11 March 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
1. HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE SURVEY 2023-24
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2109812 )
| Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy |
| Context |
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Introduction
- The latest survey (HCES: 2023-24) was conducted from August 2023 to July 2024, with findings published in January 2025.
Data Collection and Accuracy Measures
- The survey uses Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) and web-based applications for data collection.
- Built-in validation mechanisms help ensure accuracy by flagging implausible or inconsistent responses.
- Multi-level data scrutiny and validation checks minimize errors and improve efficiency.
Categories of Data Collected
- Information was collected on 405 items of food and non-food consumption.
| Category | Examples of Items |
| Food Items | Cereals, pulses, milk, vegetables, fruits, edible oil, spices, beverages, processed food |
| Non-Food Items | Fuel, education, medical expenses, rent, entertainment, clothing, durable goods |
Survey Coverage and Sampling Methodology
- Conducted across all States/UTs, except inaccessible villages of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Villages are first-stage units in rural areas, while urban blocks are used for urban areas.
- Households are selected randomly using statistical methodology (SRSWOR).
Household Stratification
- In rural areas, households are categorized based on land possession.
- In urban areas, households are classified based on ownership of four-wheelers:
- High-income group: Households with cars worth more than ₹10 lakh.
- Middle-income group: Households with cars worth ₹10 lakh or less.
- General category: Remaining households.
Conclusion
- This survey ensures comprehensive data collection to understand spending patterns across different sections of society.
| Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) in policymaking. How does the use of digital platforms enhance data accuracy and reliability in such large-scale surveys? (150 Words /10 marks) |
2. Lok Sabha Passes Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, Modernizing 169-Year-Old Colonial Shipping Law
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2110053 )
| Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity |
| Context |
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Comparison of Bills of Lading Act, 1856 vs. Bills of Lading Act, 2025
| Aspect | Bills of Lading Act, 1856 | Bills of Lading Act, 2025 |
| Origin | Colonial-era law enacted in 1856. | Modernized law replacing the 1856 Act. |
| Structure & Complexity | Brief, 3-section act with limited scope. | Comprehensive law with simplified and reorganized provisions. |
| Language | Archaic and outdated legal terminology. | Simplified and business-friendly language for clarity. |
| Legal Certainty | Limited clarity, leading to frequent disputes and litigation. | Enhanced legal certainty, reducing litigation risks. |
| Government Role | No provision for government intervention or implementation support. | Empowers the Central Government to issue directives for effective implementation. |
| Alignment with Global Standards | Does not align with modern international maritime practices. | Harmonized with global trade and shipping norms. |
| Flexibility & Adaptability | Rigid, lacks adaptability to modern trade complexities. | More adaptable to evolving shipping industry needs. |
| Business Impact | Cumbersome shipping processes causing delays. | Streamlined processes making trade faster and more efficient. |
| Colonial Legacy | Reflects colonial-era commercial practices. | Eliminates colonial legacy, supporting a modern legal framework. |
| Current Status | Outdated, requiring urgent reforms. | Passed in Lok Sabha, awaiting Rajya Sabha approval and Presidential assent. |
| Practice Question: The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, replaces the colonial-era Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856. Compare the key features of the old and new law, highlighting their significance in modernizing India’s shipping sector. (250 Words /15 marks) |
Check this out 10 March 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC
