GS I (INDIAN HERITAGE & CULTURE, HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY OF THE WORLD &

SOCIETY)
Page No. 1 - 11
1) Caste Census
2) Dadabhai Naoroji
3) Role of Communism in Indian National Movement and beyond
4) Transgender Community and Challenges
5) Port Blair and its Historical Connection to the Chola Dynasty
6) Menace of Witchhunting
7) Sufism
8) Onam
9) 100 Years of Discovery of Harappan Civilization
10) International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

GS II (GOVERNANCE, CONSTITUTION, POLITY, SOCIAL JUSTICE AND

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS)
Page No. 11 - 35
11) Law Commission of India
12) Schemes for the Agriculture Sector
13) Right to be Silent during Interrogation
14) Emergency Provisions Impact on Centre-State Relations
15) Independence of the Judiciary
16) Inner Line Permit Regime
17) Opec+
18) Peace Pact in Tripura
19) Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award 2024
20) India and United Arab Emirates (UAE)
21) Bangladesh Crisis
22) PM-JAY for Elderly
23) US Backs India’s contest for Permanent Seat at UNSC
24) One Nation One Election
25) Sexual Violence and Death Penalty in India
26) India-Myanmar Relations
27) FATF
28) Appointment of Supreme Court Judges
29) QUAD
30) POCSO ACT (Protection Of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012)
31) Women's Political Representation in India
32) Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
33) Extra Judicial Killings

GS III (TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, BIO-DIVERSITY, ENVIRONMENT,

SECURITY AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT)
Page No. 35 - 63
34) Launch Of Vulture Count 2024
35) World Employment and Social Outlook: September 2024
36) PM-AWAS Yojana 2.0
37) Indian Agriculture Sector
38) Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024
39) Rashtriya Poshan Maah
40) Financial Stability and Development Council
41) Cryptocurency
42) National Blockchain Framework (NBF)
43) India: Highest Contributor to Global Plastic Pollution
44) Role of Tourism in Peace Building
45) First Legally Binding International Treaty on Artificial Intelligence (AI)
46) PM-E Drive
47) Mission Mausam
48) Universal Basic Income
49) Terrorism in J&K
50) Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958
51) Demographic Dividend
52) Venus Mission: Shukrayaan-1
53) Heat Waves
54) Gaganyaan Mission
55) White Revolution 2.0
56) World Rhino Day
57) Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council
58) Stubble Burning
59) Unemployment
60) Project Cheetah

GS IV(ETHICS, INTEGRITY APTITUDE)

Page No. 64
61) Journalistic Ethics

GS V (ASSAM SPECIFIC TOPICS)

Page No. 64 - 76
62) Excellence Rankings for Service Delivery
63) Flash Floods
64) Bamboo-To-Methanol Plant at Panchgram
65) Assam’s Multidimensional Poverty
66) Biplab Kumar Sarma Committee Recommendation
67) E-Chitha: A Digital Land Record Management System in Assam
68) Relative Economic Performance of Indian States: 1960-61 To 2023-24
69) The Assam Public Examination (Measures for Prevention of Unfair Means in Recruitment)
Act, 2024
70) Bhaona
71) Orunodoi 3.0
72) Jayanta Hazarika
73) Status of Assam’s Agriculture Sector

NEWS IN SHORTS:
Page No. 77 - 86
1) Women’s javelin gold in the 63rd National Open Athletics Championships.
2) Amendment to CPSEs guidelines.
3) Gold medal at the Paralympics
4) First Indian woman track and field athlete to win two medals at the Paralympics.
5) Gold award to ONDC
6) MoU signed
7) Contribution to climate finance
8) Gold Award for excellence in e-Governance
9) Bill to raise minimum marriageable age
10) Green manifesto
11) Cyber Nalanda
12) Galactic Ultraluminous X-ray emitting pulsar, Swift J0243.6+6124
13) National Teachers’ Awards conferred on 82 educators from across country.
14) MOU on India-Singapore Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership
15) Chief Minister’s Secretariat inaugurated in Dibrugarh
16) India, world’s second-biggest 5G handset market
17) Typhoon Yagi
18) New treatment for TB
19) Solar light project
20) Project OIL ASHA
21) Pact signed
22) First meeting of National Research Fund board
23) Polaris Dawn mission
24) Satellite-based toll system
25) VL-SRSAM
26) Retail inflation
27) Indian light tank, Zorawar
28) Port Blair to be renamed Sri Vijaya Puram
29) Bavarian Nordic’s vaccine
30) "Brain on a chip" technology
31) RG Baruah Memorial Awards 2024
32) MoU signed
33) First-in-human clinical trials
34) Diamond League final
35) BHASKAR initiative
36) Blue-water voyage
37) Jobs in the non-farm sector
38) Tuticorin International Container Terminal
39) Green Hydrogen Project
40) RE-INVEST
41) Start-up India initiative
42) UNFCCC (COP 29)
43) Governor’s initiatives
44) Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan
45) Squadron Leader Mohana Singh
46) Manipur’s Andro village
47) India’s nominal GDP
48) Periodic Labour Force Survey
49) State Food Safety Index 2023-24
50) Jatiya Chetana Divas
51) QS rankings
52) Overseas inflows of FDI
53) ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat)
54) Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024
55) Golok Samman for 2023 award
GS I (INDIAN HERITAGE & CULTURE,  Helps identify disadvantaged groups and
HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY OF THE WORLD bring them into the policy-making
& SOCIETY) framework.
 Enables targeted policies for addressing
1) CASTE CENSUS social inequality and uplifting
marginalized communities.
Ensuring Equitable Distribution of Resources:
 Accurate data on OBCs and other groups
ensures the fair allocation of resources.
 Guides policymakers in formulating
inclusive development policies.
Monitor the Effectiveness of Affirmative Action
Policies:
 Helps evaluate the impact of affirmative
action policies such as reservations.
Instead of being up to the Union executive's whim,  Provides data to modify or continue
the Census Act, 1948 should be changed to make policies based on their effectiveness.
caste enumeration mandatory. These kinds of data Provide a Comprehensive Picture of Indian
can be gathered as part of the standard Census, with Society:
a few relevant questions added to the survey.
 Caste influences social, economic, and
Census in India:
political dynamics in India.
Origin dates back to the colonial exercise of 1881.
 A caste census provides a comprehensive
The Census is used by the government,
view of the diversity of Indian society,
policymakers, and researchers to capture the
enabling a better understanding of social
Indian population, access resources, map social
relationships.
change, and conduct delimitation exercises.
Constitutional Mandate:
Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC):
 Article 340 mandates a commission to
 First conducted in 1931, SECC collects
investigate the conditions of socially and
information on the economic status of
educationally backward classes and
families in rural and urban areas to identify
recommend steps for their upliftment.
deprivation indicators.
Arguments Against Caste Census
 Also collects caste-specific data to
 Social Divisiveness: Critics argue that
evaluate the economic conditions of
emphasizing caste through a census could
different caste groups.
reinforce caste identities, potentially
Difference Between Census & SECC:
deepening social divisions and tensions.
Census:
This might hinder national unity and social
 Provides a general portrait of the Indian
cohesion.
population.
 Administrative Complexity: With
 Data is confidential under the Census Act
thousands of caste groups in India, many
of 1948.
of which are region-specific, accurately
SECC:
enumerating and categorizing them poses
 Used to identify beneficiaries of state significant logistical challenges, raising
support. concerns over inaccuracies and
 Personal information is open for use by administrative burden.
government departments to grant or  Political Implications: There is concern
restrict benefits. that caste-based data could be exploited for
History of Caste-based Data Collection in India: electoral gains, leading to demands for
Pre-1951: Caste data was collected until 1931. increased reservations and creating further
Post-1951: divisions in political representation and
 Decision to stop collecting caste data was decision-making processes.
made to promote national unity. Attempt at Caste Census Failed
 Renewed calls for a caste census due to  The Socio-Economic and Caste Census
changing socio-political dynamics. (SECC) of 2011, conducted by the
Significance of Caste Census: Ministries of Rural and Urban
Addressing Social Inequality: Development, lacked the expertise
1
 required for such complex sociological  He served as the president of the Congress
surveys, leading to significant three times in 1886 (Calcutta), 1893
shortcomings. (Lahore), and 1906 (Calcutta).
 SECC-2011 was not conducted under the  He formed an Indian parliamentary
Census Act of 1948, which meant it lacked committee in the British Parliament in
the legal framework and procedural clarity 1893 for lobbying for reforms in India.
essential for a comprehensive and accurate  He was appointed to the Royal
caste census. Commission on Indian Expenditure in
Way Forward 1895.
 Amend the Census Act, 1948, to explicitly Economic Critic:
include caste as a parameter for  Formulated the theory of Drain of
enumeration. Wealth, explaining how Britain was
 This legal revision would provide a formal draining India’s resources.
framework for conducting a  Authored the book "Poverty and Un-
comprehensive caste census, ensuring British Rule in India" (1901), detailing
procedural consistency and data reliability. the economic exploitation of India by the
 Engage sociological and anthropological British.
experts to create a detailed list of caste  He calculated that nearly one-fourth of
categories for each state. India’s wealth was being drained to
 Publish this list for public consultation to Britain.
ensure transparency and accuracy in the Contributions to Indian Nationalism:
census process.  Advocated for Swaraj (self-rule) as early
as the late 19th century.
2) DADABHAI NAOROJI  Worked extensively to create awareness in
Britain about the plight of Indians.
 Played a key role in fostering the idea of
economic nationalism.
 Instrumental in shaping the moderate wing
of the Indian National Congress.
Social Reformer:
 Fought against social ills like the ill-
treatment of women and worked for their
education.
 Supported parsi reform movements and
On September 4, 2024, Dadabhai Naoroji's 199th
encouraged modern education.
birthday was recently commemorated. He is also
Legacy:
known as "Grand Old Man of India”.
 Naoroji’s economic theories laid the
Early Life:
foundation for future Indian leaders like
 Birth: September 4, 1825, in Bombay
Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
(now Mumbai), India.
 His advocacy for Indian rights influenced
 Belonged to a Parsi family.
both the moderate and extremist wings of
 Educated at Elphinstone College, where he the INC.
later became a professor of mathematics
 His contributions are commemorated by
and natural philosophy.
Dadabhai Naoroji Road (DN Road) in
Political Career:
Mumbai and several other memorials.
 One of the founding members of the Indian He passed away on June 30, 1917. Naoroji’s work
National Congress (INC) in 1885. significantly contributed to both the intellectual
 Known as the "Grand Old Man of India" and practical framework of the Indian freedom
for his pioneering role in the Indian movement.
freedom struggle.
 First Indian to be elected as a Member of 3) ROLE OF COMMUNISM IN INDIAN
the British Parliament in 1892 (Liberal NATIONAL MOVEMENT AND BEYOND
Party, Finsbury Central seat).

2
 "People's War" and launched a campaign
for the Quit India Movement, which
resulted in a split with the INC and led to
mass arrests and repression.
Post-Independence Era
 Political Influence: After India gained
independence in 1947, the CPI continued
to be an active political force. They were
involved in labour strikes, peasant
movements, and other forms of political
Communism played a significant role in the agitation. The party gained significant
Indian National Movement, particularly during influence in states like Kerala, West
the early 20th century. Here's a broad overview: Bengal, and Tripura.
Early Beginnings  Partition and Aftermath: The partition of
 Formation of CPI: The Communist India and the subsequent violence had a
Party of India (CPI) was established in complex impact on the Communist
1925 in Kanpur. Its formation was inspired movement. In some regions, Communists
by the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia and were involved in land reforms and
the global communist movement. Early rebuilding efforts, while in others, the
leaders like M.N. Roy, S.A. Dange, and partition exacerbated tensions.
P.C. Joshi were pivotal in shaping its  Internal Challenges: The CPI faced
agenda. several challenges, including factionalism
 Ideological Foundations: The CPI and internal disputes. The split of the CPI
focused on the principles of Marxism- into the CPI and CPI(M) (Communist
Leninism, advocating for the overthrow of Party of India (Marxist)) in 1964 marked
imperialist and capitalist systems and the a significant moment, as the latter group
establishment of a socialist state. They adhered more strictly to Marxist-Leninist
emphasized the need for workers' rights, principles.
land reforms, and anti-colonial struggle. Legacy and Influence
Collaboration and Tensions  Continued Relevance: Despite
 Alliance with Congress: During the fluctuations in influence, the CPI and
1930s, the CPI occasionally aligned with CPI(M) have played a key role in shaping
the Indian National Congress (INC) and Indian politics, especially in advocating
supported major nationalist movements, for social justice, labor rights, and anti-
including the Civil Disobedience imperialism. Their impact is particularly
Movement led by Gandhi. They believed notable in the states where they have
that the struggle against British colonial formed governments and influenced
rule was a shared goal. policies.
 Ideological Divergence: The CPI's radical  Current Position: Today, the CPI and
approach often led to friction with the CPI(M) continue to be significant players
more moderate INC leadership. The in Indian politics, though their influence
Communists were critical of Gandhi’s has waned compared to their earlier years.
methods and the Congress’s gradualist They remain active in advocating for leftist
approach to achieving independence. policies and participating in electoral
World War II and Shifts in Strategy politics.
 Support for the Allies: During World War
II, the CPI initially supported the British 4) TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY AND
war effort against fascism. They saw the CHALLENGES
struggle as part of the global anti-fascist
movement. However, this stance was
controversial and led to internal conflicts
with other nationalist groups.
 People’s War Call: By 1942, the CPI's
position shifted to calling for an immediate
end to British rule. They advocated for a

3
 activities, and addresses grievances related
to the transgender community.
 Reservation Plans: The government plans
to offer job reservations for transgender
individuals under the Other Backward
Classes (OBC) category.
 Transgender Persons (Protection of
Rights) Rules, 2020: Formulated to
effectively implement the provisions of
the 2019 Act.
Despite the enactment of the Transgender
Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, which 5) PORT BLAIR AND ITS HISTORICAL
aims to empower transgender individuals, they CONNECTION TO THE CHOLA DYNASTY
continue to face significant daily challenges.
The landmark 2014 Supreme Court of India case
National Legal Services Authority v. Union of
India legally recognized transgender people as the
third gender,but many state systems still operate
on a gender binary model.
Challenges Faced
 Discrimination: Widespread bias in
employment, education, and family
settings adversely affects their well-being.
 Identity Issues: Many are compelled to Port Blair will be renamed Sri Vijaya Puram, as
conform to genders they don't identify announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
with, especially in workplaces, despite The renaming reflects Prime Minister Narendra
having the legal right to self-identify. Modi’s vision to "free the nation from colonial
 Social Stigma: Obstacles in property imprints."
inheritance and adoption; social exclusion  The new name signifies the unique
often forces them into low-paying jobs or historical importance of the Andaman
sex work, regardless of qualifications. and Nicobar Islands in India’s freedom
 Unemployment: Limited job struggle and their connection to the Chola
opportunities and severe workplace Empire's naval dominance
discrimination due to prevailing stigmas.
 Lack of Public Amenities: Difficulty
accessing public toilets and spaces;
inadequate support in prisons, hospitals,
and schools.
Government Initiatives
 Transgender Persons (Protection of
Rights) Act, 2019: Seeks to eliminate
discrimination and acknowledge self-
perceived gender identity.
 National Portal for Transgender
Persons: Enables online applications for
identity documents without physical office
visits, ensuring transparency and
convenience.
 Garima Greh: Provides shelter homes
with basic amenities and supports skill The Discovery of Port Blair:
development to promote dignified living.  Archibald Blair's Role:
 National Council for Transgender  Port Blair is named after Archibald
Persons: Advises the government on Blair, a British naval surveyor and
policies, monitors initiatives, coordinates lieutenant in the Bombay Marine.

4
  Blair conducted the first  Rajendra I used the islands during his
comprehensive survey of the attack on the Srivijaya Empire
Andaman Islands in 1787. (modern Indonesia).
 He explored the coasts of India, Iran,  Evidence from Thanjavur:
and Arabia and traveled through the  An inscription from Thanjavur, dated
Hooghly River to the Nicobar to 1050 CE, refers to the islands as
Archipelago. Ma-Nak-Kavaram (great
 Blair's Findings: open/naked land), possibly referring
 Blair recognized the strategic to the Nicobar Islands.
importance of the Andaman Islands  Chola Invasion of Srivijaya:
and presented his findings to the Royal  Historian Hermann Kulke argues that
Society of London in 1795. the Chola invasion of Srivijaya
 His discoveries led to the marked a critical point in Indian
establishment of a British base on the maritime expansion.
Andaman Islands to curb piracy by  The invasion was driven by trade
Malay pirates. ambitions and a desire to project
Colonial Era and Penal Colony: imperial power in Southeast Asia.
 Following the Indian freedom struggle in  After conquering Srivijaya, Rajendra I
1857, the British began transporting looted treasures, including the
Indian prisoners to the Andaman Islands. Vidyadhara Torana, a jeweled war
 Port Blair was converted into a penal gate.
colony where most convicts faced life
imprisonment under harsh conditions.
 Many prisoners died from disease or were
hanged.
 The construction of the Cellular Jail in
1906 became a symbol of British
repression, housing prominent freedom
fighters like Vinayak Damodar
Savarkar.

The renaming of Port Blair to Sri Vijaya Puram

is a symbolic rejection of colonial legacies. It
reflects India’s effort to reclaim its historical and
cultural maritime heritage, particularly the
influence of the Chola Empire and its conquest
of Srivijaya.

6) MENACE OF WITCHHUNTING

Chola Empire and Srivijaya Connection: Witch-hunting is the act of accusing someone of
 Strategic Naval Base: practicing witchcraft, often leading to their
 Historical records suggest the persecution or death. Individuals, often women, the
Andaman Islands were used as a elderly, or marginalized groups, are accused of
strategic naval base by the 11th- witchcraft and face persecution, particularly in
century Chola Emperor Rajendra I. rural and tribal areas.

5
Key Factors Behind Witch-hunting in Assam:  If found guilty, the Act imposes up to
 Superstitions and Cultural Beliefs: 7 years of imprisonment and a fine up
 Strong belief in witchcraft and witch to ₹5 lakh, as per Section 302 of the
doctors (ojhas or bez) fuels Indian Penal Code (IPC).
accusations, with misfortunes like  Blame for Natural Disasters:
illness or crop failure attributed to  The Act proposes a sentence of 3 years
witches. imprisonment for blaming an
 Illiteracy and Lack of Education: individual for natural disasters (floods,
 Limited education in rural areas fosters droughts, illnesses, or deaths) in any
superstition, with little awareness of locality.
the natural causes behind diseases or  Accountability of Public Servants:
hardships.  It seeks to deter public servants from
 Poverty and Lack of Healthcare: willful negligence and lack of
 Poor healthcare access leads to deaths seriousness in registering witch-
being blamed on witchcraft. In hunting cases by holding them
poverty-stricken areas, scapegoating
the vulnerable is common. 7) SUFISM
 Patriarchal Society:
 Women, especially widows or elderly,
are frequent targets, with witch-
hunting often used for personal
vendettas or land-grabbing.
 Weak Law Enforcement:
 Delayed action or lack of intervention
by law enforcement, combined with
fear of community backlash, often
allows the practice to persist.
Initiatives to Address Witch-hunting in Assam: The term ‘Sufi’ is derived from the Arabic word
 Mission Birubala: ‘Suf’, meaning wool, referring to the coarse
 Led by activist Late Birubala Rabha, woolen garments worn by early Sufi saints.
this grassroots movement creates  Sufism entered India in the 12th century
awareness, rescues victims, and with Muslim invaders and gained
collaborates with authorities to combat popularity in the 13th century.
witch-hunting.  The core theme of Sufism is Wahdat-ul-
 Mission Prahari: Wajud (Unity of God).
 An Assam Police initiative,led by  Sufism originated in Iraq, and the first
DGP Kuladhar Saikia it strengthens notable Sufi saint was Begum Rabia of
community policing and works with Basra, Iraq.
Village Defense Parties to prevent  Sufi orders are called Silsilas.
witch-hunting through awareness and  The highest number of Sufi orders were
early intervention. found in Afghanistan.
Assam Witch-Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention, Salient Features of Sufism
and Protection) Act, 2015:
 Elimination of Superstitions:
 The Act aims to eliminate superstitions
by making witch-hunting offenses
non-bailable, non-compoundable, and
cognizable under the law.
 Prohibition of Defamation:
 It prohibits anyone from calling,
identifying, or defaming a person as a
witch through words, signs, conduct,  Sufis were religiously inclined individuals
or indications. who turned to asceticism and mysticism
 Punishment for Guilty Persons: as a protest against the materialism of the

6
 Caliphate, both as a religious and political  Sheikh Nizamuddin was one of the
institution. most famous Sufi saints, and his
 Sufism is inspired by Islamic teachings. disciple Amir Khusro was a
 Sufis deeply studied Vedantic philosophy renowned musician and literary figure.
and interacted with Indian sages and seers.  Nadasampradaya, a burial tradition
 Sufism emphasizes living a simple life. for disciples, was followed by the
Sufi saints preached in languages such as Chishti order.
Arabic, Persian, and Urdu.  Sheikh Salim Chishti, respected by
 There are 12 major Sufi orders, each led Emperor Akbar, was the last
by a mystic saint like Khwaja Moinuddin prominent saint of this order.
Chishti, Fariduddin Ganj-i-Shakar, and  Chishti saints lived in hermitages
Nizam-ud-din Auliya. (Qamkhanas) outside cities.
 Orthodox Muslims focus on external  Suhrawardi
conduct and religious rituals, while Sufi  Founded by Shihabuddin
saints prioritize inner purity. Suhrawardi.
 Sufis were critical of theologians'  Introduced to India by Bhauddin.
dogmatic interpretations of the Qur’an  This order was wealthy but became
and Sunna, focusing instead on personal unpopular over time.
spiritual experiences and devotion.  Firadausia
 Sufis believed that devotion to God was  The only Sufi order founded and
more important than fasts (Roza) or developed in India by Sharafuddin, it
prayers (Namaz). was centered in Bihar.
 Sufism bridged communal divides, as  Sharafuddin composed the Maqtubat
evidenced by the reverence shown by non- and Mulfazat literature, focusing on
Muslims toward Sufi saints across the the lives and teachings of Sufi saints.
Subcontinent.  Qadri
Liberal Outlook Associated with Sufism  Founded by Sheikh Jilani Qadri, this
 Sufism rejects narrow societal was the most secular Sufi order.
classifications like caste.  Dara Shikoh, son of Shah Jahan, was
a follower of this order.
 Sufis promoted social welfare,
establishing orphanages and women’s  Naqshbandi
service centers.  Founded by Sheikh Biqabullah and
 Sufis served the poor and downtrodden; introduced in India by Sheikh Pirsai.
 Sheikh Niyamtulla was the greatest
for instance, Nizamuddin Auliya was
known for distributing gifts to the needy scholar of this order.
regardless of religion or caste.  This was the most conservative Sufi
order, followed by Aurangzeb.
 At a time of political power struggles,
Sufism in Assam
Sufis reminded people of moral
obligations and sought to bring peace and
harmony to a strife-torn world.
 Sufi teachings emphasized meditation,
good deeds, repentance, prayers,
pilgrimages, fasting, charity, and
controlling passions through ascetic
practices.
Important Sufi Orders
 Sufism reached Assam in the medieval
 Chishti
period through trade and interactions with
 Founded by Sheikh Abdul Chishti.
Bengal.
 Introduced to India by Sheikh
Moinuddin Chishti, whose dargah is  Prominent Sufi saint Ajan Fakir blended
in Ajmer. Islamic teachings with Assamese
 Qutubuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a traditions through Zikir and Zari hymns,
disciple of Moinuddin, had the Qutub promoting harmony.
Minar dedicated to him by Iltutmish.

7
  Sufi centers (khanqahs) were established God vs Demon Story
in districts like Kamrup and Barpeta,
becoming important spiritual hubs.
 The inclusive message of Sufi saints
attracted followers from various religious
backgrounds, fostering unity.
 Sufism's influence remains significant in
Assam, continuing to promote peace,
devotion, and communal harmony.
Sufism played a crucial role in shaping Indian
society by educating the masses and deepening the
 The story of Onam contrasts traditional
spiritual understanding of Muslims.
demon vs god battles where gods represent
good and demons represent evil.
8) ONAM
 In most parts of India, gods like Rama
(good) defeat demons like Ravana (evil),
or Durga (good) overcomes Mahishasur
(evil).
 Mahabali, an Asura king, is revered as a
just and beloved ruler by Malayalis, unlike
most demon figures who are defeated by
gods.
 Some regions, such as parts of Bihar and
Recently, the festival Onam was celebrated across Bengal, also worship demon figures like
Kerala. Mahishasur.
Key Features of Onam Historical Context
The Festival  Historians view these battles between gods
 Onam: A major harvest festival in Kerala, and demons as symbolic of conflicts
celebrated to honor the homecoming of between Brahmins and non-Brahmins or
Asura king Mahabali, who is believed to tribal groups in the past.
have brought peace and prosperity to the
state. 9) 100 YEARS OF DISCOVERY OF
Time HARAPPAN CIVILIZATION
 Celebrated during the month of Chingam,
the first month of the Malayalam calendar,
Kollavarsham.
 Onam is one of Kerala’s three major
festivals, alongside Vishu and
Thiruvathira.
 The 10-day harvest festival starts on
Atham and ends on Thiruvonam.
Celebration
 Traditions include making Pookkalam
(flower rangolis), Vallam Kali (boat The Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan
races), Pulikali (tiger dances), Civilisation (part of Proto-history) was the first
Kummattikali (mask dances), Onathallu urban civilization in South Asia. IVC,
(martial arts), and the grand Onam sadhya Mesopotamian (also called Sumerian (4500-1900
(feast). BCE)), and Egyptian (3200-1000 BCE) along with
Chinese civilization were the earliest of settlement
showing complex societal life. They were
called‘Cradles of Civilization’.
Discovery of Harappan Sites
 Daya Ram Sahni excavated Harappa in
1921-22, uncovering seals, painted pottery,
and beads.

8
  Rakhal Das Banerji began excavating  Brick Construction: Uniform, kiln-
Mohenjo-daro in 1922, finding seals, baked bricks were used for building
pottery, copper items, and crucibles. houses and public structures.
 Granaries: Large granaries were
found, indicating food storage and
advanced agricultural management.
 Fortifications: Some cities, such as
Lothal and Dholavira, were fortified,
showing an emphasis on defense.
 Agriculture
 Crops: They cultivated crops like
wheat, barley, peas, sesame, and
Introduction of Harappan Civilization to the cotton. Rice was grown later in some
World regions.
 On September 20, 1924, exactly 100 years  Tools: Evidence of wooden plows and
ago, John Marshall, Director-General of furrows in fields indicates the use of
the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), agricultural tools.
introduced the "civilization of the Indus  Irrigation: Irrigation was primarily
Valley" through an article in The dependent on natural river flooding,
Illustrated London News with limited evidence of artificial
canals.
 Trade and Economy
 Local and International Trade: The
IVC engaged in extensive trade, both
locally and with Mesopotamia and
Central Asia.
 Weights and Measures: A
standardized system of weights and
Key features of the Indus Valley Civilization measures facilitated trade.
(IVC)  Seaports: Lothal served as a major
 Advanced Urban Planning port, highlighting the importance of
maritime trade.
 Craftsmanship

 Grid System: Cities were organized  Metallurgy: They were skilled in

with a well-planned grid pattern, working with copper, bronze, gold,
featuring straight streets intersecting at and silver.
right angles.  Pottery: They produced high-quality
 Drainage Systems: Sophisticated pottery with intricate designs.
underground drainage systems  Textiles: IVC is credited with being
connected individual houses to main the first civilization to produce cotton
sewers. fabric.
 Public Baths: Large public baths,  Bead and Seal Making: Artisans
such as the Great Bath in Mohenjo- made intricate beads, seals, and
daro, were a central feature of urban terracotta figurines, often used in
areas. trade.
 Architecture  Social Structure and Religion

9
  Technological Innovations: Showed early
advancements in metallurgy, agriculture,
and irrigation.
 Introduced the Indus Script: Brought
attention to the yet-to-be-deciphered Indus
script, offering clues to their
administration and economy.
 Challenged Historical Narratives:
 Decentralized Society: There is no Expanded our understanding of early
evidence of a centralized monarchy, human progress in South Asia.
suggesting a possible merchant-based
or egalitarian society. 10) INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE
 Religious Artifacts: Artifacts like PRESERVATION OF THE OZONE LAYER
mother goddess figurines and seals
depicting deities such as Pashupati
suggest fertility worship.
 Animal Worship: Animals like the
bull were considered sacred, as
reflected in numerous artifacts.
 Indus Script

September 16 is recognized by the United Nations

as International Day for the Preservation of the
 Undeciphered Script: The script Ozone Layer to promote efforts to protect this vital
remains undeciphered, but it was shield. India has celebrated this day since 1995.
likely used for administrative and The theme for 2024 is “Montreal Protocol:
trade purposes. Advancing Climate Actions”
 Boustrophedon Writing: Evidence What is Ozone?
suggests the script may have been  Ozone (O₃) is a molecule made up of three
written alternately from right to left in oxygen atoms.
some cases.  About 90% of ozone is found in the
 Decline stratosphere, 15 to 30 km above the
 Environmental Factors: Climate Earth’s surface, where it forms the ozone
changes and shifting river patterns are layer.
believed to have contributed to the  Ozone is also found at ground level
decline of the IVC. (tropospheric ozone), where it acts as a
 Migration: Some evidence suggests pollutant and is a key component of smog.
that Harappan people migrated  The ozone layer was discovered by French
eastward as their cities declined. physicists Charles Fabry and Henri
The Significance of discovery of Harappan Buisson in 1913.
Civilization: What is the Ozone Layer?
 Revealed an Ancient Civilization:  The ozone layer refers to the high
Unveiled the Indus Valley Civilization concentration of ozone in the stratosphere.
(IVC), one of the earliest and most  It absorbs 97-99% of the Sun’s harmful
advanced urban cultures. ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting life
 Showcased Urban Planning: Provided on Earth from potential damage.
insights into early city planning, with
organized streets, drainage systems, and
architecture.
 Highlighted Trade Networks:
Demonstrated extensive trade with other
civilizations like Mesopotamia.

10
  London Amendment (1990): Phased out
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and other
chemicals.
 Copenhagen Amendment (1992):
Accelerated ODS phaseout.
 Kigali Amendment (2016): Addressed the
phase-down of Hydrofluorocarbons
(HFCs), potent greenhouse gases.
Ozone Layer Recovery:
 Global ODS consumption has reduced by
Ozone Depletion: A Brief Overview 98%, leading to the slow recovery of the
What is Ozone Depletion? ozone layer.
 Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of  By 2060, the ozone layer over Antarctica is
the ozone layer in the Earth’s stratosphere expected to return to 1980 levels, with
due to the release of certain chemicals, earlier recovery expected over the Arctic
primarily chlorine and bromine by 2030.
compounds from human activities. This overview highlights the causes, impacts, and
 These chemicals, known as ozone- ongoing efforts to combat ozone depletion.
depleting substances (ODS), include
CFCs, HCFCs, halons, and methyl GS II (GOVERNANCE, CONSTITUTION,
bromide. POLITY, SOCIAL JUSTICE AND
How Does Ozone Depletion Occur? INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS)
 When ODS are exposed to UV light in the
stratosphere, they release chlorine and 11) LAW COMMISSION OF INDIA
bromine atoms, which break down ozone
molecules.
 One chlorine atom can destroy over
100,000 ozone molecules before being
neutralized. This process causes the
formation of the ozone hole, particularly
over Antarctica.
Effects of Ozone Depletion:
 Human Health: Increased UV exposure
leads to skin cancer, cataracts, and
weakened immune systems. The Union government has notified the
 Plants: UV radiation hampers plant constitution of the 23rd Law Commission of
growth and affects physiological India with effect from September 1. The
processes. commission will have a three-year term.
 Marine Life: UV impacts phytoplankton,  The Law Commission is a non-statutory
the base of the marine food chain, and body formed by the Union Ministry of
disrupts marine ecosystems. Law and Justice via a gazette notification.
 Biogeochemical Cycles: Increased UV  Its main role is to review existing laws,
affects global cycles of key gases like suggest repeals of obsolete legislation,
carbon dioxide, contributing to climate and recommend reforms on matters
feedback loops. referred by the government.
Ozone Protection Efforts:  It is not defined under the Indian
The Vienna Convention (1985): This Protocol Constitution but constituted as part of
provided a framework for global cooperation on Article 39A.
ozone protection without binding actions, laying  The British Government in India formed
the groundwork for the Montreal Protocol. the first pre-independence law
The Montreal Protocol (1987): This international commission in 1834.
treaty was designed to phase out the production and  Lord Macaulay served as its chairman
use of ODS. It is considered a landmark when it was established by the Charter
environmental success, with universal ratification. Act of 1833.
Key amendments include:
11
  In 1955, M.C. Setalvad led the  It will have a full-time chairperson, four
establishment of the first Law full-time members (including a member-
Commission in independent India. secretary), and up to five part-time
 There have been 22 Law Commissions members.
since India gained its independence.  Ex officio members will include the
Composition: secretaries of Legal Affairs and
 Headed by a Chairperson, usually a Legislative departments.
retired Supreme Court judge, and  The Appointments Committee of the
comprises legal experts, academicians, and Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister,
senior advocates. will finalize the appointments.
 Members are appointed for a term of three
years, during which they focus on different 12) SCHEMES FOR THE AGRICULTURE
areas of legal reforms. SECTOR
Reports & Impact:
Since Independence, 22 Law Commissions have
submitted a total of 289 reports.
Although the government is not obligated to
implement these recommendations, many have led
to significant laws, such as:
 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC),
1973.
 Right of Children to Free and
Compulsory Education Act (RTE),
2009. Cabinet approves seven major schemes for
 A major initiative was the scrapping of improving farmers’ lives and livelihoods with total
over 1,500 obsolete central laws following outlay of Rs 14,235.30 Crore.
recommendations by the 20th Law 1) Digital Agriculture Mission:
Commission.  The DAM is a consolidated database on
Importance of the Law Commission: a single platform linking multiple
 Legal Reforms: Provides critical databases and platforms from different
suggestions for updating and modernizing Union Territories and States, as well as
India’s legal system. Ministries and Departments
 Obsolete Law Repeal: Plays a key role in  Digital Agriculture involves ICT and data
scrapping outdated and irrelevant laws. ecosystems to enhance farming by
 Advisory Role: Helps the government providing timely, targeted information for
align laws with Directive Principles and profitability and sustainability.
emerging societal needs.  An umbrella scheme supporting various
 Judicial Administration: Recommends digital agriculture initiatives.
reforms to ensure laws serve current socio-  To make farming more profitable,
economic realities and improve judicial sustainable, and deliver safe, nutritious,
efficiency. affordable food for all.
22nd Law Commission’s Major Contributions: Key Components:
 Submitted 11 reports, including a  Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):
significant report in April 2023 Creation of infrastructure for digital
recommending the retention of Section farming services.
124A (sedition law) with amendments for  Digital General Crop Estimation Survey
clarity. (DGCES): Implementing digital tools for
 Cited internal security threats (Maoism, accurate crop estimation.
militancy, terrorism) to support retaining  Support for IT Initiatives: Assisting
the law. Central & State Governments, Academic,
23rd Law Commission: and Research Institutions with digital
 Constituted via a notification on transformation in agriculture.
September 2, 2023, the 23rd Law It comprises two foundational pillars:
Commission’s term runs until August 31, (i) Agri Stack
2027.
12
  Farmers registry: Farmers will be given a  Dairy production and technology
digital identity (‘Farmer ID’) similar to development
Aadhaar  Animal genetic resource management,
 Village land maps registry: Provides production and improvement
digital maps that connect geographic  Animal nutrition and small ruminant
information with physical land records production and development
 Crop Sown Registry: Records details of 5) Sustainable development of Horticulture:
crops planted by farmers through mobile- with a total outlay of Rs 1129.30 crore the measure
based digital surveys is aimed at increasing farmers’ income from
(ii) Krishi Decision Support System horticulture plants. It comprises the following
 Geospatial data  Tropical, sub-tropical and temperate
 Drought/flood monitoring horticulture crops
 Weather/satellite data  Root, tuber, bulbous and arid crops
 Groundwater/water availability data  Vegetable, floriculture, and mushroom
 Modelling for crop yield and insurance crops
The Mission has provision for  Plantation, spices, medicinal, and aromatic
 Soil profile plants
 Digital crop estimation 6) Strengthening of Krishi Vigyan Kendra with
 Digital yield modelling an outlay of Rs 1,202 crore. The National
 Connect for crop loan Agricultural Research System (NARS) is not
 Modern technologies like AI and Big Data complete without KVK.
 Connect with buyers  The term "National Agricultural
Research System" (NARS) describes the
 Bring new knowledge on mobile phones
2) Crop science for food and nutritional entire network of public, semi-public, and
security: with a total outlay of Rs 3,979 crore. The private organizations in a nation that are
committed to agricultural research and
initiative will prepare farmers for climate resilience
and provide for food security by 2047. It has development.
following pillars:  These organizations include universities,
government laboratories, private research
 Research and education
organizations, and non-governmental
 Plant genetic resource management
organizations. In order to increase farmers'
 Genetic improvement for food and fodder income and production across the nation,
crop
Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK) centers are
 Pulse and oilseed crop improvement essential in sharing best practices and
 Improvement of commercial crops expertise.
 Research on insects, microbes, pollinators 7) Natural Resource Management with an outlay
etc. of Rs 1,115 crore. In order to safeguard agricultural
3) Strengthening Agricultural Education, practices' long-term sustainability and maintain
Management and Social Sciences: with a total environmental protection, this project is crucial.
outlay of Rs 2,291 Crore the measure will prepare These schemes are very crucial for the agriculture
agriculture students and researchers for current sector.
challenges and comprises the following
 Under Indian Council of Agri Research 13) RIGHT TO BE SILENT DURING
 Modernising agri research and education INTERROGATION
 In line with New Education Policy 2020
 Use latest technology Digital DPI, AI, big
data, remote, etc
 Include natural farming and climate
resilience
4) Sustainable livestock health and production:
with a total outlay of Rs 1,702 crore, the decision
aims to increase farmers income from livestock and
dairy. It comprises the following
 Animal health management and veterinary
education
13
Recently, Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal then proceed with the rest," stressing that
was granted bail by Justice Ujjwal Bhuyan of the deprivation of liberty leaves permanent
Supreme Court, upholding an accused person's scars on individuals.
right to silence during questioning. Significance:
In India, the right against self-incrimination is  This judgment reinforces the importance
incorporated in clause (3) of Article 20 of the of constitutional protections for the
Constitution. accused, particularly the right to silence
Key Observation by SC: and liberty.
 Justice Bhuyan, part of the two-judge  It serves as a reminder that personal liberty
Bench headed by Justice Surya Kant, and constitutional rights must be
emphasized that an investigating agency respected, even during the pre-trial
cannot presume guilt or make an process.
adverse inference against an accused Judicial Rulings:
who exercises their right to remain silent  In 2019, the Supreme Court, in the Ritesh
during interrogation. Sinha vs. State of Uttar Pradesh case,
 The judgment stated, "An accused has the ruled that taking voice samples is allowed
right to remain silent; he cannot be and does not violate the right against self-
compelled to make inculpatory incrimination.
statements. No adverse inference can be  In 2010, the SC in Selvi vs. State of
drawn from this silence." Karnataka held that conducting a
Constitutional Basis: narcoanalysis test without the accused's
 Justice Bhuyan invoked Article 20(3) of consent violates their right against self-
the Indian Constitution, which provides incrimination.
that an accused must not be compelled to  However, collecting DNA samples is
be a witness against himself. permissible, and refusal to provide a
 He clarified that this protection extends sample allows the court to draw adverse
beyond court testimonies to cover pre-trial inferences under Bharatiya Sakshya
stages, including police interrogation. Adhiniyam.
Self-incrimination is a legal principle under which This ruling upholds the principles of justice and
a person cannot be compelled to provide fairness, safeguarding the rights of individuals
information or testify against themselves in a against overreach by law enforcement agencies.
criminal case.
The doctrine is based upon the following legal 14) EMERGENCY PROVISIONS IMPACT
maxim: ON CENTRE-STATE RELATIONS
 Nemo teneteur prodre accussare
seipsum – It states that a man cannot be
compelled to state any self-incriminating
statement.
Self-Incrimination as a Fundamental Right
 In India, the right against self-
incrimination is recognized and
protected under Article20(3) of the
Constitution of India.
 Article 20 - Protection in respect of
conviction for offences - (3) No person Recent violence in Manipur has sparked renewed
accused of any offence shall be discussions on Centre-State relations in India,
compelled to be a witness against especially regarding the use of emergency
himself. provisions. These provisions empower the central
Distinguishing Arrest and Liberty: government to intervene in state governance under
 Justice Bhuyan distinguished between the specific conditions.
power to arrest and the need to arrest, The Case of Manipur:
stressing that personal liberty must be  The recent violence in Manipur, involving
safeguarded. widespread unrest, looting, and targeted
 He criticized the tendency of law attacks, goes beyond a typical law-and-
enforcement agencies to arrest first and order breakdown.

14
  Despite the gravity, Article 356 has not  Article 356 should only be invoked as a
been invoked, likely due to political last resort, in extreme cases.
considerations as the same party governs India’s federal system emphasizes state autonomy,
both the Centre and the State. but emergency provisions like Articles 355 and 356
 However, Article 355 is being used, with grant the Centre significant powers of
the Centre taking steps to restore order. intervention.These powers must be exercised
India’s Federal Structure: judiciously to maintain a balance between Centre
 India follows a federal system with and State authority.
governance divided between the Centre
and the States. 15) INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY
 The Constitution’s Seventh Schedule
defines the distribution of powers between
these two levels.
 State governments are primarily
responsible for law and order.
 However, in cases of governance failure,
the Centre can intervene using emergency
provisions
Emergency Provisions:
Emergency provisions are outlined in Part XVIII
of the Constitution, mainly through Articles 355 Judicial independence refers to the judiciary's
and 356. ability to function impartially and free from
 Article 355 requires the Centre to protect external influences, ensuring fair and unbiased
states from external threats and internal justice. It is a cornerstone of democratic
disturbances while ensuring constitutional governance.
governance. Constitutional Provisions for Judicial
Independence in India:
 Article 356 allows the imposition of
President’s Rule in a state if it fails to  Separation of Powers: Article 50 of the
uphold constitutional norms. Indian Constitution mandates the
These provisions are unique to India; other federal separation of the judiciary from the
systems like the U.S. and Australia do not empower executive.
their central governments to remove state  Security of Tenure: Judges of the
governments. Supreme Court and High Courts have
fixed tenures and can only be removed
Historical Context and Judicial Interpretation: through an impeachment process, as
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, while drafting these outlined in Articles 124 and 217.
provisions, hoped they would remain rarely used.  Salaries and Benefits: Judges' salaries,
The S.R. Bommai case (1994) imposed pensions, and other perks are charged on
restrictions on the use of Article 356: the Consolidated Fund of India, ensuring
 It can only be invoked in cases of they are not subject to arbitrary cuts by the
constitutional breakdown, not law-and- legislature (Article 125).
order issues.  Appointment Process: Judges of the
 The imposition of President’s Rule is Supreme Court and High Courts are
subject to judicial review. appointed by the President, following the
Article 355 has seen its scope broadened through recommendation of the collegium system,
court rulings, like the Naga People's Movement of aiming to prevent political influence.
Human Rights vs Union of India (1998), which  Power of Judicial Review: Judiciary has
expanded the Centre’s duty to protect states. the power to review the constitutionality of
Recommendations from Various Commissions: laws passed by the legislature, ensuring a
 Sarkaria Commission (1987), National check on other branches of government
Commission to Review the Working of (Article 13).
the Constitution (2002), and Punchhi Importance of Judicial Independence:
Commission (2010) agree that Article 355  Upholds Rule of Law: Ensures laws are
imposes a duty on the Union government. interpreted and applied without bias,
safeguarding citizens' rights and freedoms.
15
  Checks and Balances: Acts as a check on lifetime appointments for judges,
the powers of the executive and legislature, though the executive nominates them.
preventing abuse of power.  United Kingdom: Independence is
 Ensures Fair Trials: A judiciary free from safeguarded through reforms like the
external pressures can ensure that justice is Constitutional Reform Act, 2005,
served without favoritism or which removed the role of the Lord
discrimination. Chancellor in judicial appointments.
 Public Confidence: Independence boosts Issues with Judicial Independence:
public trust in the legal system and ensures Opacity in Judges' Appointments:
that justice is seen to be done.  Collegium System: Lacks transparency;
Challenges to Judicial Independence in India: decisions made behind closed doors.
 Political Interference: Concerns about  Calls for more openness and accountability
the executive's influence in judicial in the appointment process.
appointments and transfers, particularly Roster System:
before the collegium system.  Chief Justice's exclusive power to allocate
 Pending Judicial Appointments: Delay cases can lead to perceptions of bias.
in the appointment of judges can weaken  Demands for clearer guidelines and
judicial functioning and independence. equitable distribution of cases.
 Judicial Accountability: The absence of Nepotism and Bias:
effective mechanisms to hold judges  Concerns over appointments influenced by
accountable can be a threat to judicial relationships or political affiliations.
independence.  Necessitates strict adherence to merit-
 Judicial Overreach: Instances of based selections.
perceived judicial activism, where the Judicial Overreach:
judiciary encroaches upon the functions of  Instances where the judiciary encroaches
the executive and legislature. on legislative or executive domains.
Reforms and Initiatives for Strengthening  Highlights the need for self-restraint and
Judicial Independence: respect for separation of powers.
 Collegium System: Introduced to ensure Way Forward:
that the appointment of judges remains  Enhance Transparency: Implement
free from political interference. However, reforms to make the appointment and case
debates on its transparency and efficiency allocation processes more open.
continue.  Strengthen Accountability: Establish
 National Judicial Appointments mechanisms to hold the judiciary
Commission (NJAC): Proposed to accountable without compromising
balance the role of the executive and independence.
judiciary in appointments but was struck  Maintain Public Confidence: Uphold
down by the Supreme Court, citing it as a high ethical standards to preserve trust in
threat to judicial independence. the justice system.
 Judicial Accountability: Suggestions for  Prevent External Influence: Safeguard
the introduction of transparent against interference from other
mechanisms to ensure judicial government branches to ensure impartial
accountability while maintaining justice.
independence, such as reforms in the An independent judiciary is crucial for upholding
Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. the rule of law, protecting individual rights, and
Global Perspective on Judicial Independence: maintaining the balance of power within a
 United Nations Basic Principles on the democracy. It ensures that justice is administered
Independence of the Judiciary: Sets out fairly, preserving the integrity of the legal system
international standards for the and the confidence of the public.
independence of the judiciary, which India
as a signatory is obligated to uphold. 16) INNER LINE PERMIT REGIME
 Examples from Other Countries:
 United States: The judiciary enjoys
high levels of independence with

16
 Need for Inner Line Permit (ILP)
 Tribal Protection: Safeguards cultural
and social integrity of indigenous
communities by controlling outsider
influx.
 Resource Preservation: Manages local
resources and ecosystems by limiting
visitor impact.
 Security: Ensures security in sensitive
Inner Line Permit (ILP) border areas by monitoring movement.
 Definition: The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is  Tourism Regulation: Controls tourism to
a document required for Indian citizens to prevent strain on infrastructure and local
visit or stay in certain protected states or lifestyles.
regions in India. Challenges of ILP
 Historical Background: The ILP system  Administrative Delays: Bureaucratic
was established by the British under the procedures cause delays and
Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of inconvenience.
1873 to safeguard the tribal areas in  Limited Awareness: Many are unaware of
Eastern Bengal. ILP requirements, leading to confusion.
 Current Application: As of recent  Economic Impact: Restricting access can
updates, the ILP is applicable to the hurt local economies reliant on tourism.
following states:  Integration Issues: Tensions may arise
 Mizoram between locals and outsiders, hindering
 Arunachal Pradesh integration.
 Nagaland  Implementation Variability: ILP
 Manipur (as of December 11, 2023) enforcement varies across states, leading
 Issuing Authority: The ILP is issued by to inconsistencies.
the respective state governments  Foreign Complexity: Foreigners face
concerned. additional challenges with Protected Area
 Application Process: To obtain an ILP, Permits (PAPs).
individuals must apply through the state Way Forward for Inner Line Permit (ILP)
government or designated authorities. The  Simplify Application: Digitize and
permit is generally issued for specific streamline the ILP process for faster
travel purposes and has a set validity approvals.
period.  Balance Development: Encourage
 Differences from PAP: Foreign nationals sustainable tourism and local economic
need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to growth without harming protected
visit certain areas, which is different from communities.
the ILP required for Indian citizens..  Raise Awareness: Launch campaigns to
inform travelers about ILP requirements
and procedures.
 Enhance Coordination: Strengthen
cooperation between state and central
authorities for better implementation.
 Use Technology: Implement digital
tracking and geo-tagging to monitor
compliance and improve governance.
 Regular Reviews: Periodically assess the
system to ensure it meets evolving regional
needs

17) ORGANIZATION OF THE PETROLEUM

EXPORTING COUNTRIES (OPEC)+

17
  OPEC+ nations produce about 40% of
the world’s crude oil.
Reasons OPEC+ Planning to Cut Oil
Production:
Market Stabilization:
 Aims to stabilize and raise oil prices by
reducing production to balance fluctuating
demand and oversupply.
 Helps boost revenue for oil-producing
nations amid global economic
India's energy security and the state of the world's uncertainties and geopolitical risks.
oil markets have come under scrutiny following the Response to Non-OPEC Supply Increases:
Organization of the Petroleum Exporting members  The International Energy Agency (IEA)
(OPEC)+ members' recent announcement to predicts increased crude supply from non-
reduce oil production. OPEC+ countries like the US, Canada,
These reductions may force Indian refiners to Brazil, and Guyana.
purchase more crude from the Americas,  OPEC+ cuts aim to protect market share
underlining changes in the global oil trade, given and maintain price stability in response to
that India's fuel consumption, which was estimated this rising competition.
to be about 4.8 million barrels per day in 2024 and Geopolitical Tensions:
is predicted to reach 6.6 million barrels per day by  Conflicts in the Middle East, shipping
2028. disruptions, and sanctions on Russian oil
OPEC: exports have strained global supply.
 Permanent intergovernmental  OPEC+ output cuts are intended to
organization founded in 1960 by Iran, mitigate these supply risks and price
Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and fluctuations.
Venezuela. Long-term Strategy:
 Headquarters located in Vienna, Austria.  Seeks to ensure sustainable production
Objective: levels and prevent market crashes caused
 Coordinate and unify petroleum policies by supply exceeding demand.
among member countries.  Output control is intended to create a stable
 Ensure fair, stable prices for producers and and predictable market environment.
consumers. Implications of OPEC+ Oil Production Cuts:
 Provide a fair return on investment in the Global Oil Prices:
oil industry.  Lower OPEC+ production is expected to
Members: push global oil prices higher, leading to
 12 current member countries: Algeria, increased costs for importing countries.
Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran,  Rising oil prices could affect inflation rates
Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi and slow economic growth worldwide.
Arabia, UAE, and Venezuela. Implications for India:
 Qatar left in 2019; Angola left in 2024. Shift in Supply Dynamics:
 OPEC produces about 30% of the  India may turn to non-OPEC+ countries
world’s crude oil. like the US, Canada, Brazil, and Guyana
 Saudi Arabia is the largest producer for oil imports, reducing reliance on West
within OPEC, with over 10 million barrels Asian suppliers.
a day.  India's crude imports from West Asia have
 OPEC members account for 49% of already declined, from 2.6 mb/d in 2022 to
global crude oil exports and hold 80% of 2 mb/d in 2023.
the world’s proven oil reserves. Potential for Price Volatility:
OPEC+ Alliance:  Diversifying suppliers may improve
 Formed in 2016 to stabilize oil prices amid energy security but could expose India to
increased US shale oil production. market price fluctuations, raising import
 Includes 12 OPEC members plus 10 non- costs.
OPEC countries (e.g., Russia, Mexico,
Kazakhstan).
18
  With over 85% of its oil imported, India is  The financial package reflects the
highly vulnerable to price changes. government's focus on socio-economic
Economic Growth: development as a tool to prevent future
 Higher oil prices can increase conflicts.
transportation costs and inflation, straining  The agreement supports the preservation
sectors dependent on oil. of the cultural heritage, languages, and
 This could negatively impact India's identities of tribal groups in Northeast
overall economic stability and growth. India.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Reasons for Insurgency in Northeast India,
Countries (OPEC) is an intergovernmental Including Tripura:
organization of 13 oil-exporting nations that  Religious changes among tribal groups
coordinates and unifies petroleum policies to fueled internal tensions.
stabilize oil markets. OPEC's decisions  Migration from East Pakistan (now
significantly influence global oil prices and supply. Bangladesh) post-1947 altered Tripura’s
demographic profile, leading to tribal
18) PEACE PACT IN TRIPURA discontent.
 Tripura's geographical proximity to
insurgency-affected Mizoram
aggravated local tensions.
 Insurgent Groups like Tripura Upajati
Juba Samiti (TUJS) and National
Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT)
emerged due to land disputes and
demographic shifts.
 Economic Factors: Lack of development,
poverty, and unemployment drove
Recently, a peace agreement was signed between recruitment into insurgent groups.
the Central Government, the Tripura state  Tripura shares 98% of its borders with
government, and two major insurgent groups: foreign countries, highlighting weak
National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and connectivity with mainland India.
All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF).  Tribals lost agricultural lands, pushing
This agreement aims to end 35 years of conflict in them into forests and creating resentment.
Tripura, renouncing violence and committing to a
 The perceived neglect by the central
prosperous and developed state.
government led to demands for autonomy
Key Highlights of the Peace Agreement:
or independence among ethnic
 Over 328 armed cadres from NLFT and communities.
ATTF will surrender and reintegrate Government Initiatives to Establish Peace in
into society. Northeast India, Including Tripura:
 A special financial package of ₹250 The government has engaged in negotiations,
crore is approved for the development of signing peace accords that lead to militant
Tripura’s tribal population. surrender and the formation of autonomous
 The agreement is part of a larger effort, councils.
with 12 major peace agreements signed in Important Agreements:
the Northeast between 2014 and 2024,  Naga Peace Accord: Extended ceasefire
including three related to Tripura. with the National Socialist Council of
Significance of the Peace Pact: Nagaland (NSCN) (K/Niki group).
 The insurgent groups committing to end  Assam-Meghalaya Boundary
violence will promote peace and stability Agreement (2022): Resolves boundary
in Tripura, creating a safer environment for disputes.
development.  Karbi Anglong Agreement (2021), Bodo
 Former insurgents will be integrated into Accord (2020), Bru-Reang Agreement
mainstream society, reducing alienation (2020), NLFT-Tripura Agreement
and disenfranchisement among tribal (2019).
communities. Development Initiatives:

19
  Projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal The Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award 2024 was
Transit Project, North East Industrial presented by the Union Minister of Environment,
Development Scheme, and PM-DevINE Forest & Climate Change and the Chief Minister of
aim to boost connectivity and economic Rajasthan in Jaipur on the International Day of
growth. Clean Air for Blue Skies (Swachh Vayu Diwas)
 Education and employment opportunities in 7 September.
are being enhanced through the North Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award 2024:
East Special Education Zone and Skill Presented to the top-performing cities under the
India Mission. National Clean Air Campaign (NCAP) based on
 Cultural and Social Initiatives: Efforts to population categories.
preserve regional languages and heritage Winning Cities:
through cultural centers, festivals, and  Category-1 (population over 10 Lakhs):
interstate cooperation. Surat, Jabalpur, Agra.
Way Forward:  Category-2 (population between 3-10
 Continuous dialogue and negotiation with Lakhs): Firozabad, Amravati, Jhansi.
insurgent groups are key to achieving  Category-3 (population under 3 Lakhs):
lasting peace. Raebareli, Nalgonda, Nalagarh.
 The government should sustain talks with Municipal Commissioners of winning cities
ethnic groups and engage civil society to received cash prizes, trophies, and certificates.
ensure marginalized voices are heard. Swachh Vayu Survekshan (SVS):
 Strengthening law enforcement, backed by A new initiative by the Ministry of Environment,
good governance and civil rights, is Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to rank
essential to curb armed violence and cities based on air quality and the
restore security. Example: Community implementation of activities approved under the
policing in Tripura, involving local city action plans (NCAP) in 131 non-attainment
leaders, can help build trust and improve cities.
safety.  Non-attainment cities are those that have
 Expanding programs like the Tripura failed to meet the National Ambient Air
Bamboo Mission and improving Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM10
infrastructure will create jobs and reduce or NO2 over five years.
poverty, limiting insurgent recruitment.  Cities are categorized based on the 2011
 Including indigenous leaders in local population census.
governance, such as in the Autonomous Criteria for Assessment:
District Councils, ensures fair Cities were evaluated based on eight major
representation and empowerment. factors:
 Promoting festivals like the Kharchi  Control of biomass burning
Festival and integrating local culture into  Management of municipal solid waste
education fosters belonging. burning
The peace pact in Tripura is a positive step towards  Reduction of road dust
stability and development, but addressing the root  Dust control from construction and
causes of insurgency is crucial for long-term demolition waste
success.  Control of vehicular emissions
 Reduction of industrial emissions
19) SWACHH VAYU SURVEKSHAN AWARD  Increasing public awareness
2024  Improvement in PM10 concentration
Methodology Adopted
Assessment is done every year and cities are
ranked based on the assessment of performance for
the period (financial year i.e, 1st April to 31st
March) of the preceding financial year.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
 Launched: January 2019 by the Ministry
of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change (MoEFCC).

20
  Objective: To reduce air pollution across The Swachh Vayu Survekshan shall help in
India by 20-30% by 2024 from 2017 enabling city authorities in comprehending their
levels, focusing on particulate matter city’s progress, and achieving targeted actions
(PM10 and PM2.5), which in 2022 has towards cleaner environment.
been extended to 2026, aiming to have a
40% reduction in pollution levels 20) INDIA AND UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
compared to 2017. (UAE)
 Target Cities: 131 non-attainment cities
that do not meet the National Ambient Air
Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM10 or
NO2 over a 5-year period.
Key Features of NCAP:
 A multi-sectoral approach involving
collaboration with various ministries, state
governments, and local bodies.
 Each non-attainment city has a city-
specific action plan focused on reducing
pollution from sources like vehicular India and the UAE held bilateral talks to strengthen
emissions, dust control, industrial their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The
emissions, and waste management. Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi visited India and was
 NCAP emphasizes real-time air quality hosted by the Indian Prime Minister at Hyderabad
monitoring with an increase in the number House, New Delhi. Several agreements were
of Continuous Ambient Air Quality signed during this visit, focusing on energy, civil
Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) across nuclear cooperation, and other strategic areas.
cities. Key Agreements Signed During the Visit
 Central Pollution Control Board Civil Nuclear Cooperation:
(CPCB) monitors progress and provides  A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
technical assistance. was signed between India’s Nuclear
 Financial support for cities under Swachh Power Corporation of India Limited
Bharat Mission, Smart Cities Mission, and (NPCIL) and UAE’s Emirates Nuclear
Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Energy Corporation (ENEC) for
Transformation (AMRUT) to integrate air cooperation in the operation and
quality management efforts. maintenance of the Barakah Nuclear
Power Plant, the first nuclear power
 Public awareness campaigns and capacity
plant in the Arab world.
building for stakeholders, including state
Energy Cooperation:
pollution control boards, urban local
bodies, and the public, are integral to the  LNG Supply: MoU for long-term
programme. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) supply.
 Emphasizes the use of technology and data  Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR):
for effective air quality management, Agreement with India Strategic Petroleum
including tracking pollution sources and Reserve Limited (ISPRL) for petroleum
outcomes of interventions. supply, ensuring energy security.
The “PRANA” portal has also been launched by Food Parks:
MoEFCC for  An MoU was signed with the Government
 Monitoring implementation of NCAP, of Gujarat for the development of food
Monitoring the action plans and parks under the I2U2 grouping (India-
implementation status of cities, Sharing Israel-UAE-US).
best practices adopted by cities for others Importance of UAE for India:
to emulate.  Strategic Political Partnership: The
This unique initiative envisages to generate India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic
competiveness among cities by showcasing and Partnership reflects growing political and
sharing progress achieved by the cities in the public strategic alignment, with dialogues on
domain, hence fosters a sense of encouragement security and defence.
and motivation in city authorities in enhancing  Bilateral Trade: The UAE is India’s
their efforts. third-largest trading partner, and the
21
 Comprehensive Economic Partnership  Strengthen collaboration in areas of
Agreement (CEPA) has boosted trade common interest while navigating regional
significantly, with bilateral trade reaching geopolitics.
USD 84.5 billion in FY23, a 16% increase. India-UAE relations are marked by strong
 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): UAE economic, trade, and strategic ties, with the UAE
emerged as the fourth largest investor in being one of India's largest trading partners and a
India in FY23, with FDI inflows growing key source of energy. Both nations cooperate
to USD 3.35 billion. closely in areas such as defense, investment, and
 Energy Security: The UAE is a key cultural exchange.
supplier of oil and plays a vital role in
India's Strategic Petroleum Reserve. 21) BANGLADESH CRISIS
 Finance & Payments: Collaboration on
RuPay cards and UPI services, along with
a local currency settlement system to
facilitate trade in Indian Rupee and UAE
Dirham.
 Defence Cooperation: Joint military
exercises like Exercise Desert Cyclone
and discussions on defence procurement
(e.g., BrahMos missiles and Tejas jets).
 Diaspora and Cultural Ties: 3.5 million
Indians living in the UAE form a critical Bangladesh is facing significant political unrest,
link between the two nations, and India may need to reconsider its strategies to
strengthening social and cultural ties. address the situation to its east. On August 5,
Challenges in India-UAE Relations amidst accusations of misconduct, Prime Minister
 Limited Trade Diversification: Trade Sheikh Hasina fled to India as protests escalated.
remains concentrated in a few sectors like The situation remains volatile, and India’s response
petroleum and gems, with limited progress is crucial.
in other categories. Reasons for Protests
 Rising Import Costs: The increase in  Quota System: Protests erupted over the
imports from the UAE adds pressure on government reserving jobs for descendants
India’s trade balance. of freedom fighters.
 Non-Tariff Barriers: Hurdles like Halal  Government Response: Harsh measures
certification for Indian exports limit access against student protesters intensified
to the UAE market. public anger.
 Human Rights Concerns: Issues related  Sheikh Hasina’s Leadership: Allegations
to the Kafala system (sponsorship system of dictatorship and civil liberty violations
for migrant workers) are significant fueled dissent, leading to her ouster.
concerns.  Interim Government: Economist
 Diplomatic Balancing: Managing Muhammad Yunus, backed by the military,
relations amid regional conflicts (Israel- now leads the interim government.
Hamas, Iran-Saudi tensions) poses Early Developments
challenges.  Victory for Democracy: Some see
 Financial Support to Pakistan: UAE's Hasina’s removal as a win for democracy,
financial aid to Pakistan can complicate but comparisons to the 'Prague Spring' lack
India-UAE relations. international intervention.
 Ambiguity and Uncertainty: Vandalism
Way Forward
and anger targeted symbols of the
 Focus on technology, pharmaceuticals, and
government, and Yunus’ position remains
renewable energy to broaden the trade
uncertain as political pressures mount.
portfolio.
Areas of Concern
 Joint ventures and partnerships in new
 Democratic Deficit: Can Bangladesh
sectors.
address the democratic issues or descend
 Engage UAE on labour reforms for into more violence?
migrant workers.

22
  Rise of Islamist Parties: Radical Islamist Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya
forces are gaining influence, creating Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
further instability.  Launch and Purpose: Launched in
 India’s Concerns: India is wary of the September 2018 as part of the ‘Ayushman
growing influence of Islamist groups and Bharat’ scheme, aimed at providing
hopes Bangladesh remembers its role in secondary and tertiary care services to
their independence. vulnerable populations.
India’s View  Coverage: Offers medical coverage of Rs.
 Security Concerns: India has benefited 5 lakh per family per year for secondary
from Bangladesh’s support in dealing with and tertiary hospitalization to poor and
insurgent groups from India’s northeast. A vulnerable families.
prolonged crisis could reignite militant  Target Population: Covers nearly 40% of
activities. the population, focusing on the poorest and
 Geopolitical Tensions: The West sees most vulnerable.
Bangladesh as a potential hotspot for Eligibility
India-China competition, and  Target Group: Covers 10.74 crore poor,
Bangladesh's ties with China may grow deprived rural families and specific urban
under new leadership. occupational categories.
Compounding Problems for India  Identification: Beneficiaries are identified
 Regional Instability: Bangladesh’s shift using the latest Socio-Economic Caste
towards instability adds to India’s Census (SECC) data.
challenges, with issues like the Rohingya Benefits
crisis and a military-controlled Myanmar  Cashless Healthcare: Provides cashless
complicating matters. access to healthcare services at hospitals.
 External Forces: China and Pakistan may  Insurance Coverage: Each eligible family
exploit this situation, threatening India's receives Rs 5 lakh insurance coverage per
vision of a peaceful South Asia. year.
India must devise new strategies to handle the  Health Benefit Packages: Covers surgery,
evolving crisis, with the growing China-Pakistan medical and day care treatments, including
axis and rising Islamist radicalism posing medicines and diagnostics.
significant threats. The unrest in Bangladesh is far Role of National Health Authority (NHA)
from over, and India's response will be critical in  Implementation: Apex body responsible
navigating the geopolitical and security challenges for implementing the AB PMJAY scheme.
posed by these developments. India must act  Responsibilities:
strategically to maintain regional stability.  Designing strategies and building
technological infrastructure.
22) PM-JAY FOR ELDERLY  Implementing the National Digital
Health Mission to create a National
Digital Health Ecosystem.
 Overseeing state-level implementation
through State Health Agencies (SHAs)
established by respective states.
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya
Yojana (AB PM-JAY) provides health coverage of
₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and
tertiary care to poor and vulnerable families,
offering cashless healthcare. The recent expansion
The Union Cabinet has cleared the expansion of includes all senior citizens aged 70 and above,
the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan regardless of income, enhancing access to medical
Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to provide health services for this age group.
coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and
above irrespective of their income. 23) US BACKS INDIA’S CONTEST FOR
PERMANENT SEAT AT UNSC

23
  Procedural Matters: Require at least
9 affirmative votes out of 15.
 Substantive Matters: Require 9
affirmative votes and the concurrence
of all permanent members.
 A negative vote (veto) by any
permanent member blocks the
adoption of a substantive resolution.
Why India should be granted permanent
membership?
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is India deserves a permanent seat on the United
the leading global authority responsible for Nations Security Council (UNSC) for several
maintaining international peace and security. compelling reasons:
Composition of the UNSC  Global Representation: As the world's
The UNSC is composed of 15 members: largest democracy and most populous
 Five Permanent Members (P5): country, India's inclusion would make the
 China UNSC more representative of the global
 France population.
 Russian Federation  Economic Influence: India is the fifth-
 United Kingdom largest economy by nominal GDP and
 United States plays a significant role in global economic
 These countries hold significant stability.
influence, including veto power over  Peacekeeping Contributions: India is one
substantive resolutions. of the largest contributors to UN
 Ten Non-Permanent Members: peacekeeping missions. Over the years, it
 Elected by the United Nations General has provided over 200,000 troops in nearly
Assembly for two-year terms. 50 of the 71 missions mandated so far,
 Elections are held annually for five showcasing its commitment to
seats, ensuring continuity. international peace.
 Regional Distribution of Seats:  Strategic Capabilities: With substantial
 Africa: 3 seats military strength and nuclear capabilities,
 Asia-Pacific: 2 seats India is pivotal in regional and global
 Latin America and the security matters.
Caribbean: 2 seats  Voice for Global South: India advocates
 Western Europe and Others: 2 for the interests of developing countries,
seats promoting equitable representation in
 Eastern Europe: 1 seat global decisions.
 The Africa and Asia-Pacific groups  Active Global Engagement: Participation
alternate every two years to include an in groups like the
Arab nation among their candidates. G20,BRICS,SCO,QUAD highlights
Presidency Rotation India's role in addressing global
 The presidency of the UNSC rotates challenges.
monthly among its members in  Support for UNSC Reform: India pushes
alphabetical order based on their English for reforms to update the UNSC's structure
names. to reflect 21st-century realities.
 The president acts as the council's  International Endorsements: Nations
spokesperson and is responsible for such as the USA, France, and the UK
convening meetings, setting agendas, and support India's bid for permanent
facilitating discussions. membership
Veto Power Roadblocks towards it :
 Only the five permanent members
possess veto power.
 According to Article 27 of the UN
Charter:

24
 The central idea behind the "One Nation-One
Election" (ONOE) concept is to hold
simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha
(national elections) and all State Legislative
Assemblies every five years.
Background:
 ONOE proposes to return to the practice of
simultaneous elections, which was the
norm in India until 1967. This system was
disrupted by the premature dissolution of
some state assemblies and the Lok Sabha
in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
 Opposition from China: China's  The idea has been periodically discussed
reluctance, due to regional rivalries, blocks since 1983 but requires significant
consensus among the current permanent constitutional and logistical changes.
members (P5). Benefits:
 Complex UN Charter Amendment:  Reducing Governance Distractions:
Changing the UNSC's structure requires a Frequent elections cause disruptions in
two-thirds majority in the General governance, with leaders and officials
Assembly and ratification by all P5 preoccupied with election duties.
members, making reform difficult.  Cost Savings: Simultaneous elections
 Regional Opposition: Countries like reduce the overall cost of conducting
Pakistan oppose India's bid, affecting multiple elections, which have become
regional support and influencing other increasingly expensive.
nations.  Political Corruption: By reducing the
 Competing Aspirants: Other nations frequency of elections, the need for large
(Brazil, Germany, Japan) also seek sums of money for campaigns decreases,
permanent seats, while groups like the reducing the scope for corruption.
"Uniting for Consensus" oppose adding  Optimizing Resources: Simultaneous
any new permanent members. elections require fewer resources,
 Demands for African Representation: including law enforcement personnel and
African nations seek their own permanent polling infrastructure.
seats, adding complexity to reform  Curbing Horse-Trading and Financial
negotiations. Stability: Elections held at fixed intervals
 Veto Power Debate: There's disagreement can reduce political maneuvering and
over granting veto power to new election-related spending promises that
permanent members; the current P5 are strain state finances.
reluctant to share this privilege Challenges:
India should begin playing an active  Constitutional Concerns: Articles 83(2)
role, rather than pursuing a policy of and 172 of the Indian Constitution provide
silence on most of the issues in international for five-year terms for the Lok Sabha and
security which UNSC permanent members are State Assemblies. Early dissolution of a
often concerned with. government would raise legal and
procedural issues.
24) ONE NATION ONE ELECTION
 Logistical Complexity: Conducting
nationwide elections simultaneously poses
logistical challenges, such as ensuring
enough electronic voting machines and
adequate security.
 Federalism Issues: ONOE may
undermine the autonomy of state
governments and affect the federal
structure of governance.
 Bias in Election Outcomes: Studies show
that simultaneous elections may benefit
25
 national parties at the cost of regional  There were also 248 cases of murder
issues, with voters likely to vote the same linked to rape or gang rape.
way in both national and state elections. Global Perspective on the Death Penalty
Way Forward  Abolition Trends Worldwide
The Ram Nath Kovind-led panel on "One Nation,  By the end of 2023, 112 countries had
One Election" recommended: abolished the death penalty, with 144
 Two-Step Implementation: First, countries having abolished it either in
simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha law or practice.
and state assemblies, followed by  However, 55 countries, including
synchronized local body elections within India, retain the death penalty in law
100 days and practice.
 Constitutional Amendments:  South Asia Overview
Amendments to Articles 83, 172, and the  In South Asia, Bhutan and Nepal
introduction of Articles 82A and 324A to have abolished the death penalty for all
enable synchronized election cycles crimes, while Maldives and Sri
 Common Electoral Roll: A unified Lanka have done so in practice.
electoral roll and voter ID system for  India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and
national, state, and local election. Pakistan still retain the death penalty.
The report emphasized economic benefits and  India's Death Row Population
reduced governance disruptions, but it faces  In 2023, India recorded 120 new
opposition over concerns related to federalism and death sentences, down from 167 in
democracy 2022, with no executions carried out.
 The death row population increased to
25) SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND DEATH 561, the highest in two decades, with a
PENALTY IN INDIA continuous rise since 2019.
 Many death row inmates face severe
physical and mental health issues after
spending years in overcrowded
prisons, often without state
compensation, highlighting systemic
biases in the justice system based on
caste, class, and religion.
Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC)
and the Death Penalty:
Shift Towards Deterrence
The Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal  India increasingly adopts a deterrence-
Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024, passed based approach to sexual violence,
by the West Bengal government, has reignited the particularly in cases involving murder.
death penalty debate.  In 2023, many sessions courts awarded
 The bill, introduced after the brutal rape the death penalty for sexual violence and
and murder of a doctor in Kolkata, murder, driven by public outrage and calls
proposes the death penalty for rape. for severe punishment.
 Although approved by the West Bengal Cultural Context and Public Reactions
Assembly, it is awaiting the President of  Calls for the death penalty in rape cases
India's decision after concerns were often arise from cultural and religious
raised by the State Governor. beliefs framing the rapist as an “outsider”
National Crime Statistics on Rapes or inhuman (e.g., rakshas, haivaan).
 In 2022, the National Crime Records  This narrative distances the perpetrator
Bureau reported 31,516 rape cases in from society, justifying execution, while
India, with nearly four rapes occurring public discourse focuses on family
every hour. honour over the victim’s autonomy.
 Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya The Justice Verma Committee and the Death
Pradesh reported the highest numbers, Penalty
with Rajasthan recording over 5,000 cases.

26
  The Justice Verma Committee argued Conclusion: Addressing Complex Social Issues
that the death penalty does not deter  Abolishing the death penalty and creating
crimes like rape. a safer society for women and children
 However, the Union Cabinet rejected are intertwined goals that require both
these recommendations, and the legal and socio-cultural reforms.
deterrence argument continues to shape  Real progress comes from addressing the
legal policies. root causes of violence—caste, class, and
Abolitionist Feminism: A Call for Change gender inequality—and ensuring equal
Rethinking Punishment access to education, healthcare, and
 Feminist movements advocate for economic opportunities.
moving away from carceral approaches  Feminists argue that sexual violence is
like the death penalty, which fail to about power, and tackling it requires
address the root causes of sexual violence. promoting gender equity in all spheres of
 The focus should be on social reforms life.
tackling poverty, inequality, and lack of  Lasting societal change cannot be achieved
education, which contribute to violence through punishment alone but requires a
against women and children. focus on justice, equality, and
Addressing Structural Inequalities comprehensive social reform.
 The fight against violence must include
efforts to improve socio-economic 26) INDIA-MYANMAR RELATIONS
conditions for marginalized
communities, ensuring land
redistribution, wealth equity, and
representation in institutions.
 Rape survivors need comprehensive
support in areas like education,
employment, healthcare, and emotional
well-being for themselves and their
families.
Procedural Reforms and Public Awareness
Victim-Centered Reforms Historical Background of India-Myanmar
 India must prioritize victim-centered Relations
reforms, moving away from patriarchal India and Myanmar share deep cultural, religious,
views of family honour and focusing on and trade ties, notably through Buddhism, making
survivors’ autonomy and needs. India a key pilgrimage destination for Myanmar
 Programs like ‘beta padhao, beti bachao’ citizens.
should challenge ingrained patriarchal  British Era: Both nations were part of
beliefs and promote equality. British India until 1937.
Evidence-Based Policymaking  Post-Independence: Diplomatic relations
 The death penalty allows the state to were established post-independence with
sidestep deeper reforms in policing, the 1951 Treaty of Friendship.
judiciary, and prosecution, which are Key Milestones:
critical for justice.  1987: Strengthened bilateral ties following
 A culture of evidence-based the Indian Prime Minister's visit.
policymaking, avoiding populist  2002: Reopening of consulates in
reactions, is essential for genuine change. Mandalay and Kolkata.
Public and Judicial Awareness  2014: Myanmar became central to India's
 Public awareness campaigns must Neighborhood First and Act East
debunk the myth that the death penalty policies.
reduces violence against women and Areas of Cooperation
children.  Trade:
 There needs to be a shift toward gender  As of 2023, India’s exports to
equity that extends from the private Myanmar were valued at $760.32
(family) sphere to the public, rather than million, while its imports from
relying solely on harsh punishments.
27
 Myanmar totaled $1.04 billion, Indian insurgents like ULFA and NSCN
highlighting a trade deficit. (IM).
 Indian companies such as Essar,  Chinese Influence: China Myanmar
GAIL, and ONGC Videsh Ltd. have Economic Corridor (CMEC) and soft
invested in Myanmar’s energy sector. power projects in Myanmar challenge
 Connectivity: India’s regional influence.
 Key projects include the Tamu- Importance of a Stable Myanmar for India
Kalewa-Kalemyo highway and  Geopolitical Interests: Myanmar's
Kaladan Multi-Modal Transport location supports India's "Neighborhood
Project linking India to Myanmar. First" and "Act East" policies.
 Development of the Asian Trilateral  National Security: Stability is crucial for
Highway with Myanmar and Thailand managing insurgencies along the
is ongoing. Myanmar-China border.
 Countering China: A weak Myanmar
could align more with China, affecting
India's regional influence.
 Strategic Location: Myanmar connects
India with Southeast Asia and provides
access to the Bay of Bengal.
Measures to Foster India-Myanmar Relations
 Rohingya Issue: Carefully balance
relations with Bangladesh and Myanmar.
 Cultural Diplomacy: Promote Buddhist
 Defense Cooperation: diplomacy to build goodwill.
 Joint exercises like IMBAX and  Security Cooperation: Strengthen border
collaboration on counterinsurgency security for economic and regional
efforts strengthen ties. stability.
 Development Assistance:  Border Management: Improve regulation
 India has extended $2 billion in loans to prevent misuse by insurgents.
and provided aid for education and  Act East Policy: Use Myanmar as a
infrastructure, such as the Myanmar gateway to Southeast Asia.
Institute of Information Technology.  Emerging Market: Explore opportunities
 Multilateral Partnerships: in Myanmar’s growing consumer market
 Myanmar’s participation in for Indian exports.
BIMSTEC and ASEAN strengthens
regional cooperation. 27) FATF
 Humanitarian Aid:
 India provided significant relief during
Cyclone Nargis (2008) and the 2011
earthquake in Shan State
Challenges in India-Myanmar Relations
 Military Junta Coup: The 2021 coup
complicates India’s balancing act between
strategic interests and support for
democracy.
 Weak Trade Relations: India’s $2 billion
trade with Myanmar lags behind China’s. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has
India’s exit from the RCEP could further placed India in the "regular follow-up" category
weaken economic ties. for its efforts in combating money laundering and
 Rohingya Crisis: The migration of terrorist financing.
Rohingyas into India raises concerns about What is the "Regular Follow-up" Category?
internal security and resource strain.  This category is part of the FATF's mutual
 Northeast Insurgency: Separatist groups evaluation process and monitors how well
operate along the Myanmar-China border, countries implement anti-money
affecting regional stability, including
28
 laundering (AML) and counter-terror infrastructure development. The two countries also
financing (CTF) measures. collaborate on issues like border management and
 Countries in this category are generally combating insurgency in their shared border
compliant with FATF’s recommendations regions.
and show effective systems in place for
combating financial crimes. 28) APPOINTMENT OF SUPREME COURT
Concerns Raised by FATF: JUDGES
 Pendency of Money Laundering Cases:
 FATF has advised India to enhance its
judicial capacity and the role of
agencies like the Enforcement
Directorate (ED) to handle the
growing number of pending money
laundering cases.
 Terrorist Groups' Activity:
 India faces significant threats from
terrorist organizations like IS and al-
Qaeda, and FATF has highlighted the Composition and Strength:
need for enhanced vigilance.  Initial Composition: The Supreme Court
Financial Action Task Force (FATF): originally had 8 judges (1 Chief Justice of
 FATF is an inter-governmental body that India and 7 other judges).
develops policies to combat money  Current Strength: The Parliament has
laundering and terrorist financing increased the number of judges over time.
globally. Presently, the Supreme Court has 34
 Objective: Establish international judges (1 Chief Justice of India and 33
standards and promote policies to fight others).
financial crimes at both national and global Qualifications for Appointment (Article 124(3)):
levels. To be appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court, a
Origin: person must meet one of the following criteria:
 Established in 1989 during the G7  Be a citizen of India.
Summit in Paris to address money  Have served as a judge in a High Court
laundering. for at least 5 years.
 In 2001, its mandate expanded to include  Have been an advocate in a High Court
terrorism financing. for at least 10 years.
Headquarters: Paris, France.  Be a distinguished jurist in the opinion of
 Members: 39 countries, including the the President.
U.S., India, China, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Appointment Process (Article 124(2)):
Germany, and the EU.  Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed
 India became a member in 2010. by the President of India.
FATF Lists:  The President makes these appointments
 Black List: Non-Cooperative Countries or after consulting with judges of the
Territories (NCCTs) supporting terrorism Supreme Court and High Courts, ensuring
and money laundering. Countries face a well-informed decision.
strict sanctions, including the denial of Oath of Office:
international financial aid from institutions  Newly appointed judges take an oath
like the IMF and World Bank. before the President or a designated
 Grey List: Countries with risks of terror official, committing to:
funding and money laundering. Being on  Uphold the Constitution of India.
this list serves as a warning of potential  Protect the sovereignty and integrity
blacklisting. of the nation.
Countries on the Blacklist: North Korea, Iran,  Perform duties without fear or favor.
and Myanmar. Tenure and Resignation:
India-Myanmar relations are marked by shared  Retirement Age: Supreme Court judges
cultural, historical, and economic ties, as well as serve until they reach the age of 65 years.
cooperation in areas like trade, security, and
29
  Resignation: A judge may choose to  Introduced the collegium system,
resign by submitting a resignation letter to ruling that “consultation” in
the President before the age of 65. appointments meant concurrence.
Salaries and Allowances:  The CJI’s decision must reflect the
 The salaries, allowances, privileges, leave, institutional opinion of the judiciary,
and pensions of Supreme Court judges are not just the CJI’s personal view. The
determined by Parliament. CJI must consult the two senior-most
 These expenses are drawn from the judges in the Supreme Court.
Consolidated Fund of India, ensuring  Third Judges Case (1998):
financial security and independence.  On a Presidential reference (Article
Post-Retirement Restrictions: 143), the Supreme Court expanded the
 Practice Prohibition: Retired Supreme collegium to a five-member body.
Court judges are barred from practicing  The collegium now consists of the CJI
law in any court in India. and the four senior-most judges of
 Recall Provision (Article 128): A retired the Supreme Court.
judge can be recalled by the Chief Justice  Fourth Judges Case (2015):
of India, with the President’s approval, to  The 99th Constitutional Amendment
serve temporarily in the Supreme Court. Act, 2014, introduced the National
Removal of Judges: Judicial Appointments Commission
 Grounds for Removal: Judges can only (NJAC), intending to replace the
be removed for proven misbehavior or collegium system.
incapacity.  However, in 2015, the Supreme Court
 Process: Removal requires: declared the 99th Constitutional
 An order from the President based on Amendment and NJAC Act
a motion passed by both Houses of unconstitutional, reinstating the
Parliament. collegium system for judicial
 Support by a special majority: a appointments.
majority of the total membership of
each House and at least two-thirds of 29) QUAD
the members present and voting.
 Parliament has the power to regulate
the procedure for presenting the
address for removal.
Collegium System for Judicial Appointments
Overview:
 The collegium system is responsible for
the appointment and transfer of judges in
the Supreme Court and High Courts. It
includes:
 The Chief Justice of India (CJI). PM Modi attended the 6th Quad Leaders’ Summit
 The four senior-most judges of the in Wilmington, Delaware, USA, hosted by the
Supreme Court. United States.
 The system is not mentioned in the  About: Quad (Quadrilateral Security
Constitution but was developed through Dialogue) is a strategic grouping of four
judicial interpretations. major democracies—India, Australia, the
Evolution of the Collegium System: US, and Japan. It aims to promote a free,
open, and rules-based international order
 First Judges Case (1981):
in the Indo-Pacific region.
 Gave primacy to the Executive over
the Judiciary in judicial appointments.
 The recommendation of the Chief
Justice of India could be overridden by
the government for “cogent reasons.”
 Second Judges Case (1993):

30
  Objectives:  Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission
 Maritime Security: Safeguarding (2025): Joint mission to improve maritime
maritime routes and upholding safety and interoperability, involving the
freedom of navigation. US, Japan, Australia, and Indian Coast
 COVID-19 and Vaccine Diplomacy: Guards.
Ensuring equitable vaccine  Indo-Pacific Logistics Network: Pilot
distribution and collaboration on project for shared airlift capacity, enabling
pandemic response. faster disaster response in the Indo-Pacific.
 Climate Change: Tackling climate  Quad Ports of the Future Partnership:
risks, promoting sustainable energy, Supporting sustainable and resilient port
and supporting vulnerable regions. infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific.
 Economic Investment: Creating a  Semiconductor Supply Chains
robust economic framework for Contingency Network: Cooperation to
investment in the Indo-Pacific. strengthen semiconductor supply chain
 Technological Innovation: Fostering resilience.
innovation, particularly in critical  Other Announcements:
technologies like semiconductors, AI,  Energy Efficiency: Boosting
and clean energy. deployment of affordable cooling
Evolution of Quad systems in the Indo-Pacific.
 Initial Formation (2004): Informal  India’s Space Initiative for
alliance formed after the Indian Ocean Mauritius: Launch of a space-based
tsunami for disaster relief. portal for extreme weather monitoring.
 2007 Proposal: Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe  Quad STEM Fellowship Expansion:
proposed formalizing Quad, but it stalled New fellowship sub-category for Indo-
due to Chinese opposition and India’s Pacific students in India.
reluctance.  Next Quad Leaders' Summit (2025):
 Revival (2017): Quad talks resumed India to host the 2025 Quad Summit.
during the ASEAN Summits, focusing on The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) is a
security and cooperation in the Indo- strategic alliance between India, the U.S., Japan,
Pacific. and Australia aimed at promoting a free, open, and
 Ministerial-Level (2019): Quad elevated inclusive Indo-Pacific region. It focuses on security
to the ministerial level, boosting strategic cooperation, economic growth, and countering
significance. China's growing influence in the region.
 First Summit (2021): Held virtually in
March, followed by an in-person summit 30) POCSO ACT (PROTECTION OF
in Washington, D.C. in September. CHILDREN FROM SEXUAL OFFENCES
 Naval Exercise (2020): All four Quad ACT, 2012)
members participated in the "Malabar
Exercise," the largest joint naval drill since
2007.
Key Outcomes of Quad Summit 2024
 Quad Wilmington Declaration:
Advancing cooperation on security,
economic collaboration, and technological
innovation.
 Quad Cancer Moonshot: Initiative to
reduce cancer in the Indo-Pacific, starting
with cervical cancer, leveraging public- The Supreme Court expanded the definition of
private investments and expertise. what constitutes ‘possession’ of child
 MAITRI (Maritime Initiative for pornography to include viewing or displaying
Training in Indo-Pacific): Enhances such content.
regional maritime security and law POCSO Act: The Protection of Children from
enforcement. India will host the first Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was amended to
MAITRI workshop in 2025. introduce three connected offenses under Sections
15(1), (2), and (3) with increasing grades of
31
punishment — from fines to a three- to five-year particularly where the child’s
jail sentence. testimony is strong.
Key Features of the POCSO Act :  Amendments (2019):
 Comprehensive Coverage:  The Act was amended to include more
 Protects children (under 18 years) stringent punishments, including the
from sexual abuse, sexual harassment, death penalty for aggravated
and pornography. penetrative sexual assault. It also
 Gender-Neutral: enhanced penalties for using children
 The law is gender-neutral, meaning it for pornographic purposes.
applies to both male and female Key Points of the Judgment:
children.  Possession & Reporting: Storing or
 Types of Offenses: possessing child pornography without
 Covers a wide range of offenses, deleting or reporting it is punishable.
including penetrative and non-  Intent to Share: Punishment applies even
penetrative assault, sexual harassment, if there’s no intent to share or transmit the
and use of children for pornographic content.
purposes.  Transmission: Possessing content with
 Mandatory Reporting: the intent to distribute or transmit is also
 Reporting of child sexual abuse is punishable.
mandatory, and failure to report can  Failure to Delete or Report: Not deleting
lead to punishment. or reporting child pornography is
 Child-Friendly Procedures: considered possession with intent to
 Special provisions ensure child- distribute.
friendly procedures during trials, Clarifications on Possession:
including in-camera trials, no direct  Virtual Possession: Having access or
contact with the accused, and child- control over child pornography, even
sensitive questioning. without physical storage, is considered
 Punishments: possession.
 The Act prescribes stringent  Internet Access: Regularly viewing child
punishments, including life pornography online, even without
imprisonment and fines, based on the downloading, constitutes possession.
severity of the crime.  Unintentional Receipt: Receiving child
 Special Courts: pornography unintentionally is not
 Establishes Special Courts to handle punishable if promptly deleted and not
POCSO cases, ensuring swift justice distributed.
and sensitive handling of cases How such cases are registered:
involving minors.  Virtual Possession: Cases under Section
 Burden of Proof: 15 can be filed even without physical
 The burden of proof is on the accused, storage of child pornography.
meaning they must prove their  Streaming and Watching: Individuals
innocence once a prima facie case is streaming or watching child pornography
made. can be charged under Section 15.
 Medical Examination:  Immediate Reporting: Prompt reporting
 Medical examination of the child of child pornography can potentially avoid
victim is required to be conducted in a charges under Section 15.
manner that ensures minimal distress,
preferably by a female doctor. 31) WOMEN'S POLITICAL
 Confidentiality: REPRESENTATION IN INDIA
 Media is prohibited from disclosing
the identity of the child victim under
any circumstance.
 Presumption of Guilt:
 In certain cases, there is a presumption
of guilt against the accused,

32
  Accountability and Gender-Sensitive
Governance: Women’s participation
ensures better accountability and gender
equality in public policy.
 Breaking Patriarchal Barriers:
Increased representation dismantles the
male-dominated nature of Indian politics.
 Focus on Gender Issues: Higher
representation leads to stronger focus on
women’s issues and policies.
Status of Women's Political Representation in  Gender Equality: Political participation
India is key for gender equality and genuine
democracy.
 Changing Stereotypes: More women in
power challenges stereotypes, shifting the
image of women from "homemakers" to
"lawmakers."
 Economic and Infrastructure
Improvement: Women legislators
improve their constituencies’ economic
performance and infrastructure more than
their male counterparts.
Reasons for Low Political Representation of
 Parliamentary Representation: Women:
 In 1952, women made up only 4.41%  Gender Gaps in Political Ambition:
of the Lok Sabha, increasing to over Societal conditioning and self-doubt
6% in 1962. discourage women from pursuing politics.
 This figure dipped below 4% in 1971,  Patriarchal Society: Gender disparities,
even under the leadership of India's social expectations, and the sexual division
first woman Prime Minister, Indira of labor hinder women’s political
Gandhi. participation.
 A gradual rise saw women’s  Cost of Elections: Rising costs make it
representation cross 10% in 2009, difficult for women to raise the necessary
reaching 14.36% in 2019. In 2024, 74 funds.
women MPs were elected, with 43  Male Politicians as Gatekeepers: Male-
being first-time MPs, averaging 50 dominated party leaderships often block
years in age, and 78% holding women’s candidacies.
undergraduate degrees.  Criminalization and Corruption: Lack
 State Assemblies: of political education and increased
 Representation in state assemblies criminalization deter women from entering
remains low, with Chhattisgarh at the politics.
highest (14.4%), followed by West Measures Taken for Political Empowerment:
Bengal (13.7%) and Jharkhand  Nari Shakti Vandana Adhiniyam: 33%
(12.4%). reservation for women in the Lok Sabha
 Global Comparison: and state assemblies.
 Globally, women account for 26.1% of  73rd and 74th Amendment Acts: 33%
parliamentarians (IPU 2021). Despite reservation in local bodies, with some
the rise in India's representation states increasing this to 50%.
(~16% in the 17th Lok Sabha), the  Parliamentary Committee on
country ranks below 140 nations, Empowerment of Women (1997):
trailing behind countries in Africa and Formed to improve women’s status.
South Asia.  Gender-Neutral Rules of Lok Sabha
Need for Greater Political Empowerment of (2014): Leadership titles were made
Women in India: gender-neutral.

33
 contributing over $23 trillion to global
32) SHANGHAI COOPERATION GDP.
ORGANISATION (SCO) Relevance of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO) for India
 Energy Cooperation: Access to Central
Asia's oil and gas helps diversify India's
energy sources.
 Connectivity: Supports projects like
INSTC and Chabahar Port, enhancing
access to Central Asia while bypassing
Pakistan.

The 2024 SCO Summit was held in Astana,

Kazakhstan, with India prioritizing
counterterrorism and climate change. China will
chair the next term, and Qingdao has been named
the SCO’s cultural capital for 2024-2025.
Key Highlights:
 New Membership: Belarus joined as the
10th member.
 Astana Declaration: Adopted 25  Cultural Exchanges: Promotes cultural
agreements on energy, security, trade, diplomacy and people-to-people ties,
finance, and information security. exemplified by Varanasi's designation as a
 SCO Development Strategy: Approved cultural capital.
till 2035, focusing on terrorism, energy  Regional Stability: India's involvement
cooperation, and economic development. strengthens counterterrorism efforts and
 India-China Relations: Both countries aids in stabilizing Afghanistan.
emphasized the need for troop  Market Access: Expands trade in sectors
disengagement and restoring peace at the like pharmaceuticals, IT, and textiles,
Line of Actual Control (LAC). despite Chinese competition.
 Combatting Terrorism: India urged the  Strategic Balancing: Enables engagement
global community to isolate terrorism- with Russia and Central Asia while
supporting nations. countering China's influence.
 Multipolar World: Russia underscored Challenges for India
the SCO's role in shaping a just, multipolar  Divergent Interests: Coordination with
global order. China and Pakistan is difficult due to
SCO Overview issues like CPEC and terrorism.
 Origins: The SCO evolved from the  Chinese Dominance: China's Belt and
"Shanghai Five" (1996), formed by Road Initiative (BRI) creates tensions for
China, Russia, Kazakhstan, India.
Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, addressing  Limited Economic Integration: The
security concerns after the USSR’s SCO’s weak economic framework limits
dissolution. India’s leverage.
 Establishment: Founded on June 15, India’s role in the SCO is a balancing act between
2001, in Shanghai, with Uzbekistan advancing strategic interests and managing
joining as the sixth member. The SCO now challenges posed by other member states.
has 10 members, including India, Iran,
and Belarus. Afghanistan and Mongolia 33) EXTRA JUDICIAL KILLINGS
hold observer status.
 Significance: The SCO addresses security
issues in Asia and counters Western
influence, particularly that of the U.S. It
represents 40% of the world's
population, with member economies
34
  Glorification of Violence: Media and
public praise of EJK normalizes violence
and further unlawful state actions.
Guidelines on Encounters:
 Supreme Court (2014): Mandates FIR
registration, magisterial inquiry,
involvement of kin, and independent
investigations.
 NHRC (1997 & 2010): Guidelines for
registering FIRs, conducting inquiries, and
Extra judicial killing refers to the killing of a reporting deaths to NHRC within 48 hours.
person by state agents without legal proceedings, Way Forward:
trial, or due process, violating human rights and the  Ensure thorough investigations of
rule of law. encounter killings.
Current Status in India:  Train police to handle situations lawfully.
 While encounter killings saw a 15%  Emphasize human rights education to
decline between 2016-2023, they spiked prevent unlawful killings.
by 69.5% in the last two years.
Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and GS III (TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMIC
Assam are states with the highest cases. DEVELOPMENT, BIO-DIVERSITY,
Causes of Extra Judicial Killings (EJK): ENVIRONMENT, SECURITY AND
 Public Support: Distrust in the judicial DISASTER MANAGEMENT)
system often leads to public endorsement
of such acts. 34) LAUNCH OF VULTURE COUNT 2024
 Political Support: Some leaders
showcase encounters as a sign of effective
governance.
 Punitive Violence: Some officers view
violence as a necessary tool to control
crime.
 Hero-Worship: Media glorifies these
actions, promoting officers as heroes.
 Police Inefficiency: Lack of resources for
thorough investigations leads to reliance
on encounters. WWF-India launched a vulture conservation
Impact of Extra Judicial Killings (EJK): initiative to count vultures and raise awareness
 Erosion of Rule of Law: Undermines the about these critically endangered species.
legal system, bypassing judicial processes The drive to commence on September 7 and
and weakening trust in law enforcement. conclude on October 6.
 Human Rights Violations: Violates The launch aligns with International Vulture
fundamental rights, particularly the Right Awareness Day.
to Life under Article 21. The first Saturday in September each year is
 Loss of Public Trust: Reduces confidence celebrated as International Vulture Awareness Day.
in law enforcement, creating fear and This year it falls in 7 September 2024.
mistrust. Vulture Count 2024 Objectives:
Systematic monitoring of vulture populations to
 Increased Impunity: Fosters a culture of
gather baseline data.
impunity, allowing law enforcement to act
Tracking population trends, identifying critical
without accountability.
habitats, and assessing the impact of environmental
 Political Exploitation: Used by
changes.
politicians to show "tough" crime control,
Developing targeted conservation strategies and
normalizing illegal methods.
raising public awareness.
 International Reputation Damage: Citizen Participation:
Attracts scrutiny from global human rights
organizations, harming diplomatic
relations.
35
  The initiative encourages citizen scientists,  Vultures provide essential ecosystem
bird enthusiasts, and local communities to services, such as nutrient recycling by
contribute. consuming carcasses, which promotes
 Volunteers will help collect crucial data for vegetation growth and sustains healthy
vulture conservation efforts. ecosystems.
Focus on Key Species:  By naturally managing waste, vultures
The count will focus on species like the white- reduce the need for artificial disposal
rumped vulture, red-headed vulture, Indian methods (e.g., transporting carcasses to
vulture, bearded vulture, slender-billed vulture, incineration plants), cutting costs for
Himalayan griffon, Eurasian griffon, Egyptian livestock farmers and minimizing
vulture, and cinereous vulture. greenhouse gas emissions.
Vultures are classified into two main groups:  Vultures hold cultural and spiritual
Old World Vultures: significance in many societies and attract
 Found in Africa, Europe, and Asia. ecotourism, generating income for local
 Belong to the family Accipitridae, which communities.
also includes eagles, hawks, and kites.  Their presence enhances biodiversity and
 They primarily rely on their keen eyesight strengthens ecosystem resilience,
to locate carcasses, as they lack a strong contributing to the overall health of
sense of smell. ecosystems.
New World Vultures: Reasons for decline of Vulture Population:
 Found in North and South America.  Vulture populations in India have declined
 Belong to the family Cathartidae. due to NSAID drugs like diclofenac, used
 Some species, like the Turkey Vulture, for livestock.
have a highly developed sense of smell to  Other threats include habitat loss,
detect carrion. electrocution, food scarcity, and human
Feeding Habits: disturbances.
 Vultures primarily feed on carrion (dead Conservation status of Vulture species:
animals). Critically Endangered:
 Vultures have highly acidic stomachs that  Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus
allow them to safely digest decaying meat, (Africa) – Critically Endangered
which can harbor harmful pathogens like  Indian Vulture Gyps indicus (Asia)
bacteria and viruses.  Red-headed Vulture Sarcogyps calvus
Reproduction: (Asia)
 Vultures are generally monogamous,  Ruppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppelli (Africa,
forming long-term pair bonds. They often Europe – occurs irregularly and in very
return to the same nesting sites each year. small numbers)
 Vultures typically nest in cliffs, trees, or  Slender-billed Vulture Gyps tenuirostris
rocky outcrops. Some species, like the (Asia)
Egyptian Vulture, build nests on ledges or  White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus
abandoned buildings. (Africa, Europe – occurs irregularly and in
 Vultures usually lay one or two eggs. Both very small numbers)
parents take turns incubating the eggs,  White-headed Vulture Trigonoceps
which typically hatch after 40-50 days. occipitalis (Africa)
Importance of Vultures: Endangered:
 Vultures play a critical role in maintaining  Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus
ecosystem health by consuming dead (Europe, Asia, Africa) – Endangered
animals, preventing the spread of diseases  Lappet-faced Vulture Torgos tracheliotos
to wildlife and human communities. (Africa, Asia) – Endangered
 Their scavenging activities help control Vulnerable:
the spread of diseases from decaying  Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres (Africa) –
carcasses, protecting both wildlife and Vulnerable
human populations from potential Near Threatened:
outbreaks.  Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus
(Europe, Asia, Africa) – Near Threatened

36
  Cinereous Vulture Aegypius monachus vultures, including nesting sites, feeding
(Europe, Asia, Africa – occurs irregularly grounds, and roosting areas.
and in very small numbers) – Near  Establishing protected areas and wildlife
Threatened sanctuaries also helps to reduce human
 Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis disturbances and threats like electrocution
(Asia) – Near Threatened and poisoning.
Least Concern: Vulture Monitoring and Research:
 Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus (Europe, Asia,  Regular vulture population monitoring
Africa) – Least Concern (e.g., WWF-India’s Vulture Count) is
Initiatives for Vulture protection: conducted to track trends, identify key
Ban on Diclofenac: habitats, and assess the effectiveness of
India, Nepal, and Pakistan banned the veterinary conservation efforts.
use of diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-  Research initiatives focus on studying
inflammatory drug (NSAID) that caused a vulture ecology, movement patterns, and
dramatic decline in vulture populations due to understanding new threats to their
kidney failure when consumed through treated survival.
livestock carcasses. Poisoning Prevention:
Alternative drugs like meloxicam, which are safe  Campaigns to educate farmers about the
for vultures, are being promoted. dangers of using poisoned carcasses as
Vulture Safe Zones (VSZ): bait, a major cause of vulture deaths in
Established in several regions of South Asia to many countries.
create diclofenac-free areas, ensuring safe habitats  The promotion of wildlife-friendly
for vultures. livestock practices to reduce the risk of
These zones focus on removing harmful NSAIDs vultures consuming poisoned meat
and promoting vulture-safe livestock treatment Vultures are nature’s scavengers. Vulture Count
practices. 2024 represents a significant opportunity for
Vulture Breeding and Conservation Programs: citizen scientists, bird enthusiasts and local
 Captive Breeding Centers: India has communities to contribute to vulture conservation
established several vulture conservation and to increase awareness about them. Protecting
breeding centers (e.g., in Haryana, West vultures is crucial for maintaining the ecosystem
Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh) to breed services they provide, which are essential for both
and release vultures into the wild. wildlife conservation and human well-being.
 The goal is to boost the population of
critically endangered species, such as the 35) WORLD EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL
White-rumped vulture, Indian vulture, OUTLOOK: SEPTEMBER 2024
and Slender-billed vulture.
International Vulture Awareness Day:
 Celebrated annually on the first Saturday
of September to raise global awareness
about the importance of vultures and the
threats they face.
 Organized by conservation groups, zoos,
and birdwatching communities worldwide.
Conservation Advocacy and Public Awareness:
NGOs like WWF-India, BirdLife International,
and The Bombay Natural History Society In its newly-released World Employment and
(BNHS) run campaigns to raise public awareness Social Outlook, the International Labour
about the vital role of vultures in ecosystems. Organization (ILO) finds upward pressure on
These organizations also advocate for vulture- inequality as the labour income share stagnates and
friendly policies and educate local communities on a large share of youth remains out of employment,
safe livestock management. education or training
Habitat Protection: Key Findings:
 Efforts are being made to preserve and Labour Income Share Decline:
restore natural habitats critical for

37
  Global labour income share fell by 0.6 progress on key Sustainable Development Goals
percentage points (2019-2022), and (SDGs) as the 2030 deadline approaches.
remains stagnant.
 If 2004 levels were maintained, labour 36) PM-AWAS YOJANA 2.0
income would be US$2.4 trillion higher in
2024.
Impact of COVID-19:
 Pandemic worsened inequality; 40% of
labour income share reduction occurred
between 2020-2022.
 Wealth remains concentrated among
the richest, hindering progress on SDG 10
(Reducing inequality).
Technological Advances:
 Automation boosts productivity, but Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana:
workers do not share gains equitably.  The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
 Advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a national credit-linked subsidy
may further deepen inequality without program designed to provide low- and
inclusive policies. moderate-income citizens access to
Youth Employment Concerns: affordable housing.
 As GET Youth (Global Employment  The plan to offer 3 crore more rural and
Trends for Youth) showed, the global rate urban homes under PMAY has been
of youth not in employment, education or approved by the recently elected
training (NEET) registered only a modest government.
decrease from 21.3 per cent in 2015 to 20.4  The scheme has two components: PMAY-
per cent in 2024 and is projected to remain U for the urban poor and PMAY-G and
flat for the next two years. PMAY-R for the rural poor.
 The female NEET rate – which stood at PMAY-U (Urban):
28.2 per cent in 2024 – is more than double  Objective: To provide housing for all in
that faced by young men, jeopardizing urban areas.
SDG 8.  Beneficiaries: Economically Weaker
Suggested Actions from ILO's Report: Section (EWS), Low-Income Group
Stronger Policy Response: Implement (LIG), and Middle-Income Group (MIG).
comprehensive policies across various domains to  Subsidy Schemes:
increase the labour income share.  Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme:
Focus on measures that: Offers interest subsidy on home loans
 Promote equitable distribution of for EWS, LIG, and MIG categories.
economic benefits.  In-Situ Slum Redevelopment:
 Ensure freedom of association and Provides eligible slum dwellers houses
collective bargaining rights. by using land as a resource.
 Strengthen labour administration for  Affordable Housing via
inclusive growth. Collaboration: Encourages
 Support sustainable development for all. collaborations between public and
Reduce Inequality: Develop strategies to mitigate private sectors to offer affordable
inequality, ensuring that advancements and housing.
economic growth benefit all segments of society.  Beneficiary-led construction: Offers
Wide Distribution of Technological Gains: financial support to those building or
Ensure the benefits of technological progress (e.g., renovating their own houses.
automation, AI) are widely shared to avoid PMAY-G (Gramin):
deepening inequality.  Objective: To provide a pucca house with
The September update of the World Employment basic amenities to all rural families who are
and Social Outlook 2024 finds upward pressure on homeless or living in kutcha or dilapidated
inequality as the labour income share stagnates and houses.
a large share of youth remains out of employment,
education, or training. It also indicates slow
38
  Beneficiaries: Identified using the Socio-
Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 37) INDIAN AGRICULTURE SECTOR
2011.
 Features:
 Financial Assistance: Rs. 1.2 lakh in
plain areas and Rs. 1.3 lakh in hilly,
difficult, and Integrated Action Plan
(IAP) areas.
 Construction: Houses are to be
constructed by beneficiaries with
technical assistance from the
government.
 Convergence with other schemes:
Encourages convergence with other
schemes like Swachh Bharat Mission Despite being perceived as low-tech and focused
(SBM) for toilet construction, and on subsistence, the Indian agriculture industry has
MGNREGA for wage employment. the capacity to spur economic growth and
Challenges to Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana employment creation. Even though it now employs
(PMAY) 46% of the labor force and generates 18% of GDP,
 Implementation Delays: The original agriculture's growth is inconsistent and
target for 2022 was missed, with the environmentally costly.
deadline extended to December 2024. Current Status of the Indian Agriculture Sector:
Economic Contribution:
 Improper Execution: States' delayed
payments (₹2,915 crore in 2020) have  Agriculture contributed 18.8% to India's
slowed progress. GVA(Gross Value Added) in 2021-22.
 Access to Finance: Subsidies (₹1.2-1.3  Sector growth: 3.9% in 2021-22 (up from
lakh) are insufficient for rural housing, 3.6% in 2020-21) despite the pandemic.
requiring additional financing. Employment: Employs 42% of India's
workforce but steadily declining from 81% in
 Quality Issues: Poor supervision and lack
1983.
of adherence to construction standards lead
Production: Foodgrain production reached a
to subpar housing.
record 315.7 million tonnes in 2021-22.
 Convergence Shortfalls: Weak
Exports:
coordination with schemes like Swachh
 Agricultural exports grew by 19.92% in
Bharat Mission has led to incomplete
2021-22, totaling USD 50.21 billion.
facilities.
 Major exports include rice, wheat, cotton,
 Awareness Gaps: Many are unaware of
and spices.
PMAY or face difficulties due to lack of
Organic Farming: 7.3 mha area under organic
documents and complex procedures.
certification (2023-24).
Steps to Strengthen PMAY
Government Initiatives:
 Timely Funds: Ensure prompt state
 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
contributions and direct benefit transfers to
(PM-KISAN)
address delays.
 Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
 Formal Credit: Encourage banks to offer
(PMFBY)
EWS-specific loans with government
support.  Soil Health Card Scheme
 Inclusivity: Revise the scheme to better  Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana
address landless rural populations. (PMKSY)
 Quality Assurance: Improve oversight  e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM)
and introduce social audits for better  National Mission on Sustainable
housing quality. Agriculture
 Awas Bandhu: Train and utilize local  Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
motivators to accelerate progress and (PKVY)
scheme coordination.  Digital Agriculture Mission
 Unified Farmer Service Platform (UFSP)

39
  National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture  Cold storage facilities only accommodate
(NeGP-A) 11% of produce.
 Mission Organic Value Chain Skill Gap:
Development for North Eastern Region  Lack of formal training hinders modern
(MOVCDNER) agricultural practices.
Technological Developments:  Programs like PMKVY have limited reach
 Drone Technology: 100% subsidies for in agriculture.
drone use in agriculture (2021). Namo Limited Crop Diversification:
Drone Didi scheme aims to provide drones  Overreliance on rice and wheat cultivation.
to 15,000 women SHGs.  Millets and high-value crops are
 Satellite Imaging: ISRO's RISAT-1A underutilized despite their potential.
satellite for agricultural assessment. Gender Disparity:
 Happy Seeder Technology: Reduces air  Women form 42% of the labor force but
pollution by enabling wheat sowing own only 14% of land.
without removing paddy straw.  Equal access to resources could boost
 PUSA Decomposer: A microbial solution productivity by 20-30%.
for decomposing stubble. Measures to Enhance Productivity of the
 Nano Urea: Introduced by IFFCO in 2021 Agricultural Sector
for more efficient nitrogen use. Precision Agriculture:
Challenges Facing Indian Agriculture  Use GPS-guided machinery, IoT
Fragmented Land Holdings: sensors, and data analytics to optimize
 Average farm size: 1.08 hectares (2015- resource use.
16), down from 2.3 hectares in 1970-71.  Maharashtra's pilot project showed
 As per India's Agriculture Census 2015- significant yield improvements and
16, 86.1% of farmers are small/marginal, reduced water use. Nationwide
leading to low productivity. implementation could conserve billions of
Irrigation Deficiency: liters of water and increase output.
 Only 52% of cultivated land has irrigation Crop Diversification:
access.  Move beyond wheat and rice by promoting
 Climate change and monsoon dependency region-specific high-value crops.
hinder yields.  Success stories like Odisha’s crop
Technological Lag: diversification programs improved
 Slow adoption of modern techniques like incomes and nutritional security.
precision farming and AI.  Millets and horticulture crops offer a
 Lower productivity than global sustainable and profitable alternative.
counterparts. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs):
Market Inefficiencies:  FPOs enable small farmers to gain
 Farmers receive only 15-20% of retail bargaining power and market access.
prices.  The Sahyadri FPO in Maharashtra
 APMC system and market reforms (e.g., e- boosted farmer incomes by 25-30%.
NAM) still underutilized. Expanding this model with capacity-
Credit Crunch: building support can enhance productivity
 50% of agricultural households are in debt, across India.
with high dependence on informal lenders. Climate-Smart Agriculture:
 Limited access to institutional credit.  Promote drought-resistant crops, water
Subsidy-Driven Policy: conservation, and climate forecasting
 Fertilizer subsidies lead to environmental tools.
degradation.  Adoption of flood-tolerant rice varieties
 MSP distorts cropping patterns, focusing like Swarna-Sub1 has proven effective.
on wheat/rice over more sustainable crops.  Recent initiatives introduced 109 varieties
Post-Harvest Losses: of crops to tackle climate challenges and
 ₹92,651 crore worth of losses due to improve yields.
inadequate storage. Agri-Tech Startups:

40
  Encourage startups to drive innovation in Key Provisions of Disaster Management
the sector. (Amendment) Bill, 2024
 Initiatives like DeHaat offer end-to-end Preparation of Disaster Management Plans:
farmer services, improving productivity  NDMA(National Disaster Management
and profitability. Authority) and (State Disaster
 Support via incubation centers, funding, Management Authority) SDMAs to
and policy can accelerate tech adoption. directly prepare national and state disaster
Post-Harvest Infrastructure: management plans, bypassing National
 Invest in cold storage, food processing Executive Committee (NEC) and State
units, and transport networks to reduce Executive Committees (SECs)
post-harvest losses.  NDMA to conduct periodic assessments of
 Odisha's Rayagada mega food park has disaster risks.
increased farmer incomes by providing National and State Disaster Database:
processing facilities. Developing similar  A comprehensive disaster database to be
infrastructure nationwide can minimize created at national and state levels
annual losses of ₹92,651 crore. covering disaster assessment, fund
Agricultural Education and Extension: allocation, and preparedness.
 Strengthen agricultural extension services Appointments to NDMA: NDMA can specify
to bridge knowledge gaps. staff needs and appoint experts with central
 The PRAGATI scheme aims to modernize government approval.
extension services with risk-aware Urban Disaster Management Authority
governance. (UDMA):
 Scaling innovative models and upgrading  Introduced for state capitals and large
agricultural education can create a more cities, except for Delhi and Chandigarh, to
skilled farming workforce. focus on urban disaster management.
Indian agriculture, while resilient, faces several State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): States
systemic challenges such as land fragmentation, empowered to create SDRFs to enhance local
inefficient irrigation, and market access issues. disaster response capabilities.
Strategic investments in technology, policy Statutory Status to Existing Committees:
reforms, crop diversification, and gender  NCMC (National Crisis Management
empowerment are crucial for enhancing the Committee) led by the Cabinet Secretary
sector’s productivity, ensuring sustainability, and and HLC (High-Level Committee) led by
improving farmers' livelihoods. the Minister for disaster management
granted statutory status.
38) DISASTER MANAGEMENT  Penalties and Directives: New Section
(AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024 60A enables governments to impose
penalties up to Rs 10,000 and enforce
directives for disaster risk reduction.
Concerns Regarding the Bill
 Centralisation of Power: Further
centralisation of disaster management
could delay response and reduce state
autonomy, as seen in past disbursement
delays.
 Inadequate Local Resources: UDMAs
may lack resources and funding,
The Central Government introduced the Disaster undermining their effectiveness.
Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok  Disaster Relief as a Legal Right: The Bill
Sabha to amend the Disaster Management Act, doesn’t make disaster relief a justiciable
2005. The Bill has sparked debate over the right, leading to inconsistent relief
increasing centralisation of disaster management measures across states.
processes and its implications for effective disaster  Climate Change Integration: The Bill
response. falls short of integrating climate change
impacts into disaster management, despite
international agreements.
41
  Restricted Definition of ‘Disaster’: Rashtriya Poshan Maah:
Heatwaves are not classified as a disaster,  Aimed at addressing malnutrition and
despite their increasing frequency. promoting better nutrition and health
 Impact on Federal Dynamics: practices, celebrated every September
Centralisation may strain relations under Poshan Abhiyan.
between central and state governments,  Enhances awareness about nutrition,
limiting state autonomy in disaster improves dietary practices, and combats
response. malnutrition among vulnerable groups
Shortcomings of the Disaster Management Act, such as children, adolescents, pregnant
2005 women, and lactating mothers.
 Institutional Shortcomings: Vacant  Aligns with the vision of a ‘Suposhit
leadership positions in NDMA reduce its Bharat’ (Nourished India).
effectiveness.  Activities includes plantation drives,
 Bureaucratic Inefficiencies: Excessive distribution of supplements, community
bureaucracy delays responses, as seen in outreach, exhibitions, and educational
the 2018 Kerala floods. programs. Example: "Ek Ped Maa Ke
 Vagueness and Funding Issues: The Act Naam" nationwide plantation drive.
lacks clear definitions and often provides Key Themes of 2024: Anaemia, Growth
insufficient funds for large-scale disasters. Monitoring, Complementary Feeding, Poshan Bhi
Way forward: Padhai Bhi, Technology for Better Governance,
 Integrate Disaster Risk Reduction into and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.
development plans. POSHAN Abhiyaan:
 Strengthen Early Warning Systems  Launched: In March 2018, focuses on
using advanced technology from ISRO and addressing malnutrition in adolescent
IMD. girls, pregnant women, lactating mothers,
 Develop rapid response mechanisms and children up to 6 years.
with a 72-hour critical response plan.  Implemented by the Ministry of Women
 Enhance NDMA’s authority and fill vacant and Child Development.
leadership positions.  Objectives: It targets to reduce stunting,
 Decentralise disaster management to under-nutrition, anaemia (among young
empower local authorities. children, women and adolescent girls) and
 Support R&D in disaster management reduce low birth weight by 2%, 2%, 3%
using AI and remote sensing. and 2% per annum respectively.
 Focus on psychological rehabilitation for  Target children aged 0-6 years to reduce
disaster-affected communities. stunting and underweight prevalence.
 Regularly update disaster management  Reducing Anaemia prevalence among
policies based on evolving risks. young children (6-59 months) and
among women and adolescent girls aged
39) RASHTRIYA POSHAN MAAH 15-49 years.
Components:
 Village Health Sanitation Nutrition Day
(VHSND): Coordinates target-setting and
decentralised planning.
 ICDS-CAS (Common Application
Software): Uses digital tools to monitor
growth and nutrition.
Poshan Tracker:
 Mobile App: Monitors health and
nutrition of children and pregnant women
Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 was launched by the in India, used by Anganwadi Workers
Ministry of Women and Child Development in (AWWs) for real-time tracking.
Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, on 1st September  Measures a child’s growth using WHO
2024. The Ministry also received the National standards and provides corrective action
Award for e-Governance 2024 (Gold) for the suggestions.
Poshan Tracker initiative.
42
  Beneficiaries Registered: Includes Chairmanship: Led by the Governor of
pregnant women, lactating mothers, RBI.
children (0-6 years), and adolescent girls  Purpose: Provides more frequent
(14-18 years), especially in Aspirational assessments and support to the full FSDC.
Districts. Members:
 All FSDC members,
40) FINANCIAL STABILITY AND  Four RBI Deputy Governors,
DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL  Additional Secretary from the Department
of Economic Affairs (DEA).

41) CRYPTOCURENCY

Recently, the Financial Stability and Development

Council's (FSDC) Sub-Committee, chaired by the
Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI),
convened to review key global and domestic
Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency
macroeconomic and financial developments. The
secured by cryptography, making it difficult to
meeting focused on addressing emerging
counterfeit or double-spend.
challenges like global spillovers, cyber threats, and
 Operates on decentralized networks based
climate change, while also assessing risks to
on blockchain technology, which is a
financial stability and improving inter-regulatory
distributed ledger enforced by a network of
coordination.
computers (nodes).
Financial Stability and Development Council
(FSDC):  Unlike traditional currencies,
cryptocurrencies are not issued or
 Established in 2010 by an Executive
regulated by any central authority (e.g.,
Order.
banks or governments).
 Non-Statutory body which operates
Popular Cryptocurrencies:
under the Ministry of Finance.
 Bitcoin (BTC): The first and most well-
 Proposed by the Raghuram Rajan
known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009.
Committee (2008) on financial sector
 Ethereum (ETH): Known for its smart
reforms.
contract functionality.
Objective:
 Others: Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP),
 Monitors macroeconomic and financial
Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL).
sector developments.
Features of Cryptocurrency:
 Assesses risks to financial stability.
 Exists only in digital form, no physical
 Enhances inter-regulatory coordination.
counterpart.
 Promotes financial inclusion and financial
 Secured using complex cryptographic
sector development.
techniques to ensure integrity and security.
Chairperson: Chaired by the Union Finance
 Transactions can be pseudonymous,
Minister.
providing a degree of privacy.
Members: Includes heads of financial regulators
like: RBI, SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of  Can be transferred globally without
India), IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and intermediaries.
Development Authority of India), PFRDA  Transactions are recorded on a public
(Pension Fund Regulatory and Development ledger (blockchain).
Authority), Chief Economic Adviser (CEA), and Blockchain Technology:
others.  Distributed Ledger: Every participant has
FSDC Sub-Committee (FSDC-SC): access to the entire blockchain, ensuring
transparency.

43
  Immutable: Once recorded, transactions China), while others have embraced them
cannot be altered, enhancing trust. (e.g., El Salvador, where Bitcoin is legal
 Smart Contracts: Self-executing contracts tender).
with terms directly written into code (used  Adoption: Increasing global acceptance,
by platforms like Ethereum). with several institutions, companies, and
Benefits of Cryptocurrencies: individuals using cryptocurrencies for
 Reduced Transaction Costs: Eliminates payments and investments.
intermediaries like banks, reducing fees. Way Forward for India:
 Faster Transactions: Cross-border  Balanced Regulation: Need for a clear
transactions are processed much quicker regulatory framework to ensure consumer
than traditional banking. protection without stifling innovation.
 Financial Inclusion: Provides access to  Monitoring Risks: Keeping track of
financial services for the unbanked financial stability risks, particularly
population. regarding volatility and illicit activities.
 Investment Opportunities:  Technology and Innovation: Supporting
Cryptocurrencies have attracted investors blockchain technology for applications
for potential high returns. beyond cryptocurrency (e.g., supply chain
Risks and Challenges: management, voting systems).
 Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, with
significant price fluctuations. 42) NATIONAL BLOCKCHAIN
 Lack of global consensus on regulation, FRAMEWORK (NBF)
leading to uncertainty.
 Vulnerability to hacking and fraud (e.g.,
cryptocurrency exchange hacks).
 Cryptocurrencies have been used for
illegal activities like money laundering and
ransomware attacks.
 Energy-intensive mining processes,
particularly for **Bitcoin**, raise
environmental sustainability issues.
Legal Status in India:
The Ministry of Electronics and Information
 Supreme Court Ruling (2020): Overturned
Technology (MeitY) launched the National
RBI’s 2018 ban on banks dealing with
Blockchain Framework (NBF) and several other
cryptocurrency-related businesses.
key blockchain-related platforms to enhance digital
 Cryptocurrency Bill: The government has governance, security, and innovation.
considered introducing legislation to National Blockchain Framework is an online
regulate or ban private cryptocurrencies platform developed to enhance digital governance
while encouraging the development of through blockchain technology. It focuses on
Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). ensuring transparency, security, and trust in public
 CBDC: The Digital Rupee is being services.
explored as a government-backed digital Other Related Launches:
currency issued by the RBI. Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack: A
Government Stance: Blockchain-as-a-Service platform offering a
 Regulation: Government is exploring geographically distributed infrastructure, enabling
regulations to prevent risks related to support for various blockchain applications.
money laundering, terror financing, and NBFLite (National Blockchain Framework
fraud. Lite): A lightweight blockchain sandbox platform
 Taxation: In the 2022 budget, India tailored for startups and academia to rapidly
introduced a 30% tax on income from prototype, conduct research, and build capacity in
virtual digital assets, with a 1% TDS on blockchain applications.
transactions above a certain threshold. Praamaanik: A blockchain-enabled solution
Global Scenario: designed to verify the origin of mobile
 Regulation: Varies by country—some applications, ensuring authenticity and trust.
have fully banned cryptocurrencies (e.g.,

44
National Blockchain Portal: A platform aimed at
facilitating access to blockchain resources,
enabling integration and collaboration with
blockchain tools and applications.
Benefits of the National Blockchain Framework
 Boosting Security and Transparency:
NBF enhances security, trust, and
transparency in delivering citizen-centric
services, aligning with the Government of
India's vision for trusted digital service
delivery. A recent study in the journal Nature revealed that
 Transforming Governance: The India is the largest contributor to global plastic
framework can be scaled across various pollution, accounting for 20% of the world's
states and government departments, plastic waste.
creating new applications and platforms Key Findings of the Study
for integration with existing digital  India produces 9.3 million tonnes of
infrastructure. plastic annually, with 5.8 million tonnes
 Addressing Research & Development incinerated and 3.5 million tonnes released
Challenges: NBF helps address as debris.
challenges such as the need for skilled  Plastic waste is highest in Southern Asia,
manpower and tackling issues related to Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast
security, interoperability, and blockchain Asia, highlighting a North-South divide.
performance.  High-income countries generate more
Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) plastic waste but manage it better, while
Blockchain-as-a-Service* (BaaS) is a cloud-based low-income nations, like India, rely on
service provided by third parties, offering open burning.
infrastructure and management solutions for Reasons for High Plastic Pollution in India
companies building and running blockchain  Population Growth & Urbanization:
applications. India's growing population and urban
Benefits of BaaS: sprawl drive higher plastic consumption.
 Simplified Task Management:  Inadequate Waste Management: Poor
Companies can quickly create and deploy infrastructure leads to uncontrolled waste
blockchain applications without the dumping and burning.
complexities of managing underlying  Open Burning: 5.8 million tonnes of
infrastructure. plastic are burned yearly, exacerbating
 Cost Savings: BaaS reduces the costs of pollution.
building and maintaining blockchain  Informal Recycling: Unregulated sectors
solutions, promoting secure and recycle a large amount of plastic,
transparent innovation. complicating official waste tracking.
 Operational Agility and Scalability: Issues Associated With Mismanaged Plastic
Ensures blockchain infrastructure remains Waste in India
flexible and scalable, meeting the needs of  Environmental Degradation: Waste
evolving applications and user demands. blocks waterways and harms marine life.
The National Blockchain Framework and its  Health Risks: Microplastics in water and
associated platforms represent a significant step air pollutants from burning plastic affect
towards integrating blockchain into India's digital public health.
governance landscape. These initiatives aim to  Economic Losses: India could lose USD
transform governance, boost innovation, and 133 billion in plastic packaging value by
address key challenges in blockchain adoption, 2030.
fostering secure and transparent service delivery.  Regulatory Gaps: Inconsistent
enforcement of plastic regulations
43) INDIA: HIGHEST CONTRIBUTOR TO hampers management efforts.
GLOBAL PLASTIC POLLUTION Regulations on Plastic Waste Management in
India

45
  Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016:  Human Connections across Boundaries:
Establishes guidelines for plastic waste Tourism brings people from diverse
handling. backgrounds together, breaking down
 2021 & 2022 Amendments: Ban single- prejudices and misconceptions. Example:
use plastics and promote EPR (Extended The United Nations World Tourism
Producer Responsibility). Organization (UNWTO) supports tourism
 Other Initiatives: Swachh Bharat as a tool for global peace-building.
Mission, India Plastics Pact, Project  Revitalizing Conflict-Affected Regions:
REPLAN. Tourism aids in community rebuilding and
Way Forward revitalizing local economies after
 Circular Economy: Focus on reducing, adversity. Example: Assam’s Manas
reusing, and recycling plastic. National Park employs former poachers
 Smart Waste Management: Use as eco-guides, showcasing the role of
technology like IoT-enabled bins for better sustainable tourism in conflict resolution
waste tracking. and wildlife conservation.
 Strengthen EPR: Extend to informal  Sustainable Tourism for Peace:
sectors for better integration and recycling. Responsible travel minimizes
 Awareness Campaigns: Promote plastic- environmental impact and creates
free lifestyles and education. equitable economic opportunities for local
 Waste-to-Energy: Invest in technologies communities. Example: Assam promotes
like pyrolysis to convert waste into energy. eco-tourism in parks like Kaziranga and
 Green Procurement: Implement plastic Manas to balance conservation with
reduction in government projects and community empowerment.
procurement.  Managing Challenges of Over-tourism:
Over-tourism can strain infrastructure,
44) ROLE OF TOURISM IN PEACE harm environments, and create tensions
BUILDING with local communities. Sustainable
practices are crucial. Example: Incredible
India 2.0 campaign emphasizes
responsible tourism and cultural
sensitivity.
 Promoting Unity in Diversity: Assam's
history of social harmony through its
multiculturalism showcases how tourism
can promote unity. Example: Assam’s
Rural Homestay Scheme promotes rural
tourism, encouraging cultural exchanges
World Tourism Day, established in 1980 by the and deeper understanding of Assamese
UNWTO is celebrated on September 27th. The heritage.
theme for 2024 is “Tourism and Peace”. Tourism is more than an economic activity; it is a
 Fostering Cultural Understanding: powerful means to foster global peace, cultural
Tourism allows individuals to engage with understanding, and sustainable development.
diverse cultures, promoting empathy and Through initiatives by India and Assam, tourism
global brotherhood. Example: serves as a tool to heal divisions, promote
Government of India's Dekho Apna Desh ecological sustainability, and create social
initiative encourages domestic tourism to harmony.
explore India's diverse culture.
 Tourism's Role in Peace-Building: In 45) FIRST LEGALLY BINDING
conflict-prone regions, tourism can INTERNATIONAL TREATY ON
reshape narratives, fostering dialogue, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
reconciliation, and healing. The Manda
Eco-Tourism Society, run by empowered
women near Nishangram, Goalpara, is a
perfect example of how eco-tourism can
promote peace and sustainability
46
  Broad Applicability: Covers AI in both
public and private sectors globally.
 Global Legal Standard: First globally
binding AI treaty setting an international
standard.
 Balancing Innovation & Risk:
Encourages AI innovation while
mitigating risks, aligning with human
rights and democracy.
Issues and Concerns
The Council of Europe announced the first legally  Lacks punitive sanctions, weakening
binding international treaty on AI, open for signing deterrence.
by nations like the EU members, the US, and the  Monitoring alone may not ensure
UK. compliance.
Key Facts about the AI Convention  Overregulation may hinder SMEs and
 The Framework Convention on start-ups.
Artificial Intelligence and Human  Potential tension between international
Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law standards and domestic laws.
focuses on protecting human rights,
 Challenges in governing AI in defense
independent of the EU AI Act.
while maintaining ethics.
 Adopted in May 2024, the treaty addresses The AI Convention is a landmark treaty in global
AI risks while promoting responsible AI governance, setting a standard for ethical AI
innovation, with 57 countries development and promoting international
participating. cooperation. While it addresses many challenges,
Conditions for the Treaty: its success will depend on balancing regulation
 Human-Centric AI: AI systems must with innovation and effective enforcement.
align with human rights and democratic
values. 46) PM-E DRIVE
 Transparency & Accountability: AI
operations must be transparent, ensuring
legal recourse for rights infringements.
 Risk Management & Oversight:
Frameworks to assess and manage AI
risks, ensuring safety and ethical
compliance.
 Protection Against Misuse: Safeguards to
prevent AI misuse in undermining
democratic processes.
Recently, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime
Key Enforcement Mechanisms:
Minister India has approved the proposal of the
 Legal Accountability: Nations must Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) for
enforce principles like human rights in AI implementation of a scheme titled 'PM E-DRIVE
systems. Scheme'.
 Monitoring & Oversight: Mechanisms to  PM Electric Drive Revolution in
ensure compliance. Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-
 International Cooperation: Promotes DRIVE) scheme has an outlay of Rs
harmonizing AI standards globally. 10,900 crore over a period of two years
 Adaptability: Technology-neutral, for promotion of electric mobility in the
allowing evolution with AI advancements. country.
 Exception: Excludes AI used for national Components of the Scheme:
security but mandates adherence to  Subsidies and Incentives: Rs 3,679 crore
international laws. for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers,
Significance of the AI Convention ambulances, trucks, and emerging EVs.
 Comprehensive Drafting: Risk-based  E-Vouchers: Aadhaar-authenticated e-
approach to AI system lifecycle. vouchers for EV buyers to access demand

47
 incentives, sent to their registered mobile  R&D support and training programs
numbers. for EV-related jobs.
 E-Buses: Procurement of 14,028 e-buses
for state transport in 9 major cities. 47) MISSION MAUSAM
 E-Ambulances: Rs 500 crore for
deploying electric ambulances.
 E-Trucks: Rs 500 crore to promote e-truck
deployment.
 Charging Infrastructure: Rs 2,000 crore
to install public charging stations in high
EV-use cities and key highways.
Significance of the PM E-Drive Scheme:
 E-Trucks Deployment: Advances the
adoption of electric trucks, reducing air
pollution from heavy transport. The Union Cabinet recently approved ‘Mission
 Public Transport: Promotes the Mausam’. Mission Mausam is designed to
procurement of e-buses, enhancing mass significantly advance India's weather and climate
mobility and reducing emissions in urban science, research, and services.
areas. Objectives
 Environmental Impact: Contributes to  Accurate Weather and Climate Data:
overall improved air quality and reduced Provide detailed forecasts including
environmental impact from transportation. monsoon predictions, air quality alerts, and
extreme weather warnings.
 Domestic Manufacturing: Supports
domestic manufacturing through the  Weather Phenomena Management:
phased manufacturing programme (PMP), Address weather conditions like fog, hail,
strengthening the local supply chain. and rain, while enhancing capacity and
public awareness.
 Charging Infrastructure: Invests in
Key Components
expanding public charging infrastructure,
facilitating broader EV adoption.  Advanced Technology Deployment:
Assam Electric Vehicle Policy,2021 Deploy next-generation radars and
The Assam Electric Vehicle Policy focuses on satellites equipped with advanced sensors.
promoting EV adoption, reducing emissions, and  High-Performance Computing:
supporting EV infrastructure and manufacturing: Implement supercomputers and enhance
 Subsidies: Earth system models.
 Financial incentives for EV buyers (2-,  Real-Time Data Systems: Develop a GIS-
3-, 4-wheelers). based automated Decision Support System
 Exemption from registration fees and for real-time data dissemination.
road tax.  Implementation Agencies: Managed by
 Charging Infrastructure: the India Meteorological Department,
 Subsidies for setting up charging the Indian Institute of Tropical
stations. Meteorology, and the National Centre
 Focus on developing charging points for Medium-Range Weather
along highways and urban areas. Forecasting.
 EV Adoption Targets: Significance
 25% of all vehicles sold by 2026 to be  Sectoral Benefits: Impacts agriculture,
electric. disaster management, defense,
 100% Electrification of public environment, aviation, and water
transport by 2030. resources.
 Support for Manufacturers:  Enhanced Stakeholder Response:
 Incentives for EV and component Improves the ability to handle extreme
manufacturing. weather and climate change effects.
 Assistance with land acquisition and  Precision in Weather Prediction: Sets a
tax rebates. new benchmark for accuracy in weather
 Skill Development: forecasting.

48
  Data-Driven Decision Making: Enhances autonomous choices regarding work and
decision-making in urban planning, personal life.
transportation, and other critical areas.  Economic Growth: Boosts consumer
Other Initiatives to Improve Weather spending and local businesses, and
Forecasting encourages entrepreneurship and creative
 Monsoon Mission (2012): Enhances endeavors.
dynamic modeling systems for better Disadvantages:
short-range and seasonal monsoon  Cost and Sustainability: Expensive to
forecasts. implement, potentially requiring higher
 Weather Information Network and taxes or spending cuts, and could
Data System (WINDS): Provides long- contribute to inflation and economic
term, hyper-local weather data. distortions.
 Earth Observation Satellites: Launches  Work Incentives: Might reduce
of INSAT-3D (2013), INSAT-3DR (2016), motivation to work and lead to
and INSAT-3DS (2024). dependency, lowering productivity and
 Pratyush and Mihir: Operationalized by personal growth.
MoES in 2018 for weather forecasting.  Inflation Risks: Can drive up prices as
Mission Mausam is aimed at improving India's businesses adjust to increased market
weather and climate forecasting through advanced income.
technology, real-time data systems, and high-  Dependency Risk: May foster reliance on
performance computing. It focuses on providing government support, reducing individual
accurate predictions, managing extreme weather initiative leading to Mai Baap Culture.
phenomena, and benefiting sectors like agriculture, Alternatives to UBI:
disaster management, and defense.  Quasi UBI (QUBRI): Direct cash
transfers to rural households to alleviate
48) UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME agrarian distress.
 Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT): Direct
payments to beneficiaries' accounts to
enhance efficiency and cut corruption, e.g.,
PM Kisan, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan
Yojana.
 Conditional Cash Transfers (CCT):
Cash provided to poor households based
on specific conditions, such as school
attendance or health check-ups.
 Income Support Schemes: Targeted
UBI is a proposed social welfare system where all assistance for groups like farmers, the
beneficiaries receive a regular, unconditional elderly, and the disabled.
cash payment. It aims to alleviate poverty and  Employment Guarantee Schemes:
simplify social welfare by replacing complex need- Programs like MGNREGA that ensure job
based programs. opportunities for rural households.
Advantages:  Universal Basic Services: Provision of
 Poverty Reduction: Provides a safety net essential services like education,
that lowers poverty and income inequality, healthcare, and sanitation to all.
helping people meet basic needs like food, Way Forward:
health, and housing.  Balance Support and Incentives: Ensure
 Health Improvement: Enhances physical the UBI amount provides sufficient
and mental well-being by reducing stress support while still encouraging work.
and improving access to healthcare.  Complementary Measures: Enhance
 Simplified Welfare: Streamlines the UBI's effectiveness with universal
welfare system, cutting administrative healthcare and education.
costs and removing the complexities of  Address Exclusions: Existing targeted
means-testing. schemes may miss some beneficiaries;
 Individual Freedom: Offers financial UBI aims to include everyone.
security, allowing people to make more
49
  Efficiency Improvement: UBI could  Global Jihad Influence: While limited,
reduce welfare inefficiencies and prevent groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda have tried
fund misallocation. to expand their reach through propaganda
Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a proposed social and recruitment.
welfare system that provides regular, unconditional  Social Media & Technology: Social
cash payments to all citizens, aiming to reduce Media Platforms and encrypted
poverty and simplify welfare programs. communications have enabled
propaganda, recruitment, and operational
49) TERRORISM IN J&K coordination.
 Local Recruitment: Increasing local
recruitment, fueled by grievances and
social media, complicates counter-
insurgency efforts.
Evolved Tactics and Strategies:
 IEDs: The 2019 Pulwama attack and
subsequent incidents in 2023 highlight a
growing reliance on IEDs to target security
forces.
 Targeted Killings: Terrorists have focused
Over the years, terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir on assassinating local leaders, security
(J&K) has undergone significant changes, personnel, and civilians to disrupt
influenced by both local and international factors. governance.
Historically, J&K has been an insurgency hotspot  Lone-Wolf Attacks: Harder to predict,
since the late 1980s, with roots in political unrest lone-wolf attacks are on the rise, driven by
and external support, particularly from Pakistan. extremist propaganda.
 Drones and Encrypted
Communications: Drones are now used
for surveillance and attacks, while
encrypted messaging apps complicate
intelligence-gathering
These factors create a challenging environment,
blending local and external influences in the
region's ongoing insurgency.
Measures Adopted to Curb Terrorism
 Political Outreach
 Abrogation of Article 370 to integrate
J&K fully with India
Key Factors Behind Persistent Terrorism in  Elections enabling local participation
Jammu & Kashmir: in delivering good governance
 Political Discontent: Long-standing  Economic Development
grievances and perceived marginalization  Creating employment and better
have fueled local unrest, exploited by infrastructure in transportation, health
militant groups. etc. For example: PM’s development
 External Support: Pakistan's financial package for J&K
and logistical backing of insurgent groups,  Community Empowerment:
including cross-border infiltration,  Mission Sadbhavana by Indian
sustains the conflict. Army: Address socio-economic issues
 Religious Radicalization: Extremist with improved education, women
ideologies have gained influence, with safety, healthcare, and jobs.
groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-  Project Himayat: Capacity building
Mohammed using religion to recruit. and youth employment
 Economic Underdevelopment: High  Project Umeed: Empowerment of
unemployment and poverty drive local J&K women
recruitment by militants offering financial  Rehabilitation Over Punishment:
incentives.
50
  Develop deradicalization programs Naga Hills and expanded for broader
for early-stage radicalization. application. A similar act for Jammu and
 Focus on rehabilitation and Kashmir was enacted in 1990.
reintegration into society. About AFSPA:
 National Counter-Terrorism Database:  The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Bill
 Centralize intelligence from law was passed in 1958, giving armed forces
enforcement, intelligence agencies, and Central Armed Police Forces in
and financial institutions. “disturbed areas” extensive powers to:
 Use data analytics and machine  Kill, arrest, and search without a
learning to identify threats and warrant.
patterns.  Immunity from prosecution without
 Enhance Physical Security: the Central government's approval.
 Strengthen security at key locations  Both the State and Union governments
with advanced surveillance and access can declare areas as disturbed, with the
control. MHA issuing notifications for states like
 OSINT Training for Police: Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.
 Train police in open-source Disturbed Areas Under AFSPA:
intelligence (OSINT) to monitor
social media and forums.
 Strengthen Cybersecurity:
 Invest in cybersecurity to protect
infrastructure from cyberattacks and
espionage.
 Counter online radicalization and
recruitment.
 Disrupt Terror Financing:
 Use blockchain technology to track
and disrupt terror financing.
 Promote Shared National Security:
 Involve communities in national
security efforts, especially in
terrorism-prone regions.
 Declared under Section 3 of AFSPA,
50) ARMED FORCES (SPECIAL POWERS) where armed forces aid civil power.
ACT, 1958  Since 1972, both Central and State
governments can declare disturbed areas.
 Declared due to disputes among religious,
racial, language, or regional groups.
 A region is maintained as disturbed for
three months under the Disturbed Areas
(Special Courts) Act, 1976.
Assam government issued a notification
recently, stating that the 'Disturbed Area' tag
under the AFSPA has been extended in areas
covering Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Charaideo and
 Promulgated by the British on August Sivasagar districts.
15, 1942, to suppress the Quit India Arguments in Favour:
movement.  Addressing Security Challenges:
 Laid the foundation for laws like the Essential for tackling ongoing security
Assam Disturbed Areas ordinance in threats in disturbed regions, allowing
1947 to address Partition-related security forces to counter insurgency effectively.
challenges.  Empowering Security Forces: Provides a
 The Armed Forces (Assam and legal framework for conducting operations
Manipur) Special Powers Act, 1958 was and maintaining public order in complex
introduced to manage uprisings in the situations.
51
  Legal Protections: Shields security  AFSPA should be reviewed every six
personnel from legal liability while months and reformed to make it more
operating in disturbed areas. humane.
 Boosting Morale: Legal safeguards boost  Excesses committed by the armed
the confidence and effectiveness of forces in disturbed areas should not be
security personnel in conflict zones. immune from investigation.
Arguments Against:
 Violation of State Autonomy: Allows the 51) DEMOGRAPHIC DIVIDEND
central government to declare disturbed
areas without state consent, undermining
state authority.
 Excessive Use of Force: Grants broad
powers to use firearms, raising concerns
about disproportionate force.
 Violation of Civil Liberties: Permits
arrests and searches without warrants,
potentially leading to civil rights abuses. Demographic Dividend refers to the economic
 Lack of Accountability: Requires growth potential resulting from a shift in a
executive approval for prosecuting population’s age structure, where the working-age
security forces, leading to limited population (15-64 years) outnumbers the non-
accountability and transparency. working-age population (under 15 and over 65).
 Evidence of Abuse: Reports like the 2013 This shift is often driven by declining fertility and
Hegde Commission found widespread mortality rates.
misuse of AFSPA, including extrajudicial
executions in Manipur.
Supreme Court Guidelines
 In the 1998 Naga People's Movement of
Human Rights v. Union of India, the
Supreme Court upheld the
constitutionality of AFSPA but set limits:
 Central government should consult
states before declaring disturbed areas.
 Declarations must be periodically
reviewed.
 Forces must use minimum necessary
Key Areas of Demographic Dividend:
force and adhere to guidelines (Do’s
and Don’ts).  Savings: Higher personal savings can
Way Forward stimulate economic growth.
 Jeevan Reddy Committee  Labour Supply: An increase in the
Recommendations: workforce, including more women.
 In 2004, the committee recommended  Human Capital: Fewer births allow for
repealing AFSPA and amending the better resource allocation, improving
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) education and health outcomes.
Act, 1967, to define armed forces'  Economic Growth: Decreased
powers more clearly and establish dependency ratio increases GDP per
grievance cells in affected districts. capita.
 Second ARC Recommendations: India’s Demographic Dividend
 The 5th report of the Second
Administrative Reforms
Commission (ARC) also
recommended repealing AFSPA, but
these recommendations have yet to be
implemented.
 Santosh Hegde Commission
Recommendations:
52
  India, with its young population, is  Provides vocational training and skill
experiencing a demographic dividend that development to enhance youth
is expected to last until 2055. employability.
 183 million people are expected to be  Aims to train 400 million people via
added to the working-age group between schemes like Pradhan Mantri
2020-2050. Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
 According to the IMF, India’s and National Apprenticeship
demographic dividend could boost per Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
capita GDP growth by 2 percentage  National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:
points annually over the next two  Focuses on inclusive, skill-oriented
decades. education.
 A CII report predicts India’s GDP could  Introduces vocational courses early
grow from $3 trillion to $9 trillion by and ensures universal access to
2030, and $40 trillion by 2047. education.
Need for Investment in Education and Health  Atal Innovation Mission (AIM):
 Significant investment in education and  Promotes innovation and
health is essential to fully benefit from the entrepreneurship in schools and
growing labour force. colleges.
 The workforce must be equipped with the  Establishes Atal Tinkering Labs to
right skills to compete with AI and foster problem-solving skills.
emerging technologies.  Make in India:
Current Economic Scenario  Encourages job creation through
 Growth in India is driven by public investments in sectors like electronics,
investment and private consumption. textiles, and automobiles.
 The IMF projects 6.8% growth in FY  Aims to boost manufacturing and
2024/25, despite high youth absorb a larger workforce.
unemployment (40% in 2022-23).  Start-Up India:
 Private investment remains weak but is  Supports entrepreneurship by easing
gradually improving. access to funding and reducing
Challenges and Risks regulations.
 Lack of Job Creation: Job growth has not  Promotes youth-led ventures and job
kept pace with the expanding working-age creation.
population, with unemployment at a 45-  Digital India:
year high pre-pandemic.  Enhances digital infrastructure,
 Low Human Capital and Skills: Only literacy, and government service
20-30% of engineers are employable due delivery.
to inadequate skills.  Prepares a digitally skilled workforce
 Agrarian Transition: Moving workers for technology-driven sectors.
from agriculture to manufacturing/services  Ayushman Bharat:
requires significant reskilling.  Provides healthcare to over 500
 Health Crisis and Macroeconomic million citizens, improving health
Shocks: India faces challenges such as outcomes and productivity.
health crises, job creation, and climate  Reduces the financial burden of
change. healthcare on families.
 Gender Disparity: Despite progress,  Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao:
gender inequality in education and  Promotes gender equality through
workforce participation persists. education and empowerment of girls.
 Inadequate Investment: Heavy  Aims to increase female workforce
investments in education and healthcare participation.
are needed to prepare the workforce for Way Forward
modern challenges.  Invest heavily in education and health to
Key Government Initiatives to Tap the equip the workforce with the necessary
Demographic Dividend skills.
 Skill India Mission:  Adopt forward-looking policies that
integrate population dynamics, education,
53
 healthcare, gender sensitivity, and offer  The mission holds great importance for
rights and choices to the younger both India and the global scientific
generation to maximize the demographic community, offering insights into Venus’s
dividend. past and Earth's potential future.
 It may also reveal the potential for life on
52) VENUS MISSION: SHUKRAYAAN-1 Venus, especially after the discovery of
phosphine in its clouds, which hints at the
possibility of microbial life in higher-
altitude regions.
Challenges for Shukrayaan-1

The Indian government has given the green light

to four major space initiatives. These include:
 Bharatiya Antariksh Station
 India's very own space station.
 Next Generation Launch Vehicle  Extreme Temperature:
(NGLV)  Venus's surface exceeds 460°C, which
 India's fourth launch vehicle. can damage or destroy spacecraft
 Designed to boost ISRO’s capabilities, components.
it can carry payloads between 10 and  High Atmospheric Pressure:
20 tonnes to low Earth orbit.  The pressure on Venus is 90 times that
 Venus Mission: Shukrayaan-1 of Earth, making it difficult for landers
 Chandrayaan-4 or rovers to survive.
Shukrayaan 1 is the planned Indian Space  Corrosive Sulfuric Acid Rain:
Research Organisation (ISRO)’s first mission to  Venus’s atmosphere contains sulfuric
the planet Venus also known as the Venus Orbiter acid rain that can corrode most
Mission. materials, including spacecraft
Aim: Explore Venus's atmosphere, surface, and components.
geological activity  Power Systems:
Objectives of Shukrayaan-1  Dense clouds block sunlight, making
The Shukrayaan-1 mission aims to conduct an in- solar power ineffective. Using
depth study of Venus, often called "Earth's twin." alternative power sources like RTGs
Key objectives include: poses safety and reliability challenges.
 Study of Venus’s Surface and  Communication Issues:
Atmosphere:  Venus’s thick atmosphere and
 To penetrate Venus's thick atmosphere reflective clouds cause signal
and uncover details about its surface, attenuation, complicating
revealing insights into weathering, communication with Earth.
erosion, and geological phenomena. Other Details:
 Geological Composition Analysis:  Collaboration with: France (navigation
 To gather information on Venus's and aerobraking technology)
geological history, as its surface  Budget: ₹1236 crore
remains largely unexplored due to its
 Timeline: Expected launch in March 2028
toxic cloud cover.
Other Global Missions to Venus
 Solar Radiation Interaction:
 Venera Series (1961-1984): Soviet
 To investigate the relationship
Union's successful flybys, orbiters, and
between solar radiation and surface
landers, first to explore Venus.
particles, helping understand planetary
evolution.
Significance of Shukrayaan-1
54
  Pioneer Venus (1978): U.S. mission with  Urban Heat Island Effect: Cities retain
an orbiter and multiprobe, studying more heat due to concrete structures and
Venus’s atmosphere and surface. lack of vegetation.
 Magellan (1989): NASA’s mission using
radar imaging to map Venus’s surface and
geology.
 Akatsuki (2010): Japan’s orbiter studying
Venus’s atmospheric circulation patterns.
 Future Missions:
 VERITAS (NASA, 2026) for surface
mapping.
 DAVINCI (NASA, 2026) to study
Venus’s atmosphere.  Drought: Dry conditions accelerate land
 EnVision (ESA, 2030s) for high- heating.
resolution surface mapping.  Climate Variability: Events like El Niño
influence weather patterns.
53) HEAT WAVES  Geography: Landlocked valleys and
regions surrounded by mountains trap
heat.
 Human Activities: Land-use changes,
deforestation, and irrigation practices alter
surface temperatures.
Solutions to Combat Heatwaves:
 Energy Conservation: Reduce strain on
electrical grids during heatwaves.
 Adaptation: Adjust agricultural, water,
and public health practices.
Heatwaves occur when temperatures rise  Emergency Planning: Establish plans to
significantly for a prolonged period. In India, handle heat-related health crises.
plains experience a heatwave when temperatures  Collaboration: Foster partnerships among
hit 40°C or more, while in hilly areas, it's 30°C. government, NGOs, and communities.
Coastal areas have heatwave criteria based on  Research & Monitoring: Invest in
deviations from normal temperatures. tracking and understanding heatwave
Effects of Heatwaves: patterns.
 Health: Increased risk of heat-related  Preparedness: Implement community-
illnesses (heat cramps, exhaustion, stroke), level heat preparedness plans.
especially in those with pre-existing
 Public Awareness: Educate people on
conditions. staying safe during heatwaves.
 Economic Losses: Loss of productivity,  Support for Vulnerable Populations:
public health emergencies, and excess Provide cooling resources for the elderly,
mortality. children, and those with chronic health
 Infrastructure: Power shortages strain issues.
health facilities and disrupt transportation.  Urban Planning: Integrate green spaces
 Environment: Increased risk of droughts, and reflective surfaces to reduce city heat.
wildfires, and worsened air quality.  Heat-Resistant Infrastructure: Build
 Agriculture & Livestock: Reduced crop structures designed to withstand extreme
yields and livestock stress, affecting food temperatures.
production. Do’s & Don’ts During Heatwaves:
Causes of Heatwaves:  Do's: Stay hydrated, wear light clothes,
 High Atmospheric Pressure: Traps warm use protective gear outdoors, rest in shaded
air near the surface. areas, and use ORS or homemade drinks
 Global Warming: Human activities for hydration.
contribute to rising temperatures.

55
  Don'ts: Avoid going out during peak heat,
strenuous activities, alcohol, tea, and
coffee.
Heatwaves are complex events influenced by
multiple factors, both natural and human-made.
Building resilience involves identifying vulnerable
populations, creating preparedness plans,
promoting energy efficiency, and incorporating
climate-conscious urban designs.
Mission Phases
54) GAGANYAAN MISSION  Testing Phase: Includes tests like the
Integrated Air Drop Test and Pad Abort
Test for crew safety.
 Unmanned Missions: Technology
demonstrations and safety verifications
before the manned mission.
 Manned Mission: The final mission will
follow two unmanned ones.

The Gaganyaan Mission is India’s ambitious

project to send a three-member crew on a 3-day
manned mission to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an
altitude of 400 km and return them safely to Earth.
Advanced Systems for Unmanned Missions:
 Vyommitra: An AI-based humanoid
robot designed by ISRO to perform
functions aboard unmanned test flights,
assisting with mission validation before
human spaceflights.

Key Objectives:
 Human Spaceflight: Demonstrate
indigenous capability for manned space
missions.
 Space Exploration: Lay the groundwork
for a sustained Indian human space
program.
Technologies Involved  Water Survival Test Facility (WSTF): A
 Human-rated LVM3: A modified LVM3 test conducted in collaboration with the
rocket with a three-stage propulsion Indian Navy for crew recovery operations
system (solid, liquid, cryogenic) and crew in case of ocean landings.
escape system. Mission Significance
 Orbital Module (OM): Includes the
Crew Module (habitable for astronauts)
and the Service Module (support systems
for propulsion and power).
 Crew Escape System (CES): Ensures
crew safety in case of emergencies, with
in-flight abort demonstrations like the
Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-
D1).

56
  Technological Leap: Enhances India's  Strengthening Dairy Infrastructure:
capability for future space exploration, Upgrade cooperatives, cold chains, and
including lunar and Mars missions. processing facilities.
 Inspiring Youth: Sparks interest in  Enhancing Dairy Exports: Expand
careers in space science and technology, India's global presence in dairy markets.
promoting innovation. Targets:
 Global Collaboration: Strengthens  Milk Procurement: Increase by 50% in
international partnerships for joint five years, targeting 1,000 lakh liters
missions and cooperation. daily.
 Scientific Discovery: Microgravity  Cooperatives: Set up and strengthen two
research may lead to breakthroughs in lakh new PACS, dairy, and fishery
medicine, material science, and biology. cooperatives.
 Economic Impact: Boosts space  Infrastructure: Upgrade 100,000
industries, job creation, and technological cooperative societies and link them to
development in India. milk routes with essential infrastructure.
Challenges Ahead Original White Revolution (Operation Flood)
 Indigenous Technology: Developing Launched in 1970 by the NDDB under Dr.
complex systems with minimal foreign Verghese Kurien, Operation Flood transformed
assistance. India from a milk-deficient country to the world’s
 Space Transportation: Adapting launch largest milk producer.
vehicles for human payloads while Key Features and Achievements:
ensuring safety.  Cooperative Model: Empowered farmers
 Crew Training: Limited domestic by forming cooperatives, giving direct
facilities necessitate collaboration for market access.
astronaut preparation.  Amul Success: Amul became the standout
 Regenerative Systems: Designing success, driving the revolution.
sustainable systems for life support in  Increased Milk Production: Improved
space. dairy management boosted milk output.
 Earth-like Environment: Creating a  Infrastructure: Investments in processing
livable environment in the small crew plants, cold storage, and transportation
module. enhanced industry growth.
 Crew Safety: Managing radiation, zero-  Economic Impact: Increased farmer
gravity effects, and astronaut well-being. incomes, fostering rural economic
development.
55) WHITE REVOLUTION 2.0  Expansion Across States: The Gujarat
cooperative model was replicated
nationwide.
Dairy Sector in India

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the

SOP for White Revolution 2.0, aimed at
revitalizing India’s dairy sector by building on the
success of Operation Flood.
Key Focus Areas of White Revolution 2.0:  Global Leader: India contributes 24% to
 Empowering Women Farmers: Enhance global milk production (2021-22).
women’s participation in the dairy sector.  Top States: Rajasthan, UP, MP, Gujarat,
 Boosting Milk Production: Increase milk and Andhra Pradesh contribute 53% of
output through improved infrastructure India's milk production.
and support.
57
  Diversified Products: Produces butter,  Enhance Value Chains: Develop efficient
ghee, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. supply chains to ensure consistent milk
 Economic Role: Contributes 5% to GDP, distribution.
supporting 8 crore farmers, with a strong  Reduce Production Costs: Implement
role in women’s empowerment. strategies to improve productivity and
Challenges Facing India's Dairy Sector farmer livelihoods.
 Low Productivity: Poor livestock health  Ensure Price Stability: Provide stable
and inadequate breeding reduce milk yield. prices and better market access for
 Animal Health: Lack of proper healthcare farmers.
and breeding services results in disease-
prone livestock. 56) WORLD RHINO DAY
 Fodder Shortage: Substandard animal
feed due to scarce fodder and weak
regulations.
 Infrastructure Deficits: Limited cold
chains and power shortages cause milk
spoilage.
 Technology Adoption: Farmers lack
awareness of advanced techniques like
artificial insemination and efficient
feeding.
World Rhino Day, celebrated on September 22,
 Price Volatility: Fluctuating milk prices
raises global awareness about rhinoceros
impact farmer incomes, limiting
conservation. First observed in 2011, it highlights
investment in technology.
the threats rhinos face, such as poaching and
 Quality Standards: Meeting international habitat loss, and promotes efforts to protect the
standards requires significant investment five rhino species for future generations.
in hygiene and quality control. Theme: “Keep the Five Alive”
Government Initiatives to Boost the Dairy
Sector
 Rashtriya Gokul Mission (2014):
Enhances indigenous cattle breeds and
productivity.
 National Programme for Dairy
Development (NPDD): Improves milk
quality and strengthens dairy
infrastructure.
 Dairy Entrepreneurship Development
Scheme (DEDS): Offers financial support
for small dairy ventures.
 National Animal Disease Control
Programme (NADCP) (2019): Controls
diseases like Foot & Mouth and
Brucellosis. The IUCN status of the five rhino species as of
 National Livestock Mission (NLM): 2024 is as follows:
Focuses on sustainable livestock  Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis):
development, health, and fodder support.  Status: Critically Endangered
Way Forward  Population: Approximately 6,421 by
 Improve Animal Health: Accelerate the end of 2023
vaccination drives for livestock diseases.  Threats: Poaching and habitat loss
 Strengthen Infrastructure: Build cold continue to be significant concerns,
chains and processing systems to prevent though some populations are
spoilage. recovering due to conservation efforts.
 Adopt Technology: Promote advanced  White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum):
farming techniques and disease  Status: Near Threatened
management.
58
  Population: Around 17,464 by the end  Community Involvement: Local
of 2023 communities play a crucial role in
 Threats: Poaching remains a critical conservation efforts, helping reduce
issue, but population recovery is poaching and protect habitats.
ongoing, particularly in southern  Zero Poaching in 2022: Assam achieved
Africa. a milestone of zero poaching incidents in
 Greater One-Horned Rhino 2022, showcasing the success of these
(Rhinoceros unicornis): initiatives.
 Status: Vulnerable  Addressing Habitat Threats: The
 Population: Approximately 4,018 as government is tackling challenges like
of 2023 invasive plant species that threaten rhino
 Distribution: Mainly found in India habitats.
and Nepal, the population has been
relatively stable due to strong 57) GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST)
conservation programs. COUNCIL
 Javan Rhino (Rhinoceros sondaicus):
 Status: Critically Endangered
 Population: Fewer than 80
individuals, confined to Ujung Kulon
National Park in Indonesia
 Threats: Habitat destruction and the
extremely small population size put
this species at great risk.
 Sumatran Rhino (Dicerorhinus
sumatrensis):
 Status: Critically Endangered  The GST Council is a key decision-making
 Population: Fewer than 80 authority for India’s Goods and Services
individuals Tax (GST) system, constituted under
 Threats: Habitat loss and poaching, Article 279-A of the Constitution by the
with populations now fragmented and 101st Constitutional Amendment Act of
isolated in Indonesia. 2016.
Assam's Rhino Conservation Efforts:  Purpose: It advises the Union and State
Governments on GST-related matters,
including tax rates, exemptions, and policy
formulation.
 Secretariat: Based in New Delhi, it
supports the council in its functioning.
Meaning of Goods and Services Tax (GST)
 Indirect Tax: GST is an indirect tax
imposed on the supply of goods and
services. It is a value-added tax (VAT)
levied on most domestic consumption
 86% Reduction in Poaching: Since 2016, items.
poaching incidents have significantly  Comprehensive: Introduced in 2017, GST
declined due to enhanced protection unified several indirect taxes like VAT,
measures. service tax, and excise duty into a single
 Special Rhino Protection Force: A system. It applies at multiple stages of
dedicated force was created to strengthen production but is collected at the point of
anti-poaching efforts and improve security sale.
in protected areas.  Types of GST:
 Expansion of Protected Habitats: Assam  CGST (Central GST): Levied by the
expanded key rhino habitats, such as central government on intra-state
adding over 200 sq km to Orang National supplies.
Park ensuring more secure areas for their  SGST (State GST): Levied by state
survival. governments on intra-state supplies.
59
  IGST (Integrated GST): Levied on  Exemptions: Decides which goods and
inter-state supplies of goods and services should be exempt from GST.
services.  Rates and Models: Suggests rates,
Vision of the GST Council thresholds, and special rates during natural
 Cooperative Federalism: Foster calamities.
cooperation between Union and State  Legislation and Disputes: Proposes
Governments for a unified tax regime. model GST laws, apportionment principles
 Efficient Tax System: Ensure efficiency, for inter-state trade, and dispute resolution
transparency, and accountability in tax mechanisms.
policy through consensus-based decisions.  Petroleum and Fuel Taxation:
Mission of the GST Council Recommends dates for levying GST on
 Consultative Process: Create an IT- petroleum products like crude oil, diesel,
driven, transparent, and user-friendly GST and petrol.
structure with input from all stakeholders.  Compensation to States: Recommends
compensation for revenue losses suffered
Composition of the GST Council by states due to the GST implementation,
 Chairperson: The Union Finance applicable for the first five years.
Minister leads the council. Other Functions
 Vice-Chairperson: Elected from the  Establishes a mechanism to resolve
council’s state members. disputes between:
 Members:  The Centre and one or more states.
 Union Minister of State for Finance or  One or more states versus the Centre
Revenue. or other states.
 Finance or taxation ministers from Conclusion
state governments.  Cooperative Federalism: The GST
 Permanent Invitees (Non-voting): Council exemplifies cooperative
Chairperson of the Central Board of federalism, enabling joint taxation
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). decisions between the Centre and States.
 Ex-officio Secretary: The Union  Streamlined Taxation: It has unified
Revenue Secretary. India’s indirect tax system, creating a
seamless national market.
 Future Role: The Council will continue to
advance a unified, efficient, and
transparent tax regime, supporting
economic growth and fiscal stability.

58) STUBBLE BURNING

Working of the GST Council

 Decision-making: The council’s decisions
require a three-fourths majority vote. The
central government’s vote holds one-third
weight, while state governments share
two-thirds weight.
 Quorum: At least 50% of council
members are required to be present for the
meeting to be valid.
 Validity: Decisions are not invalidated due  Stubble burning is the practice of setting
to procedural defects or vacancies in fire to crop residue (mainly paddy) left
membership. after harvesting to prepare fields for the
Functions of the GST Council next sowing season.
 Recommendations on Taxes: Determines
which taxes, cesses, and surcharges should
be subsumed into GST.

60
  It is common in North West India,  Promote Agri-implements: Provide
particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar subsidies and encourage co-ownership
Pradesh, during September to November. models for implements that mix crop
 This method is primarily used where residue with soil to improve fertility.
combine harvesters leave behind crop  Foster Awareness: Educate farmers on the
residue. benefits of using crop residues and agri-
Why is Stubble Burning Practiced? implements for extraction and packaging.
 Limited Time: Farmers have a short  Power Generation: Incentivize biomass-
window (10–15 days) between rice harvest based power plants, such as biomass co-
and wheat sowing, making quick field firing, through fiscal interventions.
preparation essential.  Promote R&D: Support development of
 Cheap Option: It's one of the cheapest low-silica paddy straw for better use in
methods to clear fields after harvest. biomass power plants.
 Labour Shortage: High labor costs and  Biofuel Production: Encourage biofuel
shortages, especially in large farms in utilization with supportive policies from
Punjab and Haryana, make manual stubble state and central governments.
removal impractical.  Industrial Use: Promote the sale of
 Effective Clearing: Mechanized biomass pellets as fuel for industrial
harvesters leave stubble in the field, boilers to replace coal.
requiring burning for complete clearance.  Crop Residue Collection: Establish
 Low Residue Value: The low commercial decentralized mechanisms for the
value of crop residue and high processing collection, storage, and sale of crop
costs discourage alternative uses. residue.
Impacts of Stubble Burning:
 Air Pollution: Releases harmful gases like 59) UNEMPLOYMENT
carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4),
volatile organic compounds (VOC), and
carcinogenic substances, contributing
significantly to air pollution in northern
India.
 Soil Fertility: Burning destroys soil
nutrients, reducing its fertility.
 Heat Penetration: The generated heat
leads to soil erosion, loss of moisture, and
destruction of beneficial microbes.
 Climate Change: Emission of toxic gases The National Statistical Office (NSO) defines
contributes to global warming, worsening employment and unemployment based on activity
climate change. status:
 Risk of Uncontrolled Fires: Stubble  Employed: Individuals engaged in
burning can lead to accidental wildfires. economic activities.
 Unemployed: Individuals seeking or
available for work but not currently
employed.
 Not seeking/available for work:
Individuals neither seeking nor available
for employment.
The labor force includes both employed and
unemployed individuals, and the unemployment
Alternatives to Stubble Burning in Short Term: rate is calculated as:
 Use of technologies like the Turbo Unemployment Rate = (Unemployed / Labor
Happy Seeder (THS), which removes Force) × 100
stubble and sows seeds simultaneously, Types of Unemployment:
allowing the residue to be used as mulch.  Disguised: More people work than
Strategies to Reduce Stubble Burning in Long necessary, often in agriculture or
Term: unorganized sectors.
61
  Structural: Mismatch between job Union Government Policies to Address
opportunities and workforce skills. Unemployment
 Cyclical: Linked to economic cycles,  MGNREGA: Guarantees 100 days of paid
rising during recessions and falling during rural employment annually to improve
growth. livelihoods.
 Technological: Job loss due to automation  National Career Service (NCS): A digital
and technological advancements. platform connecting job seekers with
Causes of Unemployment in India employers.
 Population Growth: The labor supply  Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana
exceeds job availability, raising (PMKVY): Offers skill training to
unemployment rates. increase employability.
 Skill Mismatch: Workforce skills often  Atmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana
don't align with industry demands, (ABRY): Incentivizes employers to create
especially among youth. jobs and rehire workers post-pandemic.
 Slow Industrial Growth: Limited  Start-Up India & Pradhan Mantri
industrial investment results in fewer job Mudra Yojana: Promotes
opportunities. entrepreneurship through financial and
institutional support.
 Agricultural Dependence: Over-reliance
on agriculture, with minimal Assam Government Policies to Address
Unemployment
diversification, leads to high
 Atmanirbhar Asom Abhijan: Offers
unemployment.
financial aid to youth for starting
 Technological Advancements:
businesses, focusing on various sectors
Automation replaces manual labor,
like agriculture and manufacturing.
causing job losses.
 Assam Skill Development Mission
 Regional Economic Disparities: Lack of (ASDM): Provides free skill training to
infrastructure and industries in some areas improve employability in fields like IT
worsens unemployment.
and hospitality.
 Inadequate Education System:  Support for Startups: Schemes like the
Insufficient practical, job-oriented training Assam Startup Scheme support young
creates a gap between education and entrepreneurs with financial and policy
employment. assistance.
 Informal Sector Dominance: A large  Investment Attraction: Major projects,
informal sector lacks job security, such as the Tata Semiconductor plant,
contributing to unstable employment. are driving job creation and boosting the
Consequences of Unemployment state's economy.
 Financial Strain: Limited income affects  Assam Direct Recruitment Exam
individuals' ability to meet basic needs. (ADRE): The ADRE is a significant step
 Reduced Purchasing Power: Lower to fill vacancies in various government
disposable income restricts spending, departments, ensuring job opportunities
impacting the economy. for thousands of applicants in the public
 Social Stigma & Psychological Impact: sector
Unemployment leads to low self-esteem,
stress, and social exclusion. 60) PROJECT CHEETAH
 Increased Inequality: Job scarcity widens
the gap between rich and poor, fueling
social unrest.
 Brain Drain: Skilled professionals seek
better opportunities abroad, draining
talent.
 Social Unrest: Frustrations over
joblessness can lead to protests and unrest.
 Economic Burden: Unemployment Project Cheetah, which introduced the African sub-
increases government spending on species of the big cat to India, marked its two-year
welfare, hampering economic growth. completion on September 17.
62
  Cheetah Extinction in India: Cheetahs  Breeding Success: 17 cubs have been born
were officially declared extinct in India in within two years, showing potential for
1952 due to overhunting and habitat loss. population expansion.
 Goal of Reintroduction: The project aims  Adaptive Movements: Some cheetahs,
to establish a viable cheetah population in like Veera, have demonstrated wide-
central India, restoring ecosystems such as ranging movements, indicating the
grasslands and savannahs. possibility of cheetahs adapting to free-
 Translocation from Africa: In 2022, the range life.
first batch of 8 cheetahs arrived from  Multi-location Translocation: Plans to
Namibia, followed by 12 from South expand the project to Gandhi Sagar
Africa in early 2023. Wildlife Sanctuary are underway to spread
Cheetah Breeding Project Cheetah Overview out the population.
 Project Cheetah, which introduced the Challenges:
African sub-species of the big cat to India,  High Mortality Rate: 8 cheetahs (40% of
marked its two-year completion on translocated adults) and 5 cubs (29%) have
September 17. died due to issues such as infection, mating
Background of Project Cheetah: injuries, and environmental stress.
 Limited Wild Release: Most cheetahs are
still in enclosures, raising concerns about
their ability to thrive independently in the
wild.
 Prey Deficit: The declining prey
population, especially chital, poses a major
challenge in supporting both cheetahs and
leopards in Kuno National Park.
 Interstate Coordination: The cheetahs’
movements across states highlight the need
 Cheetah Extinction in India: Cheetahs for landscape-level conservation strategies
were officially declared extinct in India in and cooperation across regions.
1952 due to overhunting and habitat loss.
 Goal of Reintroduction: The project aims Way Ahead:
to establish a viable cheetah population in  Prey Base Augmentation: Immediate
central India, restoring ecosystems such as efforts are required to increase prey density
grasslands and savannahs. in Kuno and Gandhi Sagar to support the
 Translocation from Africa: In 2022, the cheetah population.
first batch of 8 cheetahs arrived from  Habitat Restoration: Conservation
Namibia, followed by 12 from South efforts should focus on restoring and
Africa in early 2023. protecting grasslands and savannahs,
 Cheetah Breeding and Expansion: The spanning multiple districts and states.
project also seeks to promote breeding and  Gradual Wild Release: Post-monsoon
establish a metapopulation across various release plans must be carefully managed to
wildlife reserves in India. ensure cheetahs adapt successfully to free-
 Ecosystem Restoration: Cheetahs are range habitats.
used as an umbrella species to restore open  Transparent Project Management:
ecosystems, contributing to the Improved communication with experts and
conservation of other species dependent on the public is essential for long-term
these habitats. success, especially regarding challenges
Analysis of Two Years of Performance: and strategies.
Positives: Project Cheetah shows promise with breeding
 Successful Translocation: 24 cheetahs, success and acclimatization, but high mortality
including cubs, have survived the initial rates and delayed wild releases raise
translocation and acclimatization to India’s sustainability concerns. Ensuring long-term
environment. success will require habitat restoration, prey
management, and better coordination.

63
GS IV(ETHICS, INTEGRITY APTITUDE) Example: Republic TV and NDTV are
accused of biased reporting.
61) JOURNALISTIC ETHICS  Corporate Influence: Ownership
compromises independence.
Example: Adani's acquisition of NDTV
raised concerns about editorial freedom.
 Sensationalism: Clickbait headlines
undermine accurate reporting.
Example: Exaggerated claims during
Chandrayaan-3 coverage.
 Privacy Violations: Public figures face
invasive reporting.
Example: Media’s unethical coverage of
Journalistic ethics are basically a set of principles, Sushant Singh Rajput's case.
standards, guidelines and code of conduct prepared  Reduced Fact-Checking: Speed of news
for professional journalists. It deals with conduct, compromises accuracy.
character and behaviour of a journalist and how Example: COVID-19 misinformation
he/she works before, during and after the news spread despite fact-checking efforts.
gathering and dissemination process.  Echo Chambers: Algorithms limit
Principles of Journalistic Ethics : exposure to diverse views.
 Truth and Accuracy: Ensure accurate, Example: 2024 elections saw Facebook
fair, and well-verified information to and Youtube reinforce biased content.
prevent misinformation. These challenges highlight ethical compromises in
 Independence: Maintain freedom from the fast-paced digital media world.
political or corporate influence. Government Measures to Uphold Journalistic
 Objectivity and Fairness: Provide Ethics in India:
balanced, unbiased reporting, avoiding  Press Council of India (PCI): Monitors
sensationalism. press ethics, addressing complaints and
 Accountability and Transparency: issuing penalties for violations.
Correct errors promptly and be transparent  IT Rules, 2021: Regulates digital media
in reporting. with a code of ethics and grievance
 Respect for Privacy: Balance public redressal mechanisms.
interest with individual privacy.  Cable TV Networks Act, 1995: Ensures
 Harm Minimization: Avoid TV channels follow ethical broadcasting
inflammatory content, especially in guidelines.
sensitive situations.  NBDA Code of Ethics: Guides news
 Responsibility towards Society: Act in channels on impartiality, truth, and
the public interest, supporting democracy privacy, with complaint monitoring.
and social justice.  Fact-Checking: Platforms like PIB Fact
 Respect for Cultural Diversity: Promote Check counter misinformation in media.
understanding among India's diverse  Whistleblower Protection Act, 2014:
groups. Protects journalists exposing unethical
 Avoid Conflict of Interest: Stay free from practices.
personal or financial influences.
These principles are essential for maintaining GS V (ASSAM SPECIFIC TOPICS)
integrity in journalism.
Challenges to Journalistic Ethics in the 62) ASSAM’S 2024 EXCELLENCE
Evolving Media Landscape: RANKINGS FOR SERVICE DELIVERY
 Misinformation: Fake news spreads
rapidly online, often outpacing fact-
checking efforts.
Example: Fake videos during the 2023
Manipur conflict escalated tensions.
 Political Bias: Media polarization favors
political ideologies over objectivity.
64
  Sudden water level rises due to geographic
and hydrological characteristics.
Exacerbating Factors:
 Climate Change: Increased intensity of
rainfall events.
 Urban Development: Poor planning and
infrastructure that fail to handle excess
water.
 Deforestation: Loss of forest cover leads
to increased runoff and soil erosion.
Darrang district secured third rank in the Mitigation Measures:
‘Achievers’ section for July 2024. Ranking was Improving Drainage Systems:
among 24 old districts in Group A(districts with  Many drainage channels are outdated or
more than 2% of Assam’s projected population poorly maintained.
for 2024).  Upgrade to larger, more efficient networks.
Performance Highlights:
 Integrate rainwater harvesting
Darrang scored 73.216%, narrowly behind
mechanisms to manage excess water
Sivasagar (73.557%) and Jorhat (73.444%).
during heavy rainfall.
The district was recognized for its exceptional
Green Infrastructure:
performance, competing against more
 Use permeable surfaces to absorb
developed districts.
rainwater and reduce runoff.
Out of 24 districts, only 8 were included in the
‘Achievers’ category.  Create bio-swales (vegetated channels) for
Another 8 districts were listed as ‘Performers’ and stormwater management.
‘Aspirants’ each.  Implement green roofs to absorb and filter
Ranking Criteria: rainwater.
 59 indicators were assessed for ranking. Deforestation and Reforestation:
 95% of the score was based on tangible  Restore forest cover in surrounding hills to
achievements. reduce runoff.
 5% was based on governance, including  Collaborate with local communities for
responsiveness to VVIP visits, disaster reforestation projects.
management, grievance redressal, and  Encourage sustainable land management
media engagement. to protect natural floodplains and
This recognition highlights Darrang's strong wetlands.
governance and service excellence in line with the Urban Planning Adaptation:
State's expectations for growth and development.  Integrate flood risk assessments into
development plans.
63) FLASH FLOODS  Zoning regulations should restrict high-
density construction in flood-prone areas.
 Promote the creation of green spaces to
absorb excess water.
Flood-Resilient Infrastructure:
 Invest in elevated roads and flood-proof
buildings to protect citizens and
infrastructure.
 Retention basins can store rainwater at
various elevations to gradually release into
rivers.
Guwahati's Vulnerability to Flash Floods is a Technology and Data Utilization:
growing concern for the people.  Use Geographic Information Systems
Geographical Factors: (GIS) and remote sensing to map flood-
 Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra prone areas.
river and surrounded by hills, making it  Install advanced sensors to monitor river
vulnerable to flash floods. levels and predict floods, enabling timely
interventions.
65
Eco-Friendly Strategies for Flood Management  Feedstock: The plant primarily uses
 Permeable Pavements: Allow rainwater to bamboo as a feedstock, leveraging
seep through and reduce runoff. Assam’s rich bamboo resources, which are
 Green Roofs: Absorb and delay rainwater known for their fast growth and
flow while reducing urban heat. sustainability.
 Bio-Swales: Capture stormwater along  Technology: The plant employs advanced
roads and public spaces to prevent technologies to convert bamboo biomass
flooding. into methanol, a clean and efficient fuel.
 Tree Planting and Green Spaces: Increase  Capacity: The facility is designed to
the city's capacity to absorb rainwater and produce a substantial quantity of methanol,
improve urban resilience. contributing to the local economy and
Community and Expert Collaboration energy needs.
 Involvement of Local Expert: Tailor Economic and Environmental Impact:
flood mitigation strategies to Guwahati's  Job Creation: The establishment of the
specific terrain and climate. plant is expected to generate employment
 Public Engagement: Educate residents opportunities for local communities,
about flood risks and involve them in particularly in bamboo cultivation and
reforestation and clean-up efforts. processing. The plant is expected to
 Early Warning Systems: Implement generate approximately 18,900 jobs.
technology-driven rainfall and runoff  Sustainable Energy Production: By
monitoring for timely flood alerts. converting bamboo into methanol, the
Zoning Regulations and Managed Retreat plant contributes to the reduction of fossil
 Restrict construction in flood-prone areas fuel dependence and promotes the use of
and establish buffer zones along renewable energy sources.
waterways.  Carbon Footprint Reduction: The use of
 Planned relocation from high-risk flood bamboo, a renewable resource, helps in
areas to protect communities. sequestering carbon dioxide, contributing
A comprehensive approach is essential to mitigate to climate change mitigation efforts.
flash floods in Guwahati. This includes a Government Support:
combination of structural solutions, eco-friendly  The project aligns with various
strategies, community involvement, and informed government initiatives aimed at promoting
land-use policies. biofuels and renewable energy, such as the
Through well-planned infrastructure, green National Biofuel Policy and
technologies, and resilient urban planning, Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)
Guwahati can reduce its vulnerability to initiative.
devastating floods.  Support from state and central government
agencies ensures that the plant meets
64) BAMBOO-TO-METHANOL PLANT AT regulatory standards and receives
PANCHGRAM necessary funding.
The Bamboo-to-Methanol plant at Panchgram
symbolizes a forward-looking approach to energy
production in Assam, harnessing local resources
for sustainable development. It has the potential to
set a precedent for similar projects in the region,
fostering a green economy while empowering local
communities.

65) ASSAM’S MULTIDIMENSIONAL

POVERTY
The Assam State government plans to repurpose
the land of the inactive Cachar Paper Mill in
Panchgram for a bamboo-to-methanol production
facility. An investment of Rs 2,000 crore is
proposed for the project.
Key Features:
66
  Introduced globally using the Alkire-
Foster methodology, focusing on
overlapping deprivations in health,
education, and living standards.
MPI Methodology
12 indicators in total, divided into three
dimensions:
 Health: Nutrition, child mortality,
maternal health.
 Education: Years of schooling, school
Poverty in India attendance.
 1901: Early Estimate by Dadabhai  Living Standards: Cooking fuel,
Naoroji sanitation, drinking water, housing,
Estimated poverty levels based on the cost electricity, assets, bank accounts.
of a subsistence diet. Weightage
 1938: National Planning Committee Equal weightage of one-third for each dimension.
Suggested poverty line estimation based  Health indicators include nutrition (1/6),
on living standards. child mortality (1/12), maternal health
 1944: Bombay Plan (1/12).
Continued the effort of estimating poverty  Education indicators have 1/6 weightage
levels. each for schooling and attendance.
Post-Independence:  Living Standards indicators carry 1/21
 Working Group of 1962 weightage each.
Early efforts to estimate poverty using Measuring Poverty Using MPI
minimum consumption and expenditure Incidence vs. Intensity
data. Incidence: Proportion of multidimensionally poor
 Dandekar and Rath (1971) (headcount ratio).
Provided estimates based on minimum Intensity: Average proportion of deprivations
level of consumption. experienced by the poor.
 YK Alagh Taskforce (1979) Types of MPI
Refined poverty estimates using a  Censored MPI: Captures depth and
minimum consumption-based approach. deprivations among the poor.
Expert Committees on Poverty Estimation  Uncensored MPI: Measures deprivations
 Lakdawala Committee (1993): Focused across the entire population.
on monetary poverty estimation. MPI in India
 Tendulkar Committee (2009): Updated  NITI Aayog’s MPI Baseline (2015-16)
methodology, shifting focus to a broader  Launched using National Family Health
consumption expenditure approach. Survey-4 (NFHS) data.
 Rangarajan Committee (2014): Further  Updated in 2019-21 using NFHS-5 data.
refined the monetary poverty estimates in Case Study: Assam's MPI Performance
India. Improvements (2015-16 to 2019-21)
National Consumption Expenditure Survey  MPI Value improved from 0.156 to 0.86.
(NSSO)  Headcount ratio of the poor reduced from
NSSO’s Quinquennial Survey 32.65% to 19.35%.
 Enabled computation of headcount ratio  However, Assam's MPI value remains
based on consumption. higher than the national average (0.66).
 Poverty incidence declined sharply from Rural vs. Urban Poverty
37.2% in 2004 to 21.9% in 2011.  Faster reduction in rural areas compared to
 No surveys conducted between 2011 and urban.
the recently released 2022-23 survey.  Rural Assam: 21.4% (higher than rural
Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) India’s 19.3%).
 Based on the capability approach which  Urban Assam: 6.9% (higher than urban
emphasizes functioning and capabilities India’s 5.3%).
for quality of life. District-Level Disparities

67
  Poverty levels vary across Assam’s  The Biplab Sarma Committee was formed
districts (e.g., 36.2% in Hailakandi to 5.6% to address this gap and provide a
in Kamrup Metro). framework for the practical execution of
 Significant reductions seen in all districts. this clause.
Assam has reduced multidimensional poverty Key Recommendations of the Biplab Sarma
significantly, but it lags behind the all-India Committee:
average. Reviewing and redesigning welfare  Definition of Assamese People:
schemes to target specific regions with high  The committee proposed that
poverty concentrations will be key to further Assamese people should be those who
reductions in multidimensional poverty. were residing in Assam prior to 1971
and their descendants, aligning with
66) BIPLAB KUMAR SARMA COMMITTEE the cut-off year for illegal immigration
RECOMMENDATION as per the Assam Accord.
 Reservation of Seats:
 Recommended reservation of 80-
100% seats in the Assam Legislative
Assembly and local bodies for
Assamese people, ensuring their
political dominance.
 Called for a similar reservation in
government jobs, including public
sector undertakings in Assam, for the
protection of indigenous rights.
The Assam government has decided to implement  Land Rights:
57 of the 67 recommendations made by the Biplab  Proposed restricting land ownership in
Sarma Committee regarding Clause 6 of the Assam Assam to Assamese people, preventing
Accord. This decision, announced by Chief outsiders from purchasing land and
Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, was taken after maintaining indigenous land control.
thorough discussions in a cabinet meeting. The  Cultural Protection:
government aims to complete the implementation  Suggested the creation of cultural
by April 2025, focusing on safeguarding the councils and institutions for the
cultural, social, and linguistic identity of the protection and promotion of Assamese
Assamese people. culture, heritage, and language.
The Biplab Kumar Sarma Committee was set up by  Promoted Assamese as the medium of
the Government of India in 2019 to make instruction in educational institutions
recommendations on the implementation of Clause across Assam.
6 of the Assam Accord.  Legal Safeguards:
Clause 6 aims to protect, preserve, and promote the  Recommended constitutional
cultural, social, and linguistic identity and heritage amendments and legal provisions to
of the Assamese people. The committee's ensure the implementation of Clause 6,
recommendations hold significant importance for preventing dilution of rights and
Assam’s ethnic communities, particularly in the identity.
context of concerns about demographic changes  Inclusion in Central Government
following the influx of migrants. Institutions:
Background:  Urged the Government of India to
 Assam Accord (1985): Signed between ensure adequate representation of
the Government of India and leaders of the Assamese people in central
Assam Movement, it ended a six-year government institutions based in
agitation against illegal immigration. Assam, such as universities, research
 Clause 6 of the Assam Accord specifically institutions, and cultural bodies.
provides constitutional, legislative, and Importance of Recommendations:
administrative safeguards to protect  Demographic Concerns: Assam has
Assamese identity, but had remained witnessed a significant influx of migrants,
largely unimplemented for decades. leading to demographic shifts, particularly
in certain districts. The recommendations
68
 aim to address concerns about the dilution
of indigenous identity.
 Safeguarding Ethnic Identity: By
providing strong constitutional safeguards,
the recommendations seek to empower the
Assamese community politically,
economically, and culturally.
 Addressing Long-standing Demands:
The report addresses long-pending
demands of the Assam Movement and
aims to fulfill promises made under the The Government of Assam has introduced e-
Assam Accord, which are seen as key to Chitha, a digital land record management system
maintaining peace and stability in the aimed at modernizing and streamlining land
region. records in the state. It allows citizens to access
Challenges and Criticism: critical land-related information, such as
Jamabandi (land records), mutation status, land
 Ambiguity in Definition: The definition
revenue payment, and other land-related
of Assamese people based on the 1971 cut-
documents online.
off is seen by some as ambiguous and
Objectives of E-Chitha
exclusionary, as it leaves out certain ethnic
communities who consider themselves  Digitization of Land Records: To create
Assamese but may not fit this criterion. a transparent, efficient, and accessible
system for maintaining land records.
 Political Reservations: The
recommendation to reserve 80-100% seats  Ease of Access: To enable citizens to
in legislative and local bodies has faced access land-related documents online,
opposition for potentially alienating other reducing the need for physical visits to
ethnic groups and leading to tensions government offices.
between communities.  Transparency: By digitizing the land
 Land Rights: Restricting land ownership record system, the government aims to
to Assamese people could face legal reduce corruption and ensure more
challenges and might impact inter-state transparency in land transactions.
economic activity.  Efficiency in Land Transactions: E-
 Implementation Issues: While the Chitha aims to accelerate processes like
recommendations are robust, translating land mutation, transfer, and property
them into actual constitutional and legal disputes through digital updates and real-
provisions requires political will and time access.
coordination between the central and state Features of E-Chitha
governments.  Jamabandi Copy: Provides digital copies
The Biplab Sarma Committee's recommendations of the Record of Rights (RoR), allowing
on Clause 6 of the Assam Accord provide a citizens to check ownership details, area,
comprehensive framework for safeguarding the and classification of their land.
identity and rights of the Assamese people.  Mutation Status: Allows users to track the
However, their successful implementation depends status of their mutation applications,
on balancing the interests of various communities ensuring transparency and reducing
in Assam, addressing legal challenges, and delays.
ensuring that these measures contribute to lasting  Land Revenue Payment: Provides an
peace and socio-political harmony in the state. online portal for the payment of land
revenue, making it easier for citizens to
67) E-CHITHA: A DIGITAL LAND RECORD fulfill legal obligations without visiting
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN ASSAM revenue offices.
 Online Land Map Access: Citizens can
view digitized cadastral maps, aiding in
better understanding of land boundaries
and locations.
 User-Friendly Interface: The portal is
designed to be accessible to all, including
69
 rural populations, with multilingual
support.
Importance of E-Chitha in Assam
 E-Chitha reduces bureaucratic delays and
makes land administration more effective.
 With land records easily accessible,
disputes related to ownership and
boundaries can be minimized, providing
better legal protection to landowners.
 By eliminating intermediaries and manual
processes, the system reduces Authored by Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the
opportunities for corruption in land Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council. The
dealings. report provides an in-depth analysis of the
 The digitized land data helps the economic trajectories of Indian states over more
government implement various welfare than six decades, from 1960-61 to 2023-24.
schemes more effectively by verifying Focuses on regional economic disparities, GDP
land ownership and eligibility quickly. growth trends, and the shifts in sectoral
Benefits to Citizens contributions to state economies.
 Citizens can access land records from the Key Highlights:
comfort of their homes, saving time and  Regional Divergence: States like
effort. Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu
 The online portal eliminates the need for have consistently outperformed others,
frequent visits to land revenue offices and showing higher growth rates and increased
helps avoid long wait times. industrial activity.
 Digitization of land records ensures that  Slower Growth States: States like Bihar,
documents are stored securely and are less Assam, and Uttar Pradesh have lagged
vulnerable to tampering, loss, or damage. behind in economic performance,
Challenges and Way Forward particularly in terms of per capita income
 Digital Literacy: The success of E-Chitha and industrial development.
relies on improving digital literacy,  Post-Liberalization Growth: Post-1991
particularly in rural areas, where many economic reforms have accelerated the
may struggle with the use of online growth of some states, especially those
platforms. with strong service and industrial sectors,
 Internet Access: Ensuring reliable widening the gap with lagging states.
internet access in remote areas of Assam is Economic Sectors and Their Contributions:
crucial for the effective functioning of E-  Agriculture to Services Shift: The report
Chitha. highlights a shift from agriculture to
 Technical Issues: As with any digital services and industries in more prosperous
platform, technical issues such as server states, contributing to diversified
downtime and software bugs can arise, economies.
which need to be addressed swiftly.  Agriculture Reliance in Slower States:
E-Chitha is a significant step towards improving States like Assam still rely heavily on
land record management in Assam, promoting agriculture, contributing to slower
transparency, efficiency, and accountability in land economic progress due to the lack of rapid
transactions. The initiative is poised to benefit industrialization.
citizens by providing easier access to land-related Assam’s Economic Performance:
information and ensuring the security of land  Slow Growth: Assam has struggled with
records. economic stagnation, with GDP growth
rates often trailing behind the national
68) RELATIVE ECONOMIC average. Assam's contribution to the
PERFORMANCE OF INDIAN STATES: 1960- national GDP grew from 1.6% in 2010-11
61 TO 2023-24 to 1.9% in 2023-24
 Per Capita Income: Assam's per capita
income remains significantly lower than
that of more developed states.
70
  In 1960-61, Assam's per capita income was  Legal Process: Deputy Superintendent-
marginally higher than the national level police officers will investigate;
average, but it dropped to 61.2% of the Special Courts will handle cases.
national average by 2010-11. Positive Aspects:
 There has been a recovery in Assam's  Fights Unfair Means: Targets cheating,
relative per capita income, which ensuring fairness in recruitment exams.
increased to 73.7% by 2023-24.  Transparency: Reduces paper leaks and
 Challenges: Infrastructure bottlenecks, unauthorized assistance.
insurgency, natural disasters (like floods),  Deterrence: Strict penalties discourage
and limited industrialization have malpractice.
hampered Assam’s economic growth.  Empowers Law Enforcement: Special
Recommendations and Observations: courts and trained police ensure efficient
 Need for Infrastructure Development: enforcement.
Improved connectivity and energy Challenges:
infrastructure in states like Assam can lead  Potential Misuse: Risk of false
to better economic opportunities. accusations or political misuse.
 Balanced Regional Growth: The report  Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Harsh
calls for targeted investment in penalties could disproportionately affect
underperforming states to address the marginalized individuals.
widening economic divide.  Judicial Burden: Special courts may
Sanjeev Sanyal’s report underscores the strain resources, causing delays.
importance of regional economic balance, stressing  Erosion of Trust: Overemphasis on
the need for sustained efforts to uplift economically penalties might harm trust between
lagging states through infrastructure, governance institutions and examinees.
improvements, and sectoral diversification. Way Forward:
 Stakeholder Engagement: Involve
69) THE ASSAM PUBLIC EXAMINATION educators, students, and experts for better
(MEASURES FOR PREVENTION OF implementation.
UNFAIR MEANS IN RECRUITMENT) ACT,  Capacity Building: Train law
2024 enforcement and exam authorities for
effective enforcement.
 Promotion of Ethics: Foster a culture of
integrity in education.
 Legislative Review: Regularly assess and
improve the bill based on emerging
challenges.
This Act aims to enhance fairness and integrity in
public recruitment, strengthening trust in the
examination process.
Key Provisions:
70) BHAONA
 Misconduct by Candidates: Cheating can
result in up to 3 years in jail and a ₹1 lakh
fine; failure to pay adds 3 months of jail
time.
 Other Violations: Leaking or selling exam
papers leads to 5-10 years in jail and fines
of ₹10 lakh to ₹10 crore; failure to pay
adds 2 years in jail.
 Exclusion: Offenders can be barred from
public exams for 2 years. Courts can order
repayment of any fraudulent gains. Bhaona, a traditional art form from Assam,
 Institutional Responsibility: Schools represents a blend of cultural, spiritual, and social
involved may cover exam costs and face heritage, transcending generations.
permanent prohibition.
71
Originating from the Bhakti movement led by themes, providing emotional and
Srimanta Sankaradeva in the 16th century, it spiritual grounding.
emerged as a medium for spreading spiritual and  It also conveys moral lessons on
religious values. egalitarianism, love, and devotion while
Beyond entertainment, Bhaona serves as a entertaining the audience.
medium for religious expression, moral
education, and cultural identity, combining
drama, dance, and music with grandeur.

Performance Style and Structure

 Bhaona intricately blends drama, dance,
and music, each stylized and symbolic.
 Music: Central to the performance are
Historical and Religious Context devotional songs (Borgeet) composed by
Bhaona is deeply tied to the Ekasarana Naam Sankaradeva and Madhavdeva,
Dharma, a reformist movement by Sankaradeva accompanied by instruments like:
that sought to simplify religious practices, making  Khol: A percussion instrument setting
them accessible to all, irrespective of caste. the rhythm.
It challenged medieval religious orthodoxy and  Taal: Cymbals that add energy.
caste hierarchies, focusing on devotion to Vishnu  Nagara: A large drum that enhances
or Krishna. dramatic moments.
Bhaona played a crucial role in spreading  Language: The performance uses
messages of universal devotion, equality, and Brajavali, a mix of Assamese and
rejecting untouchability. Maithili, crafted by Sankaradeva for
poetic and spiritual clarity.

Cultural Role and Significance

 Performed mainly in naamghars (socio- Dance and Visual Elements
religious centers of Assamese villages),  Dance is vital, with graceful movements
Bhaona promotes social cohesion and reflecting the characters' emotions and
spiritual connection. mythology.
 It serves as both an informal educational  Mukhas (Masks): Painstakingly crafted
tool and a cultural unifier within masks, representing gods, demons, and
communities, as naamghars also act as animals, enhance the visual drama and
centers for social activities. distinguish the characters.
Themes and Content of Bhaona  These masks reflect Assam's rich
 The stories in Bhaona are based on Hindu craftsmanship and tradition.
mythology, drawing from texts like the
Bhagavata Purana, Ramayana, and
Mahabharata.
 Krishna’s divine acts (leelas), childhood
pranks, and battles with demons are central
72
 Orunodoi 3.0 is an updated version of the
Orunodoi scheme, launched by the Government of
Assam to provide financial assistance to
economically disadvantaged families.
Launch Date: 19 September 2024
Objective: Transforming lives with Assam’s
largest Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiative.

Contemporary Relevance
 Despite modern entertainment like TV and
cinema, Bhaona remains a vital part of
Assamese culture, preserving heritage
and evolving with the times.
 Modern Bhaona incorporates
contemporary social themes like
environmental issues and gender
equality, while retaining its core religious Key Highlights
narratives. Beneficiaries: 37.2 lakh new beneficiaries
 Its adaptability keeps it relevant, allowing One Ration Card - One Orunodoi: A ration card
it to resonate with both traditional and is mandatory for availing the benefits.
modern audiences. Aadhaar Requirement: A valid Aadhaar-seeded
ration card is required.
Eligibility: Permanent residents of Assam who
currently reside in the state.
Nomination: The nominated beneficiary must be
an eligible woman (18 years or older) or a
Divyangjan.
Who Can Apply?
 Widows and Unmarried Women: Above
the age of 45 years.
 Divorced and Deserted Women
Conclusion  Transgender Individuals
 Bhaona is a living tradition that has  Persons with Disabilities (PwDs): As
evolved since its 16th-century inception, defined under the Rights of Persons with
continuing to be a cultural and spiritual Disabilities Act, 2016, irrespective of
beacon in Assamese society. gender.
 It fosters social unity, moral values, and  Old/Infirm Women: Including those
the preservation of Assam’s artistic residing in government-registered old age
heritage, blending the past with present- homes.
day issues.  Women of the Household: Whose earning
 This dynamism makes Bhaona not just a members are either disabled or aged
historical artifact, but an evolving (above 60 years).
cultural force bridging tradition and  Women with Sick Family Members:
modernity Households where any member suffers
from diseases such as HIV, Thalassemia,
71) ORUNODOI 3.0 Hemophilia, Cerebral Palsy, Leprosy, or
Autism Spectrum Disorder.
 Homeless Women: Women in households
without shelter.
 Destitute Women: Women living on alms.
 Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Women
Beneficiaries

73
  Low-Income Households: Women in  Poverty Alleviation: Targets
households where the composite income is economically weaker households to reduce
less than ₹2 lakhs per annum. poverty.
Who Cannot Apply?  Health and Nutrition: Supports
Households of: healthcare and nutrition through funds for
 MPs, MLAs, CEMs, Ex-MLAs, Ex-MPs, essential needs.
and Ex-CEMs.  Social Inclusion: Benefits marginalized
 Current Members of Panchayati Raj groups like widows, disabled individuals,
Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, and the elderly.
Autonomous Councils, Village  Transparency: Uses DBT for direct
Development Committees (VDCs) etc., transfers, minimizing corruption and
irrespective of income. leakages.
 Government employees, pensioners  Boost to Rural Economy: Increases rural
(excluding Grade IV staff), contractual purchasing power, supporting local
workers, or government-appointed economies and small businesses.
teachers. Challenges of the Orunodoi Scheme
 Doctors, engineers, architects, chartered  Beneficiary Identification: Difficulty in
accountants, bank officials, and lawyers. accurately identifying eligible households.
 Private colleges, universities, senior/junior  Administrative Burden: High effort
colleges, teachers, and government/PSU required for implementation, especially in
employees. rural areas.
 Employees of cooperative societies,  Aadhaar/Ration Card Issues: Potential
ASHA workers, ASHA supervisors, and exclusion of individuals lacking required
anganwadi workers. documentation.
 Individuals owning four-wheelers,  Digital Divide: Challenges for those
tractors, or power tillers. without access to technology or digital
 Businesspersons, contractors, and literacy.
individuals paying professional taxes,  Exclusion of Specific Groups: Certain
income taxes, or GST. groups, like small entrepreneurs, may face
 Households with refrigerators, washing exclusion.
machines, or air-conditioners.  Corruption: Potential local-level
 Households with three or more family corruption affecting fund distribution
members earning more than ₹2 lakhs per despite DBT.
annum.  Sustainability: Monthly financial aid may
be insufficient for severe financial distress.
Significance of the Orunodoi Scheme
 Economic Dependency(Mai Baap
Culture): Risk of long-term dependency
on government support.
Way Forward
 Link with Skill Programs: Connect
Orunodoi with PMKVY and other skill
initiatives to promote self-reliance.
 Entrepreneurship Support: Provide
training for women to start small
businesses or self-employment ventures.
 Digital Literacy: Equip beneficiaries with
 Direct Financial Support: Provides digital skills to access services and e-
essential monetary aid to low-income commerce.
households for food, healthcare, and
 Private Sector Collaboration: Partner
education.
with industries for training and
 Women Empowerment: Focuses on apprenticeships.
women beneficiaries, enhancing financial
 Financial Literacy: Teach beneficiaries
independence.
how to manage finances and invest in
income-generating activities.

74
72) JAYANTA HAZARIKA

Film Music Director:

 Bonoria Phul (1971)
 Niyoti (1978)
 Brishti (1975)
 Dharmakaari (1977)
Early Life and Background
 Natun Asha (1977, completed by his wife
after his death)
Music Direction (Documentaries)
 Flora and Fauna of North-East India
 Wheels and the Horizon
 Xonman
 Jyoti Chitraban
Music Direction (Stage-plays)
 Siraj (dramatist: Phani Sharma)
 Baan (dramataist: Prafulla Bora)
Birth: Jayanta Hazarika was born on 20 September  Jinty
1943 in Mangaldai, Assam, to a renowned musical  Janma
family. He was the ninth of ten children of  Juddha Ghoxonaar Din
Nilakanta and Shantipriya Hazarika, with Bhupen  Jerengar Xoti
Hazarika, 17 years his senior, as his eldest brother.  5 plays for Lakhimi Theatre
Musical Influence: Jayanta grew up surrounded Xur Bahini and Social Contributions
by music. At the age of nine, he composed his first  Formation of Xur Bahini: In 1977, he
melody for a song written by his brother Nripen founded Xur Bahini, a musical group
Hazarika. aimed at helping flood victims in Assam
Education: He attended Sonaram High School in through street performances. The group
Guwahati but failed his matriculation in 1962, after composed 8 songs, including “Luitor
which he moved to Calcutta and recorded two Boliya Baan.”
songs with HMV.  Humanitarian Efforts: Xur Bahini also
Musical Career raised funds for Maghai Ojha’s treatment,
Early Career: Jayanta began his career assisting displaying Jayanta’s commitment to social
Bhupen Hazarika as a music director in the film causes through music.
Maniram Dewan (1963), where he also did his first Key Film and Playback Contributions
playback singing.  Playback Singer: Maniram Dewan, Loti-
Musical Style: Jayanta was known for blending Ghoti, Phaguni, Chikmik Bijuli, among
traditional Assamese tunes with Western others.
instruments, creating unique preludes and  Music Director: Assisted Bhupen
interludes. His collaborations with lyricist Hazarika in films like Maniram
Nirmalprabha Bordoloi produced timeless Dewan ,Loti-Ghoti and Chikmik Bijuli
Assamese melodies before independently directing music in
Independent Work: He soon became an Assamese cinema and beyond.
independent composer, pioneering the fusion of Legacy and Death
traditional Assamese music with Western elements  Death: Jayanta Hazarika passed away at
like jazz, rock, and Western classical music. 34 on 15 October 1977 in Calcutta while
Instruments: Jayanta played several instruments working on Natun Asha. He is survived by
including the guitar, mandolin, accordion, tabla, his wife, Manisha Hazarika, and their
and harmonica, often integrating these in his son, Mayukh Hazarika.
compositions.  Musical Impact: Jayanta is remembered
Major Works and Contributions for his innovative fusion of Western and
75
 Assamese music, his contribution to films,  Persistent pest problems are
documentaries, and stage plays, and his exacerbated by dry conditions.
humanitarian work.  Using pesticides is risky as plant
scorching is occurring due to the
73) STATUS OF ASSAM’S AGRICULTURE drought.
SECTOR  Weeding and Crop Loss:
 Lack of water in paddy fields has led
to weeding, which is likely to further
reduce Sali paddy yields.
 Invasive Plant Threats:
 Alien invasive species are affecting
rhino habitats and could potentially
impact agricultural lands indirectly.
 Development of New Crop Varieties:
 Assam Agriculture University is
fast-tracking the development of
 Employment in Agriculture: drought-resistant crops, such as a new
 Agriculture supports more than 75% Sali paddy variety, though these
of Assam's population directly or initiatives are still awaiting approval.
indirectly. Assam Government’s initiatives to address
 It provides employment to over 53% agricultural challenges:
of the total workforce.  Drought-Resistant Crop Varieties: The
 Geographical Area: Assam Agriculture University is fast-
 Assam covers a total geographical area tracking the development and approval of
of 7.8 million hectares. drought-resistant varieties of crops,
 The total cropped area in the state is especially Sali paddy, to combat the water
approximately 4.0 million hectares. shortage and ensure stable agricultural
 Contribution to GSDP: production.
 The agriculture sector contributes  CMSGUY (Chief Minister's Samagra
approximately 19-20% to Assam’s Gramya Unnayan Yojana): Aims to
Gross State Domestic Product double farmers' incomes by enhancing
(GSDP), making it a crucial pillar of irrigation and modernizing agriculture.
the state’s economy.  APART (Assam Agri Business and
Challenges Faced by Assam’s Agriculture Rural Transformation Project): Focuses
Sector on climate-resilient farming and market
 Drought Conditions: access, helping farmers adapt to droughts.
 Prolonged dry spells are affecting key  Soil Health Management Program:
crops like rice, tea, and lemons. Provides soil health cards to improve
 Paddy crops in Golaghat and fertilizer use, maintaining soil fertility
Sarupathar are turning yellow, and even under drought conditions.
lemon plants in Tinsukia orchards  MOVCDNER (Mission Organic Value
are showing signs of scorching. Chain Development): Promotes organic
 Limited Irrigation Facilities: farming for sustainable agriculture,
 Although 15% of agricultural land is reducing reliance on chemicals in dry
reported to have irrigation, only 6% of conditions. Eg. O Majuli Initiative
crop lands have functional irrigation,  ACRAP (Assam Climate Resilient
worsening the impact of drought. Agriculture Programme): Introduces
 Tea Production Decline: drought-resistant crops and promotes
 Tea production is projected to drop by climate-resilient farming practices.
15% in September due to the drought.  MMKSY (Mukhya Mantri Krishi Sa-
 Higher-than-normal temperatures (4- Sajuli Yojana): Offers financial aid for
5°C above the outside temperature) are small farmers to adopt modern farming
stressing tea plants, affecting their tools, improving resilience to climatic
growth and metabolism. challenges.
 Pest and Pesticide Issues:
76
 NEWS IN SHORTS:
4) First Indian woman track and field athlete to
1) Women’s javelin gold in the 63rd National win two medals at the Paralympics.
Open Athletics Championships.

Preethi Pal created history with 2nd medal as

National record holder Annu Rani won the she became the first Indian woman track and
women’s javelin gold with a heave of 58.97m in field athlete to win two medals at the
the 63rd National Open Athletics Paralympics, a bronze in the 200m T35 category
Championships. and a bronze in the 100m T35 category.
Lalu Prasad Bhoi of Odisha won the men’s
100m title in 10.46s. National record holder 5) Gold award to ONDC
Manikanta Hoblidhar of Services finished
second (10.48s) while B. Siva of Railways came
third (10.50s).

2) Amendment to CPSEs guidelines.

The government-backed Open Network for

Digital Commerce (ONDC) received the gold
award, under the category ‘Application of
Emerging Technologies for Providing Citizen-
Centric Services’ in the National Awards for e-
Government to amend Capital Restructuring of Governance.
Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)
capital restructuring guidelines. The 6) MoU signed
government is working to amend its 2016
guidelines with regard to dividend payment,
bonus issues and share buyback by CPSEs.

3) Gold medal at the Paralympics

A Memorandum of Settlement was signed

between the Central and Tripura governments
and two insurgent groups of Tripura (National
Liberation Front of Tripura, and All Tripura
Tiger Force), in New Delhi on September 4,
India’s Kumar Nitesh clinched his maiden gold 2024.
medal at the Paralympics, in men’s singles SL3
badminton final. 7) Contribution to climate finance
77
India contributed USD 1.28 billion in climate In a first-of-its-kind initiative,
finance through multilateral development environmentalists, ecologists, and civil society
banks (MDBs) in 2022, surpassing the members across Haryana have released a ‘green
contributions of many developed countries: manifesto’ raising various pressing issues such
Report as air pollution, waste management, depleting
ground water level, and the need to protect the
8) Gold Award for excellence in e-Governance Aravalis.

11) Cyber Nalanda

Shiksha Setu Axom app has been awarded the

prestigious Gold Award for excellence in e-
Governance by the Department of Foundation stone laid for ‘Cyber Nalanda’, a
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances. state-of-the-art cyber security research and
development centre, the brainchild of SISA, a
9) Bill to raise minimum marriageable age global forensics-driven cybersecurity solutions
company, that is coming up in Bengaluru.

12) Galactic Ultraluminous X-ray emitting

pulsar, Swift J0243.6+6124

Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed a Bill

raising the minimum marriageable age for
women
from 18 to 21 years. It seeks to amend the
Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (2006 Researchers from IIT Guwahati and ISRO have
Act) to advance gender equality and encourage made a groundbreaking discovery while
higher education among women. studying the first known Galactic
Ultraluminous X-ray emitting pulsar, Swift
10) Green manifesto J0243.6+6124. Their research shows that the
polarization of X-rays emitted by this pulsar is
significantly lower than expected, challenging
existing theories of emitted radiations from
these astronomical bodies.
78
 Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Sivasagar, Charaideo,
13) National Teachers’ Awards conferred on 82 Majuli, Jorhat, and Golaghat, comprising about
educators from across country. 7.9 million people across 21,264 sq km.

16) India, world’s second-biggest 5G handset

market

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu

conferred National Awards on teachers from
across the country at a function held in New
Delhi (September 5, 2024) on Teachers’ Day. India has surpassed the US to become the
second-largest market for 5G smartphones after
14) MOU on India-Singapore Semiconductor China in early 2024, driven by affordable
Ecosystem Partnership models from Xiaomi, Vivo, and Samsung,
according to Counterpoint Research. Global 5G
smartphone shipments grew 20% year-on-year
in the first half of 2024.

17) Typhoon Yagi

Under the MOU, Singapore and India will

leverage complementary strengths in their
semiconductor ecosystems and tap on
opportunities to build resilience in their
semiconductor supply chains. This will include
governmentled policy exchanges on ecosystem Powerful Typhoon Yagi makes landfall in
development, supply chain resilience, and Chinese island. Packing maximum sustained
workforce development. winds of 234km/h near its centre, Yagi registers
as the world’s second-most powerful tropical
15) Chief Minister’s Secretariat inaugurated in cyclone so far this year – after the category-5
Dibrugarh Atlantic Hurricane Beryl – and the most severe
of 2024 in the Pacific basin.

18) New treatment for TB

Chief Minister’s Secretariat inaugurated in

Dibrugarh which is expected to fast track and
prioritize region-specific policy making, and
bring the administration closer to the people of The Union Health Ministry approved the
Upper Assam districts like Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, introduction of a new treatment (BPaLM
79
regimen consisting of four drugs — assembly equipment infrastructure and
Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid, and solutions for its chip packaging units in Assam
Moxifloxacin) for multi -drug-resistant and Karnataka.
tuberculosis in India.
22) First meeting of National Research Fund
19) Solar light project board

Solar light project at Dr Bhupen Hazarika Setu Prime Minister convenes first meeting of
where 1,284 solar panels installed for generating National Research Fund board. The
a total of 700 KW of solar power per day. Anusandhan National Research Foundation
Electricity generated via solar power will be was conceived as a funding body to galvanise
supplied to the APDCL during the day and science and engineering research in the country.
electricity will be taken from the APDCL at
night. This will illuminate the bridge 23) Polaris Dawn mission
throughout the night.

20) Project OIL ASHA

SpaceX launched its daring Polaris Dawn

mission, a multi-day orbital expedition carrying
a four-member civilian crew for the first
Oil India Limited has launched its flagship spacewalk by non-professional astronauts. The
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) crew, led by Shift4 Payments CEO Jared
initiative, ‘Project OIL ASHA’. It aims to Iscaacman, is also aiming to fly deeper into
provide holistic nutritional support to children space than any other manned mission in more
battling cancer at Dr B Borooah Cancer than half a century, reaching a peak altitude of
Institute (BBCI), Guwahati. 1,400 km.

21) Pact signed 24) Satellite-based toll system

Tata Electronics has signed a pact with ASMPT A satellite-based toll system for highways will be
Singapore for establishing semiconductor rolled out in the first quarter of 2025. The
80
government envisages a hybrid toll mechanism capable of deployment in high-altitude areas,
so that toll booths can track vehicles fitted with developed to boost the Army’s combat
an onboard unit for receiving signals from the capabilities along the frontier with China.
Global Navigation Satellite System and radio
frequency identification-based Fastags. 28) Port Blair to be renamed Sri Vijaya Puram

25) VL-SRSAM

Port Blair, the capital city of Andaman and

Nicobar Islands, will be renamed Sri Vijaya
Defence Research & Development Organisation Puram to “free the nation from colonial
(DRDO) and Indian Navy successfully flight imprints”. The island territory that once served
tested Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to- as the naval base of the Chola Empire is poised
Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) from the Integrated to be the critical base for our strategic and
Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of development aspirations.
Odisha.
29) Bavarian Nordic’s vaccine
26) Retail inflation

The World Health Organisation had cleared

India’s retail inflation stayed under the Reserve Bavarian Nordic’s vaccine as the first shot
Bank of India’s median target of 4% month in against Mpox , adding it to its prequalification
August, even as it inched up marginally to list for expanded access in communities with
3.65% from an upwardly revised 3.6% in July. urgent need. The move aims to reduce
August’s inflation pace is the second slowest in transmission and help contain ongoing
five years. outbreaks.

27) Indian light tank, Zorawar 30) "Brain on a chip" technology

The DRDO successfully conducted the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have
preliminary automotive trials of the Indian light introduced a revolutionary "brain on a chip"
tank, Zorawar, a highly versatile platform technology. This innovation is capable of storing
81
and processing data in an astonishing 16,500 34) Diamond League final
states within a molecular film.

31) RG Baruah Memorial Awards 2024

Neeraj finishes second in the season-ending

Diamond League final with an 87.86m throw.

RG Baruah Memorial Awards 2024 were 35) BHASKAR initiative

presented to Karma Paljor, Abhijit
Bhattacharyya, SRD Group and Badungduppa
Kalakendra.

32) MoU signed

Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry

(BHASKAR) initiative to be launched, which
will serve as a central hub where startups,
investors, service providers, and government
bodies can come together to collaborate,
Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and Indian exchange ideas, and accelerate growth.
Institute of Technology, Delhi signed an MoU to
develop a computer-based tool to assist agencies 36) Blue-water voyage
to have a reduced carbon footprint during road
construction.

33) First-in-human clinical trials

Two women officers, Lt. Commanders A. Roopa

and K. Dilna of the Indian Navy are set to
embark soon on an arduous blue-water voyage
around the world. They will be undertaking the
expedition of circumnavigating the globe
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) onboard INSV Tarini.
has formalised memorandums of agreement
(MoAs) with multiple sponsors under its 37) Jobs in the non-farm sector
Network for Phase 1 Clinical Trials. The
agreements mark an entry into first-in-human
clinical trials for four promising molecules
including Zika vaccine development, CAR-T
cell therapy advancement etc.

82
According to the Economic Survey 2023-24,
India needs to create nearly 7.85 million jobs Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
annually in the non-farm sector to inaugurates 4th Global Renewable Energy
accommodate the growing workforce. However, Investor’s Meet and Expo (RE-INVEST) in
the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The 3-day summit
reported that the national unemployment rate honours the important contributors to India's
surged from 7 percent to 9 percent in June 2024. remarkable achievement of over 200 GW of
installed non-fossil fuel capacity.
38) Tuticorin International Container Terminal
41) Start-up India initiative

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping &

Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, dedicated The Centre’s Start-up India initiative will be
the Tuticorin International Container Terminal moved out of the aegis of the official investment
(TICT) to the nation at the VO Chidambaranar promotion and facilitation agency Invest India,
Port Authority (VOCPA) in Thoothukudi, to a new non-profit company housing it as a
Tamil Nadu. VOC Port is being recognised as a non-profit under section 8 of 2013 Companies
green hydrogen hub and a nodal port for Act that could also house the National Startup
offshore wind energy. Advisory Council.
39) Green Hydrogen Project 42) UNFCCC (COP 29)

The Union Minister Sonowal inaugurated newly Azerbaijan to host the 29th Conference of the
constructed Green Hydrogen Project, a 400 kW Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 29), with a view
Rooftop Solar Power Plant as part of the ‘Harit to building on previous successes and paving the
Sagar Green Port Initiative’. The inauguration way for future ambition to effectively tackle the
took place at the Tuticorin International global challenge of climate change.
Container Terminal.
43) Governor’s initiatives
40) RE-INVEST
83
Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya launched Manipur’s Andro village has been selected as
five key initiatives: Governor Assam’s Pratibha one of the Best Tourism Villages in the Heritage
Protsahan Yojana, Governor Assam’s category of the 2024 edition of the Best Tourism
Vishwakarma Samman, Governor Assam’s Villages Competition organised by the Ministry
Award for Excellence, Governor Assam’s of Tourism.
Bhasha Protsahan Yojana and Governor
Assam’s Varishtha Shikshak Samman Yojana. 47) India’s nominal GDP

44) Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram

Abhiyan

The size of India’s nominal GDP would nearly

double to over US $ 7 trillion by fiscal 2030–31
from US $ 3.6 trillion in fiscal 2023–24,
The Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri according to S&P Global Market Intelligence
Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan, to improve the projections. This would make India the third-
socio-economic conditions of tribal communities largest economy in the world, raising its share
across the country. The programme aims to in global GDP from 3.6 per cent to 4.5 per cent
provide all government benefits to five crore and lifting its per-capita income to the upper-
tribal families in 63,000 tribal-majority villages. middle-income group.

45) Squadron Leader Mohana Singh 48) Periodic Labour Force Survey

Squadron Leader Mohana Singh has become Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for the
India’s first woman pilot to be part of a Tejas period between July 2023 and June 2024,
fighter squadron of the Indian Air Force (IAF). released by the Labour Bureau. Report says
there is a minor increase in distribution of
46) Manipur’s Andro village workers in agriculture; participation of women
in the workforce has improved; unemployment
rate is 3.2%, similar to that of last year.

84
49) State Food Safety Index 2023-24

India’s overseas inflow in the last decade, from

Nagaland topped the State Food Safety Index 2014 to 2024 recorded 667.4 billion. According
2023-24 among the hilly States of the North to the Department for Promotion of Industry
East. Kerala is the top performer among States and Internal Trade (DPIIT), overseas inflows of
and UTs. FDI increased compared to the 304.1 billion
recorded between 2004-2014.
50) Jatiya Chetana Divas
53) ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High
Energy Defeat)

Jatiya Chetana Divas observed on September

20th commemorating the death anniversary of
Kanaklata Barua, the first woman martyr of The DRDO along with IIT-Delhi has developed
Assam during the Independence movement. lightweight bulletproof jackets named
‘ABHED’ (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy
51) QS rankings Defeat) which meet the “highest threat levels”
and whose front and rear armours provide 360
degree protection.

54) Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024

Three Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)

and Indian School of Business, Hyderabad have
figured in world’s top 100 for their MBA
courses, according to QS rankings. The three Sualkuchi is among 36 villages which emerged
IIMs are IIM-Bangalore, IIM-Ahmedabad and winners of the Best Tourism Villages
IIM-Calcutta. Competition 2024, announced by the Ministry
of Tourism on the occasion of Tourism Day.
52) Overseas inflows of FDI Sualkuchi bagged the award in the craft
category.

55) Golok Samman for 2023 award

85
Golok Samman for 2023 award, instituted by
the UD Foundation in memory of noted
translator and social worker Golok Chandra
Datta, has been announced, honouring four
distinguished young individuals for their
exceptional contributions in the fields of art,
translation, research, and environmental
activism.
This year’s recipients are Dr Sanjeev Bora, a
renowned artist; Avantika Parashar, a noted
translator; Rajesh Dattabaruah, an
environmental activist; and Dr Baburam Saikia,
a Sattriya dancer and researcher.

86
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