18 July 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. Centre asks States to ensure that queer community gets equal rights in prisons

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice

Context

The Ministry of Home Affairs directed States/UTs to ensure LGBTQ+ equality in prisons, addressing discrimination in access to services and visitation rights. They referenced the Model Prison Manual, emphasising fair treatment and regular communication with family and legal advisers for all prisoners, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Analysis of the news:

• The Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed States/Union Territories to ensure equal rights for LGBTQ+ members in prisons.
• Discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation in access to goods, services, and visitation rights must be eliminated.
• According to the Model Prison Manual, 2016, every prisoner, including LGBTQ+ individuals, is entitled to reasonable facilities for communication with family, legal advisers, and friends.
• Interviews with family members and legal advisers should occur once in a fortnight, with a limit of three persons per visit.
• Female prisoners should have interviews in female enclosures when possible.
• Prison authorities are directed to sensitise officials to treat all persons, especially LGBTQ+ individuals, equally and without discrimination.

Challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in accessing justice and social services:

Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Individuals in Accessing Justice and Social Services: Legal Discrimination: Many countries lack comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, leading to biassed treatment in legal proceedings and denial of services. Social Stigma and Bias: Deep-seated societal prejudices often result in LGBTQ+ individuals facing hostility, judgement, and reluctance from service providers, hindering their access to justice and services. Lack of Awareness and Sensitivity: Legal and social service providers may not be adequately trained to understand and address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, leading to inadequate support. Barriers to Healthcare: Discrimination and lack of understanding in healthcare settings prevent LGBTQ+ individuals from accessing essential medical and mental health services. Financial Constraints: Economic marginalisation due to workplace discrimination or lack of legal recognition can limit resources for legal representation and social support. Way Forward: Legal Reforms: Implement and enforce inclusive anti-discrimination laws and policies to protect LGBTQ+ rights in all spheres of life. Training and Sensitization: Provide mandatory training for legal and social service professionals on LGBTQ+ issues to ensure inclusive and respectful service delivery. Community Outreach: Establish LGBTQ+ community centres and support networks to provide advocacy, legal aid, and social services tailored to their needs. Healthcare Access: Ensure healthcare providers are trained in LGBTQ+ healthcare needs and promote inclusive practices in medical settings. Public Awareness: Launch campaigns to combat stigma, raise awareness about LGBTQ+ rights, and promote acceptance within society and among service providers.

Practice Question:  Examine the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in accessing justice and social services in India. Discuss the role of recent policy interventions in addressing these challenges, with reference to societal attitudes and legal frameworks. (150 Words /10 marks)

2. On political representation of women

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity

Context

The global landscape of women’s representation in parliaments varies widely.India, despite granting universal suffrage in 1952, has seen historically low numbers of women MPs. The 106th amendment, passed in 2023, mandates one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, aiming to enhance gender parity in governance.

Introduction to Women Representation in Global Parliaments:

• The global landscape of women representation in parliaments varies significantly among democracies.
• Universal suffrage, crucial for gender equality, was achieved in stages across countries like New Zealand (1893), the United Kingdom (1928), and the United States (1920).

Women MPs in Independent India:

• India granted universal suffrage to women from its first general elections in 1952.
• Despite this, women’s representation in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies has historically been low, ranging from 5% to 10% until 2004.
• The percentage rose marginally to 12% in 2014 and currently stands at 14% in the 18th Lok Sabha.
• State Legislative Assemblies show an even lower average representation of around 9%.
• The 73rd and 74th amendments in 1992/1993 mandated one-third reservation for women in panchayats and municipalities, yet similar attempts for reservation in the Lok Sabha and assemblies between 1996 and 2008 were unsuccessful.

Global Comparison of Women MPs:

• Globally, promoting higher representation for women remains a challenge despite their constituting half of the population in most countries.
• Effective methods include voluntary or legislated compulsory quotas within political parties and direct reservation of seats in parliaments.
• Countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan, with quotas in parliament, often fare poorer than those with political party quotas.

Introduction to the 106th Amendment:

• As of April 2024, India ranks 143rd in women’s representation in national parliaments according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
• The Trinamool Congress leads with 38% women MPs, while major parties like BJP and Congress have around 13% each.

106th Amendment:

• Recognizing the need for enhanced women representation, the 106th constitutional amendment was passed in September 2023.
• It mandates one-third reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
• This move aims to ensure fair representation, increase gender sensitivity in legislative processes, and potentially elevate the number of women ministers.
• Implementation hinges on the delimitation exercise post the first Census conducted after the amendment’s commencement.
• A timely Census is crucial to ensure reservation takes effect in the 2029 general elections.

Conclusion:

• The 106th amendment represents a significant step towards achieving gender parity in Indian legislatures.
• By institutionalising quotas, India seeks to address historical underrepresentation and enhance inclusivity in governance.
• Successful implementation requires collaborative efforts to conduct the overdue Census and prepare for fair delimitation.
• Ultimately, the amendment aims to empower women politically and pave the way for more equitable and representative democratic institutions.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the 106th constitutional amendment in enhancing women’s representation in Indian legislatures. Highlight the challenges and potential impacts of this amendment on governance and gender parity in the country. (150 Words /10 marks)

 

3. After backlash, Karnataka Govt puts private sector quota Bill on hold

(Source: Indian Express; Section: cover page; Page: 01)

Topic: GS2 – Polity

Context:

The Karnataka government mandating 75 per cent reservation in non-management jobs and 50 per cent in management Jobs for local candidates. But After massive backlash from industry, the government put hold on bill.

Analysis of the news:

• The Karnataka government passed‘The Karnataka state Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024’, with aim to address the employment issues of the locals within the private sector.
• The state cabinet approved a bill mandating 100 per cent reservation for Kannadigas in private firms for Group C and Group D posts.
• However the bill was withdrawn within an hour after massive backlash from the industry.

Bill defines Locals candidate:

• The Bill defines a “local candidate”
• as someone who is born in State of Karnataka
• domiciled there for a period of 15 years,
• capable of speaking, reading and writing Kannada in legible way and
• has passed a requisite test conducted by the Nodal Agency. 

Minimum threshold and penalties:

• The percentage of local candidates should not fall below 25% for management positions and 50% for non-management positions, Even if industries face challenges in finding local talent.
• Failure to comply with these minimum thresholds may result in penalties ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000.

4. 84,119 Children rescued by RPF under ‘Operation Nanhe Farishtey’ in last seven years

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2033823 )

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice

Context

The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has rescued 84,119 children from 2018 to May 2024 through ‘Operation Nanhe Faristey,’ ensuring their safety and preventing harm. This initiative highlights the RPF’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children across India’s railway network, adapting to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and raising awareness about runaway and missing children.

Analysis of the news:

• ‘Operation Nanhe Faristey’ by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has rescued a total of 84,119 children across Indian Railway Zones since its inception.
• The initiative aims to protect vulnerable children found in precarious situations on trains and at stations.
• Children rescued include runaways, missing, left behind, destitute, kidnapped, mentally challenged, and street children.
• RPF’s efforts highlight their commitment to child welfare and safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society.
• The operation involves coordinated efforts across railway zones, raising awareness and prompting support from various stakeholders.
• Child help desks at over 135 railway stations and the Track Child Portal facilitate quick response and reunification with families through District Child Welfare Committees.
• Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, RPF continues to adapt and enhance their efforts to ensure a safer environment for children nationwide.

5. Principal Scientific Adviser to GoI launches report on e-mobility R&D roadmap for India to achieve net-zero targets

(Source https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2033653)

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure

Context

The e-mobility R&D Roadmap for India, launched on July 16, 2024, aims to propel India as a global leader in electric mobility by 2029. It focuses on reducing import reliance, enhancing domestic R&D, and fostering energy independence through advancements in energy storage, EV technology, materials, and charging infrastructure.

Analysis of the news:

• The e-mobility R&D Roadmap for India was launched on July 16, 2024, at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe in New Delhi by Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
• Objective: The roadmap aims to position India as a global leader in electric mobility within the next five years by focusing on four key areas: Energy Storage Cells, EV Aggregates, Materials and Recycling, and Charging and Refuelling infrastructure.
• Key Focus Areas: Identified through extensive global horizon scanning, the roadmap emphasises reducing import dependency in the e-mobility value chain, strengthening domestic R&D capabilities, and promoting indigenous manufacturing of energy storage systems and renewable energy generation for EV charging.
• Strategic Initiatives: The roadmap outlines strategic initiatives to achieve a 45% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and energy independence by 2047, ultimately aiming for net-zero emissions by 2070.
• Implementation: Developed under the guidance of CGeM and executed by organisations like Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and Non-Ferrous Materials Technology Development Centre (NFTDC), the roadmap integrates technical expertise from academia, government, and industry.
• The roadmap positions India to leverage existing infrastructure and resources for rapid deployment of technologies critical to achieving national energy goals and global competitiveness in the e-mobility sector.
• The event also emphasised the pivotal role of R&D and innovation in aligning the automotive sector’s growth with sustainable development goals, ensuring continued economic contribution while mitigating environmental impact.

PYQ: The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles? (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2023)

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the e-mobility R&D Roadmap for India in achieving global leadership in electric vehicles. How does it address challenges and promote indigenous technological development? (250 Words /15 marks)

Prelims Facts

1. States cannot tinker with the Scheduled Castes List, says SC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Context

The Supreme Court ruled that states lack authority to modify the Scheduled Castes List under Article 341 of the Constitution. This decision stemmed from a Bihar government notification merging an Extremely Backward Class with Scheduled Castes, deemed illegal and outside state jurisdiction by Justices Vikram Nath and P.K. Mishra.

Analysis of the news:

• The Supreme Court ruled that states cannot alter the Scheduled Castes List under Article 341 of the Constitution.

Article 341:

Article 341 of the Indian Constitution pertains to the provisions for Scheduled Castes (SCs). It empowers the President of India to specify, through public notification, the castes, races, or tribes deemed as Scheduled Castes in each state and union territory. This constitutional provision aims to safeguard the rights and promote the welfare of historically marginalised communities by ensuring their representation and access to affirmative action programs.

• The case arose from a Bihar government notification merging the Extremely Backward Class (EBC) of Tanti-Tantwa with the Scheduled Caste of Pan/Sawasi, allowing EBC members to claim SC benefits.
• Justices Vikram Nath and P.K. Mishra clarified that any changes to the SC list must be made by Parliament, not by states.
• The court declared the 2015 Bihar notification as illegal and beyond the state government’s authority.
• It emphasised that even if recommended by state commissions, such alterations violate constitutional provisions safeguarding the integrity of the SC list.

2. Of a gilded past and the future: Nalanda’s lost glory and new-found ambitions

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 11)

Context

The news explores historical significance and controversies surrounding Nalanda, an ancient centre of learning dating back to the Gupta dynasty. It highlights its academic excellence, cultural influence across Asia, and debates over its destruction during Bakhtiyar Khalji’s raids, emphasising its modern rediscovery and restoration efforts.

Analysis of the news:

• Historical Significance: Nalanda, established around 427 AD by Kumaragupta-I of the Gupta dynasty, was a renowned centre of learning supported later by Pala kings and Bodh Gaya’s monks.
• Academic Excellence: It boasted notable scholars like Aryabhata, Harsha, Dharmapala, Nagarjuna, Dharmakirti, Asanga, Vasubandhu, Chandrakirti and Silabhadra, who praised its rigorous admission process and global educational influence.
• Hiuen Tsang, A Chinese scholar, spent five years here during the reign of Harshavardhan in the 7th century, and wrote in detail about Nalanda’s meticulous approach in enrolling students, including rigorous admission tests.
• Cultural Influence: Nalanda’s reputation spread across Asia, strengthening ties between eastern India and Southeast Asia through Buddhism.
• Controversial History: Historians debate the extent of damage caused by Bakhtiyar Khalji’s raids around 1200 AD. Such assertions are based on the writings of Minhaj-i-Siraj who wrote in Tabaqat-i-Nasiri.
• Modern Rediscovery: Despite historical controversies, Nalanda remains a symbol of ancient Indian scholarship and cultural exchange, with efforts to restore its legacy through initiatives like the new Rajgir campus.

3. IPEF: India likely to sign clean, fair economy pacts

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 12)

Context

India is close to finalising the clean economy and fair economy agreements under the Indo Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), led by the U.S. The agreements focus on energy security, climate resilience, anti-corruption, and transparent business environments, while India hesitates on joining the trade pillar due to concerns over digital trade and standards.

Analysis of the news:

• India is nearing finalisation of clean economy and fair economy agreements under the U.S.-led Indo Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).

Indo Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF):

The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is a U.S.-led initiative launched in May 2022 to bolster economic cooperation and resilience. It includes 14 countries: the United States, Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. The IPEF focuses on four key pillars: trade, supply chain resilience, clean energy and decarbonization, and tax and anti-corruption measures. It aims to foster sustainable economic growth, improve trade standards, and ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, counterbalancing China’s influence in the region.

• These pacts focus on energy security, climate resilience, anti-corruption, and transparent business environments.
• India has concerns over the trade pillar, particularly regarding digital economy rules and labour/environmental standards.
• The Commerce Department has drafted Cabinet notes, with other ministries largely in agreement.
• India, after missing endorsement due to elections, aims to secure domestic clearances before signing.
• IPEF, aimed partly at countering Chinese influence, includes 14 members like the U.S., Japan, Australia, and others.
• All members, including India, have signed the supply chain resilience agreement.
• The clean economy pact targets reducing fossil fuel dependence, promoting clean energy, and attracting investments for climate-friendly technologies.
• The fair economy agreement aims at enhancing trade and investment by improving transparency, combating corruption, and boosting tax cooperation.
• Negotiations on the trade pillar, excluding digital trade, are stalled as the U.S. shifts focus.

4. Centre plans Rs 1.9-lakh crore 4th phase of rural road scheme

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Government & politics; Page: 05)

Context:

The Centre plans to launch the fourth phase of its flagship rural road scheme,  Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), to connect 50,000 habitations having population above 250 in plain areas and and 100 in special category states with all-weather roads.

Analysis of the news:

About Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

• Government had launched the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana on 25th December, 2000.
• PMGSY aims to provide all-weather road connectivity to all competent unconnected habitations in rural areas of the country.
• The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana 1 (PMGSY) is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme.

Habitations covered:

1. Plain areas: a population of 500 persons and above (as per the 2001 Census),
2. Special Category States and in Select Tribal and Backward Districts,
3. Most intensive Integrated Action Plan (IAP) blocks identified by MHA .these are the unconnected habitations with a population of 100 and above[mainly LWE areas].

Funding for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY):

1. 11 Special Category states = 90:10.
   1. Rest all 60:40 between centre state.

“Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism (LWE) Affected Areas” is a sub-scheme of PMGSY which is being implemented in 44 worst affected LWE and adjoining districts, critical from security and communication points of view.