
• India this time around has taken a much stronger pro-Israel stand than is typical during Israeli-Palestinian conflicts.
• The state and central governments also need to acknowledge the contributions and the critical nature of these gig workers.
• COP28 presents an opportunity to India and other nations to hold the West accountable and liable for the environmental crisis.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The future will either be green or not at all.

50-WORD TALK

• Irrational and unscientific fixed-dose combination drugs ruling the Indian pharma market is a menace that has gone on unchecked for too long. A study shows 70% of antibiotic FDC drugs in the market are banned or unapproved. This is a public health hazard; convoluted and inefficient regulations are bad medicine.
• The ordeal of 40 men trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in Uttarakhand is a reminder of the tightrope walk infrastructure development is in Garhwal Himalayas. Aggressive construction without mountain-appropriate plans is a slippery slope. We hope they are rescued soon, but disregarding the region’s vulnerability will only endanger more lives.

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.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Atal Innovation Mission Opens Application for School Innovation Challenge ATL Marathon 2023-24 READ MORE
2. Delhi’s air quality worsens to ‘severe plus’ category; Centre defers stricter curbs, says AQI in region showing declining trend READ MORE
3. Seven years after it was first announced, India to open new consulate in Seattle READ MORE
4. Operation Cactus: When India prevented a coup in Maldives READ MORE
5. Farm fires and weather behind choke; respite likely in 4 days READ MORE
6. UN sounds warning on climate change health threat READ MORE
7. Work starts on shaping first national security strategy, long wait ends READ MORE
8. Asteroid Dinkinesh is actually two space rocks, finds NASA’s Lucy mission READ MORE
9. New Report Calls for GST Slab Rationalisation Amid High State Revenue Deficits, Subsidy Expenditures READ MORE
10. No legal identity for a billion people globally, says UN body READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. The world is getting older. Can India cope? READ MORE
2. Rescuing children from the clutches of mobile phones READ MORE
3. El Nino may be drying out the southern hemisphere — here’s how that affects the whole planet READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Action and authority: On Governors and implementation of decisions by elected regimes READ MORE
2. On government fact-checking units: A government panel to check facts is liable to be misused against critics READ MORE
3. On electoral bonds, Supreme Court must uphold Right to Information READ MORE
4. State regulation of film reviews is a risky business READ MORE
5. Governors need to rise above politics READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Widening welfare READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India-US dialogue: No irritant should be allowed to affect ties READ MORE
2. US-China Dichotomy: Quietude of the Western Left READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. India’s labour scene is changing READ MORE
2. Create an ecosystem where all can participate in economic growth READ MORE
3. Traditional vs digital bank: Survival of the fittest READ MORE
4. The Evolving Energy Scenario READ MORE
5. Youth Employment in India: Dimensions and Challenges READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Late to action, lots to do READ MORE
2. Climate Change: Is White Hydrogen the New Saviour? READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. AI and the issue of human-centricity in copyright law READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Malware malice: On the Apple cyberattack alert READ MORE
2. India’s Need for a National Security Strategy Cannot Be Ignored READ MORE
3. Is it Time to Call India a Digital Dystopia? READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Farm fires rage on: Stakeholders not doing enough to curb menace READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Ukraine, Gaza are our Kurukshetra now READ MORE
2. Humanity, not identity, defines morality READ MORE
3. All it takes: 1% god’s grace READ MORE
4. Entrepreneurship mirrors essence of dharma READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Only virtues and standards of universal morality are applicable to clashing groups of inimical belief systems in times of distrust. And all-encompassing humanity is the sole criterion for drafting such standards of universal morality. Comment.
2. It is humanity, not identity, that defines morality. Comment.
3. Though Article 200 does not lay down a specific timeframe to give assent to the bill, but a constitutional authority should not circumvent a provision of the Constitution by taking advantage of an omission. Comment on the statement in the light of recent developments.
4. Dharma encompasses not only moral and ethical duties but also one’s responsibility towards society and the greater good. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Those who say religion has nothing to do with politics do not know what religion is.
• By investing in cutting-edge technology and streamlining their operations, traditional banks can upgrade conventional banking to bring it at par with the digital banking.
• While the digital age offers learning and entertainment opportunities, it’s vital to safeguard our children from over indulging in it.
• Entrepreneurs who prioritise ethics, honesty, and integrity in their business dealings create a foundation of trust with customers, partners, and employees.
• A major issue is how social security can be effectively financed. There are three models to finance SS: contributory scheme, non-contributory scheme and a combination of both.
• Governments must urgently push greater awareness about the Good Samaritan Law.
• It is important to know which model of financing is more appropriate. International evidence suggests that SS coverage can be extended to all by increasing contributory coverage and non-contributory schemes by increasing tax revenue.
• Dharma encompasses not only moral and ethical duties but also one’s responsibility towards society and the greater good.
• Despite surging demand and larger carbon emissions, India can reduce its dependence on energy imports.
• A dignified life for the elderly population needs an urgent cultural, political and policy reimagination.
• The stance of the Western Left vis-à-vis Western imperialism is causing a shift of the entire political centre of gravity to the Right.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The wise win before the fight, while the ignorant fight to win.

50-WORD TALK

• CJI Chandrachud’s ‘tareekh pe tareekh’ anguish over adjournment requests in the Supreme Court is valid. But as masters of their own court, judges should put an end to the growing trend and impose costs if such appeals are made on flimsy grounds. Lawyers must contribute to vitality of the judiciary.
• Xi Jinping wants Chinese women to focus on marriage and having babies. This desperate move to address a shrinking population is nothing but regressive. When India is making efforts to bring more women into the workforce, China’s slide back toward the middle ages is a knockout punch to gender equality.
• Governments of Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Kerala having to move Supreme Court to get governors to clear bills is another sign of politicisation of Raj Bhawans. Governors in many non-BJP-ruled states are making a mockery of democracy by obstructing elected governments’ functioning. SC must step in to check gubernatorial hyperdrive.

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.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. India and Sri Lanka re-launch negotiations of the Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) READ MORE
2. UPSC tightens guidelines for appointment of State DGPs READ MORE
3. Haemoglobin isn’t used only in blood, scientists find in major discovery READ MORE
4. Manufacturing PMI falls to an eight-month low READ MORE
5. Gwalior, Kozhikode now on Unesco list of creative cities READ MORE
6. Bangladesh PM Hasina’s daughter Saima Wazed voted as new WHO regional director READ MORE
7. India-born author Nandini Das wins 2023 British Academy Book Prize READ MORE
8. Rajya Sabha panel to hold meeting, take up pending cases of privilege breach READ MORE
9. India’s cotton yield may be lowest in 15 years, to drop by 20% READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Divorce: Changing attitudes and social mores READ MORE
2. WWF: 32 million acres of grasslands across US & Canadian Great Plains ploughed up since 2012 READ MORE
3. View from the Himalayas | The ‘Third Pole’ is drying up READ MORE
4. With El Nino around, the heat is on READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The blueprint to develop India by 2047 must factor in critical governance reforms READ MORE
2. Impacting a woman’s freedom to reproductive choices READ MORE
3. Law doesn’t bar states from counting castes READ MORE
4. Small projects, big impact READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Challenges in equipping job seekers with skills READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Hope floats for a thaw in China-US relations READ MORE
2. US can help India become battery manufacturing powerhouse. And decouple from China READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. India is proud to be the biggest development partner of Bangladesh: PM READ MORE
2. Why GST collections surged sharply in October READ MORE
3. Supreme Court’s decision on tax treaties clarifies India’s Most Favoured Nation approach READ MORE
4. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation: India and global supply chains READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. India’s race to a green hydrogen future READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. AI and the issue of human-centricity in copyright law READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Malware malice: On the Apple cyberattack alert READ MORE
2. India’s Need for a National Security Strategy Cannot Be Ignored READ MORE
3. Is it Time to Call India a Digital Dystopia? READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Farm fires rage on: Stakeholders not doing enough to curb menace READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. The birth and death of Ego READ MORE
2. Essence of the Upanishads READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. One of the strengths of an effective administrator is the ability to retain equanimity and restraint in any situation and those in power do not act as the instruments of nemesis due to their inflamed egos. With the help of some real-life examples, justify this statement.
2. To address the challenges posed by rapid and mass urbanisation, policymakers must shift their focus to organic rural development that involves farmers and local communities. Do you think, in this regard, a bottom-up infrastructure development approach over a top-down approach would be an effective strategy?
3. Policymakers in India need to assume a more cautious approach against diluting the human-centricity in copyright law. Discuss why there is a need to have a cautious approach in extending existing IP protections to work generated by Artificial Intelligence?
4. Caste censuses are essential for addressing socioeconomic inequalities and informing policymaking. How far do you agree with this view? Justify your view.
5. India is deploying smart fencing, but there should be a balance between manned security and technologies. Comment on the statement in light of recent developments.
6. Recent data breach shows that digital India, in reality, is too far from the claim and India needs to renew its efforts to de-mystify technology with the aim of surveillance reforms. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.
• One of the strengths of an effective administrator is the ability to retain equanimity and restraint in any situation and those in power do not act as the instruments of nemesis due to their inflamed egos.
• Policymakers and courts in India also need to assume a more cautious approach against diluting the human-centricity in copyright law.
• The popularity and importance of the right to a piece of information has been used to hold local governments accountable for lapses in the delivery of services and secure access to basic rights and entitlements.
• Aiming for a high 9% growth rate between 2030 and 2047 is laudable but factoring in alternative scenarios and changing course when warranted, is advisable.
• There needs to be cautious approach in extending existing IP protections to work generated by Artificial Intelligence.
• There is no place within our constitutional structure to see a foetus as anything but dependent on the mother. To see it as a separate, distinct personality would be tantamount to conferring a set of rights on it that the Constitution grants to no other class of person.
• As economic realities change, negotiated relations among countries must also adapt. There is a need for periodic review of tax treaties, especially with respect to their economic benefits.
• The Hamas attack on Israel and this colossal human crisis that is unfolding before our eyes has key lessons for India and the world.
• Engaging with research organisations and academic institutions that focus on education, skills, and labour markets is critical to building capability.
• India needs infrastructure, but the issue is that policymakers often prioritise large and impressive projects that often benefit only those directly connected to the larger economy.
• To address the challenges posed by rapid and mass urbanisation, policymakers must shift their focus to organic rural development that involves farmers and local communities.
• India is deploying smart fencing but the recent developments show that there needs to be a balance between manned security and technologies.
• It is time to renew efforts to de-mystify technology with the aim of surveillance reforms, before this Digital Dystopia becomes a permanent future.
• Digital India isn’t what it is being claimed, the reality is different on the ground. It is time to renew efforts to de-mystify technology with the aim of surveillance reforms, before this Digital Dystopia becomes a permanent future.

50-WORD TALK

• India’s major IT companies have laid off 21,000 people between June and September, largely citing operational efficiency. This data is important. While there is the social cost of such a move, this is how markets function. It’s important for IT giants to think long and hire responsibly, not on impulse.
• India is testing smart fencing in Kashmir using sensors by Magal, which developed systems in Gaza and US. But the Israel episode shows that there needs to be a balance between manned security and technologies that enable unmanned defence at borders. Reliance on such technologies can only go so far.

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.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Mission Indradhanush 5.0 (IMI 5.0) campaign with special focus on improvement of Measles and Rubella vaccination coverage, will conclude all three rounds on 14 October 2023 READ MORE
2. INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION RISES TO 10.3% IN AUGUST 2023 READ MORE
3. India ranks 111 out of 125 countries in Global Hunger Index READ MORE  
4. What war crimes laws apply to the Israel-Palestinian conflict? READ MORE
5. Why Odisha govt’s new rural development scheme has triggered a controversy READ MORE
6. Dragonfly: The faces of wetlands in India READ MORE
7. IMI 5.0 reaches children up to five years for the first time READ MORE  
8. Biohydrogen’s role in India’s green hydrogen pathway READ MORE
9. Targeted methane mitigation can avoid 0.1°C warming in 2050, should be adopted with decarbonisation efforts: Report READ MORE
10. Joshimath sinking: Landslides in region not a new problem, says GSI report READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. The case for caste census in India | Explained READ MORE
2. Changed outlook READ MORE
3. Is climate change the reason for Sikkim flash floods? READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Should the 50 % legal ceiling on reservation be reconsidered? READ MORE
2. Administrators: All services need more officers, not just IFS. So do local govts. And recruit more specialists READ MORE
3. Pharma laxity: No tainted firm deserves leniency READ MORE
4. Make funding truly transparent and free of cash for fair polls READ MORE
5. ‘One Nation, One Election’ Will Further Weaken Indian Democracy READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Pro-choice, pro-women: A split SC verdict reflects a wider judicial-medical confusion about abortion rights. This must change READ MORE
2. India Ranks 111th Among 125 Countries in Global Hunger Index Report READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Non-state actors are a threat to world peace READ MORE
2. ASEAN must reinvent itself to stay relevant in region READ MORE
3. India-Maldives Ties: A Walk on Eggshells As New Delhi Faces the China Question READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Ways to make IBC more effective READ MORE   
2. Terms of Trade | Let’s discuss India’s growth forecast READ MORE
3. The right path: IMF raises India’s growth rate, validating that its economy is on a firm footing READ MORE
4. India’s farm machinery has global market READ MORE
5. By the farmers READ MORE
6. IMF and India READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Curbing air pollution: Centre, states need to work in close coordination READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. AI could redefine police techniques READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Localise strategies to build climate resilience READ MORE
2.  India’s cyclone warning system is the model for disaster-proofing the country. Floods next READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. How the Khalistan movement is interlinked with Punjab’s growing drug problem, gun culture READ MORE
2. Beyond ‘Black Mirror’s’ fiction – Impact of Generative AI on policing, security READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Lies, levels, life: Cultivating your best being READ MORE
2. Misery is a choice READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Repeated elections have a cost, but the benefits of enhanced democracy that they trigger are far greater. Critically examine the statement in the light of recent debate about One Nation, One Election.
2. India is diverse, with different regions confronting diverse issues, and that impacts politics in the states. In light of statement, how far do you agree with this view that the concept of One Nation, One Election goes against the reality of India’s diversity?
3. Balancing growth and inflation is a complex endeavour, requiring a steady hand on the economic tiller. Discuss, how India can this balance in the ongoing uncertain global economic landscape?
4. Assessing vulnerabilities is the first step in reducing disaster risk. In light of recent disasters in the Himalayan region, discuss how the climate resilience approach in infrastructure development can minimize the disaster risk in that region.
5. The bureaucracy delivers on episodic events like conducting elections, which have a clear exit date but when it comes to daily events such as provision of civic amenities, the result is deeply unsatisfactory. Do you think that the division of bureaucracy between the three levels of government is a likely reason for such unamenities?
6. Modern states have evolved from directly running factories to regulating economic activity and for that Indian government needs to revisit the bureaucracy’s recruitment process and should focus on more domain expertise. Discuss.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Political language is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respectable.
• Delhi’s history of intervening positively also led to the ironical consternation of the Maldivian opposition parties who started a disquiet campaign against the Maldivian Government’s traditional ‘India First’ policy to suggest a compromise to Maldivian sovereignty.
• Democracy weakens when the people’s choice is not based on who will represent their interests and fulfil their aspirations.
• Democracy is always in a state of flux and not in its ideal form.
• To strengthen democracy, politics needs to be more accountable.
• Having one election every five years will make political parties more unaccountable and free to fulfil the agenda of vested interests. That will weaken democracy and cost the nation far more than the direct and indirect costs of elections at present.
• Even if India had a perfect democracy, the ‘One Nation, One Election’ idea assumes homogeneity in the nation.
• A one-size-fits-all approach goes against the reality of the nation’s diversity and can lead to severe political backlash.
• The reality is that India has an imperfect democracy that needs to be strengthened.
• Elections are the times when the public can force political parties to become answerable.
• Repeated elections have a cost, but the benefits of enhanced democracy that they trigger are far greater.
• No farmers’ company can address climatic aberrations amidst a changing climate, broken landscapes, tattered ecologies and market volatilities unless supported by policies and incentives.
• Balancing growth and inflation is a complex endeavour, requiring a steady hand on the economic tiller.
• Ever since the artificial intelligence chatbot GPT technology burst on the global computer media scene suggesting its multifarious applications and uses in almost any area of human endeavour.
• If the ASEAN has to remain relevant, it needs to reinvent itself to suit the changing regional environment.
• Shortage of workers is pushing the demand for farm equipment. India can dominate the world market by leveraging its machine tools.
• The UN has the responsibility to resolve conflicts. But its failure should not be taken as an opportunity to abet terrorism in the name of freedom.
• It is crucial to re-evaluate building typologies and focus on developing climate-resilient designs.
• The bureaucracy delivers on episodic events like conducting elections, which have a clear exit date. But when it comes to daily events such as provision of civic amenities, the result is deeply unsatisfactory.

50-WORD TALK

• The external affairs ministry’s statement has rightly made it clear that India’s condemnation of the Hamas terror attack on Israel and New Delhi’s stated support to two-states solution on Palestine are not mutually exclusive. Unnecessarily obfuscating the two issues only sullies public debate. India’s position has been nuanced but consistent.
• Supreme Court listing electoral bonds case for final hearing after six years is welcome. Issues at stake are vital for democracy— need for transparency in political funding and undue advantage to ruling party. From passage as Money Bill to legalization of anonymity—this haze-shrouded scheme calls for thorough judicial scrutiny.

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.

1. Globally, 9 million girls face extreme risks of climate disaster and child marriage every year: Report READ MORE
2. Changed outlook READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Cabinet approves royalty rates for mining of three critical and strategic minerals- Lithium, Niobium and Rare Earth Elements (REEs) READ MORE
2. Cabinet approves establishment of an autonomous body Mera Yuva Bharat READ MORE
3. ‘Operation Ajay’ set to evacuate Indian nationals from Israel READ MORE  
4. Cauvery Committee retains water release recommendation of 3,000 cusecs to T.N. READ MORE
5. The cases before the new CJI-led nine-judge Constitution Bench | Explained READ MORE
6. Order on cleaning rivers not followed, NGT issues notice to Chief Secretaries of all States, Ministry of Jal Shakti READ MORE
7. India, China agree to maintain momentum of ‘dialogue and negotiations’ READ MORE  
8. How new royalty rates for strategic minerals lithium, REEs can help cut their imports READ MORE
9. What the GI tag can mean for the cashew industry in Goa READ MORE
10. India’s first bamboo-based biorefinery to start operations in March READ MORE
11. Chhattisgarh Baiga tribe gets habitat rights under FRA READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Globally, 9 million girls face extreme risks of climate disaster and child marriage every year: Report READ MORE
2. Changed outlook READ MORE
3. Even temporary global warming above 2°C will affect life in the oceans for centuries READ MORE
4. Is climate change the reason for Sikkim flash floods? READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Women’s quota — rhetoric and reality READ MORE
2. CrPC, IPC changes fall short of expectations READ MORE
3. RTI Act: Time to make it more effective READ MORE
4. Transparency Law | CIC’s evolution from defender to bystander READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Learning for the future READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. UN Security Council reform is a song in a loop READ MORE
2. Are reunifications the key to world peace? READ MORE
3. Global Leadership Is Not Just About Drafting a Statement READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. India may face economic trouble as fertility levels drop READ MORE   
2. The labour market is tougher on women. This is what the Economics Nobel for 2023 acknowledges READ MORE
3. Good, do better: For India, to be the fastest growing major economy isn’t enough. Real change needs 8% growth READ MORE
4. Focus on economy’s basics for 8% growth READ MORE
5. India Needs Stronger Exports to Hold the Line READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Curbing air pollution: Centre, states need to work in close coordination READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Generic drugs are everywhere – and that’s a problem READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. How the government covered up the severity of Teesta floods by blaming them on a ‘cloudburst’ READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. How the Khalistan movement is interlinked with Punjab’s growing drug problem, gun culture READ MORE
2. Beyond ‘Black Mirror’s’ fiction – Impact of Generative AI on policing, security READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. The inescapable meaning of life READ MORE
2. Dealing with failure READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. India’s economy is navigating a labyrinth of interconnected challenges, and addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach encompassing domestic policy reforms. Comment on the statement in light of global economic uncertainties and supply chain disruptions.
2. The challenges against world leadership cannot be addressed if the global institutions are not reformed with time. Analyse the statement in the light of recent global challenges.
3. If global institutions are not reformed as per occurring challenges, then instead of solving problems, they risk becoming part of the problem. In the light of statement, discuss the need for reforms in the United Nations.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Unlike carbon-based fuels, the wind and the sun and the earth itself provide fuel that is free.
• China’s Tibet policy is primarily based on ruthless exploitation hidden under the façade of mega infrastructure projects which are showcased to the rest of the world as a sign of development in this region.
• Goldin’s Nobel and her own awarded work which took decades of research provides a tremendous intellectual platform for a wider level of global policy discussion and action on issues of gender wage gap, women and work, and more.
• Based on its achievements in key fields of technology, India is not in the global game. Yet, as a geopolitical pivot whose importance is derived not by its national power but its sensitive location, India is being courted by all three geostrategic players.
• The inclusion of the African Union as the new G-20 member was a pyrrhic victory compared with the six new members added to the BRICS (these include all global major energy exporters and importers) given that 50 of the 54 African nations attended the 2023 BRICS summit.
• India’s economy is navigating a labyrinth of interconnected challenges and addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach encompassing domestic policy reforms, diversification of export markets and enhancing economic resilience to global shocks.
• India’s ability to overcome global economic uncertainties and supply chain disruptions hurdles will be critical in ensuring continued economic growth and stability in an ever-evolving global landscape.
• Non-urban India has remained blindsided for decades in terms of superannuation, benefits, and social security. Rural India will now catch up with its urban counterpart at a quicker pace.
• The Central Information Commission’s job is to strike a balance between people’s right to know and the State’s legitimate need for limited secrecy.
• Right to Information (RTI) has brought transparency and systemic reforms but there is need to prevent its misuse and plug in loopholes.
• Climate change is exacerbating the risks. Because of global warming, more and more glaciers are melting.
• We must be careful in granting permission for the design of our mega hydro projects. We must do proper environment assessment of these projects and ensure that these withstand any water discharge that may happen in case of a glacier outburst.
• An increase in investment in traditional sectors such as mining and utilities because they trigger wider economic activities.
• Frequent tweaks of irritants aside, the GST regime needs a holistic reform plan, including a road map to bring in excluded items such as electricity, petroleum and alcohol.

50-WORD TALK

• A radical re-imagination of growth and developmental opportunities offering a wider platform for Indian (and other developing countries’) women (especially those at the margin in the employment landscape) through a greater, more assertive policy can be a starting point for subsequent transformations to happen across other nations too.
• The disaster in Sikkim is only the latest in a string of related incidents. But it must serve as an urgent reminder at all levels of the state and Central governments that the fragile condition of the Himalayas as the effects of climate change escalate will pose a continued and imminent danger to residents of India’s hill states.

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.

1. Gita unfolds the true essence of sanatan dharma READ MORE
2. Dealing with failure READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Competition Commission of India to host 8th BRICS International Competition Conference during October 11-13, 2023 in New Delhi READ MORE
2. SC to hear pleas challenging electoral bond scheme on October 31 READ MORE
3. Net direct tax collections up 21.8% to ₹9.57 lakh crore READ MORE  
4. PCA regime to cover PSU NBFCs from October 2024 READ MORE
5. IMF raises India growth forecast to 6.3% for FY24 READ MORE
6. India, Italy sign defence cooperation agreement READ MORE
7. SC to hear petition challenging electoral bonds: What is the scheme and its criticisms? READ MORE  
8. Dancing frogs of Western Ghats among most threatened amphibians globally READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Mental disorders 10 times more likely following detention among asylum-seeking children: Report READ MORE
2. Women want change, society needs change READ MORE
3. DC Edit | Caste census to address inequity READ MORE
4. Something changed about cyclone formation in the 1990s | Explained READ MORE  
5. What the hottest September ever reveals about climate change READ MORE
6. India can reap the demographic dividend – but there’s a deadline READ MORE
7. Why does Delhi NCR frequently experience earthquakes, what causes seismic activity in region? READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Caste census: Why the liberal intelligentsia’s opposition is misplaced READ MORE
2. Stop being vindictive’: SC directive to ED welcome READ MORE
3. DC Edit | SC’s relook at PMLA provisions welcome READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Learning for the future READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. BRICS: The mortar of competition in a globalised world READ MORE
2. ‘West is hypocritical’ is now India’s go-to foreign policy response. Delhi not exempt either READ MORE
3. India and the Israel-Palestine War: Choices, challenges and trade-offs READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. The impact of Claudia Goldin’s work READ MORE  
2. Achieving the green energy goal READ MRE
3. Centre’s push on infra is transforming India READ MORE
4. West Asia crisis can hit global economy READ MORE
5. Claudia Goldin’s Nobel is a Wake-up Call for India’s Disjointed Labour Markets READ MORE
6. DC Edit | RBI keeps its focus on inflation READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Deregulation of biodiversity regime to impact environment READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. We need evidence-based traditional medicine READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. More people moved into high flood zones, exposing larger populations to water disasters: World Bank READ MORE
2. Sikkim’s Chungthang dam collapse signals the need for dam safety & emissions reduction READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. How the Khalistan movement is interlinked with Punjab’s growing drug problem, gun culture READ MORE
2. Beyond ‘Black Mirror’s’ fiction – Impact of Generative AI on policing, security READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Gita unfolds the true essence of sanatan dharma READ MORE
2. Dealing with failure READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Why does Delhi NCR frequently experience earthquakes? What causes seismic activity in this region?
2. There is a need to redefine the relationship between the State and universities for a truly autonomous and thriving academic environment. Comment on the statement in light of recent developments.
3. While constitutional safeguards and legal protection for Dalits exist, caste-based discrimination has taken on new forms in the modern era. Discuss why the safeguards and legal protection failed to address the issue of discrimination in higher educational institutions?

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• A leader who doesn’t hesitate before he sends his nation into battle is not fit to be a leader.
• India must carefully weigh the situation, its long-term trajectory, and fall outs and find sensible geopolitical choices and security measures to deal with future challenges.
• The growing perception of Canada being a sanctuary for global offenders not only tarnishes its international reputation but also poses a threat to its societal fabric.
• It is difficult to fathom how a pause in policy rates or controlling liquidity could bring down food inflation, which was caused mainly because of supply shortages.
• Inclusion does not happen on its own in a society beset with inequalities which have a history of thousands of years; it takes deliberate and forceful attempts.
• While the apex court puts its imprimatur on the law finding it an effective tool to take on international terror rackets, its use on the ground does not share that confidence.
• It may be a paradox that a country which runs per a democratic Constitution and vouches by the rule of law has for all these years let an investigating agency infringe on the fundamental right to liberty of citizens without offering them a reason.
• Future-ready education is one that will help students adapt to ever-changing circumstances, prepare them for the drastic fallouts of climate change, teach them the importance of maintaining a balanced ecology and help them to be genuine global citizens.
• Generative AI’s impact on military warfare can be both revolutionary and riddled with ethical and legal considerations. It has significant implications for defence strategies, intelligence gathering, and training simulations.
• The fall in prices and the strengthening of international financial linkages will allow India to attain a current account surplus.
• The United Nations’ report on ageing in India serves as a reminder that the country’s opportunity to reap the demographic dividend is not perpetual.
• Russia’s increasing involvement in Africa is about its geopolitics, economics, and intricate security concerns.
• Reservation is the most effective form of affirmative action and equity is the first step to equality.

50-WORD TALK

• Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is complaining about India to a growing list of global leaders from the UK, the UAE, and now Jordan. If Trudeau has concrete evidence of Indian wrong-doing, he should present it. Else, he’ll have to get used to the eye-rolling all whiny children eventually get.
• Awarding the Economics Nobel to economic historian Claudia Goldin is entirely appropriate. She’s greatly enhanced our understanding of women’s pay and labour participation, and historical issues therein. That she’s only the third woman to win this Nobel, and the first to do it solo, highlights how vital her research is.

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.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Harvard professor Claudia Goldin wins Nobel Economics Prize for gender gap research READ MORE
2. Scientists untangle mystery about the universe’s earliest galaxies READ MORE
3. Sri Lanka to take over as Chair of Indian Ocean Rim Association READ MORE  
4. Ahead of Bima Vistaar rollout, IRDAI issues guidelines on Bima Vahaks READ MORE
5. ICMR to set up study to develop solutions to remedy childhood undernutrition READ MORE
6. What is multimodal artificial intelligence and why is it important? READ MORE
7. Joint Statement during the State Visit of the President of Tanzania to India and launch of Strategic Partnership between India and Tanzania (8-10 October 2023) READ MORE  
8. Appointment of Manipur HC CJ to be notified soon, Centre tells apex court READ MORE
9. Unemployment rate drops to 6.6% in urban areas in Q1 READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Mental health and the floundering informal worker READ MORE
2. Socio-economic takeaways from Bihar caste survey READ MORE
3. Does India need a caste census? READ MORE
4. Extreme weather impact: 20,000 children displaced every day in last 6 years READ MORE  
5. How climate crisis will trigger more water wars in India READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The state of India’s Scheduled Areas READ MORE
2. Uncertain timing, Census and delimitation hurdles cast shadow over women’s reservation READ MORE
3. Law Commission age of consent recommendations threaten to criminalise the young READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. The ‘invisible’ disability of mental illness: Challenges of social security access READ MORE
2. Fundamental health services for women: Analysing gender disparities READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. The end of the two-state solution: Hamas’s spectacular terrorism will push back Palestinian statehood by a generation READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. With food inflation limited to dal roti, why govt policy may need changes READ MORE  
2. Economics Nobel 2023: How Claudia Goldin shed light on the status of women in the workforce READ MORE
3. Is RBI heading in the right direction? READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Why India is launching a national framework for climate services Extreme weather impact: 20,000 children displaced every day in last 6 years READ MORE
2. Natural disasters occur due to our apathy towards environment READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. More people moved into high flood zones, exposing larger populations to water disasters: World Bank READ MORE
2. Sikkim’s Chungthang dam collapse signals the need for dam safety & emissions reduction READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Back to square one on theatre commands READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. It’s okay to be not okay READ MORE
2. Only we can reform our society READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Empowering women with the right to a safe and inclusive online environment is a crucial step toward a more equitable and just society in the digital age. Comment.
2. There is a need to redefine the relationship between the State and universities for a truly autonomous and thriving academic environment. Comment on the statement in light of recent developments.
3. While constitutional safeguards and legal protection for Dalits exist, caste-based discrimination has taken on new forms in the modern era. Discuss why the safeguards and legal protection are failed to address the issue of discrimination in higher educational institutions?

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Palestine is the cement that holds the Arab world together, or it is the explosive that blows it apart.
• The disturbing trends seen in women’s mental health call for immediate gender mainstreaming action in mental health policies.
• Policy neglect, uncertain job market, and increased contractualisation are making labourers’ economic condition worse. Inflation is negating purchasing power too.
• Wages of informal labourers neither become an election issue nor do they count as a measure of poverty.
• ]The only way to protect the Indian rupee is through price stability. Assured stability through firmer anti-inflationary measures sends an effective message to overseas investors.
• We need to enhance our responsibility and responsiveness towards climate cure and healing; we must investment in climate-pro solutions.
• Enhance cooperation for mitigation efforts, and develop sustainable and viable ecosystems for a crisis-free society.
• A caste census is deemed discriminatory and opposed by those who seek equal rights for all. Besides, opinions are sharply divided on its impact.
• The release of the socio-economic profile of various SRCs can bring back the lost focus on the ‘economic’ aspect of social justice.
• The promise of a caste census could influence outcomes in the upcoming assembly elections but not do much for the cause of universal welfarism.
• India and South Korea, guided by universal values, should build beyond bilateralism as they refuse to be bystanders amid global disorder.
• Law Commission recommendations on age of consent sidestep key question of how to protect the young from sexual abuse, while ensuring they are not punished for consensual sexual activity with peers.
• Informal workers, despite their significant contribution to national income, are perennially exposed to economic, physical, and, in turn, mental vulnerabilities.
• The only way forward is for a Palestinian leadership that can credibly signal to the Israeli people that it will not use the freedoms it gains from any peace deal to hurt Israel. The prospects for that seem dim.

50-WORD TALK

• The shocking failure of Israel’s security services to preempt Hamas’ brutal strikes illustrates the damage caused when elected dictators operate without scrutiny and the perils of emulating Erdogan-style rule. PM Netanyahu’s politics undermined Jerusalem’s military and intelligence leadership. Israel will prevail—but at a price that need not have been paid.
• Army signing contracts worth Rs 18,000 crore under emergency procurement and asking it be institutionalised shows how convoluted military procurement has become. It is a shame that Services have to use EP to fill up critical gaps. This piecemeal approach should be stopped and procurement systems decluttered for faster procurement.

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.