29 November 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN WORKFORCE

(Source –https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2078530&reg=3&lang=1 )

Context

The article discusses the significant rise in women’s participation in the labor force in India, as indicated by the increasing Worker Population Ratio (WPR) and Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR). It highlights various government initiatives aimed at boosting female employment and employability.

Analysis of the news:

• Worker Population Ratio (WPR) & Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR):
  • Data from the Annual PLFS Reports (2017-24) shows increasing female participation in the workforce.
  • WPR for women rose from 22.0% in 2017-18 to 40.3% in 2023-24.

• LFPR increased from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24.

• Government Initiatives:
  • Prioritizing employment generation and improving employability for women.
  • Labour laws include provisions like paid maternity leave, equal wages, and flexible working hours for women.
  • Key schemes: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Stand-UP India, MGNREGS, DDU-GKY, Startup India, SERB-POWER, among others.
  • Employment training provided through women-focused vocational institutes.
• Budget 2024-25:
  • Rs. 2 lakh crore outlay for employment, skilling, and other opportunities for 4.1 crore youth over 5 years.
  • Establishment of working women hostels and creches to facilitate workforce participation.

Practice Question:  Discuss the key government initiatives aimed at increasing the labor force participation of women in India. How do these efforts contribute to enhancing the employability and economic empowerment of women? (250 Words /15 marks)

2. PRISON REFORMS

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2077949&reg=3&lang=1 )

Context

The article highlights the Ministry of Home Affairs’ efforts to promote prison reforms in India, including the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, Model Prison Manual, and technological upgrades. These initiatives focus on prisoner welfare, rehabilitation, and legal aid.

Analysis of the news:

• Prison Management and Reforms: Prison management is a state subject, under Entry 4 of List II, Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India.
• Role of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA): MHA supports states and UTs with guidelines, advisories, and financial assistance for prison reforms and technological upgrades.
• Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023: Prepared by MHA, this model act covers prison management, focusing on prisoner reformation, rehabilitation, welfare programs, and integration into society.
• Model Prison Manual 2016: Provides detailed guidelines on prison administration, including welfare, rehabilitation, legal aid, and medical care for prisoners. It promotes the use of technology like virtual meetings and educational programs.
• Technological Upgrades: Financial assistance is provided for modernizing prison systems, including e-prison systems, security infrastructure, and wellness programs.
• Mental Health and Legal Aid: MHA collaborated with NIMHANS to create handbooks on mental health for inmates and officers. Legal Service Clinics in prisons offer free legal aid and advice to inmates.

Practice Question:  Discuss the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs in promoting prison reforms in India. How do the Model Prisons Act and Model Prison Manual contribute to the welfare and rehabilitation of prisoners? (150 Words /10 marks)